quote:

Originally posted by 12131:
So, where are their cell phones kept the rest of the time they're prohibited to use? If they're locked away inaccessible, fine. But if they're still with the recruits, they will abide by the rule, right? That's right.

quote:

Originally posted by 12131:
^^^ If that's the case for all branches, then I don't see an issue. Otherwise, not a good idea..

quote:

Originally posted by mikeyspizza:

My grandson is at USAF BMT (boot camp) right now. They confiscate the phones but give them back for a short scripted call the day after they arrive (to give you their mailing address)

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Originally posted by pedropcola:
It is part of the process. It works. This cell phone use is not a good thing. Young adults need to learn to do without this crutch. This is a good opportunity to do so.

quote:

Originally posted by parabellum:

quote:

Originally posted by OttoSig:
You're wasting your time.

You mind. your. manners.

I am allowed to have an opinion. Others are allowed to have an opinion, and you will stop behaving as if the rest of us are simpletons.

Is that clear enough for you?

Access to personal cell phones while in basic training, is a bad idea, in any and all branches of the US military. It doesn't matter how they're used. It doesn't matter how frequently or infrequently these recruits are allowed to use their personal cell phone, if that frequency is greater than zero.

It's very simple- these kids are addicted- that is the word- addicted to their phones, and that addiction needs to be broken for a time. You don't need to behave as if all of us are dolts who do not know of what we speak. We know exactly what we're talking about, which is the disgusting obsession of young people with their little electronic pacifiers. It's disgusting, and this is a chance for them to grow up a bit.

Is it OK with you that we hold this opinion?

Oh, let us use cocaine "only under the direct supervision of a staff member." Sure, that's the ticket.

quote:

Originally posted by Oregon:

What's to defend? They're letting the recruits use their phones for a very limited time when they get there and every few weeks to call loved ones, just like we used to do with those ridiculous banks of pay phones.

Have you read either the Army or Air Force policy on cell phone use during basic?


From AF.mil
[QUOTE]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.