EIGHT TIPS TO SURVIVE BMT
// Story Koh Eng Beng
// Photos Chai Sian Liang & Courtesy of Basic Military Training Centre
It’s like the first school term when you meet new friends, learn new skills and get used to the demands of your teachers (read: sergeants). We share eight tips to help you during Basic Military Training (BMT).
1. Guard your rifle
Never leave your rifle out of sight; hang on to it especially during a field camp. Many recruits have woken up to find their rifles gone (and in the hands of their sergeants), earning them an extended weekend island staycation on Pulau Tekong.
2. One for all, all for one
Be nice to your buddy. Help others even when you are done with your task. During BMT, you're rewarded and punished as a team.
3. Bring a permanent marker
You will need it to label your clothes, water bottles and other personal gear (because everyone else will have something similar). Or risk using your bunk mate's towel.
4. Bring clothes hangers
With 16 recruits sharing just the few clothes lines in the bunk, having your own hangers will come in handy for drying your uniform.
5. Bring more sets of underwear
Unless you want to turn your soiled underwear inside out and wear it again.
6. Apply vaseline before route marches
During a route march, your trouser will constantly rub against the insides of your legs. Apply plenty of vaseline on the insides of your legs to prevent thigh abrasions. If the gooey texture of petroleum jelly is not for you, try diaper rash cream.
7. Exercise
Training is ramped up progressively at a comfortable pace for recruits. Having said that, there's no harm doing some sports and exercises on your own before enlistment. Getting used to the sun and sweating helps!
8. Enjoy the process
Training can be siong (Hokkien for tough) but there are also fun moments to revel in. Enjoy the journey! Find out more about BMT at go.defencepioneer.sg/whatisbmt
