APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Some teenagers are getting a test of their endurance and discipline by the national guard.
A group of 13 to 20-year-old teens from Wisconsin want to see if they have what it takes to join the military.
It was a weekend that tested their physical and mental strength. They showed up to the National Guard Amory in Appleton Thursday and by Sunday they graduated to Cadets.
12-year-old Trinity Inman tells FOX 11…
“It’s military standards, where.. we do what normal military personnel would do.”
“It’s very interactive. It definitely pushes you to be as good as you can be,” said another graduate, 17-year-old Elijah Dadam.
Nineteen cadets graduated from basic cadet training. For some, this program is about exploring the idea of joining the military and those 4 days can make or break their decision to enlist.
“I decided to join to get a feel for if I would like it or not and I’m still undecided,” said Inman.
“It gives me a really good step up for joining the military. I’ve learned a lot about leadership skills not only individually but working as a team I’ve made some really good friends,” said Daniel Youngquist.
Brian Blahnik, the cadet’s commanding officer, tells FOX 11 it’s an eye-opener for the kids.
“I think they’re shocked when they start the program but by the third day of the program, they’re pretty squared away. They’re dressed right dressed, they stand at the position of attention, they have a greater level of respect and discipline in just three days.”
Recruits come from around the state. They study everything military, from marching to sciences. And now that they’ve graduated they can participate in the cadet program and test for other positions within until they’re 20 years old.
Youngquist graduated as a cadet nearly 5 years ago. Now at 17, he’s a cadet drill sergeant and has plans to join the military after high school.
