Holiday block leave (also known as exodus) is set to begin in a few days for all Army trainees whether they are in basic or advanced training. The Army is the only service that conducts a scheduled block leave for all soldiers in entry-level training during the holidays.
This year it is expected that some 40,000 soldiers will leave 21 military installations and travel by bus, plane, rail, and car to their hometowns.
For two weeks, Army trainees as well as their drill sergeants will have time to spend with their families throughout the holidays before returning to training. “While it’s important to give trainees time to reconnect with their family and friends during the holidays, Holiday Block Leave also gives our drill sergeants and cadre the opportunity to reset and recharge before starting off the New Year,” explained Command Sgt. Maj. Michael McMurdy in an Army press release.
The Army also sees it as a time for the public to connect with the military. On December 20, they will see a flood of uniformed soldiers traveling through airports all across the country on their way home. It's a reminder about those who serve.
The Army also takes some steps to protect their new soldiers traveling home for the first time, emphasizing safety. "Our primary goal is to ensure the health and safety of our soldiers traveling home to be with their families during the holidays," McMurdy said. "We’ll be working through our training centers to maintain communication with Soldiers and provide information and resources to ensure their safe return in the New Year."