Explore military customs and courtesies that support everyday conduct at camp. Use these background resources alongside XMC’s current instructions. The General Military Knowledge Collection ↗ provides additional terminology and traditions.
One Unit. Shared Pride.
A guidon is the unit flag carried with a formation. At XMC it gives a platoon a visible identity and a shared point of pride.
Streamers recognize a platoon’s effort and performance. Each Challenger’s preparation, teamwork and attention to detail contribute to the group. Cadre explain the current recognition standards during training.
Being selected as the guidon bearer is a responsibility: the bearer represents the unit and helps the formation maintain its direction.
These linked training resources support preparation. They do not imply U.S. Army sponsorship of XMC. Follow current program guidance and instructor direction.
UNIT PRIDE AND RECOGNITION
A Guidon Gives the Platoon Its Identity.
Each Recruit platoon has its own guidon, patterned after a U.S. Army branch and its colors. The branch identities introduce different military career paths while giving families a visible way to recognize their Recruit’s platoon. The guidon bearer carries the unit’s identity and pride.
Streamers Are Earned Through Excellence.
Platoons compete throughout Cadet Basic Training in challenges that build teamwork, leadership and military skills. Streamers recognize platoon and individual achievement and contribute to Honor Platoon standings.
View streamer award categories
The Black Honor Platoon Streamer.
The platoon with the highest overall competitive standing during Cadet Basic Training earns the Black Honor Platoon Streamer. It recognizes leadership, teamwork, discipline, military skills, fitness and academic achievement. One platoon earns the distinction.
View competitive standings point values
