How Long is Air Force Basic Military Training (AF BMT)? The Definitive Guide
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How Long is Air Force Basic Military Training (AF BMT)? The Definitive Guide
Alright, let's cut straight to it, because if you're reading this, you're either a prospective recruit with butterflies in your stomach, a worried parent trying to grasp what your child is about to endure, or just someone genuinely curious about the crucible that forges an Airman. The question, "How long is Air Force Basic Military Training (AF BMT)?" seems simple enough, right? A number, a duration, a countdown. But like most things worth doing in life, the answer is far more nuanced than a mere digit. It’s not just about the length of time; it's about the depth of transformation that happens within that timeframe. And trust me, as someone who's been there, seen it, and helped others through it, I'm going to give you the comprehensive, insider-level answer you're looking for – no sugar-coating, just the straight truth and a whole lot of practical insight.
This isn't just about the official calendar days; it's about the mental, physical, and emotional journey packed into every single moment. We'll peel back the layers, week by week, exposing the grit, the learning, and the occasional moment of unexpected camaraderie that defines this foundational experience. So, buckle up. We're about to demystify the Air Force's basic training and give you a crystal-clear picture of what to expect, from the moment your feet hit the ground at Lackland AFB to the proud moment you march across the parade field as a newly minted Airman.
The Standard Duration: A Clear Answer
Let's get the most pressing question out of the way immediately, with absolute clarity and zero ambiguity. When you ask, "How long is Air Force Basic Military Training?" the answer is definitive, consistent, and unwavering. There’s no secret handshake or hidden variable that alters this core fact for the vast majority of recruits.
The official, standard length of Air Force Basic Military Training is 7.5 weeks.
That’s it. Seven and a half weeks. Not eight, not six, not "it depends." For almost every single individual who steps onto the hallowed grounds of Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, this is the duration of their initial transformation from civilian to Airman. This precise timeframe has been meticulously engineered and refined over decades to achieve a very specific outcome, a finely tuned process designed to instill the foundational discipline, knowledge, and physical readiness required to serve in the world's greatest Air Force. It's a period of intense focus, structured learning, and relentless pressure, all designed with a singular purpose: to prepare you for the journey ahead.
The 7.5-Week Standard Explained
So, let's drill down into that 7.5-week figure. What does it actually mean in terms of days? We're talking about approximately 53 days, give or take a few hours depending on arrival and departure logistics. This isn't a duration that fluctuates with the seasons or the whim of a training instructor; it's a deeply ingrained standard, the bedrock upon which all subsequent Air Force training is built. Every single recruit, regardless of their future Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) – whether they're going to be a pilot, a mechanic, a cyber specialist, or a medic – will undergo this exact same 7.5-week program. It’s the great equalizer, ensuring every Airman starts their career with the same foundational understanding of military life, core values, and basic warrior ethos.
This consistency is a hallmark of Air Force training. Unlike some other branches where basic training lengths might vary slightly based on specific career paths or program structures, the Air Force has streamlined its initial entry training into this singular, highly efficient module. It’s a testament to the Air Force's commitment to creating a uniformly trained, disciplined, and adaptable force. From the moment you step off that bus, you're entering a system designed to systematically build you up, break down civilian habits, and remold you into a functioning member of a military team. The 7.5 weeks isn't just a countdown; it's a meticulously crafted curriculum, each day purposefully planned to contribute to your development.
It’s important to understand that while the "boot camp" moniker often conjures images of endless, grueling months, the Air Force has honed its approach. This 7.5-week duration is a carefully considered balance. It’s long enough to achieve profound change – to instill discipline, impart critical knowledge, and develop physical resilience – but also efficient enough to get new Airmen into their technical training and then into the operational Air Force without unnecessary delay. The Air Force prides itself on being a technologically advanced, highly skilled force, and its basic training reflects that ethos: rigorous, yes, but also smart and focused.
Why 7.5 Weeks? Understanding the Program Structure
Why exactly 7.5 weeks? It's not an arbitrary number pulled from a hat. This specific length is the result of decades of pedagogical refinement, military necessity, and a deep understanding of human psychology and physical endurance. The rationale behind this precise duration lies in striking a critical balance: providing comprehensive foundational training without unnecessary elongation, ensuring efficiency in getting Airmen ready for their specialized roles. The Air Force, often seen as the most technologically advanced branch, needs its personnel to be highly skilled in their specific AFSCs as quickly as possible, but never at the expense of core military discipline and values.
Think of it this way: the 7.5 weeks is a masterclass in accelerated, immersive learning. It's designed to strip away the individualistic tendencies of civilian life and replace them with a deep understanding of teamwork, discipline, and the Air Force's core values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence In All We Do. It’s enough time to physically condition recruits, ensuring they can meet the demanding standards of military service. It's also enough time to teach them basic combat skills, first aid, and the proper handling of a weapon, transforming them from civilians into basic warriors capable of defending themselves and their wingmen.
Furthermore, this length allows for a progressive curriculum. You don't just jump into the deep end on day one. The 7.5 weeks are structured to gradually increase the demands, both physical and mental, allowing recruits to adapt and build resilience incrementally. This phased approach minimizes burnout while maximizing learning. It allows for initial orientation and administrative processing, a foundational period of discipline and physical conditioning, an intensification phase for skill acquisition, a crucial week of field training, and finally, a period of consolidation and preparation for graduation and the transition to technical school. Each week has its own specific objectives, building blocks that lead to the complete transformation of an individual.
PRO-TIP: The Why Behind the When
The 7.5-week structure isn't about breaking you down for the sake of it. It's about systematically building a new foundation. Every minute is accounted for, designed to instill discipline, foster teamwork, and impart critical skills. Understanding this purpose can help you mentally frame the challenges and embrace the transformation rather than just enduring it.
A Week-by-Week Breakdown of AF BMT
Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty. Knowing the overall duration is one thing, but understanding what actually happens within those 7.5 weeks is where the real insight lies. This isn't just a period of endless push-ups and yelling; it's a meticulously planned curriculum designed to transform civilians into Airmen, week by intensive week. Each phase has its own unique challenges, lessons, and milestones, all building towards that momentous graduation day. Giving you this week-by-week breakdown isn't just about satisfying curiosity; it's about providing a mental roadmap, helping you visualize the journey and prepare for the specific hurdles you'll face.
This progression is critical. You’ll start as a blank slate, overwhelmed and perhaps a little terrified, and by the end, you’ll be marching with pride, confidence, and a profound sense of accomplishment. Let’s walk through it together, week by week, and pull back the curtain on what really goes down at Lackland.
Week 0 (Arrival & In-Processing)
Ah, Week 0. This isn't even officially "training" yet, but for most recruits, it's arguably one of the most jarring and memorable periods of BMT. You arrive at Lackland Air Force Base, usually late at night, often disoriented and anxious. The moment you step off that bus, the civilian world is immediately stripped away. The calm, reassuring voice of your recruiter is a distant memory, replaced by the booming, authoritative commands of a Military Training Instructor (MTI). This is where the transition shock truly hits, and it hits hard.
Your initial arrival is a whirlwind of controlled chaos. You'll be ushered into massive processing facilities, often referred to as "reception," where the first order of business is standardization. This means haircuts – for men, a razor-sharp buzz cut; for women, hair pulled back to military standards. Uniform issue follows, where you're quickly outfitted with multiple sets of Airman Battle Uniforms (ABUs) or Operational Camouflage Patterns (OCPs), physical training gear, and boots. Everything is issued, everything is accounted for, and suddenly, everyone looks exactly the same. Your individuality, at least externally, is gone.
Medical screenings are extensive and exhaustive. You’ll undergo physicals, dental checks, vision tests, and countless vaccinations. It’s a conveyor belt of poking, prodding, and paperwork, all designed to ensure you’re medically fit for military service and to get you caught up on any necessary immunizations. Alongside this, there’s a mountain of administrative paperwork to complete: direct deposit forms, emergency contact information, wills, and basic legal briefings. It’s overwhelming, fast-paced, and deliberately designed to keep you off-balance, fostering a sense of urgency and immediate compliance.
INSIDER NOTE: The Sensory Overload
Week 0 is a full-frontal assault on your senses. The constant yelling, the bright lights, the sheer volume of people, the lack of personal space, and the dizzying pace are all part of the initial shock. Don't fight it; just try to observe and absorb. Your brain will eventually adapt to the new normal. This is where your mental toughness begins its first real test.
This initial phase is not about specific training tasks; it's about breaking down the civilian mindset and preparing you for the highly structured, disciplined environment to come. You'll learn basic dormitory procedures, how to make your bed with hospital corners, how to stand at attention, and how to respond to commands. Sleep deprivation is often a factor, as is the constant feeling of being rushed. It’s a deliberate tactic to strip away comfort and self-reliance, forcing you to rely on the system and your nascent flight. It’s tough, it’s disorienting, but it’s the essential first step in your journey to becoming an Airman.
Weeks 1-2 (Formative Phase: Foundational Discipline)
With the initial shock of Week 0 somewhat absorbed, Weeks 1 and 2 dive headfirst into the formative phase, where the foundational discipline of military life is relentlessly drilled into you. This is where you truly begin to shed your civilian skin and learn what it means to be part of a military unit. The primary focus here is on instilling military customs and courtesies, mastering drill and ceremony, and initiating the rigorous physical training (PT) ramp-up that will define much of your BMT experience. The MTIs are still very much in your face, but their guidance starts to become more about correction and instruction rather than just pure shock and awe.
You'll spend countless hours learning and practicing drill and ceremony. This isn't just about marching in straight lines; it's about precision, uniformity, and learning to move as a cohesive unit. You'll learn basic commands like "Flight, halt!" "Left face!" and "Forward, march!" and repeat them ad nauseam until they become second nature. Every movement, from saluting an officer to standing at attention, is practiced until it's perfect. This repetitive, synchronized movement builds discipline, fosters teamwork, and teaches you to follow instructions without hesitation. It's designed to break down individualistic tendencies and build a collective identity within your flight.
Physical training becomes a daily, non-negotiable part of your life. These first two weeks see a significant ramp-up in PT, designed to assess your current fitness level and begin building the strength and endurance required for the Air Force Physical Fitness Test (PFA). You’ll be running, doing push-ups, sit-ups, flutter kicks, and various calisthenics. The intensity will steadily increase, pushing you beyond what you thought your body was capable of. Expect early morning PT sessions, often before the sun rises, and additional physical activity integrated throughout the day. Your body will ache, you'll be tired, but you'll also start to feel a newfound strength emerging.
Beyond the physical and ceremonial aspects, these weeks also introduce you to the strictures of dormitory life. You'll learn proper uniform wear, how to maintain your living space to immaculate standards, and the importance of accountability for all your gear. Room inspections become a regular, high-stakes event, teaching attention to detail and the consequences of sloppiness. Communication is limited, and every aspect of your day is scheduled and supervised. It's an intense period of adjustment, where you learn the true meaning of military discipline and the expectation of unwavering obedience.
Weeks 3-4 (Intensification: Skills & Knowledge Acquisition)
As you push through Weeks 3 and 4, the focus shifts from purely foundational discipline to a more intensive phase of skills and knowledge acquisition. By now, you've started to internalize the routine, the yelling might still be present, but you're better at anticipating commands and reacting appropriately. Your body is adapting to the physical demands, and your flight is beginning to function more like a cohesive unit. This is where the curriculum expands, introducing you to more concrete aspects of Air Force life and basic warrior skills.
Classroom instruction becomes a more prominent feature during these weeks. You'll delve deeper into the Air Force's core values – Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence In All We Do – not just as abstract concepts, but as guiding principles for every action. You'll learn about military history, rank structure, chain of command, and the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). These aren't dry lectures; they're essential lessons designed to provide context for your service and instill a sense of pride and understanding in your role as an Airman. You're not just a body; you're becoming a knowledgeable member of a professional fighting force.
A crucial component introduced here is basic first aid. You’ll learn how to assess injuries, stop bleeding, perform CPR, and respond to various medical emergencies. This hands-on training is vital, as every Airman is expected to be able to provide immediate aid to a wingman in a combat or emergency situation. This practical application of knowledge is empowering and highlights the serious responsibilities that come with military service. It's a sobering reminder that your training is preparing you for real-world scenarios where lives might depend on your quick thinking and learned skills.
PRO-TIP: Embrace the Classroom
While BMT is often associated with physical challenges, don't underestimate the academic side. The knowledge you gain about Air Force history, core values, and basic first aid is just as vital as your physical fitness. Pay attention, take notes (mentally, if not literally), and ask questions if you have them. This knowledge forms the intellectual backbone of your Airman identity.
Perhaps one of the most anticipated and significant introductions during this phase is M-16 familiarization. You won't be firing live rounds yet, but you'll learn the nomenclature of the weapon, how to properly disassemble and reassemble it (field strip), clear malfunctions, and safely handle it. This is a critical step in building confidence and competence with your assigned weapon. The MTI will meticulously guide you through each step, emphasizing safety above all else. Alongside this, physical training continues unabated, and you'll likely be introduced to the obstacle course, adding a new dimension to your physical challenges and requiring teamwork and problem-solving skills to navigate. These weeks are about building both your mental and physical toolkit, preparing you for the more intense challenges ahead.
Weeks 5-6 (Application & Evaluation: The BEAST & Marksmanship)
Weeks 5 and 6 are often considered the most intense and pivotal period of Air Force BMT, culminating in the highly anticipated and challenging Basic Expeditionary Airman Skills Training, universally known as "The BEAST." By this point, you're physically conditioned, you've absorbed a wealth of knowledge, and your flight has become a tight-knit unit. Now, it's time to apply everything you've learned in a simulated combat environment, pushing your limits in ways you never thought possible.
The BEAST week is an immersive, grueling, five-day field training exercise conducted at a specialized training area within Lackland. You'll be living in austere conditions, often sleeping in tents or makeshift shelters, eating MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat), and operating under simulated attack scenarios. The environment is designed to mimic a deployed location, complete with mock villages, simulated chemical attacks, and constant threats. You'll learn to don your Mission Oriented Protective Posture (MOPP) gear (gas mask and chemical suit) quickly and effectively, respond to alarms, and execute basic combat maneuvers. This is where the classroom lessons on tactical combat casualty care (TCCC) come alive, as you're forced to apply first aid under pressure, assessing and treating simulated injuries on your wingmen.
Alongside the BEAST, or often integrated with it, is marksmanship qualification. This is your chance to demonstrate proficiency with the M-16 rifle at the firing range. After extensive practice with dry firing and aiming techniques, you'll finally get to fire live rounds. The goal is to qualify, meaning you hit a certain number of targets at various distances. This isn't just a test of your aiming skills; it's a test of your ability to remain calm under pressure, follow instructions, and maintain focus in a loud, high-stress environment. The feeling of qualifying is a significant milestone, a tangible demonstration of your newfound capabilities.
PRO-TIP: The BEAST is a Mental Game
While physically demanding, The BEAST is primarily a test of mental fortitude, teamwork, and adaptability. Don't let the physical exhaustion overwhelm you. Focus on supporting your flight, following instructions, and remembering that it's a simulated environment designed to teach, not to break. Every challenge overcome makes you stronger.
These weeks also typically include your final Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) or "PT Test." This is the culmination of all your physical training, where you'll be evaluated on your push-ups, sit-ups, and a 1.5-mile run. Passing this test is non-negotiable for graduation. The pressure is immense, but the conditioning you've undergone should prepare you well. Weeks 5 and 6 are about proving your mettle, demonstrating that you've absorbed the training, and showing that you have what it takes to perform under pressure. They are, without a doubt, the most challenging but also the most rewarding weeks, solidifying your identity as a warrior Airman.
Week 7 (Graduation Preparation & Transition)
Congratulations, you've made it to Week 7! This is the home stretch, a week that feels simultaneously like an eternity and a blink of an eye. The intense pressure of The BEAST and the final PT tests are behind you, replaced by a different kind of intensity: the meticulous preparation for graduation and the bittersweet transition out of BMT. The MTIs, while still demanding, often begin to shift their tone, acknowledging your impending status as an Airman and offering more guidance than pure correction.
The primary focus of Week 7 is polishing everything you've learned to perfection for the grand finale. This means endless final inspections – uniform inspections, dormitory inspections, locker inspections. Every crease, every fold, every shine on your boots must be flawless. You'll spend hours preparing your uniforms, ensuring they meet the exacting standards for the graduation parade. This attention to detail isn't just for show; it reinforces the discipline and precision that are fundamental to military life. It’s a final test of your commitment to excellence.
A significant portion of the week is dedicated to graduation parade practice. You'll march, salute, and perform drill movements repeatedly on the parade grounds, often in full uniform, under the Texas sun. This practice ensures that the graduation ceremony is a seamless, impressive spectacle for your families and the Air Force leadership. It’s physically demanding, but the sense of anticipation and the knowledge that you’re just days away from officially becoming an Airman often fuels you through the fatigue.
Key Milestones in Week 7:
- Airman's Run: A celebratory, motivational run with your entire training group, often involving family members, marking the transition from trainee to Airman.
- Coin Ceremony: A deeply symbolic event where you receive your Airman's Coin, officially recognizing you as an Airman in the United States Air Force.
- Family Day Events: Limited opportunities for interaction with your family, often including a brief open-house at your dormitory and a chance to share a meal off-base.
- Final Briefings: Information sessions about your transition to Technical School, administrative procedures, and expectations for your continued service.
The emotional rollercoaster of Week 7 is profound. There's immense pride in your accomplishments, excitement for seeing your family, and a touch of sadness as you prepare to say goodbye to the flight that has become your surrogate family. The Airman's Run and the Coin Ceremony are particularly poignant moments, cementing your transformation. This week is about tying up loose ends, celebrating your achievements, and mentally preparing for the next chapter of your Air Force journey.
Week 7.5 (Graduation Day & Departure)
And then, it arrives: Week 7.5, or more accurately, Graduation Day. This is the culmination of 53 days of relentless effort, sacrifice, and transformation. It’s the moment you’ve been dreaming of since you first stepped off that bus, and it’s a day etched forever in the memory of every Airman. The atmosphere on graduation morning is electric, a mix of nervous energy, immense pride, and profound relief.
The official graduation ceremony is a spectacle of military tradition and precision. Your flight, now marching as a unified, disciplined body of Airmen, will parade across the parade grounds, performing drill movements with a crispness and uniformity that was unimaginable just 7.5 weeks prior. Families, having traveled from all corners of the country, fill the stands, often overcome with emotion as they witness the incredible transformation of their loved ones. The ceremony typically includes speeches from Air Force leadership, the traditional "Airman's Creed" recitation, and the moment you officially salute and are recognized as an Airman in the United States Air Force. It’s a powerful, moving experience that solidifies your commitment and celebrates your achievement.
After the formal ceremony, there's a window of limited family interaction. This is often a tearful, joyous reunion, a chance to hug your loved ones, share stories (briefly!), and absorb the reality of what you've accomplished. It's a precious, albeit brief, opportunity to reconnect with the civilian world before you embark on the next phase of your military career. The time is tightly controlled, however, as the Air Force's mission continues, and your journey is far from over.
INSIDER NOTE: Cherish That Reunion
The moments immediately after graduation with your family are incredibly fleeting. Try to be present, soak it all in, and express your gratitude. While the training was tough, this reunion is a powerful reminder of why you pushed through it and the support system that awaits you. Don't worry about detailing every hardship; just enjoy the connection.
Almost immediately following graduation, and often within hours, the transition to Technical School (Tech School) begins. There’s no prolonged break, no extended leave for most graduates. You’ll be bused directly from Lackland to your designated technical training base, which could be another part of Lackland, or a base across the country, depending on your Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC). This swift transition ensures continuity in your training pipeline, keeping you focused on the next step in becoming a fully qualified Airman in your chosen career field. Graduation Day isn't the end of your journey; it's the proud, exhilarating launchpad for the rest of your Air Force career.
Factors That Can Influence BMT Duration (Rare Exceptions & Insider Insights)
While the 7.5-week standard is the unwavering rule for Air Force BMT, it's essential to acknowledge that life, even military life, sometimes throws curveballs. These aren't common occurrences, and they certainly don't change the intended duration of the training curriculum itself, but certain individual circumstances can indeed alter a recruit's personal timeline. Understanding these rare exceptions and insider insights can provide a more complete picture, addressing the "what ifs" that naturally arise when considering such a structured environment. These scenarios are often the source of anxiety for recruits and their families, so let's demystify them.
It's crucial to preface this by saying that the vast majority of recruits will complete BMT in the standard 7.5 weeks. These are truly exceptions, but they are part of the reality of military training. The Air Force is committed to creating capable Airmen, and sometimes that means adjusting individual timelines to ensure everyone meets the required standards, or to address unforeseen personal challenges.
Medical Holds (Med Hold)
One of the most common reasons a recruit's BMT timeline might be extended, albeit temporarily, is a "Medical Hold," or "Med Hold." This occurs when a recruit sustains an injury or develops an illness that prevents them from participating in training. It could be anything from a stress fracture in the foot from running, a severe respiratory infection, or even an allergic reaction. The Air Force takes the health and safety of its recruits very seriously, and pushing someone through training while injured or ill would be counterproductive and potentially dangerous.
When a recruit is placed on Med Hold, they are temporarily removed from their flight and transferred to a specialized medical squadron or holding unit. Here, they receive medical care, rest, and rehabilitation. The goal is always to return the recruit to training as soon as they are medically cleared. The duration of a Med Hold can vary wildly – from a few days for a minor ailment to several weeks or even months for more significant injuries requiring extensive recovery. During this time, recruits are still under military jurisdiction and follow a modified schedule, but their focus is on healing.
Once medically cleared, the recruit will "recycle" or "re-phase" back into an earlier flight that is at the appropriate stage of training for them. For example, if you were in Week 4 when you got injured, you might be placed back into a flight that is just starting Week 3 or 4 once you recover. This means you'll repeat some portions of training, effectively extending your overall time at BMT. In rare cases, if an injury is severe enough or proves to be a recurring issue that makes an individual unfit for military service, they may be medically discharged. However, the primary objective of Med Hold is rehabilitation and a successful return to training.
PRO-TIP: Listen to Your Body
While you'll be pushed to your limits, don't ignore persistent pain or injuries. Communicate openly and honestly with your MTIs and medical staff if something feels genuinely wrong. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major setbacks that lead to longer Med Holds. Your health is paramount.
Performance Issues & Recycles
Another scenario that can extend a recruit's time at BMT is failing to meet established standards. This isn't about being "bad" or "unwilling"; it's about consistently falling short in key areas. Performance issues can manifest in several ways:
- Physical Fitness: Failing to pass the PFA (Physical Fitness Assessment) by the required standards.
- Academic Performance: Struggling with classroom instruction, failing tests on Air Force knowledge, core values, or first aid.
- Disciplinary Issues: Repeated breaches of military discipline, insubordination, or inability to follow instructions.
- Teamwork/Leadership: Inability to integrate into the flight or contribute effectively to team goals.
If a recruit consistently fails to meet these standards, despite remediation efforts, they may be "recycled" (or "re-phased") to an earlier flight. This means they are removed from their current training group and assigned to a flight that is one or more weeks behind them in the training cycle. The purpose of recycling is not punitive; it's an opportunity for the recruit to receive additional instruction, practice, and a fresh start with a new group, hopefully overcoming the deficiencies that led to the recycle.
Recycling obviously extends the overall duration of BMT for that individual. A recruit might be recycled from Week 5 back to Week 3, adding two more weeks to their total time. While it can be disheartening, many recruits who are recycled ultimately graduate, having used the extra time to improve and succeed. It’s a testament to the Air Force's investment in its recruits and its commitment to ensuring every Airman meets the high standards required. However, repeated failures or severe disciplinary infractions can, in rare cases, lead to an administrative separation from the Air Force.
Administrative Holds
Administrative holds are perhaps the rarest and most varied category of factors that can influence BMT duration. These are generally temporary delays caused by processing issues, legal matters, or unique personal circumstances that require resolution before a recruit can proceed with or complete training. They are not related to medical conditions or performance, but rather to administrative hurdles.
Examples of administrative holds might include:
- Security Clearance Delays: If there are unexpected issues or delays in processing a recruit's security clearance, they might be held until the matter is resolved, especially if their AFSC requires a high clearance.
- Legal/Background Check Issues: Discovery of undisclosed legal issues or discrepancies in background checks can lead to a hold while the information is verified or adjudicated.
- Dependency Issues: Rare cases involving unexpected family or dependency issues that require administrative review.
- Paperwork Discrepancies: Errors or missing information in enlistment documents that need to be corrected.