My 18-year old son recently completed his basic training in the Air Force...?

Take them out to eat, that's a very special treat for them and their children and say "thank you". I know our neighbor had a hard time when her husband was in Iraq and too expensive for her and the children to go out and have that special treat of eating at a restaurant. Enjoy and he'll know your "thank you" is heartfelt.

Was this 'wingman' an officer or a non-com? If he was an officer, you should do NOTHING ... it's actually against regulations to accept gifts from family of non-coms. If he's a non-com, I suggest having a barbecue and inviting him and his family over ... have fun, be friendly, and thank him for his help to your son when he's leaving. My mom was a civilian employee for the Air Force with the equivalent rate of a colonel ... but she liked the non-coms best, so I know all of the 'rules and regs' on what one can and cannot do as 'thanks' with an officer or officer level civilian employee.

I dont know what Kavekarst is talking about. I really like the Wal Mart idea and I suggest giving the best answer to the person who mentioned it first.

I agree with Hannah. Showing these Brave soldiers that they are all in our Prayers. Is just what they need and deserve. Good Question

Send him a GIANT card with all your familys signature on it with a little note saying how much you guys appreciate him!!!

gift the kids.. tat's best....