I recently reclassified and am going through Advanced Individual Training for my new military occupational specialty. They have instituted the Army’s new Physical Readiness Training (PRT) program and I have some complaints.

The thought process of this new workout program is bad for the physical health of soldiers and is not getting anyone ready for “combat situations.” There is no longer stretching before the workout or the run. It goes directly into high-impact movements that are dangerous for a cold and stiff muscle to perform.

Since the program started there have been numerous dropouts due to physical ailments. I am not sure who the approving authority for this joint massacre is but they should reconsider what they have issued as the new standard for Army PRT.

I’ve never had an injury in my career but, after a month of PRT, I am having to go get my meniscus checked for a possible tear due to the stretching being after the workout. What gives?

Spc. Charles Bonetti

Fort Belvoir, Va.

Light bulb didn’t go on on Hill

In response to the July 13 “Lighting controversy: House may vote on new bulb rules”: Why is this “issue” even on the government’s to-do list? Who cares if we no longer have access to a wide variety of light bulbs? I know there are plenty of other hot topics House members need to address, yet they chose to come together in an attempt to overturn legislation signed back in 2007 to allow me to continue to buy incandescent bulbs because it’s my right? Geez, are you kidding me?

I guess our country must be out of its economic crisis, since we continue to bankroll these supreme beings we elected to keep us from losing these important freedoms.

Capt. Kristopher Nichols

Camp Arifjan, Kuwait

AAFES lacking in Japan

The Army and Air Force Exchange Service just can’t get it right — high gas prices that don’t match those in the States, refusal to carry items or get items on time, and now we have a supply disruption in Japan that has been going on for weeks, and is expected to last weeks more.

Why are we forced to endure this? For the pittance they give to Morale, Welfare and Recreation?

What MWR? Everything on base that is MWR sees budget cuts like everything else.

Where does that money go? It sure isn’t going to stocking the shelves.

What a scam.

Tech. Sgt. Patrick “Mac” McKimmie

Misawa Air Base, Japan

Migrated