Table of Contents

Arriving in San AntonioMap of San Antonio Airport. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Getting to Lackland AFBDirections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Base Access. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Map of Access Gates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Map of Parking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Rules and Etiquette. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Driving on Base. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Walking Around Base. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Mil itary Etiquette. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Graduation EventsThursday. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 1

Friday. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 3

Saturday and Sunday. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 4

Information about CeremoniesAirman's Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 5

Coin Ceremony. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 5

Retreat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 5

Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 5

Tapping Out. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 5

Map of Lackland AFB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 7

1

For General Information about Graduation weekend and San Antonio, please visit

these websites:

www.afwm.org

www.airmenfamil ies.com

You can also call the Lackland AFB Reception Center at 21 0-671 -61 74

But I recommend checking the websites first so the government's time isn't wasted

Map of San Antonio International Airport

2

Entering through Valley Hi Gate: (off Loop 41 0W)

Note: This gate is open 24-hours, however, the Airman's Visitor Reception Center (VRC) for

those requiring a Visitor Access Pass to gain access to the base, is only open daily from

6:00am unti l 1 0:00pm. This gates allows easiest access to the 321 st, 322d, and 326th Training

Squadrons. I t also al lows access to the Reception Center and all areas of the base.

- Once cleared by Security Forces, drive straight through the Valley Hi

- At the stoplight, turn right onto Carswell Avenue

- Drive straight for approximately 4 blocks

- Parking across the street from the BMT Reception Center is permitted.

This is the Chaparral Swimming Pool lot.

Additional authorized parking locations:

- Lot A: Continue to drive to next parking lot on Carswell Ave

- Lot B: Continue to drive past the Reception Center to stop sign.

Parking is available immediately on your left. This lot is located near

the building labeled "Tops in Blue".

- Lot C: Continue to drive down Carswell Ave to stop sign. Turn left

onto Selfridge Avenue. Drive to second street on left and make a left

onto Walker Avenue. You may park in the lot located behind the

multimedia center (first building on your left).

- Lot D: Continue to drive down Carswell Ave to stop sign. Turn left

onto Selfridge Avenue. Drive to second street on left and make a left

onto Walker Avenue. Continue to drive straight unti l you reach a stop

sign. The parking is directly in front of you behind Building 5725.

Entering through Luke East Gate (left side of Military Highway):

Note: Often called the Main Gate or Gateway Gate is open 24-hours and has a 24-hr VRC.

This gate al lows access to all of Lackland AFB. I t places you on the non-training side of the

base.

- Drive straight through gate entrance to stop sign. Turn right onto Kenly

Avenue.

- Drive down Kenly Ave unti l you reach the stop light. Turn right at l ight

onto Truemper Street.

- Drive on Truemper Street to stop light. Turn left on stop light onto

Carswell Avenue.

- Use directions l isted above to locate authorized parking locations.

See Map on fol lowing pages for Driving Routesfrom both gates and Parking Diagram

Base Access

5

6

Below is the parking diagram. Also this map shows where the coinceremony takes place as well as the Airman's run.

Coin Ceremony on Retreat Pad

Airman's Run on Hughes Avenue

7

When you go to Lackland AFB for graduation week events you be visiting an active

mil itary instal lation. For those of you that do not have mil itary experience (Active Duty, Reserve,

Spouse, etc) you wil l quickly discover that the mil itary has some rules and etiquettes in place

that you may or may not be used to. We are going to try to cover as many of the rules and

etiquettes as possible that you wil l need to know for your visit to Lackland. I f you are visiting

Lackland AFB using a Visitors Pass (you don’t have a valid DoD ID) remember that your are

being sponsored on base by your Airman. This means they are responsible for your actions so if

you get into trouble, they can get into trouble.

Remember, for your new Airman, they are expected to fol low these rules while on base and off.

They wil l know what they can and cannot do. I f they tel l you they are not al lowed to do

something, please respect what they are saying.

Driving On Base:

Follow all traffic laws! ! I f you don’t you wil l l ikely be pulled over and may be given a ticket.

Remember, you are on a federal instal lation so if you are a civi l ian and get a ticket, you wil l not

appear in a county court, instead you wil l appear in a Federal Court before a U.S. Magistrate.

Here are a few rules to keep in mind when driving on base:

• All occupants in a vehicle must wear a safety belt.

• When riding a motorcycle you must wear a helmet and highly reflective vest.

• The speed limit when passing Airmen marching in formation along the side of streets is 1 0

MPH.

• You may not talk on a cell phone while driving.

• You must stop and allow pedestrians to cross the street that are waiting at a crosswalk.

• Do not park in reserved parking spaces. These spots wil l usual ly be designed by a

sign/placard or via a painted curb with markings on them.

• You may not drop your Airman off in front of their squadron or in the squadron parking lot.

You may only drop them off in designated areas.

Walking Around Base:

• Do not jay walk.

• I f walking near a troop movement area, give way to marching Airmen.

• I f you, by chance, arrive on base early (staying on base, etc) and see your Airman, do not

yel l at him/her, walk up to him/her or try to otherwise get their attention. They are not

al lowed to make contact with their family members unti l they are official ly al lowed to do

so. Making contact with you when not authorized wil l get them in serious trouble, up to

and including being recycled, delaying their graduation.

• Do not walk or stand on the grass.

• While at Lackland and some Tech School locations, Airmen must carry a flashl ight with

them during hours of darkness.

• Do not enter restricted/off l imits areas. You wil l be briefed at the Visitors Briefings where

you can and cannot go. Your Airman wil l also be briefed on these areas.

Military Etiquette:

As a member of the Air Force your new Airman is expected to fol low certain rules at al l times.

Some of these rules apply only while in uniform and others apply in and out of uniform. When

visiting your Airman, if you are not sure if something is al lowed or proper, ask them first. They

wil l know what should and should not be done. Here are some things to remember:

• Public Display of Affection (PDA): While in uniform PDA (kissing, holding hands, hugging,

etc) is general ly not al lowed with only a few exceptions. This applies both on base and off

base. During special events l ike graduations, homecomings, etc it is al lowed, but for only

short periods of time. For those of you with small chi ldren, your Airman wil l not be

allowed to carry them around while in uniform.

• Reveil le/Retreat: Each day mil itary instal lations hold reveil le and retreat ceremonies. I f

you are not at the actual ceremony it wil l be signified by music that is played over loud

speakers throughout the base. I f you are driving in a car, safely pul l over to the right and

stop your car while it takes place. Remain in your car after it is stopped. I f you are

outdoors you must stop walking and stand facing the flag if you can see it, or face the

sound of the music, if you cannot see the flag. I f al l else fai ls, face the same direction as

everyone else. Personnel in uniform wil l salute the entire time of the ceremony.

• When walking with your Airman in uniform, walk on his/her left side. This wil l keep their

right side clear if they have to salute.

• I f your Airman is walking with a superior NCO or Officer someplace, they are required to

walk to the left of them, approximately 2 paces back. I f you happen to be with your

Airman while this is occurring, let them take that position while walking.

• When walking in uniform, your Airman must keep their right hand empty so they wil l be

able to salute if they need to.

• I f you have small chi ldren in strol lers your Airman wil l not be able to push it around if they

are in uniform.

• Your Airman is not al lowed to walk around while talking on a cell phone in uniform.

• Your Airman wil l not be allowed to stand with their hands in their pockets while in uniform.

• Your Airman wil l not be allowed to eat or drink while walking in uniform.

Rules and Etiquettes

8

When you go to Lackland AFB for graduation week events you be visiting an active

mil itary instal lation. For those of you that do not have mil itary experience (Active Duty, Reserve,

Spouse, etc) you wil l quickly discover that the mil itary has some rules and etiquettes in place

that you may or may not be used to. We are going to try to cover as many of the rules and

etiquettes as possible that you wil l need to know for your visit to Lackland. I f you are visiting

Lackland AFB using a Visitors Pass (you don’t have a valid DoD ID) remember that your are

being sponsored on base by your Airman. This means they are responsible for your actions so if

you get into trouble, they can get into trouble.

Remember, for your new Airman, they are expected to fol low these rules while on base and off.

They wil l know what they can and cannot do. I f they tel l you they are not al lowed to do

something, please respect what they are saying.

Driving On Base:

Follow all traffic laws! ! I f you don’t you wil l l ikely be pulled over and may be given a ticket.

Remember, you are on a federal instal lation so if you are a civi l ian and get a ticket, you wil l not

appear in a county court, instead you wil l appear in a Federal Court before a U.S. Magistrate.

Here are a few rules to keep in mind when driving on base:

• All occupants in a vehicle must wear a safety belt.

• When riding a motorcycle you must wear a helmet and highly reflective vest.

• The speed limit when passing Airmen marching in formation along the side of streets is 1 0

MPH.

• You may not talk on a cell phone while driving.

• You must stop and allow pedestrians to cross the street that are waiting at a crosswalk.

• Do not park in reserved parking spaces. These spots wil l usual ly be designed by a

sign/placard or via a painted curb with markings on them.

• You may not drop your Airman off in front of their squadron or in the squadron parking lot.

You may only drop them off in designated areas.

Walking Around Base:

• Do not jay walk.

• I f walking near a troop movement area, give way to marching Airmen.

• I f you, by chance, arrive on base early (staying on base, etc) and see your Airman, do not

yel l at him/her, walk up to him/her or try to otherwise get their attention. They are not

al lowed to make contact with their family members unti l they are official ly al lowed to do

so. Making contact with you when not authorized wil l get them in serious trouble, up to

and including being recycled, delaying their graduation.

• Do not walk or stand on the grass.

• While at Lackland and some Tech School locations, Airmen must carry a flashl ight with

them during hours of darkness.

• Do not enter restricted/off l imits areas. You wil l be briefed at the Visitors Briefings where

you can and cannot go. Your Airman wil l also be briefed on these areas.

Military Etiquette:

As a member of the Air Force your new Airman is expected to fol low certain rules at al l times.

Some of these rules apply only while in uniform and others apply in and out of uniform. When

visiting your Airman, if you are not sure if something is al lowed or proper, ask them first. They

wil l know what should and should not be done. Here are some things to remember:

• Public Display of Affection (PDA): While in uniform PDA (kissing, holding hands, hugging,

etc) is general ly not al lowed with only a few exceptions. This applies both on base and off

base. During special events l ike graduations, homecomings, etc it is al lowed, but for only

short periods of time. For those of you with small chi ldren, your Airman wil l not be

allowed to carry them around while in uniform.

• Reveil le/Retreat: Each day mil itary instal lations hold reveil le and retreat ceremonies. I f

you are not at the actual ceremony it wil l be signified by music that is played over loud

speakers throughout the base. I f you are driving in a car, safely pul l over to the right and

stop your car while it takes place. Remain in your car after it is stopped. I f you are

outdoors you must stop walking and stand facing the flag if you can see it, or face the

sound of the music, if you cannot see the flag. I f al l else fai ls, face the same direction as

everyone else. Personnel in uniform wil l salute the entire time of the ceremony.

• When walking with your Airman in uniform, walk on his/her left side. This wil l keep their

right side clear if they have to salute.

• I f your Airman is walking with a superior NCO or Officer someplace, they are required to

walk to the left of them, approximately 2 paces back. I f you happen to be with your

Airman while this is occurring, let them take that position while walking.

• When walking in uniform, your Airman must keep their right hand empty so they wil l be

able to salute if they need to.

• I f you have small chi ldren in strol lers your Airman wil l not be able to push it around if they

are in uniform.

• Your Airman is not al lowed to walk around while talking on a cell phone in uniform.

• Your Airman wil l not be allowed to stand with their hands in their pockets while in uniform.

• Your Airman wil l not be allowed to eat or drink while walking in uniform.

9

When you go to Lackland AFB for graduation week events you be visiting an active

mil itary instal lation. For those of you that do not have mil itary experience (Active Duty, Reserve,

Spouse, etc) you wil l quickly discover that the mil itary has some rules and etiquettes in place

that you may or may not be used to. We are going to try to cover as many of the rules and

etiquettes as possible that you wil l need to know for your visit to Lackland. I f you are visiting

Lackland AFB using a Visitors Pass (you don’t have a valid DoD ID) remember that your are

being sponsored on base by your Airman. This means they are responsible for your actions so if

you get into trouble, they can get into trouble.

Remember, for your new Airman, they are expected to fol low these rules while on base and off.

They wil l know what they can and cannot do. I f they tel l you they are not al lowed to do

something, please respect what they are saying.

Driving On Base:

Follow all traffic laws! ! I f you don’t you wil l l ikely be pulled over and may be given a ticket.

Remember, you are on a federal instal lation so if you are a civi l ian and get a ticket, you wil l not

appear in a county court, instead you wil l appear in a Federal Court before a U.S. Magistrate.

Here are a few rules to keep in mind when driving on base:

• All occupants in a vehicle must wear a safety belt.

• When riding a motorcycle you must wear a helmet and highly reflective vest.

• The speed limit when passing Airmen marching in formation along the side of streets is 1 0

MPH.

• You may not talk on a cell phone while driving.

• You must stop and allow pedestrians to cross the street that are waiting at a crosswalk.

• Do not park in reserved parking spaces. These spots wil l usual ly be designed by a

sign/placard or via a painted curb with markings on them.

• You may not drop your Airman off in front of their squadron or in the squadron parking lot.

You may only drop them off in designated areas.

Walking Around Base:

• Do not jay walk.

• I f walking near a troop movement area, give way to marching Airmen.

• I f you, by chance, arrive on base early (staying on base, etc) and see your Airman, do not

yel l at him/her, walk up to him/her or try to otherwise get their attention. They are not

al lowed to make contact with their family members unti l they are official ly al lowed to do

so. Making contact with you when not authorized wil l get them in serious trouble, up to

and including being recycled, delaying their graduation.

• Do not walk or stand on the grass.

• While at Lackland and some Tech School locations, Airmen must carry a flashl ight with

them during hours of darkness.

• Do not enter restricted/off l imits areas. You wil l be briefed at the Visitors Briefings where

you can and cannot go. Your Airman wil l also be briefed on these areas.

Military Etiquette:

As a member of the Air Force your new Airman is expected to fol low certain rules at al l times.

Some of these rules apply only while in uniform and others apply in and out of uniform. When

visiting your Airman, if you are not sure if something is al lowed or proper, ask them first. They

wil l know what should and should not be done. Here are some things to remember:

• Public Display of Affection (PDA): While in uniform PDA (kissing, holding hands, hugging,

etc) is general ly not al lowed with only a few exceptions. This applies both on base and off

base. During special events l ike graduations, homecomings, etc it is al lowed, but for only

short periods of time. For those of you with small chi ldren, your Airman wil l not be

allowed to carry them around while in uniform.

• Reveil le/Retreat: Each day mil itary instal lations hold reveil le and retreat ceremonies. I f

you are not at the actual ceremony it wil l be signified by music that is played over loud

speakers throughout the base. I f you are driving in a car, safely pul l over to the right and

stop your car while it takes place. Remain in your car after it is stopped. I f you are

outdoors you must stop walking and stand facing the flag if you can see it, or face the

sound of the music, if you cannot see the flag. I f al l else fai ls, face the same direction as

everyone else. Personnel in uniform wil l salute the entire time of the ceremony.

• When walking with your Airman in uniform, walk on his/her left side. This wil l keep their

right side clear if they have to salute.

• I f your Airman is walking with a superior NCO or Officer someplace, they are required to

walk to the left of them, approximately 2 paces back. I f you happen to be with your

Airman while this is occurring, let them take that position while walking.

• When walking in uniform, your Airman must keep their right hand empty so they wil l be

able to salute if they need to.

• I f you have small chi ldren in strol lers your Airman wil l not be able to push it around if they

are in uniform.

• Your Airman is not al lowed to walk around while talking on a cell phone in uniform.

• Your Airman wil l not be allowed to stand with their hands in their pockets while in uniform.

• Your Airman wil l not be allowed to eat or drink while walking in uniform.

1 0

Thursday Events

Airman’s Run, Orientation Briefings, Retreat, Honor Graduate Ceremony, and Base Liberty

IMPORTANT NOTE: All BMT graduation ceremonies are held outdoors; therefore, visiting family

members are urged to use caution/judgment while attending outdoor events and should prepare

(i.e. dress appropriately, drinking plenty of fluids, use of sunscreen, etc.) to withstand varying

temperatures (including extreme heat/cold/winds) if attending outdoor ceremonies.

We are asked a lot about what to wear to graduation and our recommendation is dress weather

appropriate and comfortable.

Additional ly, your Airman may experience delays in training due to unforeseen circumstances.

When making travel arrangements, we suggest you purchase refundable/transferable tickets.

*PLEASE DO NOT SURPRISE YOUR AIRMAN–parents have missed their Airman an entire day

because their Airman departed on pass not knowing they had visitors.

7:00am, 9:00am

Orientation Briefings: Attend either of the briefings at the Reception Center.

8:00am

Airman’s Run: Cheer the Airmen as they run by singing ‘jodies’ in fl ight formation

Note: Each squadron wears a uniquely colored t-shirt. Please look below for specific squadron

colors.

•320TRS wear Red Shirts

•321 TRS wear Green (formerly wore Dark Grey Shirts)

•322TRS wear Blue (formerly wore Gold Shirts)

•323TRS wear Tan Shirts

•324TRS wear Maroon Shirts

•326TRS wear Dark Blue Shirts

•331 TRS wear Black Shirts

The Airman’s Run is behind the BMT RC on Hughes St. Folks l ine up on both sides of the street

to catch a glimpse of their Airman as he/she runs by. The best place to watch the run is just a

l ittle further down from the crowd towards the bridge. As you exit from the back of the BMT RC

then walk left on Hughes St. Get ready to holler and cheer on your Airman! ! **gentle reminder**

As always be courteous of other family and friends that are trying to enjoy the Run.

This is the very first time you get to see your Airman! ! ! You are allowed to bring banners so that

your Airman can see you as they run by.

The Airmen wear a matching shirt that is only available for sale while supplies last at the mini-

mall . I t’s a great souvenir/keepsake.

1 0:45am

Honor Graduate Ceremony: The Commander of Basic Mil itary Training invites honor

graduates and their famil ies to a special ceremony in their honor prior to the start of the

Airman’s Coin Ceremony.

11 :00am

Airman’s Coin Ceremony fol lowed immediately by Retreat – in which we pay tribute to

the flag. Meet with your Airman immediately afterwards. Most Airmen are released for

Base Liberty immediately fol lowing the ceremonies. (Some Airmen may have limited

visitation due to training requirements.)

This is when you are able to get the best (((HUGS))) ever! There is a map in the BMT Reception

Center which outl ines where your Airman wil l be standing. I would advise getting to your seats

early so you have the best possible spot to see your Airman.

1 :00pm

Airman, Spouse and Parent Orientation: This orientation, which takes place at the BMT

Reception Center Auditorium, provides information on tech training, pay, entitlements,

benefits, and available services.

1 2:00pm-7:30pm

Buffet Dinner Opportunity: At Gateway Club. Airmen pay discounted price. Visitors pay ful l

price.

8:00pm

End of Liberty: Airmen due back in their dormitory. Your Airman’s commander or mil itary

training instructor may impose an earl ier return time

1 1

Thursday Events

Airman’s Run, Orientation Briefings, Retreat, Honor Graduate Ceremony, and Base Liberty

IMPORTANT NOTE: All BMT graduation ceremonies are held outdoors; therefore, visiting family

members are urged to use caution/judgment while attending outdoor events and should prepare

(i.e. dress appropriately, drinking plenty of fluids, use of sunscreen, etc.) to withstand varying

temperatures (including extreme heat/cold/winds) if attending outdoor ceremonies.

We are asked a lot about what to wear to graduation and our recommendation is dress weather

appropriate and comfortable.

Additional ly, your Airman may experience delays in training due to unforeseen circumstances.

When making travel arrangements, we suggest you purchase refundable/transferable tickets.

*PLEASE DO NOT SURPRISE YOUR AIRMAN–parents have missed their Airman an entire day

because their Airman departed on pass not knowing they had visitors.

7:00am, 9:00am

Orientation Briefings: Attend either of the briefings at the Reception Center.

8:00am

Airman’s Run: Cheer the Airmen as they run by singing ‘jodies’ in fl ight formation

Note: Each squadron wears a uniquely colored t-shirt. Please look below for specific squadron

colors.

•320TRS wear Red Shirts

•321 TRS wear Green (formerly wore Dark Grey Shirts)

•322TRS wear Blue (formerly wore Gold Shirts)

•323TRS wear Tan Shirts

•324TRS wear Maroon Shirts

•326TRS wear Dark Blue Shirts

•331 TRS wear Black Shirts

The Airman’s Run is behind the BMT RC on Hughes St. Folks l ine up on both sides of the street

to catch a glimpse of their Airman as he/she runs by. The best place to watch the run is just a

l ittle further down from the crowd towards the bridge. As you exit from the back of the BMT RC

then walk left on Hughes St. Get ready to holler and cheer on your Airman! ! **gentle reminder**

As always be courteous of other family and friends that are trying to enjoy the Run.

This is the very first time you get to see your Airman! ! ! You are allowed to bring banners so that

your Airman can see you as they run by.

The Airmen wear a matching shirt that is only available for sale while supplies last at the mini-

mall . I t’s a great souvenir/keepsake.

1 0:45am

Honor Graduate Ceremony: The Commander of Basic Mil itary Training invites honor

graduates and their famil ies to a special ceremony in their honor prior to the start of the

Airman’s Coin Ceremony.

11 :00am

Airman’s Coin Ceremony fol lowed immediately by Retreat – in which we pay tribute to

the flag. Meet with your Airman immediately afterwards. Most Airmen are released for

Base Liberty immediately fol lowing the ceremonies. (Some Airmen may have limited

visitation due to training requirements.)

This is when you are able to get the best (((HUGS))) ever! There is a map in the BMT Reception

Center which outl ines where your Airman wil l be standing. I would advise getting to your seats

early so you have the best possible spot to see your Airman.

1 :00pm

Airman, Spouse and Parent Orientation: This orientation, which takes place at the BMT

Reception Center Auditorium, provides information on tech training, pay, entitlements,

benefits, and available services.

1 2:00pm-7:30pm

Buffet Dinner Opportunity: At Gateway Club. Airmen pay discounted price. Visitors pay ful l

price.

8:00pm

End of Liberty: Airmen due back in their dormitory. Your Airman’s commander or mil itary

training instructor may impose an earl ier return time

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Friday Events

Orientation Briefing, Parade, Open House, Family/Spouse/Parent Orientation, and Town Pass

7:15amOrientation Briefing: Reception Center. You do not have to attend Friday’s Orientation

Briefing if you have already attended an Orientation Briefing on Thursday. The same

topics are discussed during both Briefings.

7:15am­8:30amTransportation to Parade Ground: Buses depart Reception Center for easy access to the

parade grounds. Parking is unavailable to visitors at the parade grounds.

9:00am

Graduation Parade: Watch Airmen “Pass In Review” and reaffirm their “Oath of

Enlistment” at graduation parade; Airmen are released for base liberty and may take

photographs by historical aircraft positioned around the parade field.

9:45amReturn Bus: Buses depart the parade ground for the Reception Center; Airmen may ride

back with you

10:15­11:15amSquadron Open House: Visit your Airman’s dormitory; parking in squadrons is prohibited.

11:30amTown Pass (Airmen are released immediately fol lowing conclusion of Squadron Open

House.)

Note: Airmen must remain in the San Antonio metropolitan area, but may visit Sea World, Fiesta

Texas and family/friends near local military installations to include Randolph AFB. Airmen must

coordinate exceptions to this limitation through their Training Squadron Leadership. Airmen are

also prohibited from visiting the ‘off-limits’ establishments discussed during their Town Pass

briefing. A listing of these establishments is also displayed on their dormitory bulletin board.

11:30­1:30pmLunch Opportunity: Visit Gateway Club for lunch buffet. Airmen pay discounted price while

their visitors pay ful l price.

12:00pmAirman, Spouse and Parent Orientation: This orientation, which takes place at the BMT

Reception Center Auditorium, provides information on tech training, pay, entitlements,

benefits, and available services.

8:00pmEnd of Liberty: Airmen are due back in their dormitory.

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Saturday & Sunday

Saturday

9:00am

Town Pass: Airmen begin arriving at the Reception Center to start Town Pass.

Note: Airmen must remain in the San Antonio metropolitan area, but may visit Sea World,

Fiesta Texas and family/friends near local mil itary instal lations to include Randolph AFB.

Airmen must coordinate exceptions to this l imitation through their Training Squadron

Leadership. Airmen are also prohibited from visiting the ‘off-l imits’ establ ishments

discussed during their Town Pass briefing. A listing of these establishments is also

displayed on their dormitory bulletin board.

8:00pm

End of Town Pass: Airmen are due back in their dormitory

Sunday

6:30am-4:00pm

Religious Services: I f you and your Airman plan to attend rel igious services, you must

attend your Airman’s designated service for their denomination. You must meet your

Airman at the Chapel at the designated time (schedule with them). You cannot meet them

at the squadrons.

9:00am-6:00pm

Special Town Pass

Note: Awarded to Top Physical ly Fit Airmen, members of Honor Flights, and Honor

Graduates ONLY.

9:00am

Base Liberty: Airmen are released from their squadrons for base liberty

9:30am-1 :30pm

Sunday brunch: The Gateway Club is open to all visitors–graduates and their guests pay

discounted prices.

6:00pm

End of Liberty: Airmen are due back in their dorms. Your Airman’s commander or mil itary

training instructor may impose an earl ier return time.

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Tapping Out

“TAPPING OUT” is the way that Airmen are released in an orderly fashion from formation. I t can

be an emotional experience but remember, the AF just looks at it as just an orderly way to

disburse the Airmen so there is not total chaos.

There are two opportunities to “Tap Out” your Airman. The opportunities come at the end of the

Airman’s Coin Ceremony and the Graduation Parade. The Airmen wil l remain at parade rest unti l

someone either comes up and taps them on the shoulder or hugs them.

Just as a clarification – just because someone touches your airman does NOT mean that they

are tapped out. I f your airman gets bumped by someone (as traumatic as it may be), they’re not

tapped out. Al l they have to do is go back to attention & wait for you. I t’s not l ike TIs are watching

& as soon as an airman is touched, they’re considered “tapped out” and therefore, can’t stand at

attention. I f they know you’re coming they wil l wait. Otherwise after most of the Airmen have

been released then the TI releases the rest of the Airmen from formation.

WHO GETS TO “TAP OUT”?

Well general ly what we’ve noticed is if the Airman is married the tap out is Spouse for the Coin

Ceremony and then Parent for the Graduation. But it can be vice versa and in the end you want

to make sure that you focus on making the weekend and the moments very special for the

Airman.

Most find it works out best if they arrange who wil l tap out at what ceremony so that both are

comfortable and happy. This is definitely not the time to get into a tug-of-war over your Airman.

Some have simultaneously tapped out their Airman to share the moment which works out real ly

well .

Anyone can tap out the Airman. Children, cousins, friends, niecesJ .anyone can do it. We just

recommend that you prearrange who wil l tap out so all are prepared.

WHAT IF AN AIRMAN HAS NO FAMILY/FRIENDS COMING TO TAP THEM OUT?

Unfortunately not every Airman has family/friends coming to graduation due to various reasons.

Our suggestion is to continue the AFWM mission of positive support & encouragement and ask

your Airman (preferably prior in either a letter or phone call) if they have a Wingman that needs

tapping out. I t’s a great way to share the experience and if you are financial ly able it would be

great to invite them along with you for the weekend. Again, just ask your Airman and they wil l let

you know.

WHAT ABOUT THE BAND AND/OR FLAG FLT?

The Band FLT wil l need to put up their instruments after both ceremonies before you are able to

greet them. I t is not an “official” tap out but more like a greeting. The Flag FLT only participates

in the Graduation Parade and just l ike the Band FLT wil l need to put up the flags before being

greeted by family/friends. We have more info on that below.

HOW WILL I FIND MY AIRMAN TO TAP HIM/HER OUT?

Everything at both ceremonies is well announced as to what to do. The announce the TRS/FLT

numbers as they come in so you wil l know which TRS to look for your Airman. Just l isten and

watch as they walk by. They also give out maps to let you know where the TRS/FLT wil l be

standing.

PLEASE remember other famil ies are trying to tap out their airmen. Once your airmen have

been tapped out, don’t block others by standing around chatting. They don’t want to stand out

on the retreat pad or the parade grounds any longer than necessary and it isn’t respectful of the

other famil ies.

Again our strongest recommendation is that if there are multiple people wanting to share in the

Tap Out experience that you really consider the best way to make it a special moment for

everyone. Remember this weekend is al l about the Airman and what wil l make it a great

weekend for him/her.

Airman's Run

Airmen completing Air Force Basic Mil itary Training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas,

participate in a 2.5-mile Airmen's run on Thursday of graduation week. The run is a victory

celebration of the challenges overcome and esprit de corps gained by Airmen during training.

You wil l get to see your Airman, but you wil l not be able to actual ly talk or meet with them

during this activity.

Airman’s Coin Ceremony

Your trainees wil l be marched to the Reception Center for the Airman’s Coin Ceremony, where

they wil l be presented with the Air Force Airman’s Coin. After this event, they wil l no longer be

called a “trainee.” They have earned the right to be called “Airman.” Many airman consider this to

be one of the most significant of events in their career

Retreat Ceremony

The retreat ceremony serves a twofold purpose. I t signals the end of the official duty day and

serves as a ceremony for paying respect to the flag. Because the time for the end of the duty day

varies, the commander designates the specific time for the retreat ceremony.

Graduation Parade

The purpose of parade is to honor national symbols or individuals on special occasions. I t is a

display of proficiency and a state of training. Parade contributes to public morale, teamwork, and

pride in the organization – displaying strength and unity of our nation.

1 5

Tapping Out

“TAPPING OUT” is the way that Airmen are released in an orderly fashion from formation. I t can

be an emotional experience but remember, the AF just looks at it as just an orderly way to

disburse the Airmen so there is not total chaos.

There are two opportunities to “Tap Out” your Airman. The opportunities come at the end of the

Airman’s Coin Ceremony and the Graduation Parade. The Airmen wil l remain at parade rest unti l

someone either comes up and taps them on the shoulder or hugs them.

Just as a clarification – just because someone touches your airman does NOT mean that they

are tapped out. I f your airman gets bumped by someone (as traumatic as it may be), they’re not

tapped out. Al l they have to do is go back to attention & wait for you. I t’s not l ike TIs are watching

& as soon as an airman is touched, they’re considered “tapped out” and therefore, can’t stand at

attention. I f they know you’re coming they wil l wait. Otherwise after most of the Airmen have

been released then the TI releases the rest of the Airmen from formation.

WHO GETS TO “TAP OUT”?

Well general ly what we’ve noticed is if the Airman is married the tap out is Spouse for the Coin

Ceremony and then Parent for the Graduation. But it can be vice versa and in the end you want

to make sure that you focus on making the weekend and the moments very special for the

Airman.

Most find it works out best if they arrange who wil l tap out at what ceremony so that both are

comfortable and happy. This is definitely not the time to get into a tug-of-war over your Airman.

Some have simultaneously tapped out their Airman to share the moment which works out real ly

well .

Anyone can tap out the Airman. Children, cousins, friends, niecesJ .anyone can do it. We just

recommend that you prearrange who wil l tap out so all are prepared.

WHAT IF AN AIRMAN HAS NO FAMILY/FRIENDS COMING TO TAP THEM OUT?

Unfortunately not every Airman has family/friends coming to graduation due to various reasons.

Our suggestion is to continue the AFWM mission of positive support & encouragement and ask

your Airman (preferably prior in either a letter or phone call) if they have a Wingman that needs

tapping out. I t’s a great way to share the experience and if you are financial ly able it would be

great to invite them along with you for the weekend. Again, just ask your Airman and they wil l let

you know.

WHAT ABOUT THE BAND AND/OR FLAG FLT?

The Band FLT wil l need to put up their instruments after both ceremonies before you are able to

greet them. I t is not an “official” tap out but more like a greeting. The Flag FLT only participates

in the Graduation Parade and just l ike the Band FLT wil l need to put up the flags before being

greeted by family/friends. We have more info on that below.

HOW WILL I FIND MY AIRMAN TO TAP HIM/HER OUT?

Everything at both ceremonies is well announced as to what to do. The announce the TRS/FLT

numbers as they come in so you wil l know which TRS to look for your Airman. Just l isten and

watch as they walk by. They also give out maps to let you know where the TRS/FLT wil l be

standing.

PLEASE remember other famil ies are trying to tap out their airmen. Once your airmen have

been tapped out, don’t block others by standing around chatting. They don’t want to stand out

on the retreat pad or the parade grounds any longer than necessary and it isn’t respectful of the

other famil ies.

Again our strongest recommendation is that if there are multiple people wanting to share in the

Tap Out experience that you really consider the best way to make it a special moment for

everyone. Remember this weekend is al l about the Airman and what wil l make it a great

weekend for him/her.

1 6

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