Local cadet completes basic training

WEST POINT - Cadet Erringer Austin Helbling, granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Geniti of Warwick, has completed Cadet Basic Training at the U.S. Military Academy. Helbling entered West Point on June 30, 2008, and recently completed seven weeks of what is commonly known as “Beast Barracks.” The training is one of the most challenging events cadets will encounter over the course of their four years at the academy. The initial military training program provides cadets with basic skills to instill discipline, pride, cohesion, confidence and a sense of duty to prepare them for entry into the Corps of Cadets. Areas of instruction included first aid, mountaineering, hand grenades, rifle marksmanship and nuclear, biological and chemical training. Helbling began classes Aug. 21 as a member of the Class of 2012. The West Point curriculum offers 45 majors, balancing physical sciences and engineering with humanities and social sciences leading to a bachelor of science degree. Additionally, Helbling is a recruited member of the Army Women’s Soccer Team. “I am honored to be at West Point and to join my father, an ‘85 Grad, in the Long Gray Line,” Helbling said in a press release. “It’s also nice to be so close to my grandparent’s home.” Helbling graduated from Merion Mercy Academy near her home in Wayne, Pa. There she was a member of the National Honor Society and captain of the soccer, swimming and track teams.