How Many Days for Leave or Liberty After Boot Camp in the Navy?

After completing boot camp in the Navy, you may be wondering how much leave or liberty time you will receive. The process depends on various factors, including your specific rating and the needs of the Navy. Let's explore this topic in more detail.

The Journey from Boot Camp to A School

Upon completing boot camp, recruits typically transition into their first training classes for their specific rating, which is often referred to as A School. The duration of this training can vary significantly, extending from weeks to months depending on the specific rating assigned to the recruit. This period of training is crucial, as it focuses on the skills necessary for the rank you are being trained for. It is important to note that the training provided in A School is based on approved manuals, but additional training is typically required once you are deployed to the fleet.

Choosing Your Assignment

The process of choosing your assignment often begins a few weeks before graduation from boot camp. Class rankings play a crucial role in this process; the better your grades, the more options you will have. However, this process is highly variable and can change from year to year based on the specific needs of the Navy and the rank you are being trained for.

Leaving for A School

After successfully completing boot camp and your A School training, you will begin your next phase of training. If your next assignment is A School, you will typically receive leave before beginning your training. The duration of this leave period is determined by your class start date and your performance in A School. For example, the leave period for those who start A School in 1981 was minimal, as most recruits went straight to their A Schools.

The Process of Graduating and Using Leave

Once you graduate from A School, you will typically have the opportunity to use accumulated and sometimes advanced leave. However, there is a catch: many commands have specific leave policies. If your leave balance is negative, meaning you are in the 'hole,' some commands may be more reluctant to grant additional leave. It is important to understand the nuances of these policies and plan accordingly.

Summary

In summary, the amount of leave you receive after completing boot camp in the Navy is highly dependent on several factors, including the specific rating you are assigned and the needs of the Navy. Understanding the nuances of the leave system is crucial in managing your time and ensuring you have the necessary rest and preparation for your next training phase.

Keywords: boot camp leave, navy training, leave balance, A School, leave period