Are cell phones allowed on military bases?
Asked by: Dr. Amanda Eichmann | Last update: May 14, 2025Score: 4.8/5 (73 votes)
Military personnel can generally use personal cell phones while on base and during off-duty hours, though there could be restrictions depending on the specific deployments and ongoing military operations.
What is not allowed on a military base?
Don't bring dogs or other animals, bicycles, roller-blades, skateboards, alcohol, fireworks, food or beverages in glass containers, or weapons of any kind.
Can you make phone calls on a military base?
There are also the standard means of making phone calls – either through a military-provided phone line or a personal cell phone, although using personal cell phones will depend on the rules of the specific base and the availability of network coverage.
Can soldiers have cell phones while deployed?
Deployed service members are generally allowed to use their cell phones, as long as it doesn't interfere with their duties or pose a security risk. However, the specifics can vary greatly depending on the location and nature of the deployment. In more secure, built-up locations, usage can be surprisingly liberal.
Can I have my phone during basic training?
Cell phones will be used for voice conversations only. Receiving, sending, sharing, or viewing videos/pictures/text messages is strictly prohibited. Please do not send this type of information to your trainee.
Can soldiers have cell phones while deployed?
What is not allowed at basic training?
Cigarettes, e-cigarettes and vapes, cigars, pipes, tobacco, chewing tobacco, disposable lighters and lighter fluid will be confiscated when you arrive at basic training. If you have a nondisposable lighter, the fluid cartridge will be confiscated. This includes alcohol-based health products and alcoholic beverages.
Can you FaceTime on a military base?
Yes, deployed soldiers can typically communicate with loved ones via FaceTime, phone calls, or other online platforms, but there are some limitations. Depending on their location, mission, and security protocols, access to these communication methods might be restricted.
Are phones allowed in military bases?
Sometimes, in sensitive areas where there may be concerns about location tracking or data interception, personal electronics use may be highly regulated or prohibited. Yet, it's also worth noting that military bases often have means of communication to allow soldiers to keep in touch with their families and friends.
Can US soldiers text while deployed?
While you may not always be able to discuss certain details, Soldiers are encouraged to stay in touch with family and friends during deployment through email, phone calls, text messages, social media channels, letters, or care packages.
Can military soldiers video call when deployed?
Genuine military personnel, even if deployed, will have occasional access to video communication technologies. And remember — if someone actually cares about you, they'll make the effort to call.
What is played at 5pm on military bases?
Retreat: 5 P.M. ‐ At the end of the work day, Retreat will sound. Retreat is traditionally a time to secure the flag and pay respect to what it stands for. During Reveille and Retreat, those out‐doors should stop activities, and turn in the direction of the installation Flag (located at the corner of J Ave.
Can you see your family during basic training?
Enlisted Airmen have no visitation during Basic Military Training with the exception of graduation week. Basic trainees are allowed visitors on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday of that week only. Families must plan graduation visits with care, as on-base access is subject to security restrictions.
Can you take pictures on a military base?
(a) Whenever, in the interests of national defense, the President defines certain vital military and naval installations or equipment as requiring protection against the general dissemination of information relative thereto, it shall be unlawful to make any photograph, sketch, picture, drawing, map, or graphical ...
Can military members drink on base?
Military personnel must be at least 21 years of age and receive approval from their Commanding General or Chief of Staff to drink and serve alcohol at social gatherings during normal hours. However, many service members are quite often given the freedom to drink on base during their “off” hours.
How much do soldiers get paid when deployed?
The new benefit, called Operational Deployment Pay, is $240 a month and is effective immediately retroactive to Oct. 1, Wormuth said during a meeting with reporters at the Association of the U.S. Army's 2024 Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, D.C.
Can soldiers use Facebook while deployed?
Deployed Soldiers, or Soldiers conducting operations in classified areas, should not use location-based social networking services. These services can bring the enemy right to the Army's doorstep.
How often do soldiers get to call home?
Recruits are typically allowed five standard phone calls during their training. These calls will still take place, but now Recruits will utilize their personal devices to contact their family or friends.
Can deployed soldiers text?
While it varies depending on branch and specific assignment, as a general rule, service members can use their phones or internet services to communicate with family and friends during their downtime while deployed.
How long does basic training last?
Basic Training consists of four phases over 10 weeks, where you'll learn about the Army and train to become a Soldier. Once completed, your day-to-day will focus more on what's required for your specific job, as well as pursuing your personal goals and interests.
Do soldiers have access to their bank accounts?
Yes they can. In cases where they can't, paymasters are available so soldiers can draw cash. Actual soldiers are paid via a direct wire transfer straight into their bank account. They don't have to pay for much when deployed but if they have bills they can use online banking to access their money.
How to tell if someone is actually a soldier or a scammer?
- They say they can't access their bank account. ...
- They need money to pay for food or housing. ...
- They want you to help them get money back into the U.S. ...
- A commanding officer is demanding money from them. ...
- They want you to hold onto a valuable package for them. ...
- They need to pay to go on leave.
Do you get paid in basic training?
You will be paid for every day you serve, whether in training, weekend drills, Annual Training or deployment. The more time you serve, the more money you'll earn.
Can army girlfriends live on base?
For starters, an unmarried couple cannot live on a base outside of certain extenuating circumstances that would have the non-service member defined as a caregiver for the service member's children. As a result, unmarried military couples typically live off-base.