Do You Have to Travel to Basic Training or Does the Army Pick You Up?

When enlisting in the U.S. Army, a common question is whether recruits have to travel to basic training on their own or if the military will provide transportation. The answer can vary depending on your location and specific circumstances.

Travel to Basic Training

Typically, recruits are responsible for arranging their own travel to basic training. After enlisting and being assigned a ship date, you will be provided with instructions on where and when to report for basic training. Most often, this involves traveling to a nearby military installation or a specific location where basic training will take place. However, the Army may provide transportation for recruits who are traveling from significant distances or who have specific circumstances, such as medical issues or financial constraints. It is always best to check with your recruiter for the details related to your situation.

Report to the MEPS

Usually, new recruits report to their local Military Entrance and Processing Station (MEPS). Your recruiter is often responsible for taking you there, and MEPS may also cover your travel and lodging expenses if you have to travel commercially. If you have to travel by commercial means, MEPS will arrange for your transportation from the MEPS to the nearest airport, bus station, or train station. They will also ensure that you have a military liaison to assist you in making the journey to your basic training location.

From MEPS to Basic Training

Once you take your active duty oath at the MEPS station, you are considered to be on active duty. MEPS is responsible for providing transportation from the station to the nearest airport, bus, or train station that is closest to your basic training post. A military liaison will be there to ensure that you are correctly directed to your basic training facility. In most cases, the military will handle the transportation for you, and you do not have to worry about making any travel arrangements on your own.

Specific Scenarios

In very rare instances, you might have to travel to basic training on your own. If you are driving, you will need to find your own parking and storage for your vehicle during basic training. However, most recruits are taken care of by the military, and the process is designed to make your transition as smooth as possible. Some personal stories illustrate this well:

For example, my recruiter picked me up at home and drove me to MEPS. We were then bused to the local airport and put on a plane by MEPS personnel. At the other end, another bus picked us up and took us to Fort Jackson. In some cases, like mine, I even got to drive my car to Fort Gordon for months of schooling after basic training.

Conclusion

In summary, 99% of the time, the military will pick you up for basic training, ensuring that you are safely and efficiently transported to your designated location. Any rare occasions where you might have to travel on your own are well-documented and handled with the proper considerations in mind.

Keywords

{"keyword": "basic training, U.S. Army, travel arrangements, military transportation, boot camp"}