CELL PHONE USE IN BASIC MILITARY TRAINING (BMT)
During the 7.5 weeks while your loved one is at BMT, he/she will be authorized to use his/her cell phone or pay phones to contact loved ones. Trainees are encouraged to maintain their cell phone service while at BMT and to bring a calling card. Those arriving without phones will be provided opportunities to utilize pay phones or even borrow a phone from a fellow trainee as needed.
General Guidelines:
1. Trainees are encouraged to utilize their cell phone to notify a family member of their safe arrival at the San Antonio International Airport. Trainees will not have any specific squadron/dorm assignments at this time.
2. Within 72 hours of arriving at JBSA Lackland, trainees may also be authorized to TEXT their mailing address information. The MTI may also allow a phone call.
3. Trainees will use cell phones only under direct supervision of a staff member. During the other week of training and based on their performance, they could be rewarded with calls from their personal cell phones or pay phones. Additionally, trainees will be allowed to use their personal cell phones to update family and friends on any changes of training status.
***NOTE*** Calls can come any day at any time from any number. Answer everything while your trainee is at BMT!
5. Cell phones will be used for voice conversations only. Receiving, sending, sharing, or viewing videos/pictures/text messages is strictly prohibited. The exception is the WOT 0 text with their address. Violations WILL result in disciplinary actions. To help avoid this, do not text your trainee.
6. Prior to arriving at BMT, trainees must remove all photographs or videos which are considered lewd or pornographic. BMT staff will conduct a “Cell Phone Policy Briefing” during the initial health, morale, and welfare inspection. Trainees will sign a cell phone briefing roster stating they have been informed of and understand all policies associated with the use of cell phones while at BMT.
7. Your Airman will get his/her phone back right before leaving BMT for tech school.
This policy is subject to change based on the Basic Training Commander’s recommendations. All changes will be posted immediately upon approval.
