353. Training New Sentinel Personnel

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The group nodded in agreement, each member of his team filled with a renewed determination. The road ahead would be difficult, but for the first time, Sico felt that they had a real chance of victory. With the Sentinels leading the way, the Commonwealth would rise, and the Institute's shadow would finally be driven back.

The next morning, Sico arrived at the Commonwealth's main depot, where Robert, Mel, and Hank were already hard at work. After the previous day's planning, it was time to put those plans into action and begin training the teams who would operate the Sentinels. Today was about laying the foundation—selecting the right personnel, teaching them the technical aspects of the Sentinels, and ensuring they understood the gravity of their roles. Each team would be trained to treat their Sentinel like a fortress on wheels, a weapon that could turn the tide of battle, and a symbol of hope for the Commonwealth.

As Sico approached, he could see Robert standing by a group of Minutemen recruits, each one sizing up the towering machines with a mix of excitement and trepidation. Mel was nearby, checking off names on a list, and Hank was gesturing animatedly at the first Sentinel, already in full instructor mode as he explained the importance of the armored plating to another small group.

Sico stepped up to Robert, nodding in greeting. "How's the selection process going?"

Robert glanced at him, a smile playing at the corners of his lips. "We've got some promising recruits here. I went through the files last night, picked out those with mechanical skills, combat experience, and good reflexes. I want to ensure each crew is well-rounded. These Sentinels are more than just weapons; they're symbols of hope. The operators need to be dedicated, focused, and adaptable."

"Agreed," Sico said, looking over the recruits. "Each team should have both seasoned Minutemen and skilled engineers. I want them to know these machines inside and out, to be able to repair them under pressure if needed."

Mel walked over, giving Sico and Robert a nod. "We've also selected a few backup teams, just as we discussed. They'll be trained alongside the main operators, so we'll have a rotation and replacements ready if anything happens to the primary crew members."

Sico's gaze swept over the assembled recruits. "Good thinking, Mel. This is too important to risk. If even one of these Sentinels is out of commission, it could jeopardize everything we've planned."

Hank waved from where he was showing off the Sentinel's reinforced armor to a few wide-eyed recruits. He walked over, grinning as he wiped a hand on his grease-streaked shirt. "These kids don't know what they're in for, do they?"

Sico chuckled, shaking his head. "Not yet. But they will. I'm counting on you to make sure they're up to the task."

Hank nodded, glancing back at the recruits. "Oh, don't worry, Sico. I'll make sure they understand every nut and bolt on these beasts. They'll eat, sleep, and breathe Sentinels by the time we're through."

Sico addressed the assembled recruits, his voice steady and commanding. "Listen up! Each of you was chosen because you have skills that set you apart. Operating a Sentinel isn't like using any other machine you've handled. These tanks are our best hope against the Institute, but they'll only be as effective as the people behind the controls. If you're not ready to put in the work, you can walk away now. No one here will think less of you."

No one moved. Each recruit stood tall, their eyes filled with determination and commitment. Sico felt a swell of pride; these were the Commonwealth's best, people who had endured hardship and survived countless battles. He knew they would give everything to protect their home.

"Good," Sico said, his gaze steady. "Then let's get started. You'll be split into teams, and each team will be assigned to one of the Sentinels. Hank, Robert, and Mel will be leading the training. You'll be learning everything—from driving to maintaining the weapon systems to repairing armor under fire. These machines are your responsibility now. Treat them well, and they'll save lives."

With that, Sico stepped back and let the training begin.

Robert led the first part of the training, focusing on familiarizing the recruits with the basic layout of the Sentinel. Each machine was an armored powerhouse, packed with weapons, sensors, and advanced systems that required precision to operate. He started with the cockpit, where the driver and gunner would sit, giving them an overview of the controls.

"These Sentinels are designed to be simple, but they require respect," Robert explained, pointing out the reinforced switches and the heads-up display. "The main screen shows your surroundings, but remember, visibility can be limited in the heat of battle. Always stay aware of your surroundings."

One of the recruits, a young man named Lee, raised his hand. "Sir, what about handling rough terrain? I mean, some of these roads are almost impossible to navigate."

Robert nodded. "Good question. The Sentinels are built with a stabilized suspension system, so they can handle rough terrain better than most vehicles. However, you'll still need to drive with caution. These machines are heavy, and once you're moving, stopping on a dime isn't an option."

He moved on to the weapon controls, pointing to the firing switches and the targeting screen. "The main gun is controlled from here. It's designed to pierce through armor and hit hard. We also have secondary weapons for dealing with smaller threats—think raiders, gunners, and any synths that might get too close."

The recruits watched intently, absorbing every word. They were beginning to understand the responsibility they held, not just as operators but as the first line of defense against the Institute's forces.

Hank took over, leading the recruits to the rear of the Sentinel where the engine was housed. As a master mechanic, Hank had spent countless hours tuning these engines, ensuring they ran smoothly under any conditions.

"These engines are tough, but they're not invincible," Hank said, his tone gruff but kind. "You need to know every part of this machine, because if something breaks during a battle, you won't have time to wait for backup. Understanding the mechanics could mean the difference between life and death."

He handed out tools, teaching each recruit the basics of Sentinel maintenance. They learned to check fuel levels, repair armor plating, and replace fuses in the targeting system. Hank emphasized the importance of vigilance, explaining that a small issue, like a loose bolt, could lead to catastrophic failures if left unchecked.

One of the recruits, a former mechanic named Sarah, asked, "What about the weapons systems? Are they prone to jamming or overheating?"

Hank grinned, clearly impressed by her knowledge. "Good question. The primary gun has a cooling system, but if you're firing nonstop, it will eventually overheat. If that happens, switch to the secondary weapon and give the main gun a chance to cool down. You don't want to be caught in a firefight with no way to fire back."

He made each team practice basic repairs, ensuring they understood every part of the machine. By the end of the session, the recruits were dirty and exhausted, but they had a newfound respect for the Sentinels and the work it took to keep them operational.

Mel took over the next portion of the training, focusing on the tactical aspects of using the Sentinels in combat. He laid out a rough terrain map, using miniature models to demonstrate how the Sentinels should move in formation.

"In combat, these Sentinels will be targeted heavily," Mel explained. "The enemy will try to flank you, take out your wheels, and disrupt your targeting systems. That's why you'll be moving in teams, supporting each other. Never go solo."

He showed them various formations, explaining how each was used to handle different types of terrain and enemy tactics. For example, in open fields, the Sentinels would move in a "V" formation to provide overlapping fields of fire. In urban areas, they would move in pairs, with one covering while the other advanced.

The recruits practiced these formations, following Mel's guidance and learning to work as a cohesive unit. Sico watched with approval as the teams began to understand the value of coordinated movement and mutual support. The Sentinels were powerful, but they would only be effective if their operators worked as one.

The next stage of training began with a unique learning opportunity for the recruits. Robert, Mel, and Hank gathered everyone around the first Sentinel as the operators from a previous combat mission approached. These veterans, who had already experienced the chaos of battle inside the formidable Sentinels, were invited to share their insights with the new teams. Each of them carried the wear of experience, and their expressions hinted at a mix of pride and caution.

Sico nodded to the first operator, a sturdy man named Sam with a scar running down his left arm, evidence of the dangers the Commonwealth forces faced regularly. Sam looked over the assembled recruits, his gaze sharp and scrutinizing. He began by sharing his experience, his voice calm but filled with the gravity of combat.

"Operating a Sentinel in combat isn't like anything you've ever done before," Sam began, his tone serious. "When you're out there, you're not just moving a machine. You're driving a fortress, a symbol of hope, and a target all at once. The enemy knows how powerful these Sentinels are, and they'll throw everything they have to take you down."

The recruits listened, their expressions shifting as they realized the stakes. Sam gestured to the Sentinel, as if to emphasize his point. "This machine saved my life more than once, but it's not invincible. You'll be hit, and sometimes hard. You have to keep your head clear, even when you're surrounded by chaos."

A young recruit named Marcus raised his hand, a hint of nervousness in his voice. "How do you manage the stress when things get that intense?"

Sam nodded, understanding the concern. "The best thing you can do is rely on your team and trust the training. When the shots start flying, remember what you learned here. Keep your eyes on your surroundings, stay aware of your positioning, and communicate with your crew. The Sentinels can take a beating, but they won't survive if the team inside is panicking. Everyone has a role, and if each person sticks to their role, you'll get through it."

Next, a gunner from Sam's team, a wiry woman named Lana, stepped forward. She was a tactical expert, with sharp eyes that seemed to miss nothing. "You have to learn the Sentinel's limits," she said firmly. "This gun is powerful, sure, but it's not magic. When we were under fire, there were moments when I had to prioritize targets. Every shot counts. Your job is to be faster than the target and be more accurate."

Lana's gaze fell on the new gunners, her expression unyielding. "When you're in that seat, every second matters. The first time I went out, I made the mistake of trying to aim perfectly. But you don't always have time. Sometimes, good enough is better than perfect."

Hank nodded, clearly approving of her advice. He gestured to the recruits, adding his own thoughts. "Listen to Lana. Out there, you're balancing power and efficiency. Overheat that gun, and you'll be defenseless while it cools down. You need to know when to push it to the limit and when to let up."

A mechanic from Sam's team, a young man named Jarek, then took his turn to speak. His expression was more solemn as he addressed the recruits, sharing his own experiences in the field. "I didn't expect my role to be so critical until the engine took a hit during a skirmish. The Sentinel stalled, and the Raider's forces closed in on us. In that moment, knowing the machine inside out saved our lives. I had to do an emergency repair while we were still under fire. If you don't know how to fix these machines on the fly, you're putting everyone at risk."

He took a deep breath, the memory clearly vivid in his mind. "You have to be fast, and you have to keep calm. A breakdown doesn't mean it's over. It means you have seconds to get things running again. You don't think, you act."

The recruits exchanged glances, the weight of the task they were taking on sinking in. Sico watched their reactions carefully, knowing that the veterans' stories were doing more to prepare them than any lecture ever could.

Finally, Robert stepped forward, signaling for everyone's attention. "You've heard the reality of what it's like in combat," he began, his voice clear and steady. "But remember, you're not alone in this. Each Sentinel is part of a team, and every operator is part of something bigger. Your mission isn't just survival; it's to protect the Commonwealth. These machines are powerful tools, but they're only as effective as the people who operate them. Work together, trust each other, and respect the machine."

He gestured to Sam, Lana, and Jarek. "These folks came back because they worked together, because they understood that the Sentinel is not just a machine but an extension of their skills and teamwork."

Mel chimed in, pointing to the map of the Commonwealth laid out on the ground. "Out there, the Institute's and Brotherhood's forces are highly organized, ruthless, and well-equipped. They will use tactics designed to disorient you, split your team, and isolate your Sentinel. If you get flanked or surrounded, it's game over. That's why we train you to work in formations, to understand the terrain, and to support each other. This isn't just about operating a machine—it's about learning to adapt and to see the battlefield as a whole."

Hank took the cue, reinforcing the point. "A Sentinel is only as good as the team running it. If you lose your cool, if you freeze up, you endanger everyone, including your allies. This machine can do amazing things, but only if you're ready to push it to its limits."

Sico then turned to address the recruits directly. "Remember, every battle you fight, every skirmish you win, is a step closer to freeing the Commonwealth from the Institute's grip. When you're in that Sentinel, you're a symbol of hope for every person struggling to survive out there. You'll be targeted, you'll be tested, but if you stand strong, you'll inspire others to stand with you."

He paused, letting the gravity of his words sink in. "This is your moment to be more than soldiers. This is your moment to be protectors of the Commonwealth."

The recruits nodded, visibly steeling themselves. They had seen the Sentinels up close, listened to the veterans' accounts, and understood what would be expected of them. They knew the mission they were being asked to undertake was dangerous, but they also knew it was necessary. For the Commonwealth to have a future, they had to be willing to take this risk.

The day continued with rigorous hands-on training. Robert and Hank guided the recruits through simulated combat drills, pushing them to work together, communicate under pressure, and react swiftly to unexpected situations. Mel took groups aside to run through tactical exercises, drilling formations and maneuvers into them until they became second nature.

Every recruit was tested on their knowledge of the Sentinel's systems, with Hank overseeing maintenance drills and ensuring they understood the intricacies of the machines. Mel monitored their formations, barking corrections when they faltered, while Robert quizzed them on the cockpit controls, making sure each team was ready to react instinctively.

As evening fell, the recruits were exhausted but resolute. They had spent the day learning every bolt, every switch, and every tactic necessary to turn the Sentinels into the powerful force the Commonwealth needed. There were bruises, sore muscles, and weary faces, but there was also a fire in their eyes—a determination forged by the knowledge that they were part of something bigger than themselves.

Sico gathered them one last time, his tone solemn but proud. "You've made it through the first day, but this is just the beginning. You're here because you're the Commonwealth's best. Tomorrow, we'll push harder. You'll be tested in ways you can't yet imagine. But if you give it everything you've got, we'll have a chance against the Institute."

He looked over the group, his expression hardening with conviction. "Remember why you're here. Remember who you're fighting for. Each of you is a part of this machine—a piece of something greater than yourselves. Work together, trust in each other, and know that you are the Commonwealth's hope."

With that, he dismissed them for the night, letting them rest and prepare for the days of intense training that lay ahead. As they dispersed, murmuring among themselves, Sico felt a renewed sense of purpose. The Commonwealth was finally gaining a fighting chance, and with each day, that chance grew stronger. The Institute would learn that the Commonwealth was no longer helpless, that they now had the strength to push back, and that this fight was far from over.

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• Name: Sico

• Stats :

S: 8,44

P: 7,44

E: 8,44

C: 8,44

I: 9,44

A: 7,45

L: 7

• Skills: advance Mechanic, Science, and Shooting skills, intermediate Medical, Hand to Hand Combat, Lockpicking, Hacking, Persuasion, and Drawing Skills

• Inventory: 53.280 caps, 10mm Pistol, 1500 10mm rounds, 22 mole rats meat, 17 mole rats teeth, 1 fragmentation grenade, 6 stimpak, 1 rad x, 6 fusion core, computer blueprint, modern TV blueprint, camera recorder blueprint, 1 set of combat armor, Automatic Assault Rifle, 1.500 5.56mm rounds, power armor T51 blueprint, Electric Motorcycle blueprint, T-45 power armor, Minigun, 1.000 5mm rounds, Cryolator, 200 cryo cell, Machine Gun Turret Mk1 blueprint, electric car blueprint, Kellogg gun, Righteous Authority, Ashmaker, Furious Power Fist, Full set combat armor blueprint, M240 7.62mm machine guns blueprint, Automatic Assault Rifle blueprint, and Humvee blueprint

• Active Quest: -