How Many Promotion Points is Air Assault?
Introduction
Air Assault is a versatile and prestigious military special training that offers soldiers an intense and challenging experience. Among the many Army special trainsings, Air Assault School is one of the most sought-after, known for its rigorous training, combat readiness, and airborne combat skills. However, serving in Air Assault may grant soldiers more than just excellent combat skills and pride – it can also influence their promotion prospects.
About Air Assault School
Air Assault School (AAS) is part of the United States Army Aviator Branch and provides combat-ready aircrew training in helicopter operations. Soldiers train to conduct missions by night, day, and at night, under any kind of weather condition. Some of the training focus points include:
- Conduct operations in extreme environments, weather conditions, and heights.
- Conduct dismounted movements, raids, and recovery operations.
- Execute mounted operations, ambushes, and convoy security operations.
What Are Army Promotion Points?
Before we dive into Air Assault promotion points, it’s essential to understand Army promotion points. Army Promotion Points (APRs) are used to rate Army soldiers for promotion consideration in the non-commissioned officer (NCO) ranks. Each unit head, commander, or reviewing officer rates the soldiers by awarding them a varying number of promotion points within a 90-day span. These points represent demonstrated skills, conduct, values, and exceptional duty assignments.
How Do Air Assault Qualifications Enhance Promotion Chances?**
Serving in the Air Assault program demonstrates specific skills and experiences that appeal to promotion boards and commander’s reviews. Air Assault soldiers possess expertise in crucial areas, including:
Helicopter Operations: proficiency in helicopter operations allows these soldiers to move and maintain situational awareness effectively across the battlefield.
Comprehensive Training: completing the comprehensive Air Assault School curriculum offers a broad range of combat capabilities, enhancing versatility.
Leadership Skills: NCOs leading an air assault team or detachment demonstrates leadership and organizational abilities while managing diverse team members in high-stress environments.
Table 1. Air Assault Training Benefits on Promotion Chances
| Skill Set | Promotion Impact | Example Prompts to Award Promotion Points |
|---|---|---|
| Leadership | Enhanced ability to lead diverse team | "Displays strong leadership among team members, even when faced with stressful conditions". |
| Tactics and Operations | Well-rounded understanding of military doctrines | "Shows keen operational awareness and planning capabilities on missions". |
| Helicopter Operations | Proficiency in flying complex missions | "Performs exceptional helicopter operations skills to complete objectives on-time." |
| Respect and Influence | Exemplary character, motivating others | "Leads by example, encouraging colleagues to work towards the bigger picture." |
Other Factors Influencing Air Assault Soldiers’ Promotion Chances:
In addition to unique skills gained during Air Assault training, soldiers serving in this capacity are likely to receive higher promotion consideration by demonstrating:
Job-Essential Competencies
- Effective communication skills with team members
- Organizational skills, particularly coordinating logistics and transportation
- Adaptability to various circumstances and mission types
Combat Experience - Evidence of exposure to realistic or actual combat environments
Leadership Assignments and Responsibilities - Evidence of leadership, either by duty position or self-imposition
- Participation in events, conferences, and relevant training
- Collaboration or mentorship within a leader’s unit or company
