How Drill Sergeants Respond When a Soldier Cries

Throughout the rigors of military training, one question often arises: How do drill sergeants react when a soldier breaks down and starts to cry? The responses from various experiences can vary widely, but there are themes that emerge in how these seasoned professionals handle such situations.

The Various Reactions

While some may see drill sergeants as unforgiving, one account from basic training describes a senior drill sergeant (DS) intervening during a heartfelt moment. The DS, known for his firm yet caring approach, treated the young recruit with a father-like compassion, offering support despite his own rigorous stance on discipline. This example shows that despite the stereotype, these individuals can demonstrate human emotion and concern.

The intensity of basic training can lead to emotional breakdowns. One recruit’s girlfriend sent a Dear John letter, causing him to cry. The DS’s reaction was seen as a fatherly figure, providing comfort and understanding. Another viewpoint mentions that while drill sergeants may not explicitly ask about the problem, they do show an underlying concern for the well-being of recruits, as evidenced by the phrase, "Let's figure this out."

Less Demonstrative Responses

Contrasting this, another participant notes that drill sergeants rarely reduce recruits to tears themselves. However, the hypothetical scenario suggests that if a drill sergeant were to do so, it would likely involve intense questioning and possibly a form of reprimand. The idea of leaving if one cannot handle the shouts aligns with the harsh reality of military training, suggesting a strong belief in mental toughness from the top down.

A third perspective indicates no visible crying among recruits, though some experienced the near-tears. The absence of tears was attributed to the recruits' ability to maintain composure despite the grueling conditions. During platoon meetings, the focus was on vulnerabilities and ruthlessness, ensuring that weaknesses were not tolerated.

Care and Concern During Grief

In more personal settings, such as returning to the barracks at the end of the day, there are accounts of recruits crying. However, these situations are generally handled with care and understanding. Recruits are given a few comforting hugs and words of consolation. Some are even granted an extra candy ration, indicating the human touch that can sometimes be found.

Drill sergeants also allow recruits to have the rest of the day off, giving them time to gather themselves and process their emotions. This period of solitude until they can compose themselves reflects a balance between tough training and emotional support. In one instance, the drill sergeants would leave the room when recruits were visibly upset, ensuring a moment of privacy.

The senior non-commissioned officer (Sergeant Major) played a critical role in handling such incidents, often providing a harsh but caring approach. The anecdote about the CSM's intervention highlights the dual nature of their role, first comforting the recruit and then reassuring the rest of the team that it was a temporary setback.

In summary, while the image of a drill sergeant may evoke a stern and unyielding figure, their responses to a soldier crying can range from compassionate to supportive, demonstrating a complex balance between strict mentorship and emotional care.

Keywords: drill sergeants, soldier cry, military training, emotional support, tough mentorship