My son just left for Great Lakes 11/9/09

[Karin Sliney]

Any other Moms have sons/daughters there at the same time? I really don't know what to expect -- especially since when he left his wisdom teeth were erupting......ouch!

[DAVIDSmom]

Don't worry they will remove his wisdom teeth while in boot camp if need be. Hopefully you got the phone call to say he arrived. Next you will receive a box with all his belongings he left with including his clothes. With that or shortly after that you will receive an official letter with his PIR date and his ship and division number( he will also write a few lines on the bottom. As soon as you get his ship and division number start writing him. Write, write, write as much as you can it is the only communication he has with the outside world. Trust me when I tell you he will appreciate it. Just remember he will miss home as much as you miss him so stay very positive in your letters. Tell him how much you love him and how very proud you are of him. Whatever you do, do not send any singing cards as I have heard they make the recruits do pushups until the music runs out. You don't want to draw any unwanted attention to him. Just send letters and cards with plain envelopes and no stickers on the outside. Apparently they not only get on the individual recruit but the whole ship. It is going to be hard and you are going to miss him terribly but there is a light at the end of the tunnel when you get to see him at PIR. Start a group or join a group with recruits that have the same PIR or same ship and division number. This sight will be your life line I don't know what I would have done without it. My son has PIR 11/20. And lastly they usually only get 2 to 3 phone calls and they start about the 3rd or 4th week into BC so don't get worried no new is good news. The only time they might call before that is if they need security clearance for something. Hope this info. helped a little if you need any more info don't hesitate to ask

[Donna (Kayla's Mom)]

Karin, come join our November Bootcamp Family Group. Since our recruits left before yours you will find lots of info on what to expect and much love and support for you on your journey. We are 44 strong and growing. Come check us out.