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Hello o^~^o I'm aJ. I'm going to try to make this as short but informative as I can.
This is supposed to be for a fellow Army W.A.G. and based on my exp a couple of weeks ago.
Graduation location can change from Eubanks Field to Fryar Field due to weather/delays.
Grad is almost always at the south end of Eubanks Field on the Airborne Walk
http://www.benning.army.mil/infantry/199th/airborne/ for class schedules/grad dates
Ceremonies on April-September @ 0900 and October-March grads @ 1100
Check the "U.S. Army Airborne School, Fort Benning" Facebook Page
As I was driving, I thought the US Army Airborne School FB map photos were off o.0
They provided enough bird's eye view to keep you on the RiGHT track =)
After the main gate and thru the base, pass Lawson Army Airfield, out another gate, into the woods, pass a camp ground, going into Alabama where Fryar Field Drop Zone is.
Your smartfone's signal might go all wonky, but constantly check FB for updates and jump times whenever possible!
CHUTES iN THE AiR \(^~^)/
Research and be prepared.
Factors to travel time: security check, construction, school zones, hills, pedestrians, one way or private roads, and speed limit restrictions
CAUTION: Soldiers walking!
Acquire maps from gas station or PX (post exchange) all over base.
Use specific buildings as landmarks and check my flickr for photos.
Be there early, especially if you're heading to early jump because of rush hour traffic.
Visitor's lane @ Main Gate is on the LEFT @ 15-20mph.
MWR Lodging is available @base; space is VERY limited and most likely reserved for soldiers/students.
Closer hotel = easier to return soldier = more time with family. Passes could vary.
Keep ID's face UP ^_^
Verirfy with the main gate for directions you SHOULD already have.
Know your alt routes to avoid getting stuck in traffic.
Parking is limited; on the grass is available.
Families can watch 5 qualifying jumps on DZ usually @ 0900 and 1200; times are subject to change.
There's no info on which plane your soldier is in. I got lucky with my guess and captured the right one .(o^~')b
Soldiers may have time to socialize after the jumps. After grad ceremony, they return to school for processing etc and won't be released until much later =(
Obtain the helmet number so you can cheer louder and recognize your soldier. They look similar whilst running back after the jumps ^_^
E's getting me a pink shirt o(n___n)o from 5jump.com
Bring CA$H for food/goodies/memorabilia sold by Airborne School affiliates @DZ and near Airborne barracks post-grad ceremony.
Platoon pictures and training video can be ordered online. Must have soldier's spec info to access/purchase.
As when I skydive, expect to wait more as a spectator. It's going to be a loooooong day =D
Holidays/DONSA (Day of Non-scheduled Activities) might mean 4 day weekend, meaning graduation is on Thursday NOT Friday. Ergo, check calendar dates before booking flights/hotels.
God's awesome!!!
check out my other vid on the channel
Don't forget cameras, umbrella, healthy foods, and fluids. SUNBLOCK!
Treat the jumps as if your watching an airshow; enjoy and wear comfortable clothes.
Save your Sunday's best clothes for the grad @School; DZ can have Airborne ants/squitoes that bite when they land on you o.0
Please hydrate and SPF the kiddos and elderly~ Might not have shade.
Bloody Wings Tradition O.o
Don't expect contact right after grad; BE PATIENT =)
At least RASP is at Ft. Benning...
Hope you'all have an awesome experience. I sure did \(^~^)/
Thank you to our soldiers and their families.