diff --git a/Strategic/Assignments.cpp b/Strategic/Assignments.cpp
index 6262077ed..d5f0df5f1 100644
--- a/Strategic/Assignments.cpp
+++ b/Strategic/Assignments.cpp
@@ -4852,7 +4852,7 @@ INT16 GetBonusTrainingPtsDueToInstructor( SOLDIERTYPE *pInstructor, SOLDIERTYPE
 	INT16 bTrainerEffSkill = 0;
 	INT16 bTrainerNatSkill = 0;
 	INT16 bTrainingBonus = 0;
-	INT8 bOpinionFactor;
+	INT8 bOpinionFactor = 0;
 
 	// assume training impossible for max pts
 	*pusMaxPts = 0;