- If you are just getting starting on your quest to learn more about BMT, START HERE.
This page is also the best place to begin if your loved one has just left for BMT and you have LOTS of questions. After you’ve read it, come back to this page! 🙂 ♥
When do they start getting phone calls?
Calls would be at the discretion of the MTI and are not guaranteed. Please be advised that calls could come at ANY time, on ANY day. Please do not make the mistake of assuming your Trainee will only call at a certain time or day. Many have missed precious phone calls because they weren’t expecting a call or tried to guess the day. Be ready AT ALL TIMES even if your trainee tells you in a letter they are calling at a certain time. The MTI can adjust the calling schedule at any time.
What is a TRS?
TRS stands for “Training Squadron.” Click here for Common Terms and Abbreviations that you’ll want to know!
What is my Trainee doing this week?
Click here to read about each WOT (Week of Training).
What if there’s an emergency?
We hope you never have an emergency but in the event that you do here is what to expect. The American Red Cross links members of the U.S. Armed Forces with their families during a crisis. Twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year, the Red Cross quickly sends emergency communications to service members on behalf of their family. Military members can have peace of mind knowing that when they are on a mission, in training, or stationed far from home … they can still be connected.
In case of family emergencies, click HERE for more information on contacting the American Red Cross. Emergencies include:
- Death in the immediate family.
- Serious illness in the immediate family.
- Birth announcement (wife of trainee)
What if it rains?
They have plans in place to hold the Ceremony under the drill pad at their Squadron (TRS) if it rains hard. If this happens it will be closed to the public, even if you are one of the two approved guests for the ceremony. You will be able to watch the livestream and meet with your Airman after it ends. They will announce at the briefings of changes. Here’s a link to weather in San Antonio.
Can I stay on base?
If you are wanting to stay on base the key thing to remember is that base lodging is primarily for active duty military members on orders however, they do allow civilians to book a room. Click HERE for for information on base lodging.
How do I get around San Antonio/Lackland?
If you’d like to stay at an area hotel we recommend that you check out www.bmtfamilytravel.com and that you utilize www.tripadvisor.com to read reviews/recommendations. We understand folks have different expectations and needs and we feel that it’s best to suggest using Trip Advisor to get more reviews/recommendations of the accommodations. Look through this category for more travel info.  Need information on wheelchair rentals and other disability resources? Click HERE.
What do I wear to the event?
Many choose to wear a t-shirt the same color as their trainee’s TRS. It really doesn’t matter what you wear as long as it’s weather appropriate and comfortable. If you are wearing a specific shirt just let your Trainee know so that he/she can “look” for you.  Here’s a link to a topic on shirts.
What time should I arrive on base?
We recommend arriving very early, maybe as early as 6 a.m. when gates open to BMT traffic. That way you can be sure you are able to get through the gate, park, and settle in without being rushed.
Where do I get banners?
Check this page for links and info.
Where do I sit for the Ceremony?
The Ceremony will be on the Retreat Pad located behind the BMT Reception Center. Approved visitors sit in the bleachers. You will be given a map of where your Airman’s FLT will be standing and you usually sit in bleachers close to where they are located.
What is an Airman?
Air Force Doctrine Document 1-1 defines “Airman” as “any US Air Force member (officer or enlisted, active, reserve, or guard, along with Department of the Air Force civilians) who supports and defends the US Constitution and serves our country. Air Force Airmen are those people who formally belong to the US Air Force and employ or support some aspect of the US Air Force’s air and space power capabilities. An Airman is any person who understands and appreciates the full range of air and space power capabilities and can employ or support some aspect of air and space power capabilities.”