Leisure Time of US Army Personnel: Activities and Experiences in Camp
The leisure time for US Army personnel is not as defined or limited as it might seem. While active duty hours are structured, the free time they enjoy offers a considerable degree of freedom and variety, much like their civilian counterparts. However, the unique environment of military camps and the specific form of entertainment within these settings often differ significantly from civilian life.
General Detachment: Everything Is Personal
When not on duty, US Army personnel are afforded a significant degree of freedom. This time is typically used for personal needs, relaxation, and self-improvement. Whether stationed in barracks or at a more permanent facility, the focus is often on self-health, physical activity, and maintaining personal hygiene and appearance.
For those living in barracks, details for chores and maintenance are common. Cleaning uniforms, doing laundry, and ensuring the living environment is tidy are integral parts of their daily routine. Personal time is cherished and often allocated towards rest and sleep, which is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and readiness.
Compared to their civilian counterparts, army personnel often have more emphasis on physical activity. Activities such as weightlifting, hiking, or running are common, and some may engage in part-time college classes or pursue various hobbies to maintain a sense of normalcy.
Barracks Life: The Basics
Life in the barracks can vary. Clean uniforms, do necessary tasks, rest, and sleep are the main activities. For example, one may clean up quarters, perform basic chores, or simply decompress after a long day.
While the free time is there, the options for activities can be limited, especially when deployed. This is where the dynamics change, and personnel often engage in more simplistic and immediate gratification activities.
Free Time Abroad: A Different Scenery
Leisure time outside the barracks offers more variety but still requires a balance between enjoyment and responsibility. For instance, during basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, soldiers were known to indulge in near beer and convenience store purchases. The PX (Post Exchange) was a popular spot to buy necessities like underwear, given the perpetual laundry cycle.
Reading was a common activity, with classics like Slaughterhouse-Five, Moby Dick, and Critique of Pure Reason being favorites. These books served as both entertainment and means of personal enrichment. The smoking habit was also prevalent, with Pall Malls being favored due to their unique field-stripping properties.
On weekends, especially on Sundays, soldiers often took the opportunity to rest and enjoy leisure activities. Bowling, enjoying the bowling alley provided by AIT installation, and playing golf were among the popular pastimes. Reading material like The Rights of Man and indulging in science fiction also became a significant part of their leisure time.
Experiences and Anecdotes
One individual's experience at Fort Bragg's Jump School offers a vivid account of the non-duty time. The only significant free time there was during the last base at The Presidio. At The Presidio, soldiers often visited San Francisco and titty bars. This experience, along with sightseeing and unstructured activities, provided a taste of civilian life and a break from military duties.
The day off, marked by a trip to Logan Airport, symbolized the end of the military service and the beginning of a new chapter. This marked the ultimate freedom and the start of a transition from barracks life to civilian life.
The experiences described here are not representative of the entire army, as each soldier's life and preferences can vary widely. However, they do illustrate the diverse ways US Army personnel use their free time to rest, seek enjoyment, and pursue personal interests.