Soldiers graduating from Basic at Fort Jackson SC who want to get married right away
This was a Post but I have decided to make it a page after numerous inquiries about the Fort Jackson graduation time table and the possibility of getting married after graduating or the next day before the soldiers go to AIT.
You can also view a video for an overview of the process of getting married on graduation day At Fort Jackson, SC.
Here is the time table for soldiers finishing basic training;
Family Day- this happens usually on a Wednesday and the soldiers are restricted to the base that day. They will NOT under normal circumstances be able to leave the base that day. However, sometimes the soldiers DI will grant them permission to leave the base to apply for the marriage license. But that is not a given. Your soldier would need to talk to his DI about this. See for more info;
Fort Jackson Graduation Information
Graduation Day- The next day, Thursday, is graduation day. The soldiers generally get an off base pass for that day after graduation, generally starting at around noon. However, that pass will expire at 8:30pm (2030 military time) that evening if they are traveling by government transportation to AIT. Government transport is REQUIRED if the soldier is attending AIT west of the Mississippi. East of the Mississippi the soldier MAY travel to AIT with their immediate family and they do not have to be back on post by 08:30pm. See more info;
Rules for Family Day and Graduation
The problem with this schedule and trying to fit a marriage in, is that South Carolina requires a 24 hour waiting period between applying for a marriage license and issuing it. But…you’re in luck. Because Richland County now allows you to apply for your marriage license online. You DO NOT have to apply in person. You apply online and they mail it to you.
Apply for a marriage license from Richland County.
However, the catch is you have to apply at least one week before the graduation date so you can get the license in the mail. So don’t delay.
We have a blog post detailing the ins and outs of applying online for a marriage license from Richland County.
Here is your timeline.
1. Apply or the license.
2. Make an afternoon appointment with us for the day of graduation. I usually recommend we meet at Hampton Preston Mansion and Gardens. It’s free and is a very nice place to get married.
3. Bring your marriage license
4. Show up to the appointment. We perform the ceremony, fill out the paperwork, and file the paperwork.
5. That’s it. You’re married!
Any questions, call me at 803-446-3405.