Airmen trip to the Exchange is why nobody takes Air Force basic training seriously

So what! I don't believe this to be an accurate portrayal of BMT. I see an isolated snapshot in time. I remember the Army letting their recruits go home for Christmas back in the day, or do they still do that?
No one joins the USAF to kick in doors for a living, but we work our asses off to put up 30 yr old aircraft to respond to TIC's.

Gunnery sergeant Hartman gave his recruits a magic show, don't see the big deal.

I wasn't in PI at Xmas, but I'd imagine your DI just saying begin, and you get smoked thru the holidays. It serves a purpose, your not concerned it's Xmas, your just burnt.