Graduation gifts … to get or not to get? Your Airman/Guardian will only care that you are there and not be concerned about getting a gift. However, if you just gotta do it, there are some ideas that will help mark the occasion. Please note that these are only suggestions, and a gift is not at all required or expected. Keep in mind that all electronics of any kind cannot be brought back to the dorm. You can present them with an electronic gift, but then you’ll have to mail it to them once they get to tech school. For any other gifts (jewelry, cloths, boots, etc), your Airman/Guardian will need to ask his/her MTI permission to return to the dorm with them. For this reason, sometimes a gift card is always a great option. That way they can purchase whatever they need once they get to tech!
Jewelry is also popular, and usually easy gift to choose. However, your Airman/Guardian now has to follow certain rules. That can vary from depending on the job they do. Watches are a popular choice, and many like the G-Shock watch in basic black. If you go with jewelry, just remember that even if they cannot wear it in uniform, they can wear it in civilian clothes.
Apparel and Luggage: Sometimes your Airman/Guardian may want an extra pair of boots, or maybe a garment bag for dress blues. For this reason waiting until you are with your Airman/Guardian for Graduation Day is best. That way they can pick exactly what they want. Not everyone wants a garment bag, some are fine with their shoes, some would rather wait until tech and others know exactly what they want/need. For apparel choices, shopping WITH them instead of FOR them is best. There are places to purchase these items on base. There are also stores right outside of base that carry shoes.
Commander’s Choice Jewelry has BMT Graduation Rings. Use the code AFWMCODE for 10% off! All purchases also come with a FREE sterling silver jewelry piece. Click HERE for the informational flyer. For more information and to order from the Commander’s Choice website, click HERE.
Ordering a Capitol Flag is a great idea, that takes a little planning on your part. All flag orders must be made through your U.S. Senator or Representative. For more information on how to do this, click HERE.
Paver Program is another way to leave their mark! These take more time, as they only order them in a big batch, so be prepared for that. These engraved bricks will be installed around the Parade field and adjacent areas at JBSA Lackland. Click HERE for more info on ordering a paver.
Whatever you decide to do, just remember the MTI has the final say in what they can bring back. That means you should be prepared to take it back home with you to mail to tech/give back at a later date. They have limited storage. They don’t need civilian clothes yet. In fact, they can’t wear them until they pass a series of inspections at tech school, which can take up to a month. For more info on their trip to tech, click HERE.
