Joe

JOE ROGAN PODCAST CHECK IT OUT!!!

References: Ranger Handbook TC 3-21.76 | Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad ATP 3-21.8

Overview

“The Joes are responsible for employing well-aimed fire and suppression toward the enemy.”

Ah yes, the legendary Joe role — the “best” gig at CST. On paper: no grading, zero responsibility, just chill in the prone for hours, move a bit, then go full Call of Duty on the objective. Paradise, right?

Reality check: It’s soul-crushing boredom interrupted by brief chaos. You’re basically a human tripod staring at the same tree for eternity. Your brain turns to mush, and suddenly that spider crawling on your boot is your new best friend.

And while you’re not graded, and you can theoretically sham as much as you’d like. your peers are watching like hawks. If you sham every time you’re a Joe, expect zero cooperation when it’s your turn to lead — and a brutal peer eval score.

It’s best to stay out of the drama. I promise you, EVERYONE is miserable, hungry, and tired — don’t make it worse by complaining all the time.

Pro Tip: You can play with rocks! Keeps your hands busy and your brain slightly less dead.

Resources

The Joe shines during actions on the objective (pew pew time) and hides during planning.
Main mission: Post security… and don’t die of boredom.

Delegation

Delegate? Bro, you’re the bottom of the food chain. Your only “delegation” is passing hand signals down the line or keeping your battle buddy awake.

Planning Phase

During the planning phase, the Joe posts security on the firing line.

During the planning phase, the Joe:

• Posts security on the firing line (stare at trees… exciting).
• Makes sure his weapon is loaded and ready.
• Ensures he’s wearing all PPE (eye pro, gloves, helmet, etc.).
• Applies camo (or pretends to — cadre might not notice in the dark).
• Writes down key info passed from leadership (or nods like you understand).
• Tries to remain quiet (hard when someone’s telling a story).
• Battle the bug apocalypse (ticks, mosquitoes, spiders, and that one cricket that won’t shut up).
• Tries not to fall asleep (which you inevitably will at some point).

Chew gum or use that MRE coffee to stay awake.

Movement Phase

During the movement phase, the Joe stays in formation and follows orders from the TL and SL.

During the movement phase, the Joe:

• Remains quiet (SHUUUUUT UUUUP).
• Posts security at halts (back to staring at trees).
• Maintains noise and light discipline (no rattling gear or phone screens).
• Passes down hand and arm signals (don’t be the guy who misses one).
• Did I mention remain quiet?

Execution Phase

During the execution phase, the Joe posts security at the ORP… then finally gets to shoot when told.

During the execution phase, the Joe:

• Maintains security in the ORP (more staring).
• Conducts personal PCCs/PCIs (check weapon, ammo, water).
• Bounds with the team and fights with aggression.
• Shoots at the enemy (This is what you signed up for right?).
• Posts security after actions on the objective.
• Notifies the TL of status after actions (“I’m good… ish. 2 mags left, soul depleted”).

When bounding, actually move fast. Slow rushes get you “shot” by cadre. Also take cover, I have been “Killed” many times because I didn’t hit the ground on time

Tips

• Stay awake — cadre love catching sleepers for push-ups.
• Listen to your TL/SL — they’re stressed enough without you zoning out.
• Help your buddies quietly (pass water, fix gear) — good karma for when you’re leading.
• Embrace the suck — complaining just makes it worse.
• Master the prone position — find that one comfy spot before it’s taken.

What a Joe SHOULDN’T Do

• Fall asleep on security (instant smoke session).

• Talk loudly or make noise (you’ll get the whole platoon destroyed).

• Sham every task (your peers will remember at eval time).

• Complain constantly (NOBODY CARES).

• Forget your weapon (It still happens….)

Closing

Just try not to fall asleep. Cadre will give you an endless shitstorm if they catch you.
Being a solid Joe means less hate from peers and better lanes when you lead.
Suffer well, stay awake, and savor those rare “pew pew” moments.
You’ve got this, Joe. Now go embrace the dirt nap (but not literally).