How is Basic Training for Air Force?
The United States Air Force Basic Military Training (BMT) is a rigorous and demanding program designed to transform civilians into airmen and women. The training program is 7 weeks long and is conducted at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. The goal of BMT is to teach recruits the skills and values necessary to become a successful member of the Air Force.
Phase 1: Red Phase
The first phase of BMT, known as the Red Phase, lasts for 3 weeks and focuses on introducing recruits to the Air Force way of life. During this phase, recruits are taught the importance of teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness. They are also introduced to the Air Force Core Values of Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.
- Physical Fitness: Recruits are introduced to the Air Force Physical Fitness Test (APFT), which consists of a 1.5-mile run, push-ups, and sit-ups.
- Teamwork: Recruits are taught the importance of teamwork and are introduced to the concept of the "Air Force Team".
- Discipline: Recruits are taught the importance of discipline and are introduced to the Air Force’s dress and appearance standards.
Phase 2: White Phase
The second phase of BMT, known as the White Phase, lasts for 2 weeks and focuses on teaching recruits the skills they need to become airmen and women. During this phase, recruits are taught basic military skills, such as first aid, map reading, and marksmanship.
- First Aid: Recruits are taught basic first aid techniques, such as CPR and wound care.
- Map Reading: Recruits are taught how to read maps and use a compass.
- Marksmanship: Recruits are taught how to properly handle and fire a weapon.
Phase 3: Blue Phase
The third and final phase of BMT, known as the Blue Phase, lasts for 2 weeks and focuses on preparing recruits for their future careers in the Air Force. During this phase, recruits are taught about their job specialties and are introduced to their respective career fields.
- Job Specialties: Recruits are introduced to their job specialties and are taught the skills they need to perform their duties.
- Career Fields: Recruits are introduced to their respective career fields and are taught about the responsibilities and expectations of their jobs.
Graduation
After completing the 7-week BMT program, recruits graduate and are awarded the Airman’s Badge. The graduation ceremony is a significant milestone in a recruit’s journey to becoming an airman or woman.
Table: BMT Program Timeline
| Phase | Duration | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Red Phase | 3 weeks | Introduction to Air Force way of life, physical fitness, teamwork, and discipline |
| White Phase | 2 weeks | Teaching basic military skills, such as first aid, map reading, and marksmanship |
| Blue Phase | 2 weeks | Preparing recruits for their future careers in the Air Force, job specialties, and career fields |
| Graduation | 1 day | Awarding the Airman’s Badge and celebrating recruits’ completion of BMT |
Conclusion
Basic Military Training for the Air Force is a challenging and rewarding experience that transforms civilians into airmen and women. The 7-week program is designed to teach recruits the skills and values necessary to become successful members of the Air Force. From the moment they arrive at Lackland Air Force Base, recruits are immersed in a rigorous program that prepares them for their future careers. By the end of the program, recruits have earned the right to wear the Airman’s Badge and call themselves airmen and women.
