Does the Military Pay for Family to Come to Graduation?
The military’s graduation ceremonies are a significant milestone for service members and their families. However, with the rising costs of travel and accommodations, many families may wonder if the military pays for family members to attend these ceremonies. In this article, we will provide a direct answer to this question and delve into the details of what the military offers to help families attend these important events.
Does the Military Pay for Family to Come to Graduation?
The short answer is no, the military does not pay for family members to attend graduation ceremonies. However, the military does offer various programs and benefits to help offset the costs of travel and accommodations for family members to attend these events.
What are the Military’s Graduation Ceremonies?
The military holds graduation ceremonies to mark the completion of various training programs, courses, and certifications. These ceremonies are held at military bases, schools, and training facilities across the United States and around the world. The types of graduation ceremonies include:
• Basic Combat Training (BCT) graduation
• Advanced Individual Training (AIT) graduation
• Officer Candidate School (OCS) graduation
• Officer Training School (OTS) graduation
• Warrant Officer Candidate School (WOCS) graduation
• Officer Basic Course (OBC) graduation
What Benefits does the Military Offer to Help Families Attend Graduation Ceremonies?
While the military does not pay for family members to attend graduation ceremonies, it offers several benefits to help offset the costs of travel and accommodations. These benefits include:
• Per Diem: The military provides a daily stipend, known as per diem, to help cover the cost of food and lodging for family members who attend graduation ceremonies. The amount of per diem varies depending on the location and the type of ceremony.
• Travel Orders: The military issues travel orders for family members to attend graduation ceremonies. These orders are typically issued well in advance of the ceremony and cover the cost of transportation, lodging, and meals.
• Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Facilities: Many military bases have MWR facilities that offer accommodations, food, and entertainment for family members. These facilities are usually available at a reduced cost or for free.
• Family Support Centers: The military has Family Support Centers on base that provide information and resources to help family members plan their trip to attend graduation ceremonies.
• Discounts and Promotions: Some military bases and MWR facilities offer discounts and promotions to help family members save money on travel and accommodations.
What are the Typical Costs for Family Members to Attend Graduation Ceremonies?
The costs for family members to attend graduation ceremonies can vary depending on the location, type of ceremony, and accommodations. However, here are some typical costs to expect:
| Type of Graduation | Typical Costs |
|---|---|
| Basic Combat Training | $500-$1,000 (travel and accommodations) |
| Advanced Individual Training | $1,000-$2,000 (travel and accommodations) |
| Officer Candidate School | $2,000-$3,000 (travel and accommodations) |
| Officer Training School | $3,000-$4,000 (travel and accommodations) |
Tips for Family Members to Save Money on Graduation Ceremonies
While the military does not pay for family members to attend graduation ceremonies, there are several ways to save money on travel and accommodations. Here are some tips:
• Plan Ahead: Book travel and accommodations well in advance to take advantage of discounts and promotions.
• Use Military Discounts: Use military discounts and promotions to save money on travel, accommodations, and food.
• Pack Smart: Pack smart and avoid checking bags to save on luggage fees.
• Stay on Base: Consider staying on base at MWR facilities or other military-run accommodations to save money.
• Cook Your Own Meals: Consider cooking your own meals instead of eating out to save money.
Conclusion
While the military does not pay for family members to attend graduation ceremonies, it offers several benefits and resources to help offset the costs of travel and accommodations. By planning ahead, using military discounts, and packing smart, family members can save money and make the most of their trip to attend graduation ceremonies.
