Eleanor Finch
Basic Cadet Training (BCT) in the Air Force is a challenging and focused time for cadets, and family members often worry about their loved ones during this period. However, there are several ways for families to keep in touch and show support. Cadets are allowed to write letters and make phone calls home, and they can also receive mail and letters of encouragement from their families. The Air Force also offers Air Force Friends and Family Instant Messaging (AFIM) for seamless communication. Family members can attend graduation ceremonies and are invited to an open house to celebrate their loved one's achievements and new career path.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Duration | 5 to 9 weeks |
| Communication | Phone, video chat, email, messaging, letters |
| Graduation | Family members are welcome to witness their child's graduation |
| Time | The Air Force uses a 24-hour clock |
| Devices | Personal cell phones and mobile devices are prohibited during training |
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What You'll Learn
Cadets can write letters to their family members during training
Basic Military Training or Officer Training School is an intense and challenging experience for cadets, and it is natural for family members to be concerned about their loved ones during this time. Cadets will have the opportunity to phone home, receive mail, and write letters to their family members.
Letters can be a valuable form of communication during this time, as cadets are prohibited from using personal cell phones and mobile devices during Basic Cadet Training (BCT). Cadets typically have their cell phones returned shortly after returning from Jacks Valley, prior to Acceptance Day. However, in the case of a family emergency, family members can contact the USAFA Parent Liaison or the cadet's Air Officer Commanding (AOC) or Academy Military Trainer (AMT).
It is important to note that the Air Force also offers Air Force Friends and Family Instant Messaging (AFIM), a service that facilitates seamless communication through the Air Force Portal. This provides an additional way for cadets to stay connected with their loved ones during training.
During Basic Military Training, cadets will also learn about military customs and courtesies, the cadet Honor Code, Air Force and Space Force heritage, and undergo room inspections. They will be tested on their knowledge and must demonstrate proficiency in drill, dress, appearance, and reporting procedures. Family members can expect to be there to support their cadets during the open house and graduation ceremony, which can take place at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Texas, or Maxwell AFB in Montgomery, Alabama, depending on the cadet's specific training path.
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Cadets don't have access to their phones during training
Basic Cadet Training (BCT) in the United States Air Force Academy is a challenging and focused time for cadets, and they are not permitted access to their personal cell phones or mobile devices during this period. Cadets are, however, encouraged to write letters home, which can be a valuable source of encouragement for them. They will also have opportunities to phone home and receive mail from family and friends.
Cadets are expected to learn military customs and courtesies, the cadet Honor Code, Air Force and Space Force heritage, and room inspection procedures. They are tested on their knowledge and must demonstrate proficiency in drill, dress, appearance, and reporting procedures. They also attend lectures to prepare for Expeditionary Skills Training at Jacks Valley. All of this takes place within a specific timeframe after arrival at the Academy.
During BCT, cadets will not have access to their phones, so it's important for families to be aware of this and plan accordingly. Cadets typically have their cell phones returned to them shortly after returning from Jacks Valley and before Acceptance Day. If a family emergency occurs during BCT, family members can contact the USAFA Parent Liaison or the cadet's Air Officer Commanding (AOC) or Academy Military Trainer (AMT).
While cadets do not have access to their phones during BCT, there are still ways for them to stay connected with their families. Writing letters and receiving mail can be a meaningful way to stay in touch, and cadets also have opportunities to make phone calls home. Families can also look forward to attending their cadet's graduation from BCT, which takes place at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Texas, for enlisted Airmen.
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Family members can attend graduation ceremonies
Family members play an important role in supporting their loved ones during Air Force basic training. While this is a challenging and focused time for trainees, there are several ways for families to stay connected and involved.
One significant way that family members can show their support is by attending graduation ceremonies. Family members are welcome to witness their loved one's graduation, whether it be at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Texas, for enlisted Airmen completing Basic Military Training, or Maxwell AFB in Montgomery, Alabama, for Airmen in Officer Training School or Commissioned Officer Training. This is a chance for families to come together and celebrate the achievements of their Airmen.
During the graduation ceremony, families can expect to see their Airmen accept their orders and find out their future station postings. This marks the beginning of a new chapter in their Air Force career. The presence of family members at this milestone event provides invaluable support and encouragement as their Airmen embark on their journey.
While basic training can last anywhere from five to eight and a half weeks, family members can rest assured that their loved ones will have opportunities to stay in touch. Airmen are allowed to make phone calls home, send and receive mail, and write letters to their family and friends. Additionally, families can communicate through video chat, email, messaging, and the Air Force Friends and Family Instant Messaging (AFIM) service.
It is important to note that during Basic Cadet Training (BCT), personal cell phones and mobile devices are prohibited. However, basic cadets will have the opportunity to write letters and will have access to their cell phones shortly after returning from Jacks Valley, prior to Acceptance Day. Families can also reach out in case of emergencies by contacting the designated USAFA Parent Liaison or the cadet's Air Officer Commanding (AOC) or Academy Military Trainer (AMT).
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Cadets can receive mail from family and friends
While cadets in the Air Force undergo rigorous training, they can still receive mail from their family and friends. This is an excellent way to stay connected and show support for cadets during their challenging Basic Military Training (BMT) or Officer Training School.
BMT typically lasts around eight and a half weeks, with each week bringing a new phase of training. Cadets will have the opportunity to write letters back to their loved ones during this time and are encouraged to do so by their trainers. Letter writing can be a valuable form of communication, and receiving letters of encouragement can be especially meaningful for cadets as they navigate the demands of their military training.
Family and friends play a crucial role in maintaining morale and providing emotional support for cadets. They can also stay connected through various means, such as phone calls, video chats, emails, and messaging services. The Air Force offers the Air Force Friends and Family Instant Messaging (AFIM) service, enabling seamless communication through the Air Force Portal.
Additionally, family members can attend significant events, such as graduation ceremonies, providing cadets with a familiar support system as they transition to their new roles as Airmen. It is important to note that while cadets can receive mail, they do not have access to their personal cell phones during BCT. In case of family emergencies, designated points of contact are available for family members to reach out to.
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Cadets can contact family via phone, video, email, and messaging
Communication is key when it comes to staying connected with loved ones during Air Force basic training. Cadets can stay in touch with their families through various means, including phone calls, video chats, emails, and messaging services. Here are some details to consider:
Phone Calls
Cadets are allowed to make phone calls home during their basic training. While they may not have access to their personal cell phones during this time, they can use designated phones provided by the Air Force. This allows them to connect with their families and share their experiences.
Video Chats
Video chats are also an option for cadets to connect visually with their families. This can be especially beneficial for families to see each other's faces and feel more connected during this challenging time.
Email and Messaging
Email and instant messaging services, such as the Air Force Friends and Family Instant Messaging (AFIM) platform, provide cadets with a convenient way to stay in touch. They can send and receive messages, sharing their experiences and receiving words of encouragement from their loved ones.
Letter Writing
Letter writing is also encouraged during basic training. Cadets are given time to write letters and receive mail from their families. This traditional form of communication can be a valuable way to stay connected and provide emotional support to one another.
It is important to note that while cadets can stay in touch with their families, the frequency and duration of these communications may vary depending on their training schedule and specific regulations. Additionally, basic training is a focused and challenging period, typically lasting around eight to nine weeks, where cadets undergo intense physical and mental preparation for their roles in the Air Force.
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Frequently asked questions
Airforce basic training lasts for eight and a half weeks. Each week, the trainee will undergo a new phase of training.
During basic training, family members can contact airmen via phone, video chat, email, and messaging. The Air Force also offers Air Force Friends and Family Instant Messaging (AFIM), a service for seamless communication through the Air Force Portal. Basic cadets will also have time to write letters during BCT and are encouraged to do so by their trainers.
Family members are not allowed to visit during basic training. However, they are welcome to witness their loved one's graduation from their respective training, either at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Texas, for enlisted Airmen completing Basic Military Training or Maxwell AFB in Montgomery, Alabama, for Airmen in Officer Training School or Commissioned Officer Training.
During a family emergency, family members can contact the USAFA Parent Liaison at 1-877-268-3383 or the cadet’s Air Officer Commanding (AOC) or Academy Military Trainer (AMT) at 719-333-3828.
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