Infantry One Station Unit Training (OSUT) is a grueling 18-week evolution that transforms civilian volunteers into disciplined, physically fit, and lethal Soldiers. This comprehensive training pipeline combines Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT), ensuring trainees develop the resilience and tactical proficiency required of the U.S. Army Infantry.
Phase I: Basic Combat Training (BCT) – "Turning Green"
The first phase of OSUT focuses on the transition from civilian to Soldier. Under the mentorship of professional Drill Sergeants, trainees are introduced to the Army Values: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage.
During BCT, trainees undergo intense physical conditioning, navigate obstacle courses, and master the fundamentals of rifle marksmanship. They learn the importance of teamwork while facing the mental and physical challenges of the "First 100 Yards."
The Milestone: The completion of the BCT portion is marked by the "Turning Green" ceremony. This ceremony signifies that the trainee has mastered basic Soldiering skills and is ready to progress to specialized Infantry training.
Phase II: Advanced Individual Training (AIT) – "Turning Blue"
Following the BCT phase, the focus shifts to the specialized skills of the Infantryman. In this second portion of OSUT, trainees hone their lethality through:
- Advanced Marksmanship: Mastering individual and crew-served weaponry.
- Tactical Maneuver: Learning to move under live machine gun fire and navigate the dense terrain of Fort Benning.
- Field Operations: Executing land navigation and squad tactics while operating under the stars for multiple consecutive nights.
The Milestone: The conclusion of the AIT portion is celebrated with the "Turning Blue" ceremony. During this event, trainees are formally recognized as Infantrymen and earn the right to wear the coveted Blue Infantry Cord, representing their entry into the Army’s oldest branch.
The Final Transition: Family Day and Graduation
The 18-week journey culminates in a two-day celebration of achievement.
- Family Day: Following the Turning Blue ceremony, Soldiers are reunited with their loved ones. This day allows families to see the transformation firsthand and tour the facilities where their Soldiers lived and trained.
- Graduation Ceremony: The following morning, the formal Graduation Ceremony is held on a parade field. These Soldiers leave Fort Benning not just as graduates, but as the world's premier land force.
Upcoming Infantry OSUT Ceremonies
(All dates and times are subject to change - please contact units directly if you have questions.) Contact: 198th Staff Duty: 706-544-9211
Turning Green Ceremonies:
Unit Date/Time Location
D Co, 2-54 IN BN -- September 18, 2026/ 9 a.m. -- Kanell Field, Sand Hill, Fort Benning
B Co, 2-58 IN BN -- September 18, 2026/ 9 a.m. -- Pomeroy Field, Sand Hill, Fort Benning
E Co, 2-19 IN BN -- September 25, 2026/ 1 p.m. -- Pomeroy Field, Sand Hill, Fort Benning
A Co, 1-50 IN BN -- September 25, 2026/ 9 a.m. -- Pomeroy Field, Sand Hill, Fort Benning
Turning Blue Ceremonies:
Unit Date/Time Location
E Co, 1-50 IN BN -- September 3, 2026/ 9 a.m. -- Pomeroy Field, Sand Hill, Fort Benning
Graduation Ceremonies:
Unit Date/Time Location
E Co, 1-50 IN BN -- September 3, 2026/ 9 a.m. -- Inouye Field, National Infantry Museum
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Important Notice: All ceremonies are conducted outdoors and are subject to change in location or time due to inclement weather. Please monitor this page for real-time updates or changes. In the event of severe weather, ceremonies may be moved to indoor facilities to ensure the safety of Soldiers and their families.
Family members planning on travelling on post are highly encouraged to pre-register at https://home.army.mil/benning/About/garrison/des/visitor-preregistration.
For post access questions, email: usarmy.moore.imcom-hq.mbx.des-access-control@army.mil
For 198th Infantry Brigade information, contact:
198th Staff Duty: 706-544-9211
For National Infantry Museum information, visit: National Infantry Museum & Soldier Center
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