Fort Jackson Graduation Dates 2024 Updated Schedule and Tips for Families

If someone close to you is going through Army Basic Training at Fort Jackson, you’ll want to know the graduation dates to plan your visit.

Fort Jackson holds several graduation ceremonies throughout the year, and these events give you a chance to celebrate your loved one’s achievement.

Some of the most important Fort Jackson graduation dates in 2024 are March 28, April 4, and others scattered across the year at Hilton Parade Field, starting at 9:00 am.

These graduations mark the end of Basic Combat Training.

For soldiers and families, it’s a big milestone.

Attending a ceremony lets you see your soldier in uniform, hear from commanders, and really feel the pride of this moment.

You can just show up—there’s no fee or ticket required.

Knowing the dates early makes trip planning so much easier.

You’ll be able to join the community and celebrate together.

This guide gives you the basics about Fort Jackson graduation dates for 2024.

Key Takeaways

• Fort Jackson offers multiple graduation dates each year for Basic Combat Training.
• Graduations happen at Hilton Parade Field and kick off at 9:00 am.
• Being there means you can support your soldier and plan your visit without stress.

Fort Jackson Graduation Dates and Ceremony Information

If you’re planning to attend or follow a Fort Jackson graduation, it helps to know the schedule and where to go.

Training groups graduating come from both basic training and advanced individual training (AIT).

Most ceremonies kick off at 9:00 am and run on specific dates throughout the year.

2024 Graduation Schedule Overview

In 2024, Fort Jackson holds graduations on set Wednesdays and Thursdays.

The sessions are spaced out, so you get time to plan.

Ceremonies usually start at 9:00 am Eastern Standard Time.

Here are some key 2024 graduation dates:

• February 14, 2024 – 1-13th Graduation
• March 7, 2024 – 3-60th Graduation
• June 5, 2024 – 3-60th Graduation
• June 12, 2024 – 2-13th Graduation
• June 18, 2024 – 4-39th Graduation
• July 2, 2024 – 3-13th Graduation

These graduations highlight each training group’s completion of basic or advanced training.

Key Graduation Events and Times

The main event is the ceremony at Hilton Field.

That’s the official end of your soldier’s training.

It usually starts right at 9:00 am.

If the weather’s looking rough, the base will post updates about any changes.

Graduation ceremonies last about an hour.

During that time, you’ll hear speeches, see awards given out, and watch the soldiers march as new graduates.

Family and friends should show up early.

Parking and seats fill up quickly, especially at big ceremonies.

Location Details for Ceremonies

All 2024 Fort Jackson graduations are at Hilton Field, inside the base in Columbia, South Carolina.

Visitors should use Gate 4, which is the main entry for families.

Once you’re in, signs will point you to Hilton Field.

Since it’s outside, keep an eye on the weather and dress for the day.

There’s seating, but bringing a chair or blanket isn’t a bad idea if you want extra comfort.

Major Training Units Graduating

Several training groups graduate across the year.

You’ll hear names like 1-13th, 3-60th, 2-13th, and 4-39th.

These are different training cycles for soldiers finishing basic or AIT.

For example, the 3-60th and 3-13th are groups you’ll see often at these events.

They train soldiers in a range of Military Occupational Specialties (MOS), getting them ready for their next assignment.

Each graduation honors the effort of hundreds of soldiers who’ve finished their training and are ready for what comes next.

Planning Your Visit to Fort Jackson Graduation

If you’re visiting Fort Jackson for graduation, knowing the schedule, security rules, and local options makes life easier.

You’ll want to figure out when to arrive, what to bring, and where to stay.

Family Day Activities and Visitor Schedule

Family Day happens the day before the graduation ceremony.

It usually runs from morning to early afternoon.

This is your chance to hang out with your graduate in a more relaxed setting.

You can tour parts of the base, watch some training demos, and snap a few photos.

Arrive early to avoid long lines.

Most activities are outside, so dress for the weather.

Visitor hours are set, so double-check the schedule before you go.

Family Day is a good time to meet other families and share the excitement.

Access Requirements and Security Procedures

Bring a valid photo ID, like a driver’s license or passport, to get on base.

Everyone goes through security checkpoints.

If you want to park on base, you’ll need to register your vehicle.

Do it online or at the gate before the event.

Motorcycle passengers have to follow special safety gear rules.

Expect metal detectors and bag checks at the entrance.

Only service animals with proper paperwork can come—no pets allowed otherwise.

Follow the blue lines on the road for directions inside the base.

Guidelines for Attendees

Dress for an outdoor event.

Casual, neat clothes work well—just skip anything with offensive images or messages.

Don’t bring large bags, food, or alcohol into the ceremony area.

Stick to essentials like your phone and wallet.

Service animals are fine but should stay under control.

Other pets need to stay in your car or off base.

You can usually take photos, but tripods and big camera gear might be restricted.

Just be respectful of guests and staff.

Nearby Accommodation and Transportation

Plenty of hotels near Fort Jackson offer discounts for graduation guests.

Book early—rooms go fast.

You can drive, take a taxi, or use rideshare apps to get to Fort Jackson.

Parking is available, but it’s limited, so carpooling can help.

Some hotels or the base might run shuttles on Family Day and Graduation Day.

Check with your hotel or the base website.

Plan your travel times carefully, especially if you’re coming from far away or during busy hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can find details about graduation dates and locations without much trouble.

If you know where to look and what to bring, your visit should go pretty smoothly.

How can I find out the specific graduation dates for Fort Jackson in October 2024?

Fort Jackson posts graduation dates on its official Army Garrison website.

You can check there or call the Fort Jackson Public Affairs office for the latest info.

Is there a map available that shows the location of graduation events at Fort Jackson in 2024?

Yep, ceremonies are usually at Hilton Field.

Maps are on the Fort Jackson website or at the Visitor Center when you arrive.

What are the scheduled graduation dates for Fort Jackson Basic Training in March 2024?

One graduation in March 2024 is the 4-39th on March 28.

Other dates might show up on the official calendar.

Where can I access the Fort Jackson Basic Training graduation calendar for the year 2024?

You’ll find the calendar on the Fort Jackson Army Garrison site under the graduation calendar or announcements section.

What steps are necessary to gain entry to Fort Jackson for a graduation ceremony?

Bring a valid ID and maybe a pass.

Check the base rules for visitors before you go, and show up early—security lines can take a while.

Are there any downloadable PDFs with the Fort Jackson Basic Training graduation dates for 2024?

You can sometimes find PDFs of graduation dates on official Army and Fort Jackson websites.

Check the Fort Jackson graduation calendar page, or just reach out to the Public Affairs office if you need one.