Training Soldiers to Stay Calm in Combat: The Role of Muscle Memory and Teamwork

It's often said that staying calm during combat is impossible to train. However, as a former Drill Sergeant with two tours of duty, I can attest to the importance of training soldiers to function under high-pressure conditions by developing muscle memory and fostering teamwork. While it's true that some soldiers may struggle with mental health issues even in peacetime, proper training can significantly enhance their ability to perform critical tasks in combat.

The Role of Muscle Memory in Combat

Muscle memory is a crucial aspect of soldier training, especially for those serving in combat roles. Tasks such as loading ammunition into a tank's main gun are not just about following procedures; they are about ensuring that each soldier can perform under the most extreme conditions. During my tenure as a Drill Sergeant, I emphasized the importance of muscle memory through repeated, rigorous training exercises.

Training Exercises for Muscle Memory

One of the primary methods we used was repetition. My trainees had to complete every task repeatedly until it became second nature. For instance, identifying and loading the correct ammunition into the main gun required precise and rapid actions. Soldiers were expected to quickly recognize the correct type of ammunition, remove it from storage, load it into the gun, and set the safety to the 'FIRE' position, all within four seconds. This was critical for survival and mission success in combat, where reaction times can mean life or death.

Another key task was the rapid engagement of targets. The Gunner, the soldier responsible for targeting and firing the main gun, was expected to be able to engage targets within five seconds or less. This precision required intense training and a deep understanding of the responsibilities within the team. I would often see trainees push themselves to the limit, striving to achieve the perfect execution of these tasks, often reaching a state of muscular failure before mastering the routine.

During the ground assault of Desert Storm, for example, the duration of the operation highlighted the importance of muscle memory. Many soldiers performed critical tasks for 36 to 48 hours without sleep, relying on muscle memory to guide them through essential functions. This automatic response allowed them to operate effectively even under the most grueling conditions.

Fostering Teamwork and Cooperation

While muscle memory is vital, teamwork is equally crucial for ensuring that every member of a combat unit functions cohesively as a single entity. In a tank crew, for example, each member must be able to rely on the others to perform their tasks accurately and efficiently. Communication, coordination, and mutual support are essential components of successful combat operations.

We trained our soldiers to understand their roles within the team, emphasizing the interconnectedness of each crew member. For instance, the Tank Driver had to coordinate with the Gunner, the Loader, and the Commander to navigate the battlefield and engage targets effectively. This cooperation was drilled into every soldier, ensuring that they understood the broader strategy and their role in supporting it.

Challenges and Realities of Military Training

While the emphasis on muscle memory and teamwork is critical, it's important to recognize that military training is not always easy or pleasant. The pressure and stress of combat can take a toll on soldiers, and some struggle with mental health issues even when not in active conflict. The frustration and enraging nature of training can sometimes add to the mental strain, but proper training ultimately prepares soldiers to handle these challenges more effectively.

For example, soldiers who learn to rely on muscle memory can perform under extreme conditions without conscious thought, making them more resilient in the face of adversity. They can trust their training to guide their actions, which is crucial when sleep-deprivation and stress can impair judgment.

While the military does not explicitly train soldiers to be fearless or patriotic, it does instill a sense of duty and purpose. The primary goal is to prepare the soldiers not just to survive but also to succeed in the most challenging and dangerous situations.

Understanding the role of muscle memory and teamwork in maintaining calm and effective performance in combat is essential for both military training and the well-being of soldiers. By focusing on these key elements, we can better prepare our forces to face the challenges of modern warfare.