More than 500 Killeen ISD student-athletes participated in a military training event at Fort Hood, gaining insight into Army careers and life skills through a simulated basic training experience. The U.S. Army Experience, organized by Sgt. 1st Class Leroy Betts III and former Harker Heights strength and conditioning coach Garson Skelton, has expanded since its 2017 launch to include students from across Texas, including DeSoto ISD this year. The event, held at Fort Hood, aimed to bridge the gap between athletics and real-world preparation by emphasizing discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Students from Chaparral, Ellison, Harker Heights, Killeen, and Shoemaker high schools arrived at Fort Hood and were immediately immersed in a high-intensity training session led by Army drill sergeants. The program included physical challenges such as obstacle courses, strength exercises, and endurance activities, mirroring the demands of military service. Betts emphasized the event’s goal of exposing students to Army values and lifelong skills, stating, “They get to see what the Army is all about. Hopefully, they will take this as a lifelong learning skill and be productive members of society.” KISD executive director for athletics Latisha Williams highlighted the partnership between the district and Fort Hood, noting that the collaboration provides students with postsecondary opportunities beyond athletics. She explained, “Fort Hood is such a huge part of our community… our job as educators is to open up their eyes to the opportunities they have in front of them.” The event also featured a visit from Lt. Gen. Kevin D. Admiral, Commanding General of the III Armored Corps, and an enlistment ceremony, reinforcing the connection between the training and real-world military service.#killeen_isd #fort_hood #us_army_experience #sgt_1st_class_leroy_betts_iii #garson_skelton
