Communication: On the positive side communication will improve. Paul got to call the very first weekend of AIT, and I think it was a whole 25 minutes (instead of 5 or 6.) Letters are more frequent and you can see the end in sight. Be aware though, communication will continue to vary based on the discretion of the Drill Sergeant. If a platoon or even one soldier messes up enough, everyone's phone privileges may be revoked for the week, or more.
Training: AIT is still an intensive training regiment, but with more rest, Paul has written of several multiple hours naps, but he also mentioned that he is going to accomplish more in these 4.5 weeks than in the 10 weeks prior. They will be getting into urban operations, weapons training, PT (always PT) but also have some competitions and other outlets they didn't have before. Their final FTX (field training exercise) is generally 5 days long so don't expect too much in the way of communication for a little bit towards the end.
AIT goes by very quickly so don't worry too much about sending things, but keep up with the letters! Mail can be a strange beast on a military base so for the last two weeks don't send anything (package or letters) that is vital information that cannot be lost. My last letter (sent 10 days before graduation never arrived!)
Turning Blue Ceremony/Family Day: The day before graduation, the company has the Turning Blue Ceremony. During this time the family is invited to attach the Blue Cord, a symbol that he has completed infantry training. It's a small ceremony but being a part of it is a really cool experience. They are marched in and presented, the Commander speaks, the top scoring soldiers from each platoon are presented (PT scores, Marksmanship, etc.) and the Soldier of the Cycle leads the recitation of the Infantryman's Creed. Then the soldiers are released until 8pm that day when they have to be back to the bay!
Soldier of the Cycle: I would like to take a moment to brag about my husband...He was awarded Soldier of the Cycle!!! The contest essentially requires that he be chosen by this platoon to compete, a running test, a timed rifle dis/reassemble, and questions in front of a panel of the cadre. Winning this honor means an achievement medal, recognition at the Turning Blue and Graduation and recitation of the Infantryman's Creed and Soldier's Creed. I am so very proud!
Graduation: Graduation is a show for the families and a recognition of the accomplishments of all the soldiers who are graduation. There is music (army band,) smoke, and "gunfire" as the MC explains the duty and function of the Infantry as well as their history. The graduates are marched out, lead in the recitation of the Soldier's Creed and then pass in review in front of the families. It was beautifully done.
Notes of the logistics:
- Be prepared to wait around. If you have small children bring something to entertain them with, it can get tedious before and after different sections of the graduation weekend.
- Leaving about 1 hour, 1 hour and 15 before both ceremonies begin was an adequate amount of time for us.
- There are going to be a lot of families in town, try to book hotels and/or car rentals well in advance. If you have a large group with you consider making meal reservations for Thursday or Friday night.
- Be ready to have your plans changed! Paul was supposed to start Airborne shortly after graduation, but things changed, and it got pushed back. Just have a contingency plan if you intend to spend some time with your soldier before or during his furthered training.
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