Frequently Asked Questions
- 1. How do I get there?
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When driving to Lackland, you will be arriving on four major roads: I-10/Hwy 90, Hwy 28, I-37, or I-35. There are two main gates with Visitors Centers: The Gateway East Gate and Airman's Gate.
- Arriving from the east on I-10 or Hwy 90
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- Travel through San Antonio on I-10/Hwy 90 West, exit on Military Drive and turn left
- Travel South approximately one mile to the Gateway East gate which will be on your left.
- Arriving from the North on I-35, Hwy 281, or I-10
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- When arriving in San Antonio, turn right onto Loop 410 West
- Take exit #7 Valley Hi / Lackland AFB
- Turn left on Valley Hi, and continue straight to the Airman's Gate
- Arriving from the South on I-35 or I-37
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- When arriving in San Antonio, turn left onto Loop 410 West
- Take exit #7 Valley Hi / Lackland AFB
- Turn left on Valley Hi, and continue straight to the Airman's Gate
- 2. Where can I stay if I visit?
- If you are eligible for on-base, check the Lodging Directory.
- If you are not, check the San Antonio Hotel Guide
- 3. How is the weather?
- The San Antonio Weather site has updated information.
- 4. What time zone is San Antonio?
- San Antonio is in the Central Time Zone (1 hour behind Eastern)
- 5. How is Basic Military Training?
- The Basic Military Training site is the best source for BMT questions to be answered.
- 6. I have not heard from my child?
- It might sound funny but no news is good news. The Training Instructors have the trainee fill out a Visitor Information Package when they arrive. The Training Instructor cannot make the trainee send it to a particular person. If you have not heard from your child check with a friend, girl friend or other relative before you panic. Also within the first week your trainee is given a phone call and as with the address they cannot make them call a particular person so please check with other loved ones before you panic.
- 7. When is graduation?
- Graduation is on the Friday of the sixth week. The training week begins the first Monday after your trainee arrives. A Visitor Information Package is sent by the trainee but if you do not receive one please check the various links attached and throughout the Lackland Home Page for the information included in the package.
- 8. Is the Flight Free?
- This might sound funny but many parents assume the price of graduation is a United States Air Force expense and it is not. Please plan ahead of time and use the various search engines available to find economic air fare. Lodging and Transportation is at your own expense.
- 9. Can I call or email my trainee?
- The Military Training Instructors keep your trainee busy and their time is filled and when they are granted permission they will write or call as privileges are earned. In emergencies contact your local Red Cross for assistance.
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