What New Army Cadets Go Through During The First Six Weeks At West Point | Boot Camp

Before starting the academic year, incoming freshmen at the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York, must participate in a six-week basic training program that teaches military skills like rifle marksmanship, rappelling, navigation, and properly donning protective gear like gas masks.

At the end of training, cadets compete in "The Crucible," a high-intensity final test that cadets must complete before marching 12 miles back to the main West Point campus, where they will begin their academic year. Insider followed these new cadets throughout the summer to see what all they learn before beginning their school year at the prestigious military academy.