Army boot camp, officially called Basic Combat Training (BCT), typically lasts about 10 weeks
. This training period includes an initial reception phase of around 3–5 days where recruits undergo physical exams, vaccinations, haircuts, and receive uniforms before starting the main training
. The 10 weeks of BCT are divided into four phases—yellow, red, white, and blue—each representing increasing levels of responsibility and skills development
. The training covers physical fitness, combat skills, survival, teamwork, and Army values, culminating in a final field training exercise before graduation
. Locations for BCT include Fort Benning (Georgia), Fort Jackson (South Carolina), Fort Leonard Wood (Missouri), Fort Sill (Oklahoma), and Fort Knox (Kentucky)
. The training is known to be very challenging and is often described as one of the toughest experiences soldiers will face
