12/10/2025
Dearest Family and Loved Ones,
The Soldiers of the Ares Company have been working incredibly hard throughout Initial Entry Training, and we're so proud of their dedication and progress.
We are excited to announce authorized leave for the holidays, allowing our Soldiers some precious time home with loved ones.
All eligible Soldiers may take leave starting December 19, 2025, through January 4, 2026; specific dates depend on their mode of travel. As families begin making travel plans, please carefully note the following dates and guidelines:
Departure Information:
Personally Owned Vehicle: Soldiers will begin departing the post via Personally Owned Vehicle starting at 4:00AM December 18th, 2025. To gain access to the installation requires a picture ID for each person over the age of 18, proof of insurance, a copy of the vehicle registration and a federal background clearance check. Please note only U.S. citizens may complete the online access request. All Others are required to request access in person at the Fort Benning Visitor Center located at 6065 Lindsay Creek Parkway. https://home.army.mil/benning/About/gates-visitors
Air Travel: For those flying, please be aware, parents are welcome to purchase airline tickets for their Soldiers. However, Soldiers must depart from the Atlanta Airport and are not permitted to leave prior to 6:00 AM December 19th, 2025.
Transportation to and from the airport will be arranged by your Soldiers at their Unit.
We highly recommend purchasing refundable or transferable tickets for your Soldier in case their eligibility for leave changes.
Return Information:
All soldiers returning from holiday block leave will be dropped off at Pomeroy Field.
Personally Owned Vehicles: Soldiers returning to Fort Benning via personally owned vehicles may begin reporting no earlier than 8:00 AM January 4, 2026, but no later than 6:00 PM EST on January 04, 2026.
Air Travel: Soldiers returning by air to Atlanta Airport must arrive no earlier than 6:00 AM EST and no later than 6:00 PM EST on January 04, 2026. This deadline is crucial to ensure a seamless resumption of training.
Please continue to track the progress of your Soldier to ensure all requirements to go on leave has been met. Soldiers will receive additional instructions before they depart covering emergency situations such as weather delays and medical treatment.
Your Soldier is strongly encouraged to exercise daily, refrain from the use of to***co products and consuming alcohol. Being a Soldier is not without stress, especially as we remain committed to the safety of our Nation. Your encouragement means the world to these Soldiers as they continue their journey.
We are excited and looking forward to allowing your Soldier to spend the holiday season with you. Please do not hesitate to contact your Soldiers' chain of command or the Ares Company CQ desk at 706-544-8334 for further assistance.
