Personal Electronics in SF Training
 

Hi all,

I have a question about… wait for it… phones in SFAS and the Q Course.

I've been working overseas for a few years but will be coming home in 2 weeks to enlist and hopefully go to SFAS. I've loved this forum and other sites/books, but one thing I haven't been able to get any info on (even using the search function here :) ) is regulations regarding personal phones/computers during the SF Training Pipeline. Having been in the bush for a while out here, I'm no stranger to being off the grid. That being said, I would like to sign a contract with a mobile provider when I get home, but if I'll be unable to use that phone for more than 6 months during training, it's not worth it to me.

I fully expect that personal electronics/phones are not allowed in SFAS, but what about during the Q Course and on the job? It would be good to get some info on this… hope I posted this in the right forum.

Thanks,

Shootist

You are never
 

You are never "in the woods" for six months while in the Q course.

While off duty and at Ft Bragg you are free to use whatever you want.

While in class at Ft Bragg there will be stated restrictions on what can be used - or in your possession.

While in the field there will be further restrictions on electronic devices.

Follow the given requirements at each phase. They have their reasons - you should be able to figure out why - follow the packing lists and rules, you'll be fine. Try and cheat and get caught - Oh, well.

From memory Verizon has a pretty reasonable "vacation" plan, and I believe they're pretty flexible for mil folk.

I know I went on a 6 month "vacation" from my account when overseas, and when I had to stay longer, I was able to extend the break.

S

The question is moot until you have been selected and PCS for the SFQC.

I wouldn't worry about it till then.

TR

Understood - just trying to be as prepared as possible, and for me saving a few hundred dollars between arriving stateside and shipping out could make a big difference in my ability to train and study, since I've been working off savings out here and don't have any sort of salary.

@Pete, thanks, that's exactly what I was looking for.

@Scimitar, that sounds great! I was actually looking at Verizon just today. I used one of their overseas relocation plans before, where they give you a cheap phone and you FedEx/DHL it back to them after 6 weeks. Buuut... the phone sustained fatal water damage while riding with me in a 4x4 that got stuck in the middle of a river crossing. I guess just "Africa" isn't exactly covered in their returns policy.