We got our IDs about halfway through the second week, but we started on a Wednesday.

Yeah, I can see them not doing the security paperwork until after the holidays for the 12/17 classes and then telling them that they will only positive space them to a base(or not at all for a 3 day break) over Christmas. Another great way to welcome new members of the team, leave them stranded in STL for Christmas without the ability to get themselves home if they chose.