In the Service

Army Pfc. Brian J. Ragas has graduated from One Station Unit Training (OSUT) at the U.S. Army Infantry School, Fort Benning, Columbus, Ga. The training consisted of basic military training and advanced individual training (AIT).

During basic training, the trainee received instruction in drill and ceremonies, military customs and courtesies, map reading, tactics, basic rifle marksmanship, physical fitness, field training, and first aid skills. The recruit developed combat skills and handled various weapons available to the infantry soldier.

During AIT, the soldier received instruction to serve as an infantryman/mortarman using light and heavy anti-armor weapons, indirect-fire support, and mechanized operations while assigned to a rifle or mortar squad. The training included weapons qualification; tactics; patrolling; navigation; field communications; combat operations; engagement in infantry combat exercises; battle drills; land mine locating, neutralizing and extracting; and survival operations during a nuclear, biological or chemical attack.

Ragas is the son of James E. and Susan Ragas of Woodbridge. The private is a 2002 graduate of Woodbridge High School.