Think of these dates like a road map. They can help you get where you need to be. If you do not show up, you will be lost. With lost not being an option, you should show up (that is a really nice way of saying that these dates are mandatory).
Training: Begins Monday, May 7th
Debriefing: Wednesday, August 9th
So those are the dates. Write them on the underside of your forearm so you do not forget.