Posted on Mar 11, 2020
SPC Team Leader
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I'm currently in B co 1/3 (TOG). I have decided, for the sake of continuing my career in a combat MOS, that I'd like to go to Geronimo for my next duty station. I've already done all the necessary communication with leadership, my branch manager, etc. I'm wondering what I should expect out of the unit.
Why am I interested: Being in a non-deployable ceremonial unit as one's first duty station, keeps an 11B from being as technically and tactically proficient as one is expected to be when arriving at their second duty station. I feel Geronimo is the best place to be to regain that training.
What I know:
1; Most people hate it
2; their school budget is better than good enough
3; with the proper networking skills, I am in an advantageous position to make SOF contacts (I plan to go SOF after 1-509th)
4; Fort Polk sucks.

Any additional information, experiences, or WARNOs would be greatly Appreciated
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Responses: 9
SSG(P) Detachment Sergeant, Space Detachment
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What’s “go SOF” mean. SF, CA, RASP, CAG? Just go now. If you fail at whatever selection you go to that gives you more time to better prepare and go again.
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SPC Team Leader
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I used the most generic term possible because I'm not decided yet. I'm leaning towards AWG but we'll see.
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SSG Squad Leader
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Just go for selection now. Almost everyone that says, I'll do it after so and so date never does. If it's something you actually want and are legit considering, go while you're younger so you give yourself more time on the back end. Anyway, 509th is what it is. Along with their OPFOR responsibilities, they also have to maintain actual unit readiness. They get their jumps in, they do eib, they do the regular squad training, etc. Don't expect much of a break over there, and you'll learn more watching RTU come in and mess up 10-11 times a year than you will probably thru anything else. Polk is Polk. It's 3-4 from Houston, Dallas, and New Orleans. Fee more hours and your in the Pensacola area and so on. Around the installation is small town central, you've got fast food joints, a Walmart, and a Chili's. If a slow pace is your type of style, it's the place for you. Oh, and it's hot and humid from April until October. After that, it's cold and humid.
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MSG Cannon Crew Member
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You'll regain a little by going to 509th but you're better off going to an actual infantry battalion. If you think running around the "box" will make you tactically and technically proficient, be prepared for disappointment. SOF contacts are here but again, they can't do anything for you. Selection is an individual sport. If you want to get back to the basics, go to Ranger school. 11 rotations a year on top of regular battalion taskings and training is rough but it is what you make of it. Stick with the mindset that its what you wanted and you'll be alright.
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