Expert Infantryman badge changes

Infantry Magazine, Spring, 2002

As the Infantry changes, so must the EIB program. The Army's Transformation program, the Infantry MOS consolidations, and emerging technologies have led the Infantry School to make some changes in the EIB test program.

The goals of the new test are to maintain the traditions, support unit mission essential task lists, use training resources wisely, and test the modern Infantry soldier's high-tech skills.

The Infantry Center asked infantry units world-wide how the EIB program could be improved, and incorporated the unit feedback into the new program.

The major changes are in the 12-mile road march, land navigation, PT test, and day and night qualification on individual weapons, which are now prerequisites for taking the EIB test. The revised program is now eight days--five training days and three testing days.

Soldiers will test on 63 different tasks at 22 sites. Some new tasks include the Javelin antiarmor system and the ASIP radio. Arm-and-hand signals will include both dismounted and mounted signals. EIB candidates must demonstrate proficiency with the AN/PSN-11 (the precise lightweight GPS receiver) under day and night conditions.

Young soldiers respect a soldier wearing the EIB as a man of accomplishment and skill. The new test ensures that the Expert Infantryman Badge will continue to represent the highest standards of professionalism.