Boot Camp — Today's Military

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They’ve unlocked a level of benefits hard to find anywhere else. </p> <span class="nav--itm--cta"> Check It Out </span> </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div id="join" class="nav--content--body clearfix current"> <h2>Joining & Eligibility</h2> <div class="left-content"> <ul class="nav--content-list"> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/joining-eligibility" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Joining & Eligibility;Overview"> <span class="hidden">Joining & Eligibility</span> Overview</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/joining-eligibility/eligibility-requirements" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Joining & Eligibility;Eligibility Requirements">Eligibility Requirements</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/joining-eligibility/asvab-test" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Joining & Eligibility;Asvab Test">Asvab Test</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/joining-eligibility/enlisting-military" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Joining & Eligibility;Enlisting in the military">Enlisting in the military</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/joining-eligibility/becoming-military-officer" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Joining & Eligibility;Becoming an officer">Becoming an officer</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change active " href="/joining-eligibility/boot-camp" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Joining & Eligibility;Boot Camp">Boot Camp</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/joining-eligibility/questions-ask-recruiter" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Joining & Eligibility;Questions to ask a recruiter">Questions to ask a recruiter</a> </li> </ul> <div class="itm-callout-mobile-container"> <div class="nav--content--itm"> <div class="nav--content--itm--inner"> <a href="/inside" class="itm-callout-wrapper-link"> <img src="/themes/basic/images/optimized/itm/itm-logo-top.png" class="itm--logo" alt="Inside" /> <div class="itm-cutout">TM</div> <p> Looking for unmatched personal and professional perks? Look no further than those serving in the Military. They’ve unlocked a level of benefits hard to find anywhere else. </p> <span class="nav--itm--cta"> Check It Out </span> </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div id="careers" class="nav--content--body "> <h2>Careers & Benefits</h2> <div class="left-content"> <ul class="nav--content-list"> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/careers-benefits" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Careers & Benefits;Overview"> <span class="hidden">Careers & Benefits</span> Overview</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/careers-benefits/explore-careers" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Careers & Benefits;Explore Careers">Explore Careers</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/careers-benefits/career-stories" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Careers & Benefits;Career Stories">Career Stories</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/careers-benefits/salary-compensation" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Careers & Benefits;Salary and Compensation">Salary and Compensation</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/careers-benefits/employment-benefits" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Careers & Benefits;Employment Benefits">Employment Benefits</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/careers-benefits/employment-after-military" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Careers & Benefits;Employment after the military">Employment after the military</a> </li> </ul> <div class="itm-callout-mobile-container"> <div class="nav--content--itm"> <div class="nav--content--itm--inner"> <a href="/inside" class="itm-callout-wrapper-link"> <img src="/themes/basic/images/optimized/itm/itm-logo-top.png" class="itm--logo" alt="Inside" /> <div class="itm-cutout">TM</div> <p> Looking for unmatched personal and professional perks? Look no further than those serving in the Military. They’ve unlocked a level of benefits hard to find anywhere else. </p> <span class="nav--itm--cta"> Check It Out </span> </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div id="education" class="nav--content--body "> <h2>Education & Training</h2> <div class="left-content"> <ul class="nav--content-list"> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/education-training" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Education & Training;Overview"> <span class="hidden">Joining & Training</span> Overview</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/education-training/paying-college" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Education & Training;Paying for college">Paying for college</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/education-training/military-schools" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Education & Training;Military Schools">Military Schools</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/education-training/rotc-programs" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Education & Training;ROTC Programs">ROTC Programs</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/education-training/college-credit" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Education & Training;College Credit">College Credit</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/education-training/advanced-training" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,Education & Training;Advanced Training">Advanced Training</a> </li> </ul> <div class="itm-callout-mobile-container"> <div class="nav--content--itm"> <div class="nav--content--itm--inner"> <a href="/inside" class="itm-callout-wrapper-link"> <img src="/themes/basic/images/optimized/itm/itm-logo-top.png" class="itm--logo" alt="Inside" /> <div class="itm-cutout">TM</div> <p> Looking for unmatched personal and professional perks? Look no further than those serving in the Military. They’ve unlocked a level of benefits hard to find anywhere else. </p> <span class="nav--itm--cta"> Check It Out </span> </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div id="parents" class="nav--content--body "> <h2>For Parents</h2> <div class="left-content"> <ul class="nav--content-list"> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/parents" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,For Parents;Overview"> <span class="hidden">For Parents</span> Overview</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/parents/what-to-expect" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,For Parents;What to Expect">What to Expect</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/parents/stories-military-parents" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,For Parents;Stories from military parents">Stories from military parents</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class="js--track--change " href="/parents/support-parents" data-track="Site Navigation,Page Click,For Parents;Support for parents">Support for parents</a> </li> </ul> <div class="itm-callout-mobile-container"> <div class="nav--content--itm"> <div class="nav--content--itm--inner"> <a href="/inside" class="itm-callout-wrapper-link"> <img src="/themes/basic/images/optimized/itm/itm-logo-top.png" class="itm--logo" alt="Inside" /> <div class="itm-cutout">TM</div> <p> Looking for unmatched personal and professional perks? Look no further than those serving in the Military. They’ve unlocked a level of benefits hard to find anywhere else. </p> <span class="nav--itm--cta"> Check It Out </span> </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="nav--content third-level-mobile-menu js-nav-scroll-third"> <div id="lifeMilitary" class="nav--content--body "> <div class="second-level-content-wrapper"> <div class="second-level-content"> <h4>Finding Fulfillment</h4> <p> From making an impact in the lives of others to meaningful connections and skills that last a lifetime — discover how young adults find fulfillment in the Military. </p> </div> <ul class="nav--content-list second-level-content-list"> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/finding-fulfillment/making-an-impact"> Making an Impact</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/finding-fulfillment/meaningful-connections"> Meaningful Connections</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/finding-fulfillment/a-balanced-life"> A Balanced Life</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/finding-fulfillment/individual-growth"> Individual Growth</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/finding-fulfillment/pursuing-dreams-passions"> Pursuing Dreams & Passions</a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> <div id="LifeOnBase" class="nav--content--body "> <div class="second-level-content-wrapper"> <div class="second-level-content"> <h4>Life On Base</h4> <p> Learn how military installations are welcoming environments with more comforts than you might expect. </p> </div> <ul class="nav--content-list second-level-content-list"> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/life-on-base/housing">Housing</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/life-on-base/amenities">Amenities</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/life-on-base/things-to-do">Things to do</a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/life-on-base/support">Support & Assistance</a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> <div id="RelocationDeployment" class="nav--content--body "> <div class="second-level-content-wrapper"> <div class="second-level-content"> <h4>Relocation & Deployment</h4> <p> See how a military lifestyle can take you around the world, and what to expect when deployed. </p> </div> <ul class="nav--content-list second-level-content-list"> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/relocation-deployment/duty-stations-deployment"> Duty Stations & Deployment </a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/relocation-deployment/moving-relocation"> Moving & Relocation </a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/relocation-deployment/support-for-families"> Support for Families </a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/relocation-deployment/staying-connected"> Staying Connected </a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> <div id="CustomPractices" class="nav--content--body "> <div class="second-level-content-wrapper"> <div class="second-level-content"> <h4>Customs & Practices</h4> <p> Explore everyday nuances of military life, like using 24-hour time, saluting etiquette, uniform guidelines and more. </p> </div> <ul class="nav--content-list second-level-content-list"> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/customs-practices/chain-of-command"> Chain of Command & Communication </a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/customs-practices/uniforms-grooming"> Uniforms & Grooming </a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/customs-practices/common-acronyms-terms"> Common Acronyms & Terms </a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/customs-practices/alphabet-time"> Phonetic Alphabet & Military Time </a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/customs-practices/health-fitness"> Health & Fitness Requirements </a> </li> <li class="content--list"> <a class=" " href="/life-in-the-military/customs-practices/reveille-retreat-taps"> Reveille, Retreat & Taps </a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div></div>  <div class="dialog-off-canvas-main-canvas" data-off-canvas-main-canvas> <main role="main"> <div> <div id="block-basic-breadcrumbs" class="block-system block-basic-breadcrumbs"> </div> <div id="block-basic-content" class="block-system block-basic-content"> <section class="node"> <div class="content">  <div port="er3" class="generic_page__content-module"> <div class="generic_page__content-module"> <div port="er4" > <div class="page--content container header--container "> <div class="page--header--photo parallax-window " > <span class="b-lazy page--header--background--img" style="background-image:url(https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.todaysmilitary.com/s3fs-public/2019-02/TM_HeaderImages_BootCamp_Recco_02_0.jpg)"></span> </div> <div class="page--text"> <div class="page-text-left"> <div class="page--top--text"> <p>Joining & Eligibility</p> <h1>Boot Camp</h1> </div> <div class="page--body--text"> <p>Basic Training — often called boot camp — prepares recruits for all elements of service: physical, mental and emotional. It gives service members the basic tools necessary to perform the roles that will be assigned to them for the duration of their tour. Each of the Services has its own training program, tailoring the curriculum to the specialized nature of its role in the Military.</p> </div> </div> <div class="page--links"> <h2 class="page--links--title">On This Page</h2> <ul> <li> <a class="js--track--change" data-track="Site Functionality,Button Click,Jump Link Click" href="#jump-boot-camp-by-service" > Boot Camp by Service </a> </li> <li> <a class="js--track--change" data-track="Site Functionality,Button Click,Jump Link Click" href="#jump-boot-camp-basics%3a-before-boot-camp" > Before Boot Camp </a> </li> <li> <a class="js--track--change" data-track="Site Functionality,Button Click,Jump Link Click" href="#jump-boot-camp-basics%3a-what-not-to-bring" > What Not To Bring </a> </li> <li> <a class="js--track--change" data-track="Site Functionality,Button Click,Jump Link Click" href="#jump-boot-camp-basics%3a-orientation" > Orientation </a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div port="er4" > <div class="container title--wrapper"> <h2 class="content--headline" id="jump-boot-camp-by-service"> Boot Camp by Service </h2> </div></div> <div port="er4" > <div class="container"> <div class=" content--table "> <div class="mil-column"> <div class="content_table_column__table-content-header js-toggle-mil-column "> <div class="img--wrap"> <img class="b-lazy" src="/themes/basic/images/source/Army.png" alt="Army logo"> </div> <div class="header-text "> <h2 class="content--table--title"> <span class="mobile--title mobile-show">Army</span> <a class="mobile-hide" href="/ways-to-serve/service-branches/army" > Army </a> </h2> <span class="branch-positions">Basic Combat Training</span> </div> <a class="toggle--content mobile"></a> </div> <div class="table-content"> <div class=" duration "> <h3>Duration</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><p>10 weeks</p> </div> </div> <div class=" locations "> <h3>Location</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><p><strong>Fort Benning</strong><br>Columbus, Georgia</p> <p><strong>Fort Jackson </strong><br>Columbia, South Carolina</p> <p><strong>Fort Leonard Wood</strong><br>Waynesville, Missouri</p> <p><strong>Fort Sill</strong><br>Lawton, Oklahoma</p> <p><strong>Fort Knox</strong><br>Fort Knox, Kentucky </p> </div> </div> <div class=" requirements "> <h3>Physical Fitness Requirements</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><ul> <li><span>Three Rep Max Deadlift</span></li> <li><span>Standing Power Throw</span></li> <li><span>Hand-Release Push-Ups</span></li> <li><span>Sprint-Drag-Carry</span></li> <li><span>Plank</span></li> <li><span>Two-Mile Run</span></li> </ul> <p> </p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="mil-column"> <div class="content_table_column__table-content-header js-toggle-mil-column "> <div class="img--wrap"> <img class="b-lazy" src="/themes/basic/images/source/Marine.png" alt="Marine logo"> </div> <div class="header-text "> <h2 class="content--table--title"> <span class="mobile--title mobile-show">Marine Corps</span> <a class="mobile-hide" href="/ways-to-serve/service-branches/marine-corps" > Marine Corps </a> </h2> <span class="branch-positions">Recruit Training</span> </div> <a class="toggle--content mobile"></a> </div> <div class="table-content"> <div class=" duration "> <h3>Duration</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><p>13 weeks</p> </div> </div> <div class=" locations "> <h3>Location</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><p><strong>Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island</strong><br>Parris Island, South Carolina</p> <p><strong>Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego</strong><br>San Diego, California</p> </div> </div> <div class=" requirements "> <h3>Physical Fitness Requirements</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><ul> <li>Pull-ups or Push-ups</li> <li>Timed Plank</li> <li>Timed Three-mile Run</li> </ul> <p> </p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="mil-column"> <div class="content_table_column__table-content-header js-toggle-mil-column "> <div class="img--wrap"> <img class="b-lazy" src="/themes/basic/images/source/Navy.png" alt="Navy logo"> </div> <div class="header-text "> <h2 class="content--table--title"> <span class="mobile--title mobile-show">Navy</span> <a class="mobile-hide" href="/ways-to-serve/service-branches/navy" > Navy </a> </h2> <span class="branch-positions">Recruit Training</span> </div> <a class="toggle--content mobile"></a> </div> <div class="table-content"> <div class=" duration "> <h3>Duration</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><p>10 weeks</p> </div> </div> <div class=" locations "> <h3>Location</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><p><strong>Great Lakes Recruit Training Command</strong><br>Great Lakes, Illinois</p> </div> </div> <div class=" requirements "> <h3>Physical Fitness Requirements</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><ul> <li>Timed 1.5-mile run</li> <li>2 sets, 30 seconds of planks</li> <li>2 minutes of pushups</li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="mil-column"> <div class="content_table_column__table-content-header js-toggle-mil-column "> <div class="img--wrap"> <img class="b-lazy" src="/themes/basic/images/source/AirForce.png" alt="AirForce logo"> </div> <div class="header-text "> <h2 class="content--table--title"> <span class="mobile--title mobile-show">Air Force</span> <a class="mobile-hide" href="/ways-to-serve/service-branches/air-force" > Air Force </a> </h2> <span class="branch-positions">Basic Military Training</span> </div> <a class="toggle--content mobile"></a> </div> <div class="table-content"> <div class=" duration "> <h3>Duration</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><p>7.5 weeks</p> </div> </div> <div class=" locations "> <h3>Location</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><p><strong>Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) Lackland</strong><br>San Antonio, Texas</p> </div> </div> <div class=" requirements "> <h3>Physical Fitness Requirements</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><ul> <li>Timed 1.5-mile run</li> <li>2 minutes to complete as many correct repetitions of pushups</li> <li>2 minutes to complete as many correct repetitions of situps</li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="mil-column"> <div class="content_table_column__table-content-header js-toggle-mil-column "> <div class="img--wrap"> <img class="b-lazy" src="/themes/basic/images/source/spaceforce.png" alt="SpaceForce logo"> </div> <div class="header-text "> <h2 class="content--table--title"> <span class="mobile--title mobile-show">Space Force</span> <a class="mobile-hide" href="/ways-to-serve/service-branches/space-force" > Space Force </a> </h2> <span class="branch-positions">Basic Military Training</span> </div> <a class="toggle--content mobile"></a> </div> <div class="table-content"> <div class=" duration "> <h3>Duration </h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><p>7.5 Weeks</p> </div> </div> <div class=" locations "> <h3>Location</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><p><strong>Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) Lackland</strong><br>San Antonio, Texas</p> </div> </div> <div class=" requirements "> <h3>Physical Fitness Requirements</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><ul> <li>Timed 1.5-mile run</li> <li>2 minutes to complete as many correct repetitions of pushups</li> <li>2 minutes to complete as many correct repetitions of situps</li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="mil-column"> <div class="content_table_column__table-content-header js-toggle-mil-column "> <div class="img--wrap"> <img class="b-lazy" src="/themes/basic/images/source/CoastGuard.png" alt="CoastGuard logo"> </div> <div class="header-text "> <h2 class="content--table--title"> <span class="mobile--title mobile-show">Coast Guard</span> <a class="mobile-hide" href="/ways-to-serve/service-branches/coast-guard" > Coast Guard </a> </h2> <span class="branch-positions">Recruit Training</span> </div> <a class="toggle--content mobile"></a> </div> <div class="table-content"> <div class=" duration "> <h3>Duration</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><p>8 weeks</p> </div> </div> <div class=" locations "> <h3>Location</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><p><strong>Cape May Coast Guard Training Center</strong><br>Cape May, New Jersey</p> </div> </div> <div class=" requirements "> <h3>Physical Fitness Requirements</h3>  <div port="er2" class="content_table_column_group__description"><ul> <li>Timed 1.5-mile run</li> <li>1 minute of Pushups</li> <li>1 minute of Sit-ups</li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div></div> <div port="er4" > <div class="container cleared--Both"> <div class="content--wrapper " id="jump-317"> <span class="content--dash content--dash--hidden"></span> <div class="content_standard__description">  <div port="er2" class="content_standard__description"><p><em><strong>Note: Active Duty, Guard and Reserve personnel all attend their respective Service's boot camp.</strong></em></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div port="er4" > <div class="container cleared--Both"> <div class="content--wrapper " id="jump-boot-camp-basics%3a-before-boot-camp"> <h2 class="content--headline">Boot Camp Basics: Before Boot Camp </h2> <span class="content--dash"></span> <div class="content_standard__description">  <div port="er2" class="content_standard__description"><p>No matter which branch of the Service you choose, Basic Training is an intense experience. The purpose of this training isn’t to “break” recruits. In fact, the combination of physical training, field exercises and classroom time makes individuals strong and capable. It’s a tough process, but a rewarding one that many service members value for life.</p> <p>To succeed in boot camp, you should prepare yourself physically and mentally. Daily cardio, weight training, pushups and situps are a must. You should also practice arriving early on a regular basis and sticking to a strict schedule. You should also delegate personal affairs to family or friends so you can focus on your training. For example, you will need to figure out who will pay the bills, collect the mail and manage bank accounts while you are at boot camp.</p> <p><strong>Good to know:</strong> By enlisting, you are contractually obligated to complete boot camp and serve. However, if you find that you are incompatible with serving, you can receive an administrative discharge.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div port="er4" > <div class="multi--video--container single-video">  <div port="er0" class="video_player__video"> <div port="er1" > <div class="first--video--section"> <div class="container"> <div class="multi--video-player single-video"> <iframe id="player732641943" width="100%" height="440" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eJa1dhMpBrA?enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" class="youtube--player--container" allowfullscreen alt="Parents Discuss Basic Training" title="Parents Discuss Basic Training" ></iframe> </div> <div class="multi--video--content"> <h2 class="video--title">Parents Discuss Basic Training</h2> <span class="video--desc"><p>Learn how parents faced the demands that boot camp placed upon them and their children, and the sense of accomplishment they all felt upon its completion.</p> </span> <span class="video--length">Length 2:37</span> <a class="video--link js--track--change" data-track="Video,Button Click,View Transcript">View Transcript</a> <span class="video--cta hidden"> </span> </div> <div class="video--transcript"> <h3>Transcription</h3> <p><strong>Howard Zanit:</strong> Basic Training, having heard stories from people about that, does scare you, because I think “boot camp.”</p> <p><strong>Darlene Anderson:</strong> Boot camp is designed to, you know, break them down and to build them back up. Everything that happened at boot camp and that they learn in boot camp is for a reason, and you find out later on.</p> <p><strong>David Smith:</strong> Well, he was firm in the decision up until the day it was time for him to actually go down.</p> <p><strong>Patricia Smith: </strong>You would've thought he was going to the guillotine. Truly, I mean, he just ... you know, I think most of it was just the unknown, scared. He'd heard some horror stories, you know. They're going to be screaming at you, they're going to be doing this, that and the other.</p> <p><strong>David Smith:</strong> I think he was just really worried about surrendering his freedom and how much control was going to be over his life.</p> <p><strong>Mary McHugh:</strong> I wasn't very worried about the Basic Training because Scott had prepared himself mentally and physically. He trained to go into Basic Training. Several months before graduation, he began a physical regimen that involved about 10 miles of jogging a day.</p> <p><strong>Holly Clayman: </strong>When we said goodbye, we really tried to hold it together, and we tried not to let him see our emotion, and we did, until we turned our backs and walked out the door.</p> <p><strong>Nancy Kennon: </strong>It was the first letter that I got from her that actually made me feel good, when she said it's going pretty good, and she really liked it, and I was actually shocked just to know that, because I was really worried about her not liking it and not liking to be told what to do, and ... but she, she fit right in.</p> <p><strong>Patti Kolk:</strong> I was very proud to be able to go to his graduation ceremony, to see them dressed in their dress uniform. It was very exciting.</p> <p><strong>Robert Kennon:</strong> We was there at that graduation that day. We was trying to figure out where could we sit so we could take some good pictures, right. And I went up to one of the officers there and he asked — I asked him, we were like, "My daughter, she's in, like, C4." At that moment he goes like, "Y'all be very proud of your daughter because she's a stick," because that's one of the highest things that they can accomplish, you know, carrying that flag, and so that made me feel really, really good.</p> <p><strong>Monique Morris: </strong>My proudest moment was when I saw him at his graduation, when I was in those stands and I could actually pick his face out of that crowd. That was my proudest moment. I'd never felt that good, not even — (crying) I don't even think the day I gave birth to him I felt that good. I really was so proud.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="second--video--section"> <div class="container"> <div class="multi--video--carousel"> <div class="carousel-content js-carousel-content"> <div class="imgWrapper-small" style="background-image: url(//i.ytimg.com/vi/eJa1dhMpBrA/maxresdefault.jpg)"></div> <p>Parents Discuss Basic Training</p> <span class="video--length hidden">Length 2:37</span> <span class="video--title hidden">Parents Discuss Basic Training</span> <span class="video--desc hidden"><p>Learn how parents faced the demands that boot camp placed upon them and their children, and the sense of accomplishment they all felt upon its completion.</p> </span> <span class="video--id hidden">eJa1dhMpBrA</span> <span class="video--link hidden"> <a href=""> <span class="transcript--show">View Transcript</span> </a> </span> <span class="video--cta hidden"> </span> <div class="video--transcript hidden"><p><strong>Howard Zanit:</strong> Basic Training, having heard stories from people about that, does scare you, because I think “boot camp.”</p> <p><strong>Darlene Anderson:</strong> Boot camp is designed to, you know, break them down and to build them back up. Everything that happened at boot camp and that they learn in boot camp is for a reason, and you find out later on.</p> <p><strong>David Smith:</strong> Well, he was firm in the decision up until the day it was time for him to actually go down.</p> <p><strong>Patricia Smith: </strong>You would've thought he was going to the guillotine. Truly, I mean, he just ... you know, I think most of it was just the unknown, scared. He'd heard some horror stories, you know. They're going to be screaming at you, they're going to be doing this, that and the other.</p> <p><strong>David Smith:</strong> I think he was just really worried about surrendering his freedom and how much control was going to be over his life.</p> <p><strong>Mary McHugh:</strong> I wasn't very worried about the Basic Training because Scott had prepared himself mentally and physically. He trained to go into Basic Training. Several months before graduation, he began a physical regimen that involved about 10 miles of jogging a day.</p> <p><strong>Holly Clayman: </strong>When we said goodbye, we really tried to hold it together, and we tried not to let him see our emotion, and we did, until we turned our backs and walked out the door.</p> <p><strong>Nancy Kennon: </strong>It was the first letter that I got from her that actually made me feel good, when she said it's going pretty good, and she really liked it, and I was actually shocked just to know that, because I was really worried about her not liking it and not liking to be told what to do, and ... but she, she fit right in.</p> <p><strong>Patti Kolk:</strong> I was very proud to be able to go to his graduation ceremony, to see them dressed in their dress uniform. It was very exciting.</p> <p><strong>Robert Kennon:</strong> We was there at that graduation that day. We was trying to figure out where could we sit so we could take some good pictures, right. And I went up to one of the officers there and he asked — I asked him, we were like, "My daughter, she's in, like, C4." At that moment he goes like, "Y'all be very proud of your daughter because she's a stick," because that's one of the highest things that they can accomplish, you know, carrying that flag, and so that made me feel really, really good.</p> <p><strong>Monique Morris: </strong>My proudest moment was when I saw him at his graduation, when I was in those stands and I could actually pick his face out of that crowd. That was my proudest moment. I'd never felt that good, not even — (crying) I don't even think the day I gave birth to him I felt that good. I really was so proud.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div port="er4" > <div class="container cleared--Both"> <div class="content--wrapper " id="jump-boot-camp-basics%3a-what-not-to-bring"> <h2 class="content--headline">Boot Camp Basics: What Not To Bring </h2> <span class="content--dash"></span> <div class="content_standard__description">  <div port="er2" class="content_standard__description"><p>Proper packing can help ease the transition from civilian life to boot camp. The following list of what not to bring can help. Check with a recruiter for a comprehensive list.</p> <h3>Do not bring:</h3> <ul> <li>Family</li> <li>Pets</li> <li>Expensive personal items — cameras, phones, laptops, jewelry, etc.</li> <li>Nonprescription drugs or drug paraphernalia</li> <li>Weapons of any type, including pocket knives</li> <li>Obscene or pornographic material</li> <li>Alcoholic beverages</li> <li>Playing cards/dice/dominoes</li> <li>Cigarettes/tobacco products</li> </ul> <p><strong>Good to know:</strong> This list is only an overview. For more detailed information, <a href="/contact-the-services">contact a recruiter</a>.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div port="er4" > <div class="inline-width-photo"> <div class="container"> <div class="photography--inline ">  <div port="er0" class="photos_full_width__image"> <div port="er1" > <img loading="lazy" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/files.todaysmilitary.com/s3fs-public/BootCamp.jpg" width="2000" height="1286" alt="Members of the US Navy at the boot camp at Corry Station in Pensacola, Florida" /> </div> </div> <div class="photo--name "> </div> </div> </div> </div></div> <div port="er4" > <div class="container cleared--Both"> <div class="content--wrapper " id="jump-boot-camp-basics%3a-orientation"> <h2 class="content--headline">Boot Camp Basics: Orientation </h2> <span class="content--dash"></span> <div class="content_standard__description">  <div port="er2" class="content_standard__description"><p>While each Service has different training schedules and requirements, the orientation process is basically the same across Services. During this time, new recruits might:</p> <ul> <li>Turn in enlistment packages (paperwork from the Military Entrance Processing Station [MEPS])</li> <li>Receive dental and medical exams</li> <li>Get immunizations</li> <li>Receive uniforms and training gear (shorts/sweats, T-shirts, etc.)</li> <li>Receive required haircuts (women can keep their hair long provided it can be worn within regulation)</li> <li>Create direct-deposit accounts for paychecks</li> </ul> <p>Starting at orientation, the actual training begins. This varies from Service to Service and lasts between seven and 13 weeks.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div port="er4" > <div class="content--section content--section--1column"> <div class="container"> <div class="content-column-header"> <h2>More in Joining & Eligibility</h2> </div> <ul> <li> <a href="/joining-eligibility/eligibility-requirements" > ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS </a> </li> <li> <a href="/joining-eligibility/asvab-test" > ASVAB TEST </a> </li> <li> <a href="/joining-eligibility/enlisting-military" > ENLISTING IN THE MILITARY </a> </li> <li> <a href="/joining-eligibility/becoming-military-officer" > BECOMING AN OFFICER </a> </li> <li> <a href="/joining-eligibility/questions-ask-recruiter" > QUESTIONS TO ASK A RECRUITER </a> </li> </ul> </div></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="links"> </div> </section> </div> </div> </main> </div>  <footer id="footer" class="footer" role="contentinfo"> <div class="footer-first-section"> <div class="container"> <div class="footer-col-wrap"> <div class="footer-col-first"> <h2 class="footer-col-h4">Additional<br class="footer-text-break"> Links</h2> <span class="footer-dash footer-dash-align">—</span> <ul class="footer-col-ul"> <li class="footer-col-list_item"><a href="/about-us">About Us</a></li> <li class="footer-col-list_item"><a href="/privacy-policy">Privacy Policy</a></li> <li class="footer-col-list_item"><a href="/external-link-policy">External Link Policy</a></li> <li class="footer-col-list_item"><a href="/site-accessibility">Site Accessibility</a></li> <li class="footer-col-list_item"><a href="/faq">FAQs</a></li> </ul> </div> <div class="footer-col-second"> <h2 class="footer-col-h4">Additional<br class="footer-text-break"> Tools</h2> <span class="footer-dash footer-dash-align">—</span> <ul class="footer-col-ul"> <li class="footer-col-list_item"><a href="https://request.todaysmilitary.com/" target="_blank">Request Information <img class="top_nav_link external-icon" src="/themes/basic/images/source/link-out-icon.svg" alt="link out symbol"/></a></li> <li class="footer-col-list_item"><a href="/ways-to-serve/bases-around-world">Bases Around the World</a></li> <li class="footer-col-list_item"><a href="/careers-benefits/salary-compensation">Compensation Estimator</a></li> <li class="footer-col-list_item"><a href="/inside">Inside TM</a></li> </ul> </div> </div> <div class="footer-col-third"> <a href="https://www.flipsnack.com/6EB5DE88B7A/futures_2024-magazine_final_digital/full-view.html" target="_blank" class="footer--rfi"> <img class="b-lazy" src="/themes/basic/images/optimized/futures-mag-hero-spread-2024.png" alt="FUTURES Magazine"/> </a> <div class="footer-col-third-wrap"> <h3 class="footer-col-header"><em>FUTURES</em> Magazine</h3> <a class="footer-order-now js--track--change" href="https://www.flipsnack.com/6EB5DE88B7A/futures_2024-magazine_final_digital/full-view.html" target="_blank" data-track="Futures Landing Page,Link Click,Futures Footer: Explore Issue"> Explore current issue <img class="top_nav_link external-icon" src="/themes/basic/images/source/link-out-icon.svg" alt="link out symbol"/> </a> <a class="footer-order-now js--track--change" href="https://request.todaysmilitary.com/" data-track="Futures Landing Page,Link Click,Futures Footer: Order Now" target="_blank"> Order complimentary copies <img class="top_nav_link external-icon" src="/themes/basic/images/source/link-out-icon.svg" alt="link out symbol"/> </a> </div> </a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="container footer-copy-text"> <p class="footer-copy-paragraph-second">©2025. 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Boot Camp — Today's Military