Cell Phone Use in Basic Military Training (BMT)

Cell Phone Use in Basic Military Training (BMT) (as of June 2016)

During the 7.5 weeks while your loved one is at BMT, he/she will be authorized to use his/her cell phone

or pay phones to make outgoing calls to family members. Trainees are encouraged to maintain their cell

phone service while at BMT and to bring a calling card. Those arriving without phones will be provided

opportunities to use a phone as needed.

General Guidelines:

1. Trainees are encouraged to utilize their cell phone to notify a family member of their safe arrival at

the San Antonio International Airport. Trainees will not have any specific squadron/dorm assignments

at this time.

2. By Saturday of arrival week, trainees will be authorized to call and release their mailing address

information posted on the safe arrival postcard (which will then be mailed to family member's address).

3. Trainees will use cell phones only under direct supervision of a staff member.

4. Trainees are authorized access to their personal cell phones during the fourth week and at the end of

the seventh week of training to firm up travel arrangements with family and guests. During the other

weeks of training and based on their performance, they will have an opportunity to use their personal

cell phones or pay phones to call family or friends. Additionally, trainees will be allowed to use their

personal cell phones to update family and friends on any changes of training status.

5. Cell phones will be used for voice conversations only. Receiving, sending, sharing, or viewing

videos/pictures/text messages is strictly prohibited. Please do not send this type of information to your

trainee. Violations WILL result in disciplinary actions.

6. Prior to arriving at BMT, trainees must remove all photographs or videos which are considered lewd

or pornographic. Our staff will conduct a "Cell Phone Policy Briefing" during the initial health, morale,

and welfare inspection. Trainees will sign a cell phone briefing roster stating they have been informed

of and understand all policies associated with the use of cell phones while at BMT.

This policy is subject to change based on the Basic Training Commander's recommendations. All

changes will be posted immediately upon his/her approval.