What is life like as a Drill Sergeant at Fort Jackson?

Depends on what Battalion you go to, the one I was at had full fills every.single.cycle (240 trainees per company). Cycle breaks were about 2 or 3 weeks. During this time, you’re knocking out whatever 350-1 training your overdue on, attending silly PP briefings on RM, “recertifications”, prepping for the next cycle supplies (if the previous cycle of trainees didn’t finish… Things like Roster # Folders filled with initial counselings, SHARP, EO, fraternization and other policies, goody bags to include colored PLT patches, ranger beads to track hydration, allergy beads, sunscreen, chapstick, face paint, pens, notebooks etc). Near the end of cycle break, your company will rehearse pick up day. Typically, the Drills fresh out of the Academy are the ones that do the modules like Position of Attention, the push-up and DS Creed type of stuff. Pay attention to what extra BS the Senior Drills have to deal with (all the counselings for behavior, ACFT failures, chapters, training briefs, COORDs!! And much more

I hadn't gotten my H identifier when I was there in 1968, but I do remember sand fleas and pine trees!!!

I can't tell you about the duty side, but as far as living I would avoid Columbia or Lexington. Just too many people. Going out towards Lugoff or Camden would be much more peaceful and the commute is not that bad.