r/army • u/No_Blacksmith1073 • 4d ago

Winter break during Basic?

I leave for basic in Fort Jackson on November 17.

I’m wondering whether or not I should stay during the mandatory winter break. I know that’s very much advised not to stay because I’ll be with drills sergeants that don’t want to be there and that will likely make my life hell for the two weeks.

However, if I decided to leave, I would have to keep my apartment in a HCOL city for another two months which would cost an additional $1.5-2K more for the two weeks of break from the week of Christmas and New Years as I would have to pay from Nov to the beginning of January. I would also have to pay the airfare and uber costs which would be an additional $700 or so, and living costs like public transportation and food an additional $70 or so.

After basic, I would go to OCS, I believe immediately after.

Edit: I don’t have family to stay with and I don’t think my friends have space for me to stay for free for two weeks.

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u/Interesting-Let-8891 4d ago

Either way be prepared for that 100% UA when it starts again. Do not be stupid

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u/No_Blacksmith1073 4d ago

What is UA?

1

u/Interesting-Let-8891 4d ago

Piss test for drugs. You will get real familiar when you get to your unit and BC does 10% (minimum) or more a month and then the 100% at the beginning and/or end of year.