Understanding Military Occupational Specialties 11B and 11C in the U.S. Army

When joining the infantry in the U.S. Army, you might wonder about the differences between 11B (Infantryman) and 11C (Indirect Fire Infantryman) MOS. These two military roles are often abbreviated as 11B and 11C and refer to different specialized positions within the infantry. Let's delve into the details to understand the distinctions and implications of each.

11B: The Infantryman

The Infantryman (11B) is the primary MOS in the infantry. Soldiers in this role are trained for a wide range of infantry tasks, such as combat operations, weapons handling, and small unit tactics. These soldiers are the backbone of any infantry unit, ready to engage in direct combat and execute a variety of missions. The training for 11B focuses on providing comprehensive infantry skills, making these soldiers versatile and capable in a wide array of combat situations.

11C: The Indirect Fire Infantryman

The Indirect Fire Infantryman (11C) specializes in operating mortars. While both 11B and 11C are part of the infantry branch, 11C soldiers have distinct responsibilities and training requirements. The 11C focuses on indirect fire support, which involves using mortars to provide artillery support for ground troops. These soldiers must be proficient in mortars and their related systems, and they often play a significant role in artillery coordination and fire support operations.

Assignment and Testing

While soldiers have the opportunity to choose their MOS based on their interests and aptitudes, ultimate assignments are made by the Army based on qualifications and the availability of positions. The Army conducts comprehensive testing to assess the strengths and weaknesses of new recruits, ensuring that they are placed in roles most suited to their abilities. The testing process is not limited to intelligence but also evaluates skills such as spatial reasoning, which can be crucial for some specialised roles.

For instance, a soldier with above-average spatial skills might be better suited for 11C, where they would use these skills to operate and manage mortars effectively. On the other hand, a soldier with more general knowledge skills might be more suitable for 11B. Even if two soldiers score the same on the test, their performance in specific areas might determine their MOS assignment.

Community and Further Information

To gain more insight into these roles, it is recommended to create a profile on RallyPoint is a question and answer platform dedicated to the military community. You can ask specific questions and receive answers from verified service members who can provide firsthand experience and knowledge of these roles.

Training and Unit Life

During basic training and Advanced Individual Training (AIT), soldiers assigned to 11B and 11C will receive similar foundational training. However, the training for 11C is more specialized and may include additional coursework on mortar operations and artillery support. Upon assignment to a unit, the roles of 11B and 11C diverge significantly. 11B soldiers are more likely to engage in direct combat and patrolling activities, whereas 11C soldiers often focus on preparedness, assembly areas, and defensive operations.

11C soldiers will participate in exercises where they will engage in drills and simulations, such as moving to assembly areas, engaging in defensive operations, and conducting mortar drills. These activities prepare them for their specific role in indirect fire support and ensure they are ready to perform their duties effectively in combat situations.

Understanding the differences and responsibilities of 11B and 11C MOS is crucial for anyone considering a career in the U.S. Army. Each role requires specific skills and training, and soldiers are best suited for them based on their individual capabilities and the needs of the Army.