There is a big difference between how they operate in training units, and how your permanent unit will act when you deploy. There is a lot of difference between line combat arms units and support units. (I've been in both.) Your unit's supply will have discretionary funds to spend on gear as they see fit. Sometimes they already have everything they need, (usually because they have already done this at least once,) and they are able to buy you a lot of goodies. Gerbers, knives, Surefire lights, Camelbacks, goggles, etc. Sometimes they are unit that has just been reorganized and they need to spend it all on essential unit items, and still ask for more money.
Like someone said above, some items are important enough that you must have them, whether or not the unit gets them for you or not. What I WILL DO, is wait until I deploy. See what the guys leaving are willing to sell or give you. You might find piles of stuff left behind. Not just for battle gear, look for guitars, laptops, and Wii's depending on where you are going and what you like.
In my everyday uniform, I have a CRKT folder in my pocket, and a Leatherman on my belt. On my web gear I have my Gerber Mk II 9" dagger, (which I've had for 17 years, it's discontinued,) I own a Buckmaster, (also discontinued,) which I've also had for 20 years, but honestly, while I carried it when I was in combat arms, I'll probably leave it home this time. (If the army needs me to hack a tree down, I'll risk breaking THEIR bayonet this time.) Being in the national guard, I already know my command well enough to carry what I want to, and if the division SMAJ is doing a visit, they'll whisper to me to lose it until he is gone.
Absolutely get one with a serrated edge. Either a general purpose knife with half, or a medium size Spyderco needle-point, if you don't mind carrying another. The things you have to cut in emergencies, like strap, clothes, SEATBELTS, (skin, tendons, blood vessels,) etc, laugh as you try to saw your way through with a regular blade.