For educators: Military Resources
If researching your options, attending a Military Enrollment Processing Station (MEPS) and taking the Oath of Enlistment are the prologue to your military journey, think of recruit training as chapter one. It’s where the rubber really meets the road, and the most demanding part of enlistment. Don’t let that discourage you, though. Many service members find the process deeply rewarding — and with a little preparation, you can too. First things first, here’s what not to bring:
As much as you'll miss them, family members and pets can’t join you at Basic Training. Keep your focus on your training and let your loved ones support you from home.
You’ll have to be at the top of your game to succeed in the Military, mentally and physically — and nonprescription drugs don’t help with that. That’s why they’re not allowed at Basic Training or at any other point during your time in the service.
If you bring weapons of any kind to Basic Training, expect to get sent home early. The Military doesn’t mess around with any of these requirements, but especially this one.
Hopefully this one goes without saying, but just in case — pornographic materials are forbidden at Basic Training. Don’t be that person. Please.
Trying to sneak beer, wine or spirits into your training is a very bad idea. Not only is it a great way to get sent home early, but it’s an excellent way of limiting your physical, mental and emotional potential for service.
If you like games of chance, we don’t judge — but you’ll have to hit pause on your hobby during Basic Training. The point of Boot Camp is to bring people together over service, not gambling.
This includes smoking, vaping, packing a lip and any other newfangled nicotine delivery systems we might not be up on. Remember, half of Boot Camp is exercise — and nicotine and exercise aren’t exactly a winning combination.
Think you know all about the Military? There's even more to discover! Dive deeper to explore what joining is all about and imagine what serving in the Military could really look like for you.