Do You Go Home After Basic Training in the Air Force?
The United States Air Force Basic Military Training (BMT) is an essential step in the enlistment process for new airmen. The program prepares recruits for the demands of military life, teaches them essential skills, and gives them the knowledge needed to succeed in their new career. But one question remains on the minds of many recruits: Do I go home after basic training?
The Answer
Typically, after completing the 7.5 weeks of Basic Military Training (BMT), airmen are sent to their Technical Training School (TTS) for their craft-specific training. However, there are exceptions. Those who are honorary graduates of BMT, meaning they didn’t complete the entire 7.5 weeks of training, may be recycled to return home and complete the remainder of their training. On the other hand, airmen who complete the full 7.5 weeks of BMT typically proceed to their TTS or other duty assignments without going home.
Reasons for Not Going Home After Basic Training
Several reasons contribute to the decision not to go home after completing basic training:
- Time and Space Constraints: The Air Force has limited space and personnel to accommodate returning airmen, especially those attending TTS.
- Training Continuity: Returning airmen would need to reintegrate with their training squadrons and cohorts, which could disrupt the training process.
- Logistical Challenges: Arranging transportation and temporary living arrangements for returning airmen would be resource-intensive and costly.
Life After Basic Training: A Typical Scenario
So, what happens after completing Basic Military Training? Here’s a typical scenario:
- Technical Training: Airmen typically move to their TTS or other duty assignments to start their craft-specific training. This training can range from a few weeks to a year or more, depending on the Air Force career field.
- Duty Assignments: After completing TTS, airmen may be assigned to their first duty station, where they will work in their career field.
- Regular Assignments: Regular assignments typically involve reporting to an Air Force base, unit, or squadron for ongoing duty.
Possible Options for Returning Home After Basic Training
While not common, there are scenarios where airmen might return home after basic training:
- Medical Issues: Airmen may require medical attention or surgery and need to return home to recover.
- Family Emergencies: In the event of a family emergency, such as a serious illness or injury, airmen might be granted temporary leave or returned home.
- Recycling: Airmen who didn’t complete the full 7.5 weeks of basic training may be recycled, meaning they return home to complete the remainder of their training.
Summary Table
| Scenario | Explanation | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Completing basic training | Proceeds to TTS or duty assignment | 7.5 weeks |
| Medical issue | Returns home for treatment | Varies |
| Family emergency | Granted leave or returned home | Varies |
| Honorary graduate | Recycled, returns home to complete training | Varies |
In conclusion, while the vast majority of airmen do not return home after completing basic training, there are exceptions. Honorary graduates may be recycled back to their home units to complete their training, and in rare cases, airmen may be required to return home due to medical issues or family emergencies. For those who do complete the full 7.5 weeks of BMT, they typically proceed to their TTS or other duty assignments without returning home.
