Off-Duty Activities!?

Question

I heard that once you're done for the day, you can do whatever you want. Is there a rescrition to that?

I mean I play guitar and have done some drama classes in school.

Now once I finished basic and then tech school and am on my job, after work could I join any music or acting classes?

And if there were performances, could I participate in them as long it didn't interfere with work? Thank you!

Answer 1

Even when off-duty rules and regulations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice still apply.  A general good rule of thumb being don't do anything as a military member that reflects negatively on you or the military as well as follow all the local laws where you are stationed.  Getting drunk for instance is not so bad but getting drunk and disorderly and getting a charge of disturbing the peace by the civilian authorties would cause you some problems with your commander and the military.  

Answer 2

Yes you can. Another great off duty hobby is Geocaching!

Answer 3

Go for it!  Get involved in base activities and community activities.  Many towns have rep companies that are always looking for folks to join in.

I know plenty of guys that started out jamming with other guys and then ended up playing for $$ in a bar downtown.

Classes?  Sure, especially if you have a university in town.

Your time in the AF will be much more enjoyable if you get off base and get involved with the local community.  And that is true whether you are stateside or overseas.

As a side note, it looks good if your supervisors see you doing things other than hanging out in the dorms and partying.  

Answer 4

It's really different getting to your first duty station after Basic Training.  When I got to my first duty station, the guys in my shop said "Hey, lets go to McDonalds for lunch"   I said "Whoa !, can we do that?  after all, McD's was off base.

Do what you want as long as it's legal.  If you live in the dorm and want to play guitar, go for it.  Just keep the vol down.  Kind of like living in an apartment complex.

On base/post, there should be plenty of organizations to be part of to include Church groups (if thats your thing).  Many places have Auto Hobby shops for working on your own car.  I think all bases have intramural sports - basketball, softball, etc.

Also, since you are not restricted to the base, you have the opportunity to get involved in the local community.  

So.... continue to live your off duty life just as you did prior to joining.

Answer 5

Yes, as long as it is legal, ethical,  and you act in a professional manner. You are still representing the military and the U.S.

If you want to race cars, play AA football, or even jump dirt bikes in your free time, you can. Go see a movie (they have theaters on base). Have fun.