The ability to go back to your home state to visit family while in the military and having weekends off can depend on several factors, including the specific policies and regulations of the military branch you serve in, your duty station location, and your individual circumstances. Here are some important points to consider:
Duty Station Location: If your duty station is relatively close to your home state, it may be more feasible to visit your family during weekends. However, if your duty station is far away or located overseas, it may not be practical to make frequent trips home.
Distance and Travel Time: Even if your duty station is relatively close to your home state, the distance and travel time must be considered. Military personnel may have limited time off during weekends, so traveling long distances may not leave you with enough time to spend with your family.
Leave and Liberty Policies: The military has specific leave and liberty policies that dictate when and how much time off you can take. While you might have weekends off, you may need to request additional leave (such as special leave or regular leave) to make an extended trip to visit family.
Operational Requirements: Depending on your unit and mission, there may be times when you are required to remain on base or be on standby even during weekends, restricting your ability to travel.
Family Readiness and Support: Military personnel are encouraged to maintain strong family connections, and in some cases, the military may support travel for family-related reasons.
Financial Considerations: Traveling home during weekends may incur costs for transportation and accommodations, which need to be taken into account.
Personal Responsibilities: Other personal responsibilities, such as maintaining your living area, equipment, and being ready for duty, must also be considered before planning a trip.
Ultimately, whether you can go back to your home state to visit family during weekends will depend on the specific circumstances of your military service. It's essential to communicate with your chain of command and understand the military policies and guidelines regarding leave and travel. If visiting family is important to you, exploring options for taking leave or making arrangements with your unit can help you balance your military responsibilities with personal needs.