Embracing Military Precision: The Crucial Role of Making a Rack in Connecticut’s Basic Training for Recruits

The Second Company Foot Guard, also known as The Governors Guards, a State Defense Force of Connecticut, is currently training a new class of recruits, instilling the basics of military life and regulations. A key part of this training involves learning the importance of seemingly minor tasks, such as bed making, as evidenced by a quote from Admiral William H. McRaven. The Admiral stated, “If you make your bed every morning you will have accomplished the first task of the day… Making your bed will also reinforce the fact that little things in life matter. If you can’t do the little things right, you will never do the big things right.” His remarks underscore the significance of discipline, order, and accomplishment in small tasks, which have a cumulative effect in developing the recruits’ overall military aptitude and mindset.

In line with McRaven’s philosophy, Sgt. Christopher Erardi has taken on the task of demonstrating the proper assembly of bedding to soldiers of the 2nd Company, who are preparing for Annual Training at Camp Nett in Niantic, CT. This practical instruction embodies the principle that small tasks are vital stepping stones towards achieving larger objectives. Moreover, it conveys the military ethic of self-discipline and pride in one’s work, even in tasks that may seem mundane or trivial.

The Connecticut Foot Guard, along with other State Defense Forces, provide an Initial Entry Training (IET – Basic Training), for new recruits who have never served in the US Military. This essential program is designed to familiarize recruits with the core fundamental skills and knowledge required for military service. The training covers a broad range of topics, including discipline and regulations, physical fitness, drill and ceremony, military customs and courtesies, map reading and land navigation, basic first aid, and the handling and use of military equipment. Other key components include the chain of command, military law, and the core values of the armed forces, with an emphasis on leadership, integrity, and teamwork. These elements of the IET form the foundation of a soldier’s military career, instilling the discipline, resilience, and skills necessary to effectively function and thrive in a military environment.

“If you make your bed every morning you will have accomplished the first task of the day. It will give you a small sense of pride, and it will encourage you to do another task and another and another. By the end of the day, that one task completed will have turned into many tasks completed. Making your bed will also reinforce the fact that little things in life matter. If you can’t do the little things right, you will never do the big things right.

And, if by chance you have a miserable day, you will come home to a bed that is made — that you made — and a made bed gives you encouragement that tomorrow will be better.”

– ADMIRAL WILLIAM H. MCRAVEN

Sgt. Christopher Erardi demonstrates the proper assembly of bedding to soldiers of the 2nd Company who are preparing for Annual Training at Camp Nett in Niantic, CT. For some this will be their first billeting in a barracks.

Camp Nett is named in honor of Medal of Honor recipient Col. Robert Nett. As a lieutenant in the Philippines during World War II. Nett – a New Haven native – spearheaded an attack against a Japanese stronghold despite suffering multiple wounds, leading his company to the capture of a vital strong point, according to his Medal of Honor Citation.

The 2nd Company will be attending Camp Net with the combined forces of the 1st Company Governor’s Foot Guard as well as the 1st and 2nd Company Governor’s Horse Guards. Combined training schedules will see the soldiers engage in continued training in drill & ceremony, and many other tasks routine to their assignments.

Source: Connecticut Foot Guard