The US Army Infantry is the backbone of the military, responsible for executing missions on foot, utilizing a combination of firepower, maneuver, and shock action. As an Infantry soldier, one is trained to engage, close with, and destroy the enemy, operating in various environments, from urban to wilderness areas. The Infantry is divided into several Military Occupational Specialties (MOS), each with its unique role and responsibilities.
US Army Infantry Career Path Overview
A career in the US Army Infantry can be rewarding and challenging, with various opportunities for advancement and professional growth. The Infantry career path is designed to develop soldiers into skilled and adaptable warriors, capable of operating in a rapidly changing environment. To become an Infantry soldier, one must meet the basic qualifications, including being a US citizen, being between 17 and 35 years old, and scoring a minimum of 31 on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test.
Infantry Military Occupational Specialties (MOS)
The US Army Infantry has several MOS, each with its unique responsibilities and requirements. Some of the most common Infantry MOS include:
- 11B - Infantryman: The 11B MOS is the foundation of the Infantry, responsible for executing infantry tactics, operating infantry weapons, and performing first aid.
- 11C - Indirect Fire Infantryman: The 11C MOS is responsible for operating and maintaining mortar systems, providing indirect fire support to infantry units.
- 11X - Infantry Enlisted: The 11X MOS is a general Infantry enlisted position, responsible for performing various infantry tasks, including reconnaissance, security, and combat operations.
| MOS | Job Description | Required Training |
|---|---|---|
| 11B | Infantryman | Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) |
| 11C | Indirect Fire Infantryman | BCT, AIT, and Mortar Leader Course |
| 11X | Infantry Enlisted | BCT and AIT |
US Army Infantry Career Progression
A career in the US Army Infantry typically begins with Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT), followed by assignment to a unit. As soldiers gain experience and complete additional training, they can advance to higher ranks and take on more responsibilities. The Infantry career progression typically includes:
- Private (PVT) to Private First Class (PFC): Entry-level positions, responsible for learning and performing basic infantry tasks.
- Specialist/Corporal (SPC/CPL): Intermediate positions, responsible for leading small teams and performing more complex infantry tasks.
- Sergeant (SGT) to Staff Sergeant (SSG): Senior positions, responsible for leading squads, platoons, and companies, and providing guidance and mentorship to junior soldiers.
US Army Infantry Officer Career Path
The US Army Infantry also has a career path for officers, who are responsible for leading and commanding infantry units. Infantry officers typically begin their careers as Second Lieutenants, completing the Infantry Officer Basic Leadership Course (IBOLC) and the Infantry Captain’s Career Course (ICCC). As officers gain experience and complete additional training, they can advance to higher ranks and take on more responsibilities.
What is the role of the US Army Infantry?
+The US Army Infantry is responsible for executing missions on foot, utilizing a combination of firepower, maneuver, and shock action, to engage, close with, and destroy the enemy.
What are the different Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) in the US Army Infantry?
+The US Army Infantry has several MOS, including 11B - Infantryman, 11C - Indirect Fire Infantryman, and 11X - Infantry Enlisted, each with its unique responsibilities and requirements.
What is the typical career progression for a US Army Infantry soldier?
+The typical career progression for a US Army Infantry soldier includes advancing from Private (PVT) to Private First Class (PFC), Specialist/Corporal (SPC/CPL), Sergeant (SGT) to Staff Sergeant (SSG), and potentially becoming an officer.
