Final answer:
If a Trainee/Soldier fails the APFT for graduation, the commander can choose to give them a new start/recycle, apply UCMJ, transfer the trainee to a Fitness Training Unit, or separate the trainee from military service.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a Trainee/Soldier fails the APFT (Army Physical Fitness Test), which is required for graduation from Basic Combat Training (BCT), Advanced Individual Training (AIT), or One Station Unit Training (OSUT), the commander has several discretionary actions to address this failure. These actions include:
- New Start/ Recycle: The trainee may be given another chance to start the training phase again, to improve physical fitness and potentially meet the required standards.
- UCMJ: The Uniform Code of Military Justice might apply if the trainee has willfully neglected their duty to maintain physical fitness standards. Disciplinary actions could be enforced.
- Transfer to FTU: The trainee might be transferred to a Fitness Training Unit, where they can focus on improving their fitness levels.
- Separate the Trainee: In some cases, the trainee might be separated from military service if it's determined that they are unable to meet the standard after given opportunities to improve.
Soldiers are expected to maintain discipline, including keeping their areas clean, learning to march in correct formations, and saluting superiors, as part of their transformation during the military basic training. Failing to meet physical standards is taken seriously, and leaders have options to ensure every soldier meets the full requirements of service.