BMT: Entry Control
Have you read about the Entry Controller (EC) yet online? I’ve been putting this one off for a while. Like chow at BMT, this is a lengthy and important topic, which will affect everyone in your flight. Settle in, readers, it’s time to brush up on skills every Airman must learn, beginning in BMT.
Purpose
Entry Controllers do just that – they control access in and out of an entry point. Per the BMTSG, this may be a temporary/informal barrier due to an emergency, or it may be a formal entry point, such as the gate leading into a military installation. EC is the responsibility of every Airman, as it is a role that anyone may be assigned to fulfill in a forward-deployed location if need be. EC is not just the job of Security Forces personnel. Due to the sensitive nature and the safety of everyone involved, BMT personnel take this job very seriously. You will learn the basics of EC within the dorm room and they will also be utilized at BEAST, where you’ll simulate the use of EC in a forward-deployed location.
EC Monitor
The MTI will designate an EC monitor within your flight. In our dorm, this trainee’s bed was located nearest to the door to the dormitory. You may also have an alternate EC monitor, as it’s such a demanding job. The EC monitor must be a good teacher, as they are responsible for instructing all of the other trainees in proper EC procedures and protocol. They must also be a good manager, as they’ll be creating the schedule for EC duty. They’ll have to be prepared to deal with a lot of whiny trainees who aren’t happy about their 0230 – 0430 shift. One last thing to warn you about – the EC Monitor is arguably the person who will be “pushing Texas” as much as the Dorm Chief. When trainees screw up EC procedures, the EC Monitor will be the one to take the heat. As the weeks press on, this becomes excruciating to watch. More on that in a bit.
EC Procedures and Protocols
There are two ECs on duty at all times, and they work a two-hour shift. ECs are required to wear full uniform at all times, including the hat (even though it’s indoors), the canteen web belt, and they are required to carry their trainer weapon as long as it’s still in their possession (versus when you return from BEAST and check it back in). During the night shift, they must also carry a flashlight. If the EC duty is right before PT, those ECs are allowed to wear the PT uniform. ECs are maintained 24/7. The only time you won’t have an EC on duty is when everyone is at a mandatory class or training. That being said, whoever’s on EC duty may miss certain classes or events. Your student leaders, MTIs, or EC Monitor may hand-select people to be on EC during non-desirable time slots or during more interesting activities as a form of punishment, so treat those people well. No one likes those late-night shifts, especially when you’re already sleep-deprived, but know that everyone will have to do it at some point or another. If makes staying awake in class even more difficult than normal.