Base liberty allows you the opportunity to experience the many benefits offered by support agencies, such as restaurants, stores, bowling alley, library, etc.
It’s important as an Airman to know what’s available so you can take full advantage of the concessions and activities offered by your base.
Always be courteous and professional when visiting these locations to leave a positive impression of yourself, your unit and the Air Force as a whole.
Purpose
Base liberty allows trainees the opportunity to demonstrate that you are developing the self-discipline and professionalism required of all Airmen. This is the perfect time to put into practice the AF Core Values that have been instilled since your arrival at basic training.
You can bolster personal motivation and resiliency by participating in relaxing activities in a responsible manner, while learning what the base has to offer in the way of entertainment, food establishments and activities.
Base liberty also allows your MTI the opportunity to reward exceptional behavior and instill discipline by holding trainees accountable for their actions.
Key Information
You will receive a mandatory 2-hour initial base liberty in the 4 WOT. Additional base liberty may be given to all, some or none of the flight based on performance and mission requirements at the MTI’s discretion.
Potential times for base liberty are after 4 WOT from 1700-2000 hours Monday-Friday and 0900-2000 hours on weekends and holidays. Optional base liberty will not exceed 4 hours. During the 8 WOT, if allowed, the hours for base liberty are Monday-Wednesday 1700-2000.
Base liberty occurs on Thursday immediately after the Coin and Retreat Ceremony until 2000 hours, and Sunday from 0900-1800. The 737 TRG/CC determines Base Liberty times during holiday periods.
The squadron commander, upon recommendation of the flight commander, may restrict 8 WOT base liberty due to poor performance and/or disciplinary issues.
Permitted Location/Activities
You may visit the following locations during any base liberty:
- Mini-Malls – BLDGs 10345 and 7025 (fast food restaurants and stores)
- Military Clothing Sales Store – Bldg. 7037
- Main BX – BLDG 1385
- Skylark Bowling Center – BLDG 6476
- Library – BLDG 6114
- Use of library computers is allowed, however, you MAY NOT access social media
- Parade Grounds
- Airmen & Heritage Museum – BLDG 5206
These locations are permitted ONLY during Base Liberty, Thursday through Sunday of the 8 WOT:
- Gateway Hills Golf Course – BLDG 2901
- Burger King – BLDG 1286
- Popeye’s Chicken – BLDG 2306
- Gateway Club (dining area only) – BLDG 2490
- Commissary – BLDG 8400
- Gateway Movie Theater – BLDG 1288
- Chaparral Fitness Center – BLDG 7346
- Pfingston Reception Center – BLDG 6330
- Skylark Community Center (1300 – 1800) – BLDG 6576
- Security Forces Museum – BLDG 10501
Prohibited Locations/Activities
- Other squadrons and other squadron patios (unless prior approval is received from squadron leadership)
- Arnold Hall Community Center
- The Refuge (Technical Training Spiritual Center)
- Family housing and Inns of Lackland (Gateway Inn) (unless invited by a family member Thursday – Sunday of the 8 WOT; and approved by squadron leadership)
Rules of Engagement
- Follow ALL rules provided by your instructor to include Trainee Rules of Conduct posted on dormitory bulletin board and in your BMTSG
- Conduct yourself in a professional manner that brings credit to the Air Force
- Render customs & courtesies (e.g., salute marked staff vehicles, retreat courtesies)
- Wear the uniform of the day
- Carry your military ID at all times
- Carry an operational flashlight and reflective belt if you will be out during the hours of darkness
- Wear your issued glasses on all base liberties, unless you have a waiver
- Carry your water bottle at all times, except during 8 WOT events
- Sign Base Liberty roster prior to departing the squadron area and initial the roster at CQ upon return
- You may choose to utilize the dining facility prior to going on base liberty
- If going to the Chaparral Fitness Center or golf course, take your Physical Training Uniform and running shoes in your backpack and change upon arrival; you must wear the designated uniform to and from these locations
- Have a wingman at all times; except when with family members during 8 WOT
- Be a good wingman
- Two trainees of the opposite gender will never march alone, regardless of the time of day
- March at attention (except during Red/Black Flag conditions)
- All food and beverages must be consumed on the location purchased
- Do not purchase/consume any alcoholic beverages
- Do not consume energy drinks
- Do not use any social media or cell phones; exception Thursday-Sunday of the 8 WOT)
- You are not authorized to go to the Security Forces Visitors Reception Centers to sponsor visitors until Thursday of the 8 WOT; and you must have a wingman or family member with you
- While avoiding PDA is the expected custom of all military members, there are some brief exceptions. A “brief” display of affection, such as a hug or kiss at homecomings, deployments and graduations is acceptable with moderation and respect
- Do not use automotive transportation (e.g., taxis), base shuttles, or privately owned vehicles; except Thursday-Sunday of the 8 WOT
- You will be held accountable for your actions and the actions of your family members
- Return on time (returning late is punishable under the UCMJ)
- After base liberty, Airmen will be dropped off by their visitors at their respective squadron designated location (RH&Ts), or the Pfingston Reception Center (ATCs)
- Visitors must not linger or get out of their vehicles in the parking lots, play loud music or distract squadron operations
- If you hear inclement weather warnings, take appropriate action by seeking immediate shelter and waiting for the weather to pass
- If the situation does not improve and you are going to be late returning, contact your Charge of Quarters (CQ) at (210) 671-
- Update your money lists when you return to your dormitory
- DO NOT have any unauthorized contact with any MTI or permanent party personnel. If unauthorized contact occurs, you have an obligation to report this misconduct
Summary
There are many places to visit while on base liberty, but keep in mind the rules that go along with this privilege. Excellence In All We Do means not only following all of the specific rules, but striving to show professionalism and set the example for others. Though you will receive a certain amount of base liberty, ensuring your flight follows the AF Core Values can help you increase the amount of time you receive.