Expert: James Bell - 12/14/2009

Question
If I want to become a nurse, and I want the military to pay for it, let's say Air Force, is there any way I can avoid basic training? Because people keep telling me, I would have to enlist, go through basic training, and then choose my career option and they'd pay for everything as long you are of service to the military. Can I avoid basic training?Is there any loopholes to this?

Answer
Danielle -

I normally don't answer questions pertaining to the medical field, but you are really asking a simple entrance question.  Everyone entering the Air Force has two options for initial training: Basic Military Training (BMT) for enlisted, or Officer Training School (OTS) for officers.  As you are not yet a nurse and don't have the education to get a commission, then OTS is out of the question.  You are therefore left with BMT.

Yes, you must attend Basic, there is no "loophole" to get out of it.  The only exception is if you are prior military and, after a break in service, are rejoining the armed forces.  In that case, you are exempt from taking Basic all over again.  Realize the purpose of BMT is to instill military discipline and to provide the foundation for your entire military service: Rank structure, chain of command, military customs and courtesies, military history, Air Force Doctrine, etc.  These are all important and are literally the "basic" building blocks on which your entire military career will grow upon.

I know nothing about you, other than the tone and structure of your question: You want the military to pay for the college education that will provide the foundation of your nursing career, yet you are unwilling to attend the initial military training that will form the foundation of your military career.  It seems you want the military to give you a lot without giving back of yourself.  That is not a mindset I would consider constructive for entering one of the armed services that will require your total dedication for the next four to six years.

I'm not much for quoting others, but I am reminded of President Kennedy: "Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country."

That, is the essence of military service.

Sincerely,
James Bell