Apologies for not getting back to everyone sooner. I assume most of you with questions about BOLC have already gone there this summer, but perhaps I can offer some feedback to others who have similar questions in the future.
Two questions, first in regards to uniform requirements and second for GJMeig:
OP: What are the uniform requirements for BOLC? I was casually told 2 sets of ACU's and 1-2 sets of physical fitness uniforms. My recruiter is about 75 miles away and I have a base around the corner. I was going to get these on my own if I can receive clarification on exact requirements. Also- could you detail the insignias/badges you need made to go onto your uniform.
GJMeig: Last year you indicated you would be going to BOLC this summer. Are you registered, do you have orders?
The amount of ACU's and IPFU's is up to you, but you will want a
minimum of two. Personally, I had 3 sets of ACU's (only wore 2), 3 sets of IPFU's, 2 pairs of boots. I also don't have much/any body odor, so I could get away with using fewer sets easier than most. You'll end up re-wearing all of these before you can wash them. You don't have to have anything made on your uniform - all the insignias/badges they give you stick with velcro. The only possible exception is for your hats - many people get their rank sewn on the front of their hat (for most reading this it will be 2LT or CPT); the alternative is to pin it on, as there is no velcro on the front. This is doable (I did it), but sometimes the inside of the pin can poke your forehead if it's not just right.
You'll need
name tapes for your ACU top (right side) and hat (back), pin/sewn on
rank (2LT/CPT) patch for your hat (front) and ACU top (front center), an
American flag patch for your right arm, and a "
U.S. Army" patch for your left side. They'll give you a
BOLC patch for your left arm, and you'll wear any
prior MOS patches on your left arm as well (this is only if you're prior service). You should have
3-4 of each type of patch/tape (more for your name tape) in case they get lost. An easy way to remember where the flag and U.S. Army patch go is the Army is over your heart, and the Flag goes on your right arm that you use to salute.
Really worried about getting my uniform on time. Military Exchange website totally effed up my ACU order...everything is backordered and they never told me until today. Any suggestions about other online stores that offer express shipping, or should I just wait to get my ACUs when I get to BOLC?
Also, would it be best to get my ASU (blues) tailored when I get to BOLC? I'm not exactly when I'll need to wear the ASU during BOLC. I'm assuming they have a tailor on post.
You will not need to buy ASU's for BOLC. Even for the graduation ceremony, you wear ACU's. As far as the new ACU's go, unless they tell you otherwise, I'd definitely try to get the new ACU's if possible so you don't end up spending a few hundred bucks on a phased out uniform.
As far as the advanced pay goes (someone correct me if I'm wrong on this), they just take a $1,000 chunk out of your future paycheck. My recruiter at the time made it seem like this was just extra money they were giving me - it isn't extra, just splits up your future paycheck more.
Ok great, thanks.
Only other thing on my mind is my shin splints. I'm in good athletic shape and can definitely pass PT test. I run all the time, but the past few months after running a half marathon my shins have been on fire. I rest them, ice them, etc. However, I know we'll be doing constant running during PT. What's the protocol for guys/girls who get injured during the course of the PT? Don't wanna be a whiner, but I'm a little worried.
There isn't nearly as much physical training as you're expecting. Running is only a portion of the PT training, and you'll be doing nowhere near a half marathon. A lot of the people are out of shape when they go to BOLC, so someone who runs often, even in small amounts, will be above and beyond a majority of the people there. However, there were people who got injured. If this happens, really all you'll do is get clearance from a doctor/PA to get a temporary "profile" stating you can't do a certain type of PT. If this happens in BOLC, the probably won't do much. Once you're active duty, they will find an alternate form of exercise to suit your needs (i.e. walking, swimming).
what is the cell phone/ computer usage like? are we able to bring them/use them? I like keeping in touch with family and friends with e-mail and staying connected with news, world events, etc....
You can't use cell phones or computers while you're in class/training. After hours, you're allowed to use whatever you'd like. At the 3 week field training, you're allowed to bring your cell phone, and there are even some outlets to charge them in. It might be helpful to bring short extension cords/small power strips because many people will want to use these outlets. I don't think you can bring a computer to the field training, but you can certainly keep one in the hotel.
Also, thank you for the help answering questions here
@USArmyHPSP and
@AirborneDentist!
