Am I the only one here who's totally relaxed about sending my child to boot camp?

[Arwen]

There are a LOT of posts from mothers worried/stressed about their sons or daughters going to boot camp, I'm just looking for a little reassurance that I am not the only one who has no problem with my child leaving?

I've helped him study and "encouraged" him to keep up his PT so that when he goes he will be ready to take that test and make E-2 right away. I'm very comfortable with letting him go.I feel he's ready. I'd send him tomorrow if I thought he was ready for the test and was sure he could still get the same job.

Is it because we did this once already, sending him off to college last summer (2008)? I was just as relaxed then, too. A hug and a goodbye, a minute of tears as I watch him leave, and he's gone. Out of sight, out of mind, except for letters or phone calls.

Is it because I went to boot camp myself, I know what it's like, so it holds no fears for me?

Mostly I'm eager to hear about what he learns, how boot camp has changed from my experience, fun and outrageous stories, and to hear of his future adventures.

So, is there anyone else out there who feels the same way I do: pride that my son is ready to make a major step towards independent adulthood with a touch of relief that he isn't going to stay home forever?

[judy r]

I understand what you said, 25 years ago I sent my oldest to boot camp sure I had some concerns but looked at it as a way for him to grow and mature then 4 years later I sent my 2nd son off to boot....both did fine we kept in touch and they moved on with their careers the oldest retired 4 years ago and the youngest is still in...have they been to places that have scared me yes...have their lives been in danger ..yes but this is what both wanted to do and this is what we as mothers have always done sent our sons off to defend our Country..

[Kathy (Jillians Mom)]

What a great way to look at it. I was sad that my daughter was leaving, but was also happy that she found something for her. Something to be proud of, and to learn so much, and meet new people. That is what she wanted.I am glad I dont have to push her to get up and get going everyday. She is now a very independent young lady, who still loves her mom, but has so much more than I could ever give her. I thought she would stay with me a lot longer, but I am okay with her choice. It is her life, not my life, I wish I had the guts to do something like that when I was young. I miss her company, but have found other avenues to pursue to help fill in the gap. I will always worry about her safety and health, as most moms do, but her adventures will be great. Go Navy!

[Denise 2]

When my son left I knew he was going to learn and see things that I couldn't. I supported his choice as did his father. I miss him but know that he is following his dream and achieving his goals. I couldn't be happy for him.
I still think about when he was born in a Navy hosptial over 23 years ago. the doctor told me he was only mine for 18 years then he would be Uncle Sam's. He is the only one of my 3 that has joined the military and the only one that was said to. He knew from when he was little this is what he wanted to do. He even applied to Annapolis once as a Sr. in high school and while in Nuke School.
There are days I worry more about it because I have an idea of what he is doing. He is on a sub so I don' t hear about his boat on the news. I like that as I did when his father served.
I raised my kids to grow up and be on their own. To go and find their way in this world. I like it when they come home and I can mother them for a bit. They have gotten their wings and have flown. I couldn't be prouder or happier for their individual sucesses.

[Shirlee Howard]

I have done this 5 times with 4 boys. (one started in the Army and switched to the Marines. I completely understand what you are saying and I am with you. Even though it was sad that their time at home with us as we knew it was over, I knew that what was in store for them was very valuable. Even now with 2 of the 4 deployed, I don't worry as much as some parents. They are doing something important and they are doing what they choose to do. I would worry more if they had no direction in their life.

[Shirlee Howard]

AND, if we are ready for them to go, even if there are tears and stuff, we HAVE DONE OUR JOB!

[beachmomma]

You are not alone. I actually started to think there was something wrong with me because I was not reacting the same way as other moms. But we are all different and handle things differently. I feel for the moms that are so lost without their sailor...and sometimes I am jealous. Wonder if my relationship is not as good as theirs. But I am an easy going person and I have a lot of trust in God and my son. I miss his quick wit and crazy personality-but I am glad that he is becoming an independent adult. And yes, I do still worry about him-that will never change.
Maybe we need to start our own group...any ideas on a name for it?
And the letters from boot camp were the best.

[Tonya, Mom of Caleb]

Well, glad to see my feelings are okay, too. At first, I was surprised by his decision. But now that he's in his third week of BC, I am more anxious to see the changes his life takes rather than worried that he's made a decision that takes him away from us. I am proud of my son. I am proud that now he has opportunities I could not have provided for him. My job now is to encourage him when he's down, provide guidance and love when he feels uncertain of a decision, and miss him when he's gone.

If you do start a group, I would like to follow along..

Tonya

[lynne]

when have you heard from your son. I was told they don't get to call much in the navy. My army son called several times. It is nerve racking waiting for the calls. Is your son liking boot camp

[Lesli]

Hi Lynnie, It would be nice if my son would call more often. I think he can as long as he has phone service. I do like the internet this was we have more contact.

[Sean"s_Mom]

I also wondered if I something was wrong with me because I wasn't "devastated' that he was gone to boot camp. Of course I missed him, worried about him, prayed for him, shed plenty of tears and did I say missed him? But like a mama bird you gotta let them fly. I still miss him, shed the tears and say the prayers BUT I am so proud of him and want him to do the best he can. Everybody deals with their children "leaving the nest" differently, we just have to look at it as a new and exciting chapter in their lives and I fully agree with Denise, our kids are going to see and do things that most of us have dreamed about. My son is in Washington DC right now and has said "Mom I'm seeing things I would have never seen if I had not joined the Navy. Washington DC Mom!!!" It makes me happy knowing that he is excited about the new adventures ahead.

[jenba33]

Our son is 22 and I had no problem sending him to boot camp. Maybe it's because he ahs been in and out of our home several times already. I know they are taking good care of him and he is ready for it all. Of course I miss him but it is his time to get started on his life and career. He graduated from a military style high school and is very accustomed to military life and really thrives in it. This is the best decision he has ever made in my book. Go Navy!

[JeffInSanJose]

Navy was such the right path for Robert, and I was so certain that he'd thrive in this environment, that I had no fears at all. We talked at length before he left, so he was aware of and (somewhat) prepared for the challenges he'd face, as well as looking forward to all the benefits he'd gain from the activities.

Seeing a kid go away is tough - whether it's boot camp or college. Either way, we've been looking forward to this day for a whole lot of years. Growth is a good thing, and although we may never stop worrying, it's fully appropriate for these young adults to go out and make their own way.

I'm with you. It's a very positive step, and I'm all for it!! I just want those occasional letters, and (like you) I look forward to the stories!