To the Families and Friends of a New Soldier

Today your loved one is leaving home to begin Army Basic Combat Training, and we know it can feel overwhelming. Pride, nerves, excitement, and even worry often all show up at once. That’s completely normal—because this is a big step, not only for your Future Soldier, but for you as well.

They Are in Good Hands

From the moment they step onto that bus or plane, the Army takes responsibility for their care, training, and growth. Drill Sergeants, cadre, and leaders are there to challenge them, but also to keep them safe, teach them discipline, and help them unlock strengths they may not even realize they have.

The Hard Days Have Purpose

Basic Training is not designed to be easy—it’s designed to transform. When your Soldier is tired, sore, or homesick, remember that every challenge is shaping them into something greater: a disciplined, confident, capable U.S. Army Soldier. Those hard days are what make graduation day so powerful.

Your Support Makes the Difference

Even though you can’t be with them day-to-day, your role is vital. Letters of encouragement, steady reassurance, and simply reminding them you’re proud will carry them through the toughest weeks. Mail becomes their lifeline, and your words will matter more than you know.

Look Ahead with Pride

This isn’t just the start of training—it’s the start of a legacy. Your loved one is stepping into a tradition of service that stretches back generations. When you see them standing tall in uniform at graduation, you’ll know that all the sacrifice, waiting, and quiet prayers were worth it.

Final Reassurance: They’re ready. They will succeed. And when they earn the title of Soldier, it will be one of the proudest moments of their life—and yours.

Remember, with Sandboxx, I will be with you every step of the way thorugh Basic Training with weekly updates and important updates on significant milestones.

Together, we got this!

SGM Kris Broadus, U.S. Army (Retired)