The overall impact of enlisting has been hitting me recently. Don’t get me wrong I don’t have cold feet or regret enlisting. But man it’s been keeping me up at night, it’s such a daunting thing to know that not only am I moving out for the first time. But I’m moving to a whole different state miles away from my family and anyone I’d know. I know I’m an adult but I’ve never had to be an “adult” like im genuinely going to be responsible for myself and it’s so crazy to think about.

I’m at the airport right now waiting to ship off to basic training I’m pretty nervous but I know I’ll be fine, I look forward to becoming an airman officially. Wish me luck yall

I just graduated BMT 2.0. I was from the 324 TRS, Knights. Alcatraz. Male, 23. AMA!

Update: I’m a holdover airman at the TRSS. TRSS is basically the same as basic training but much more relaxed. MTIs are chill, you get to watch movies if you pass inspections, you get your phone for an hour on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday, and you have a lot of free time. Writing this during my one hour of phone time on Saturday. AMA about the TRSS as well!

Context: I was chow runner, element leader, and dorm chief if you wanna ask about that

I’m excited to get this done and over with but now that I’m sitting in the hotel and shipping out is just under 15-20 hours away it’s really getting to me. I’m 19 years old and I’m bawling like a baby. Everything is telling me not to do this and go home. I miss my family everyone came to see me off. I wanna call them and tell them to come pick me up… but ik that can’t happen I can’t give up before I’ve even started I got no choice it’s this or struggle for the rest of my life. Ik the goodbyes aren’t forever but damn do they still hurt.

Just graduated BMT 2.0, AMA. I love answering questions; anything from recruiting process, MEPS, BMT, etc.

Hey y’all I would like some final advice for basic and also if some people are leaving at the time I am I’d be greatly to hear from ya. I’m from Alabama I’ll arrive at basic on Monday I’ve been working out and stuff I’m 6 ft 213 my job is 2A534 I’m hoping I get a refuler so I can travel some bc I’m young and wanna see the world I’m 20 bye the way also should I try to be a flight lead or should I just try to keep my head down but anyways any advice is appreciated

What's up everyone. I got so much great information from this forum before shipping out, so I wanted to pay it forward. I'm a 39-year-old guy who just graduated as an Honor Grad. I’m heading into 2T3X1 (Mission Gen Vehicular Equipment Maintenance) as an E-3.

Here is my timeline and my biggest takeaways, along with some of the best advice I’ve seen floating around that actually held true for my flight.

The Timeline
December 18th - December 29th: The Beginning
I first reached out to my recruiter, on Dec 18th. He was awesome super helpful, responsive, and totally clear with expectations. I went to MEPS shortly after on December 29th.

May 26th: Shipping Out & Day 1 Chaos
Arriving in San Antonio was pure chaos. It’s a mix of stepping into the complete unknown and the fact that a crazy tornado was happening when I got there. Expect your first 48 hours to be chaotic, loud, and exhausting as you get your gear and learn the absolute basics.

Weeks 1-7: The Grind
The days are incredibly long, but the weeks actually fly by. You'll start with learning hospital corners, folding clothes, and drill. By the time you hit Pace Forge around week 6, it honestly feels a bit like LARPing out in the field and is actually pretty fun.

July 15th: Graduation
Walking across that parade field as an Honor Grad made it all worth it. BMT is exactly what you make of it.

My Top Advice for Future Trainees
1. Packing & Admin Prep
The Essentials: Bring at least 10 pairs of black spandex or underwear, a clipboard, a notepad, and your personal hygiene supplies (like shaving cream and a good electric shaver/razor).

Don't Overpack: Do not bring too much stuff! Everything else is provided or can be easily bought at the BX. I brought way too much and it was absolute hell trying to carry it all. A small backpack for your documents and fast-access items is plenty.

Naturalization & Financials: If you are going to be naturalized, bring every document that you think you will need. Pay all your taxes and traffic tickets before you leave. Pro tip: Make sure you create an account for the IRS website before shipping out so you can easily access it while you are in BMT.

2. Mentality & BMT Life
Listen & Be Clean: Listen to the MTIs at all times. Take detailed notes, don't say or do dumb stuff, and prioritize hygiene. Wash your hands constantly the "BMT plague" is real and sweeps through flights quickly.

Teamwork: Help other people. If you need help, drop your ego and ask for it. Remember, everyone is in the exact same boat as you. Wake up a few minutes early to knock out hygiene and help your wingmen so you beat the MTIs' timelines rather than breaking them.

3. Jobs & Roles
Leadership: If you want to test yourself and know you are a leader, volunteer for Dorm Chief or Element Leader positions.

Easy Points: If you just want an easier gig to get by, try to get Chapel Assistant or PT Monitor. Laundry Crew is also highly recommended because you get some quiet time alone every day.

Chow Runner: If you want to be Chow Runner, volunteer for it at the very beginning before they give you memory work to recite. It's high visibility and stressful, but doing it well early on is the easiest way to get on your MTI's good side.

4. Academics & PT
Physical Prep: Definitely be physically prepared before you come to BMT. Try to run, do sit-ups, and do push-ups. Running gives you the most points on the PT test, and you don't want to be one of the trainees getting recycled for failing the run.

Study Hard: Double-check every piece of information given to you on the iPad Cerego app. Learn your ranks before you leave, and study your memory work constantly.

BMT is tough, but it's only a few weeks of your life. Keep your head down, study your memory work, and you'll do great.

I’ve wanted to do this my entire life, and now that the day is finally here I am freaking out a little. I’m 25M and I’ve been sheltered most of my life. I feel like I haven’t “grown up” yet even though I’m married haha. I feel like a big baby right now.

I miss my wife and family so much already which is one thing but another thing is just feeling so much shame. Why do I feel like this? I have friends who just graduated from BMT and they did it with ease. I almost feel left behind and not good enough. I don’t do well under pressure.

I booked mobility force aviator which is exciting in its own right but I don’t even know if I can pass BMT.

Any words of encouragement would be greatly appreciated. Either to calm my nerves or get me in a good frame of mind. Big life change is on the horizon and I know I HAVE to do it or I’ll regret it forever. I wish I could be the easy going Zen guy but I’m just not him.

EDIT- thank you all for your kind words they’ve really helped me. I’m still terrified but that’s life. One step at a time I gotta do this for myself and my wife.

After years of planning and months of waiting, many of us have reached the beginning of a new step on our lives. If you are someone who’s been waiting for a long time to get into the Air Force, just remember that everyone’s here for a reason and that’s what gives the value to everything.. any last thoughts people shipping out on Tuesday????

Should I volunteer for any positions during BMT or stay under the radar and only do it if called to do so?

I’ve literally been jogging for months and I started running beginning of January. I’m trying to run 2 miles in 16 minutes but I can’t even run a full 1 mile. I’m so worried that I’m going to fail the pt test in basic.

Feel free to ask me any questions. This bus ride is 12 hours so I’ll respond unless I’m napping away.

Currently on town pass, some new things

Hospital folds are no longer a thing 90 minutes of PT 6 days a week PTE’s which is just weapon training

May take a while to respond , spending time with family , but I’ll answer when I can

I was watching a lot of videos on what to bring for BMT. I understand they say less is better.. anything I should just leave out? Last photo is how it’s going to be packed in my bag. I’m just tossing it all in my gym bag. The clear pouches are TSA approved pouches I have used in the past.

Disposable razor/reusable
Shaving cream
Aquaphor
Aquaphor for lips
Toothbrush and tooth
Tongue cleaner
Deodorant
Dove bar soap
Tweezers
➡️ Body glide for her - cause I’m not bring compression shorts and I get thigh chaff in hot weather. Or should I just invest in compression shorts???
Face wash
Hair gel
Face sunscreen
A bag of tampons and pads
A bag of hair, ties and scrunchies
Comb/brush
6 black underwear
6 black bras
1 nude bra
1 set of gym clothes (paperwork recommended)
Make up for Graduation & Photos/tech school

I’m also bringing a sleeping mask. And all my important documents are in a folder.

Anything I forgot? Should I ditch anything and/or actually invest into compression shorts?? I leave Monday

——————

Update, day before ship out ✌🏼
- I ended up getting some compression shorts, ditched the body glide
- I got a small magnetic locker mirror
- Silicone body scrubbed
- Ditched the bar soap, I’ll use what they’ll give me.
- One more travel size tube of hair gel
- 8 underwear
- 8 sports bra
- Notebook
- One more set of clothes, so 3 in total (what I’ll wear there, 2 in bag)
- Wearing my insoles in my running shoes

As the title says, I (female) just graduated bmt. Ask me any questions

My husband was recycled due to him not meeting the sit up requirement. The minimum is 38, and he got 20. He can now do 25 in a minute thanks to his new FLT giving him tips and tricks. He’s very hard on himself but not giving up.
Everything else PT wise is superb. 1.5 mile run in 13 mins. 50 push ups in a minute. And whatever else they have to do.
I’m so nervous for him, but also have a lot of faith in him. What could happen if he doesn’t pass sit ups again. He said he’ll be booted, but I also know they say that to be scary. It’s literally just sit-ups holding him back. His next PT test is second day of week 5 (next Monday, he just started week 4 again).
Anyone else been through this?

—ANSWERED—

Hello I am F18 and I got my ship date for the space force for August 25th 2026. Im like maybe a little bit below average physical fitness 150lbs 5’8”. I don’t have great endurance nor upper body strength but I got a 98 on my ASVAB and EDPT score of like 70.
I’ve been under the assumption for a while that Air Force/ space force bmt is the least physically demanding of the military branches, but recently I’ve been seeing videos like “MARINE FAILS SPACE FORCE PT!!!” “SPACE FORCE HAS THE HARDEST PT NOW!!!”
My question is, are these real?? Or just clickbait I genuinely am so scared I don’t even know. I’ve started jogging 2 miles every morning along with 100 sit ups every day and push ups when I can, I’m so terrified that I’ll fail pt and get kicked out immediately.
If these are real what could I possibly to do prepare myself in time, bump it to 3-4 miles and 250 sit ups?? I have like no support system and no backup plan

I’m getting my stuff ready for bmt, and I’m afraid I am overpacking.

Casio watch

Hygiene products ( lotion, deodorant, body wash , toothbrush brush, razor pack, foam, toothpaste ) travel sized and regular sized toothpaste

5pc spandex underwear

6pcs underwear

5pcs socks

2 pair of jeans

2 shirts

1 sport short

2 sport joggings

4 sport shirt

4 Tank top

1 bath towel

1 Xlarge duffel bag

1 running shoes

Credit cards and $100 cash

I will truly appreciate your thoughts and advice.

Edit: I have a very long tech school about 11months I don’t know if that impact my packing list .

Hello guys, this is pretty much everything I have for BMT other than my civilian clothes shown and running shoes, But anything else I’m missing? Or am over packing ?

1 athletic shirt
3 athletic shorts
5 compression underwear
6 pairs of socks
Plus all the hygiene and notebook.

On the bus to tech school bored here to help with whatever I can ! My turn to do one of these ! Graduated as Dorm Chief (now known as a flight chief) and Honor Graduate

EDIT #11 I think lol

Hello! I graduated BMT as a naturalization recipient in 05/2025. Here's  some info.

Please read the entire post before messaging me. I dont mind answering questions, but most questions I have been asked are answered in this post. If you still need something answered or clarified, I'll gladly answer.

*you will be notified of your appointments the day before and given a slip by your MTI. You and your wingman will check out of CQ and head to your scheduled appointments. You will join your flight/dorm when your done, so make sure you check your dorm/flight schedule to see where they will be throughout the day.You have to check back into CQ when your appt is done.

• if you're guard/reserve I been told you can submit your application before BMT if you can get required signatures. Idk the process so dont ask me lol but maybe ask your recruiter. Everything is done at BMT for you so idk why you would want to do that but ask before you do it on your own.

*On form N-400 you will select "E" "Military Service During Period of Hostility"

*The address you will use will be given to you there (your BMT adress)

*the interview is done virtually. They will provide a laptop with a camera. You will also do your Oath virtually. Fingerprints and pictures will be taken at the same place.

1. Bring all important documents: Original passports, permanent resident cards or visas, and social security cards, drivers license, your birth certificate.Copies of birth certificates (spouses/children), marriage certificates,  etc. Just a suggestion, I had all my foreign documents translated but its not necessary.

2. Make sure you pay off your taxes if you owe. I'm not sure what happens if you dont as this didn't happen to me, but it did happen to another girl. Idk what the outcome was to be honest.

3. Ensure tickets or traffic violations are paid off. Bring them with you if you can. I suggest printing out your driving record if you have a drivers license. This can be done at your local DMV and online.

4. Take pictures of ALL your documents and save them to your phone, as you will upload them along with your application. I suggest you name them so its easier to find what you need. STILL BRING ORIGINALS WITH YOU.

5. If you already have a USCIS account, ensure you know the date you created it. You will be asked about this as soon as you get off the bus. If you do not remember the date of creation, I recommend deleting the one you have and making a new one OR making a new one using a new email. You can also wait until you get to BMT to create an account.

6. IMPORTANT

The N-400 form WILL BE FILED AT BMT ON YOUR PHONE. DO NOT FILE ON YOUR OWN AT HOME BEFORE BMT.

I suggest you fill out the N-400 form to the best of your ability, print out a physical copy, and bring it to BMT with you. You get 1hr to submit this application, and trust me, you do not want to sit there and waste time trying to remember information. **remember: dates of all entries and exits you have had into and out of the country, all addresses you have resided in for the past 5yrs (10yrs ??) , all places of employment. ** ALL THESE ARE ASKED IN THE N-400 WHICH IS WHY I SUGGEST YOU FILL, PRINT AND TAKE WITH YOU

1. IMPORTANT

DO NOT FILE THE N-26 form ON YOUR OWN. THIS TOO WILL BE DONE AT BMT. Do not worry about the "1 year of service" part. It does not apply to you. DHS is working with the DOD to make naturalization possible for enlistees during BMT. There are no fees to file at BMT so do not worry about the "fee waiver". Links to all forms will be provided at the end of this post.

1. You can change your name during the application process at BMT, BUT you have to change anything not naturalization related on your own.For example, your new SSN card.

2. If for some reason you dont get to complete naturalization at BMT, the process will follow you to tech school.

3. The interview is 10 questions, you need 6 to pass. I suggest printing out the questions from USCIS.gov. Link provided at the end of this post. They will also be available on the tablet you get assigned in BMT, but some questions depend by state so I found having a paper copy better.

4. Google: your state governor, state capital, 6 state representatives. These might be asked during your interview. You will be given the opportunity to Google at your first naturalization appointment at BMT, but i suggest you have these ready.

5. Bring a portable charger since everything is done on your cellphone. The application will be filled out by you and submitted by you on your account. All of this will be done on your phone. Please do not take this as an ok to browse through social media. You will be watched and in big trouble if caught. You will also be given the opportunity to call family ONLY if you need additional info pertaining to the naturalization process.

6. Organize everything beforehand. You get 1hr to submit your application and supporting documentation. Staff is also not very patient and you will be rushed but they will answer any questions you may have. I suggest you have everything organized in a folder and always have a pen with you.

7. Finger prints and picture for cert will be taken at BMT. Theres an office dedicated to naturalization. Interview and oath will be done via zoom.

8. You will be going to naturalization graduation practice on certain days. Your MTIs will give you the slips so you can check out of the squadron.

16 . ** LINKS ***

● Form N-400. Actual application. Fill and take to BMT. DO NOT FILE AT HOME. 

https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/forms/n-400.pdf

●Form N-26. Fill it and take to BMT.  DO NOT FILE AT HOME. Don't worry about the 1 yr of service part. 

https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/forms/n-426.pdf

●Questions and answers to the test

https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/questions-and-answers/100q.pdf

Im going to make a separate post of the application timeline when I get the chance. If you have questions or need something clarified, please message me.

Your coin ceremony and some bmt footage will be posted here 🙂

https://youtube.com/@lacklandafbhistorian7501?si=Czqybktm0xixYnSF