Our People in VIC
Luke Gregory - Croydon
Croydon martial arts enthusiast Luke Gregory, 17, has just set himself another test for his muscle and brains.
In February the Mooroolbark College graduate farewelled his parents Paul and Michelle, and he’s now at the Army’s recruit training centre at Kapooka near Wagga.
“I’ve been pretty much waiting to join up since I can remember,” said Luke.
“Soldiering is the ultimate martial art. It’s about ultimate fitness.”
All soldiers below the rank of officer do their basic training at Kapooka. It’s an intense eleven weeks including weapon skills, combat first aid, navigating, and platoon level tactics.
The day starts with a bang at 6.00am and ends at 10.00pm. The recruits have 15 minutes to wash, dress and make their beds then, after breakfast, they could have PT, weapons training, pack-marches, and a lot of lectures ranging from Army Law to radios and night vision goggles.
“The 6.00am starts are fine and the whole thing is much more fun than I thought,” said Luke.
“It was awkward to start with but, once you get past the crap, it’s fine.
“The main thing they teach us is to work as a team. If you don’t, you’re not going to get it done!
“After Kapooka my plan is to have two years in the cavalry and take things from there — and I won’t even be 20 yet!
“My folks will all be here for the march out parade, then we’ll have a boig party back home to celebrate.”