Your Soldier's BCT Graduation: What Are Family Day and Graduation Day?
After weeks of waiting, your Soldier's Basic Combat Training graduation will be one of the most memorable moments for your family.
But many first-time Army families don't know what to expect.
When Is Graduation?
Some Soldiers receive graduation information during their script call. Others do not.
If you don't have a graduation date yet, don't worry. Each training installation publishes a graduation calendar.
Find your Soldier's training installation and training unit on the calendar to locate the expected graduation date.
Don't Forget Your Visitor Pass
Before traveling to your Soldier's graduation, make sure you check the visitor requirements for the installation. Some installations require visitors to complete a visitor pass or registration process before attending graduation events.
You can start the Army visitor pass process here:
Visitor Pass: https://pass.aie.army.mil/steps/branch_selection
Be sure to complete the process early and check your Soldier's installation for any additional requirements. Visitor procedures can vary by installation.
What If My Soldier Gets Recycled?
During Basic Combat Training, some Soldiers may be "recycled." This means they are moved back to an earlier phase of training to complete additional training requirements.
If your Soldier is recycled, their graduation date will likely change.
The date on the original calendar is only an estimate until your Soldier successfully completes training.
What Is Family Day?
Family Day is usually held the day before graduation, on Wednesday.
This is often the first time families can see their Soldier after completing Basic Training. Families may be able to spend time together, attend events, and receive important information before graduation.
What Is Graduation Day?
Graduation is usually held on Thursday.
This is the official ceremony celebrating your Soldier's completion of Basic Combat Training. Families are welcome to attend and celebrate this important milestone.
Show Your Support
Many Army families celebrate this special moment by wearing matching Army Family shirts. It is a meaningful way to show your Soldier that their family is standing behind them.
If you would like customized Army Family shirts for your family, visit Army Ohana to create your own matching shirts.
Graduation is more than a ceremony. It is the first big milestone in your Soldier's Army journey, and your support means more than you know.