How do i prepare myself for the Airforce, and When is the best time to join (seasonal)?

Question

I am interested in joining the Air force but i am a little concerned with my flat feet and the training will affect me. Can i get some feedback on the experience and the training aspect, even the study process.

Answer 1

First off, the best time for job selection is June to August as that's when ALL Armed Forces load jobs for the next year Nikki.  They do this because of the incoming Seniors and recent graduates from high schools.  

The second part of your question concerning your flat feet.  Basic may not be real pleasant however, I know that the AF doesn't do a great deal of running and absolutely no road marching so it shouldn't be overly bad for you.  Once you're out of the training stage of your time you can get prescription insoles for your shoes that will help you a great deal if you enjoy running as I do.  

You don't need to study for anything as it will all be taught to you from the word go.  If you want to get ahead of the power curve than ask your recruiter to teach you basics, ie saluting, facing movements, commands etc...

I wish you all the luck and thank you for serving....even if it is the AF. HAHA

Answer 2

I joined in April...it was really good for me, cool during the morning and evenings then hot during the day.  Basic is in San Antonio, so you can figure out the weather and seasons from that.

Depending on how flat your flat feet are can/could effect whether or not you could join.  A recruiter should be able to help you there.  You will run every single day, march more than you ever thought was possible and stand all day long.  Within the first week of basic most of the girls in my flight had shin splints.  You'll even be graded on how well you march.  

I joined in 2003 and since then basic has undergone some major changes.  Any information about the training aspect would not be relevant today.  Sorry...I hope someone who has been to basic in the last year answers your question about the training aspect.

Answer 3

run, eat c**p, and cut your hair like GI Jane

Answer 4

The following is from the Army Medical Standards, the Air Force is not likely different:

Record any abnormality. When flat feet are detected a statement will be made as to

the stability of the foot, presence of symptoms, presence of eversion, stable, bulging

of the inner border, and rotation of the astragalus. Pes planus will not be expressed in

degree but should be recorded as mild, moderate, or severe (for example, “Flat feet,

moderate. Foot asymptomatic, no eversion or bulging; no rotation”). Circle category

relating to arch, degree, and symptoms.

In short is looks like a Doctor makes the call.

Good Luck

SSG US Army 73-82

Answer 5

Join AFTER October 1.  That's the beginning of the US Government fiscal year and the greatest choice of jobs will be available then.

Training is much more of a head game v. physical endurance.  As long as you pass the entrance physical (no idea if flat feet exclude you), then you should be fine.