Midvale Teen Graduates with Basic Training Complete

Wyatt Stiff is one of the few to enlist as a 17 year old Junior in high school. The Idaho Army National Guard allows any 17 year old who is a Junior in high school to join, with parental consent. These recruits do what is called the Split Option Training. They go to basic training the summer between their Junior and Senior year, then attend RSP (recruit sustainment program) drill on Gowen field during the school year, one weekend a month. Then, once they graduate, they go to AIT (Advanced Individual Training or Job Training) then come home and are then placed in their unit.

Last summer Wyatt completed his basic training and returned home in time to complete his senior year at Midvale School.

When asked why so soon, Wyatt answered that as an American everyone needs to serve in some capacity.

The Army National Guard is a branch of the service that would take him when he was 17 years of age. He has always wanted to be in the military and the sooner the better.

After graduation, beginning in June, he will report to Fort Benning, located in Columbus, Georgia. Tanker training will be his first focus as he already has an E4 rating, which is very commendable. We need more graduates as prepared and directed as young Wyatt Stiff! Thank you Mr. Stiff for your Service!