Thursday, April 10, 2008

GEAR AND MORE ADVICE TO INCOMING EWOS

Brothers and sisters,

If you are coming on IA as a fellow EWO, here's a snapshot of what you'll get issued. Can't talk techspecs here, but FYI:

INTERCEPTOR BODY ARMOR (IBA) - Mobile armor, get used to having poundage on your shoulders and back. Adjust it as soon as you can for max comfort.

M4 Carbine - Collapsable stock, will come with 3 point sling for maneuverability. Learn to sight this weapon with both eyes.

M9 Berreta - No frills here, just a reliable sidearm. Learn to sight this weapon quickly.

The gear below is good to have by recommendation of my DI and by aviators:

Wiley X Gloves - mixture of tough materials, especially the knuckles. Will protect your trigger fingers, and WAY comfortable.

511 Master Knife - good to keep on your person, and it's a way out if you are tied down. Check the TSA website if you want to bring this back home with you.

Further advice:

1. Don't be a complainer. It just looks bad.

2. For comfort, get some Underarmor boxerbriefs/Thorlo socks. You'll thank yourself later.

3. Carry your own weight, and when you can help a shipmate that's faltering, do so.

4. There's opportunity to PT and blow off steam, at any hour of the day at NIACT. There's a one-mile track (that's marked off each quarter), and two gyms. You can stay in shape out here at NIACT.

5. A shipmate of mine recommended a Stanley mobile case. It's a big Roughneck-looking plastic case that has wheels and a handle to pull. When it comes time to haul all of your gear, it may be VERY helpful.

More to follow...

SEMPER FORTIS,

BEAR

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