Undergoing the transition from civilian to trained Army Soldier is something that every Army enlisted person has to undergo. The Army calls their Boot Camp basic training Basic Combat Training, and it is a nine-week course. During the first nine weeks enlistees learn about how to work together as a team, what it takes to succeed, and the seven basic Army Core Values. The following items will make it easier to transition from civilian life to the Army.
Documents that you should have. You should have your direct deposit information about your bank; there is a form you should have for your checking or savings account. Make sure you have the routing number and account number. Bring your drivers license and social security card. If you don’t have your driver’s license bring your state issued ID. Bring a copy of your marriage certificate if married; make sure it’s an original or certified copy. The same goes for a separation order or divorce decree. Bring along certified copies or original of your birth certificate, child support documents, and any other legal important documents that you have.
Take copies of your rental or lease agreements, and bring a copy of your transcripts and/or High school or college diplomas. Watch. You are allowed a watch, the more non-descript and inexpensive but accurate, the better. Toiletries. Bring one washcloth. Shower shoes or flip flops, shaving cream, toothbrush with case, hairbrush or six inch black comb, disposable safety razor, soap and a soap case, toothpaste, anti-per spirant, dental floss, and that’s about it, the rest you will be able to purchase later. Money. Take with you between ten dollars and fifty dollars in cash, traveler’s checks or Money orders. Don’t take personal checks, as they are hard to cash.
Clothes. Bring some comfortable shoes; one pair white athletic socks (white no colors bands or logos) one-day set of casual comfortable clothing, no ragged shorts or halter-tops. Take with you three sets of underwear. Bring your eyeglasses. And you should pack it all in one small type suitcase or a gym bag. Bring a lock. A combination lock is best, but bring a lock and if a keyed lock bring two keys. Orders. Make sure you have all your orders, at hand and available. These orders have to be delivered by hand by you, and should be accessible and easy to get to.
Things you should NOT bring. Don’t bring your private vehicles, leave your pets, friends and family home too. Don’t bring expensive things you wont need such as jewelry, tape players or CD players, cameras, radios, or expensive watches.