All Discussions Tagged 'DEP' - Navy For Moms2024-03-29T13:40:24Zhttps://navyformoms.ning.com/forum/topic/listForTag?tag=DEP&feed=yes&xn_auth=noMEPS/Ratetag:navyformoms.ning.com,2020-08-03:1971797:Topic:111989142020-08-03T17:06:38.676ZShooshhttps://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/Shoosh
<p>So happy to have found this site!! My daughter went to MEPS last week. Because of COVID, we were not allowed to go. She sent me a text saying she was swearing in and that she was assigned a mechanical job. I was confused because initially she was looking at the Air Force and the recruiter told her she could come home after MEPS to discuss jobs with him and with us before selecting. My bad for not checking to see if the Navy was the same! After reading the description (GSM) I really can't…</p>
<p>So happy to have found this site!! My daughter went to MEPS last week. Because of COVID, we were not allowed to go. She sent me a text saying she was swearing in and that she was assigned a mechanical job. I was confused because initially she was looking at the Air Force and the recruiter told her she could come home after MEPS to discuss jobs with him and with us before selecting. My bad for not checking to see if the Navy was the same! After reading the description (GSM) I really can't imagine she would be happy with this job. I don't think they explained everything to her, and she is not sure what other jobs she qualified for. I understand she is 18, but I feel she was taken advantage of and not given good advice. She picked 8/24 as date to leave for boot camp. We are meeting with her recruiter this afternoon, any advice?? </p>
<p>My son enlisted in the USMC 10 years ago so I have been through this before. Overall that recruiting experience was exceptional.</p> Switching recruiters?tag:navyformoms.ning.com,2014-03-20:1971797:Topic:85140132014-03-20T16:06:36.273Zkate1234https://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/kate1234
<p>I'm currently in DEP, with a contract to be a sonar tech. However, I am trying to get my rate switched to CTI (I have already taken and passed the DLAB, and I know I meet the rest of the requirements as well.) My recruiter has been telling me that she already submitted the paperwork for weeks, but I recently found out she did not, and this is not the first time she told me everything was good to go and then canceled or had to postpone because she neglected to do what was needed, or didn't…</p>
<p>I'm currently in DEP, with a contract to be a sonar tech. However, I am trying to get my rate switched to CTI (I have already taken and passed the DLAB, and I know I meet the rest of the requirements as well.) My recruiter has been telling me that she already submitted the paperwork for weeks, but I recently found out she did not, and this is not the first time she told me everything was good to go and then canceled or had to postpone because she neglected to do what was needed, or didn't tell me what I needed even though I asked her on several occasions what I needed to bring and/or do. I feel cheated, and I do not trust my recruiter. I understand recruiters are very busy, but this is a major life decision and I would like to work with someone who understands that and is willing to help me. Does anyone know if it is even possible to switch recruiters once you have entered DEP? I haven't been able to find anything on this online and I don't know who to ask/talk to about these issues. Thank you!!</p> Choosing a Job at MEPStag:navyformoms.ning.com,2013-05-08:1971797:Topic:78056952013-05-08T00:14:40.165ZSierrascrapper (ETN2)https://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/Sierrascrapper
<p>Hi all...I'm a newbie here and I've been perusing the forums for some answers but still can't quite nail down a few questions. It's possible that I might not be using the best terms to search, but I did give it my best. My son Jonathan is currently a junior in high school and he is 17 y/o. He will be 18 when he graduates high school. He recently informed us that he wants to join the Navy. He told us that he thought it would be a good decision because he can't really figure out what he wants…</p>
<p>Hi all...I'm a newbie here and I've been perusing the forums for some answers but still can't quite nail down a few questions. It's possible that I might not be using the best terms to search, but I did give it my best. My son Jonathan is currently a junior in high school and he is 17 y/o. He will be 18 when he graduates high school. He recently informed us that he wants to join the Navy. He told us that he thought it would be a good decision because he can't really figure out what he wants to do in the future. He is an exceptional student and is also in the school's award winning Marching Band and is currently enrolled in 4 AP courses in Physics, Calculus, English and US History and he will be taking 4 AP courses in Psychology, English, US Govt, and Music Theory next year along with a Dual Credit Calculus course at the local University.</p>
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<p>My son and I recently paid a visit to the Navy recruiter and talked to him for a short bit. He was actually the assistant recruiter, but he was pretty knowledgeable. My son already took the ASVAB before we went to visit with the recruiter and he got a 93 on the test. He performed very well in the Math, Science, and English fields but not so well in the Electrical/Mechanical fields. The recruiter told us Jonathan could pick anything he wanted and suggested the Nuclear Field. He talked about the STA-21 program and NROTC and joining the DEP. He also suggested that Jonathan join the DEP this summer so that he will be ready to go to bootcamp after he graduates next summer. There were a couple questions he couldn't answer either, so I thought I'd ask here.</p>
<p>We are supposed to meet again with the main recruiter in the next couple of weeks so that my husband can also meet with him. I have more questions now than I thought I did when we first visited with the recruiter. Here are a few:</p>
<p></p>
<p>Since my son has taken so many AP courses and will technically be a student at the University next year, how does that translate if he decides to join the Navy DEP program? Is it wise for him to have all of these credits under his belt and enlist or should he take a different path like holding off signing up until he completes his sophomore year in college (which would be sooner than a two years) and join the NUPOC program at that point?</p>
<p>If we decide to enlist and since Jonathan doesn't quite know what he wants to do in life except that he wants to maybe make components or things that are technical. What kind of path should he take in the Navy? Jonathan tried to take the test that helps you decide what you like, he said it was TOTALLY lame and didn't help at all. He said that most of the questions didn't line up properly, especially because he is so influenced by being in marching band. Nuclear seems amazing but are there other options that may be related to math and science? I've done some checking on the Navy COOL site that the recruiter suggested to us. However, it still seems difficult to decide on a pathway. So...any suggestions for jobs would be so helpful.</p>
<p>That's probably more questions than can easily be answered...sorry :( I will admit I am usually long-winded. LOL</p> Things to Do in the Last Month before Your Future Sailor Leaves for RTCtag:navyformoms.ning.com,2012-09-20:1971797:Topic:73545072012-09-20T01:25:52.881Zlemonelephanthttps://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/lemonelephant
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">As you prepare for your future Sailor to leave, breathe and take one day at a time.</font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><font size="3"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Read…</span></strong> </font></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">As you prepare for your future Sailor to leave, breathe and take one day at a time.</font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><font size="3"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Read</span></strong> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/opsec-and-persec" target="_blank" rel="noopener">OPSEC and PERSEC (Making Changes To Your Profile)</a> <strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">within</span></strong> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boot Camp Moms (and loved ones)</a> <strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">and start practicing OPSEC and PERSEC now. You will most likely need to change the Privacy Settings for your My Page from "Anyone" to "Members" (or to "Just My Friends" if your future Sailor has a contract for a special ops or Spook rating) and there may be other changes that you need to make.</span></strong></span></font></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">Your future Sailor may want to join</font> <a href="http://www.navydep.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.navydep.com</a> <font size="3">to learn the ins and outs from the DEP point of view.</font> <font size="3">There are also flash cards to assist with learning the info for the DEP PQS online at</font> <a href="http://www.cram.com/tag/dep" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><font size="3" color="#0000FF">http://www.cram.com/tag/dep</font></a><font size="3">,</font> <a href="http://quizlet.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><font size="3" color="#0000FF">http://quizlet.com/</font></a> <font size="3">(type Navy DEP in the Search box), and other sites. Quizlet has a free App that your future Sailor can use on some Smart phones. Encourage your future Sailor to study the <a href="https://www.cnrc.navy.mil/images/guides/011-0144%20(Rev%2012-15)%20Start%20Guide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP START Guide</a></font> <font size="3">and complete his/her DEP GUIDE PQS and get and stay in shape. The <a href="https://www.cnrc.navy.mil/images/guides/nrc-fit-nut-rec-gui-rev-2019.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NAVY FITNESS & NUTRITION GUIDE</a></font> <font size="3">will help him/her to know what to be doing to prepare and will give the standards that s/he must meet. A recruit can be advanced to E-2 (or to E-3 if s/he entered as E-2) by successfully completing the DEP GUIDE PQS, passing a written multiple choice test with 80% or above at Recruit Training Command (RTC), <strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">and</span></strong> passing the PT-Baseline (the first PFA) with a SAT-MED. Completion of the DEP GUIDE PQS will be confirmed and documented by the Classifier at MEPS. (If the recruit does not have the signatures within the DEP GUIDE, s/he may still be able to be advanced by passing the test and initial PFA in some instances.) Working out ahead of shipping can help to prevent injuries while at RTC as well as helping to insure that the future Sailor is able to pass the PFA. (See <a href="http://navyformoms.ning.com/forum/topics/prevention-of-stress-fractures-for-those-in-dep" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Prevention of Stress Fractures for Those in DEP</a>.) The YMCA in some areas and some health clubs and fitness centers offer free or reduced rate memberships to those in DEP.<br/></font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">The Navy does NOT teach recruits how to swim; some remediation is provided for those who need it, but it is not swim lessons. Recruits need to arrive at RTC with basic swim skills and the ability to float. Have your future Sailor practice in a pool before shipping.</font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">It is very important that your future Sailor be physically fit prior to shipping to RTC and that s/he be able to pass an initial run test.</font></span></strong> <span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">"The initial run standard is evaluated on the 1.5 mile run of the first Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) at boot camp. The initial run standard for male recruits will be 16 minutes 10 seconds and 18 minutes seven seconds for female recruits."</span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">See <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1zQrQK68Xw" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HOW TO PREPARE FOR BOOTCAMP IN 2019?</a>.</span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><a href="http://www.navydads.com/group/bootcamp/forum/topics/a-must-read-for-all-new-navy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A MUST READ for All New Navy Parents</a> within <a href="http://www.navydads.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavyDads.com</a> has some good info for future Sailors and their loved ones.</p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><strong>Make sure that your future Sailor stays healthy and injury free, especially in the last month, because even a small cut or blister on a hand or foot when s/he reports to MEPS can cause a future Sailor to be delayed in shipping.</strong><br/></font></span></font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">A website that will have a lot of information for you and your future Sailor is</font> <a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/</a><font size="3">. There are tabs for you and your future Sailor. </font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">Here are some things you need to do in the last month before your future Sailor leaves:</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> 1.</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">Assist your future Sailor in getting his/her slim black wallet ready. (Buy one in the men's</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">department,</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> even for the gals. We have seen recruits be able to keep other conservatively colored</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">wallets and</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> even </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">a green wallet, so if your future Sailor</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">already has a thin wallet that s/he is</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">comfortable with, then</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> use </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">that </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">because s/he will be less likely to send it home.) Tell your </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">future Sailor</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">to KEEP the wallet</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> unless </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">s/he </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">is told specifically/personally to put it in the box.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> a. Driver’s license and DEP photo ID. [Check to see that your future Sailor's driver's license will</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> not expire during boot camp. </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">This is especially important for those with a contract for Aviation</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> Boatswain's Mate - Fuels (ABF), Equipment Operator </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">(EO), Master at Arms (MA), and Religious</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> Program Specialist (RP). Sailors with contracts for those ratings have had to</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">remain in holding</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> in GL and have not been permitted to go to "A" School due to an expired driver's license. Some</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> had </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">to </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">get a contract for a different rating or for one of the</font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/professional-apprenticeship-career-tracks-pact-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PACT Programs</a> <font size="3">when a new license</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> was not obtained </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">by a </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">specified date. Those with a contract in the Nuclear Field also need to have</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> a current driver's license, but not having it does not cause delays until "A" School, so those with a</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> contract for NF should also make sure to have it.]</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> b. SS card—not a copy (Recruits have been put on hold when the SS card was forgotten and did</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> not </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">arrive at RTC by a </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">specified date. If the SS card is lost, order a new one as soon as it is</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> discovered to be lost.)</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> c. a small amount of cash ($10-$25) Your future Sailor will be given a voucher for meals, but it's</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> nice to have a little bit of </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">pocket money. $10-$25 would not be enough if your then recruit is</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> delayed in shipping </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">and has to spend extra time at a hotel or airport due to storms or some</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> other cause. The Navy </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">picks up the tab for the hotel, but not always for food beyond what the</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> voucher covers. </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">Some recruits have received an additional food voucher, but others have not. If</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> you check the </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">weather and suspect that storms in Chicago or another location may delay your</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> then Recruit, then </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">you might want to be sure that s/he has $50-$60 to cover meals for up to two</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> days.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> d. stamps (they can be purchased at RTC, but it is good not to have to)-- Don't send stationery</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> as it takes up room</font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> and besides they get stationery, including</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> envelopes, to use at RTC. I typically only </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">suggest sending pre-addressed stamped</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> envelopes if the r</font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">ecruit has relatives in another country since postage is higher</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">and the recruit</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">may not know or have the correct postage or if your recruit requests that you send some after a</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> few weeks </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">due to running out of RTC stationery.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> e. a few Band-Aids and a couple of strips of moleskin (make sure s/he knows how to use it to</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> prevent/treat blisters; they </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">can get these from medical, but it is good to have them early)</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> f. Decide if s/he is going to use Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) (I suggest that s/he does.) or</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> Armed Forces Bank or </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">his/her own financial institution. S/He will need to have form 1199A</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> completed at his/her bank (the bank has the form) if </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">s/he will use that and put the form in</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> his/her wallet and/or take a blank check. Recruits/Sailors are paid a day earlier if they </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">use</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> NFCU than if they do not—we have been seeing deposits to some other institutions also arrive</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> a day early—and there is a branch located at most places where your future Sailor will be</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> stationed. They also have the active military </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">account which will reimburse your future Sailor for</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> up to $20 on ATM fees every month.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Your future Sailor can set up an account with NFCU prior to leaving for RTC by calling</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> 1-888-842-6328 and get the </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">1199A Direct Deposit Sign-up Form online at</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.navyfederal.org/pdf/ebrochures/1167ep.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><font size="3" color="#0000FF"> https://www.navyfederal.org/pdf/ebrochures/1167ep.pdf</font></a><font size="3">.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> If your future Sailor has bills that s/he wants to set up to pay by allotment, have him/her take the</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> information to set that up </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">during P-days. S/He will need the name of the company/person, the</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> phone number, the address and the account number </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">or if the allotment is to be made to a</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> person's bank account s/he will need the Bank routing number and the account</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">number as </font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> well as the person's name.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> (Paydays are the 1</font><sup><font size="2">st</font></sup> <font size="3">and 15</font><sup><font size="2">th</font></sup><font size="3">, but recruits must be at RTC at least 3 full weeks to be paid</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> on a pay day, so if you will </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">be paying bills for your recruit, it is best to have enough back ahead</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> of time to cover one to two month's bills because </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">although your recruit will be paid from the first</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> day, it could take 3 or 4 pay days for the pay to settle in to what it will be. If</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">you are the spouse of</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> a recruit, know that BAH has been paid in the first pay period for some, but others did not</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> receive it until near the end of boot camp or after PIR, but it will eventually be caught up. If you</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> are unable to put enough money back </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">to cover the bills for the first month or so, then speak with</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> the creditors and see if the bills can be suspended or payment </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">delayed for a month until a</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> deposit has been made. </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">Payment on student loans may be deferred while the recruit is at the</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">RTC. Not all institutions will defer the payment so have money put back and a plan in place for</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> making the payments if the </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">loans are not deferred. For more information on pay and BAH, see</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/when-will-the-recruits-be-paid" target="_blank" rel="noopener">When Will the Recruits be Paid? and Information for Spouses</a></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">.)</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Some recruits have had their bank accounts compromised while in boot camp so be sure that</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> your recruit lets the bank </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">know that s/he will be in boot camp in Great Lakes, IL and the</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> approximate dates</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">so that the bank will flag any charges </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">during that time and call a designated</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> person to check on the charges. If you are not already an authorized user on the</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">account, this</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> may require a POA from the bank specifying that you are to be contacted for this purpose.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> g. a list of addresses <strong>and phone numbers</strong> of those s/he will contact during BC—include the info</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> of people s/he may need </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">to contact for security clearance as well as friends and relatives. S/He</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> would be able to keep a small address book, but </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">the list in the wallet is better and less likely to</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> accidentally get put in "the box." Now that most people have cell phones many do not have</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> important </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">phone numbers memorized. (Have him/her give you a list of email </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">addresses or phone</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> numbers </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">for his/her friends and/or access to his/her fB account so you can pass on his/her </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">address</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> once </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">you get it.)</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> h. Activated calling card or calling card numbers. <br/></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> If you choose to purchase a calling card, be sure to activate it and write down the info on</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> the back of the card </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">before putting it in the wallet so you can add more minutes if needed.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> If you or your future Sailor has a PennyTalk account, your recruit can use that account to make</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> calls from RTC. Calls </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">within the USA and some other countries are 1 cent per minute. This</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> may be a good option if your future Sailor has </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">people to call in other countries. See</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.pennytalk.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><font size="3" color="#0000FF"> http://www.pennytalk.com</font></a><font size="3">. (Note: A 49¢ connection fee is charged each time a call connects. A</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> 99¢ monthly service fee applies to all accounts. A 90¢ payphone surcharge applies to each call</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> made from a payphone, which is what your recruit will use at RTC.) See <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/phone-cards-and-phone-calls" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Phone Cards and</a></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/phone-cards-and-phone-calls" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Phone Calls</a>.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Make sure your future Sailor knows how to use the calling card. Practice before s/he leaves.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> Calling </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">cards are available for purchase at the NEX at RTC, but it is good not to have to</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> activate a calling </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">card before making any calls. <br/></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Your recruit will need a calling card to make any calls other than the "I'm here!" call, which is the</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> last call your then recruit will make from his/her cell phone before putting it in "the box" to be stored</font></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">,</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> or calls for information or if there is a problem. All other calls are made from a payphone.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> <strong>Recruits are not permitted to keep their cell phones at RTC.</strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> i. small photo/s (no nudity or questionable content)</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> j. Slip a short encouraging note into his/her wallet from you and/or other loved ones so s/he will</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> be able </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">to read it in the </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">days/weeks before s/he will receive mail. (Also encourage him/her to</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> write a note to </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">you either before leaving or on the </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">way to BC and slip it in a pocket or shoe for</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> you to read before </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">you </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">get mail from him/her.) If your future Sailor will have a birthday within the</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> first 4 weeks after arrival, then slip a sealed birthday greeting in his/her wallet to open on that day--</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> perhaps a small card (such as a gift insert card) that does not openly advertise the birthday and has</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> no glitter.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> k. a small calendar if your future Sailor wants to mark off the days until PIR (know that some</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> RDC's do not permit calendars so your then recruit may have to tear it up)</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> l. gallon sized zip-top clear plastic bag. Your recruit can use it to keep the items together that s/he is</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> allowed to keep and can use it to keep letters together in his/her A/B drawer once s/he is in his/her</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> permanent ship.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> <strong>m. <span>Recruits shipping during COVID-19 may also take a personal entertainment device with no</span></strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><strong><span> camera and / or two books to be used during the 14 days of ROM. Personal entertainment</span></strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><strong><span> device means a handheld, non-cellular equipped, non-camera equipped device with a primary</span></strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><strong><span> purpose of personal entertainment, such as an e-reader or gaming device. Tablets, laptops,</span></strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><strong><span> gaming consoles, and any device with cellular capability are not allowed.</span></strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> 2. S/He will be able to keep a small Bible if s/he wants to take one or s/he can get a New Testament and</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Proverbs at MEPS prior to shipping or at RTC.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> S/He will also be able to </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">keep a small religious medal if s/he wants (it must be silver in color and</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">smaller than </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">his/her dog tags). Some will send them back though, so make sure your future Sailor</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> knows to keep it. Some have taped</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">the religious medal</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">in the wallet since many have not been able to</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> keep a chain if worn on a chain to RTC.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> S/He will be able to keep and wear a wristwatch, if </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">desired. </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">It is best if it is water resistant and black</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> or</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">silver in color, but recruits have also been able to keep </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">watches with a navy blue or brown</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> wristband. One that costs less than $20 is best at RTC and after.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Married recruits are able to wear a plain wedding band.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> Anything s/he takes </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">that s/he is able to keep must be able to fit in his/her "valuables sock" (a tube</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> sock that s/he will carry) during P-Days. </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">Everything else will be put in "the box."</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> 3. Help your future Sailor decide what s/he will wear to MEPS and if s/he will take a change of</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> clothes or not. Remember that </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">your future Sailor will be taken to a hotel the day before the ship</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> date for MEPS and will stay overnight at the hotel. S/He </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">must have clean underwear (boxers for</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> the guys and full-coverage underwear and sports bra for the gals) and socks at</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">MEPS. Old</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> clothes are permitted, but be sure that your future Sailor is not wearing clothes with holes and</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><font face="Arial, sans-serif"> know that sandals or flip flops without a strap around the back are not permitted at MEPS. Future</font></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><font face="Arial, sans-serif"> Sailors have not been able to ship </font></font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">when they have shown up in clothes that are not allowed. Recruiters</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> or parents have made trips t</font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">o buy suitable clothing the night before swearing in at MEPS. Be aware</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> and be sure that your </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">future Sailor is dressed appropriately.<br/></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Also discuss his/her options of putting the clothes in the box, trashing them, or donating</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> them.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> My son took a change of underwear that he changed at the hotel and threw the others away there.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> He shaved with a </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">disposable razor and used the hotel toiletries. He also wore his least favorite</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> clothes and trashed them at RTC.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> If you are going to MEPS to see him/her sworn in, s/he can take a backpack with his/her toiletries</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> and a change of clothes for </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">the hotel room and give it to you when s/he sees you.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> 4. You need to determine if you are going to MEPS and the airport and find out from the Recruiter</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> when you should be there if </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">you are. Some MEPS require that the recruiter submit paperwork</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> ahead of time in order for you to attend the swearing in. </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">This is especially true if MEPS is located</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> on a military base because you will need a pass to get on base. If MEPS is located on a military</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> base, you will need current ID for everyone in the vehicle and current vehicle registration and proof of</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> insurance in order to drive onto the base. Your recruit</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">will have to be with you at the airline counter to</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> get a gate pass if you plan to wait with him/her. Some airlines consider a recruit who is shipping to</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Boot Camp to be under orders and will permit loved ones to obtain a gate pass and accompany</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> him/her past security and others do not. If you intend to accompany your then recruit to the airport,</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> check with your future Sailor's recruiter to see what airline will be used and call to check to see if you</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> will be able to accompany your then recruit.<br/></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> 5. Talk with your future Sailor about how you want to handle any bad news. My Sailor told me he only</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> wanted to be notified </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">if his father, sister, or I were to die. He asked that news of any other deaths</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> or hospitalizations, even grandparents and </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">close friends, be kept from him until after PIR.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Fortunately, we did not have to face that.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> 6. Decide if you need a Power of Attorney.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> There are 2 main types, a general Power of Attorney and a </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">Medical Power of Attorney. </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">You may need</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> these if s/he has bills or personal property that you will need to take care of or if </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">s/he were to be hurt</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> while at </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">RTC. You can get the forms to do both kinds of PoA for free </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">online and customize them to</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> your needs and then have</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">them notarized. You can find a general Power of Attorney online </font></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><a href="http://www.expertlaw.com/library/estate_planning/medical_power_of_attorney.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><font size="3" color="#0000FF">http://www.expertlaw.com/library/estate_planning/medical_power_of_a...</font></a> <font size="3">has a Medical Power</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> of </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">Attorney form. You </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">only need a PoA if you will need to take care of financial matters or</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> personal </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">property for your recruit. The MPoA is only </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">needed if your recruit is incapacitated;</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> otherwise,</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">the </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">HIPAA form or medical information waiver form is all that is needed.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> A durable PoA that will cover both is best drawn up by an attorney and most will charge less than</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> $50 to do so. Be aware that a durable PoA may not be accepted by some institutions because it may</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> be seen as being too broad.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Keep a photocopy of your future Sailor's driver's license with the power of attorney. Some states</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> must have both in order to </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">use the PoA. Some banks will only accept their own PoA that must be</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> signed at the bank, so check with your financial </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">institution if you will be taking care of any banking</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> business for your future Sailor. If you will only be taking care of matters </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">dealing with a vehicle, you</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> may only need the form that can be obtained from the license bureau or DMV.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> 7. For those of you with exes, speak with your Future Sailor about who s/he should send the form letter.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> to. The</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">recruit decides who that is mailed to, not anyone at RTC.</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">It is good to </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">know ahead of time</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> how this is going to be handled because</font></span> <span><font size="3">the form letter</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">will indicate the address and </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">PIR date and</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> will include <a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/RTC_GRAD_VISITOR_ACCESS_FORM-4.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the Security Access Form</a> to be </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">completed with the info on those who will be attending</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> PIR so they can receive their tickets</font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">. If </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">both </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">parents are </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">going to PIR, then the one receiving <span>the form</span></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><span> letter </span></font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">will need to </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">share the information in </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">that letter </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">with the </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">other parent, but everything in <span>the form</span></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><span> letter </span></font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">and <a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/RTC_GRAD_VISITOR_ACCESS_FORM-4.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the Security Access Form</a> can </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">be found </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">on this site in several places as well as</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> at <a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil</a></font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NavyRecruitTrainingCommand" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.facebook.com/NavyRecruitTrainingCommand</a>.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> 8. Help him/her determine the names of up to 4 people who s/he will be submitting to receive tickets for</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> PIR.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> Your recruit will be permitted </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">4 guests unless s/he ends up in a large TG. Plan ahead of time </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">who</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> will attend if only 3 guests are </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">permitted. Everyone ages 3 </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">and older must have a ticket to attend. </font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> Those </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">ages 2 and under are able</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">to </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">attend without</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">a ticket.</font> <font size="3">This is very important since <strong>only those </strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><strong> with tickets will be able to enter</strong></font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><strong>RTC. Your then recruit will have the final say as to who will </strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><strong> attend. </strong>Those names will be submitted on <a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/RTC_GRAD_VISITOR_ACCESS_FORM-4.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the Security Access Form</a></font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> <span><strong>During COVID there is no PIR.</strong></span><span> </span><span><strong>Guests are not permitted on RTC.</strong></span></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> 9. Call and put his/her cell phone on military hold/suspension while s/he is at BC beginning the day</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> after you expect him/her to </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">arrive at RTC or a day later than that in case s/he arrives in the wee</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> hours of</font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> the morning. Set it up so that you can call the day </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">before PIR and remove the Hold so that</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> s/he </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">will be able to use his/her phone on Liberty and once s/he gets to "A" School.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> If your future Sailor has a vehicle, you may also want to have him/her removed as a driver on the</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> insurance and look into </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">having the vehicle changed to a "pleasure vehicle" if someone will be</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> driving it every now and then or to "in storage" if it will </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">be parked to save money on the insurance.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">10. Have him/her help you decide what to do about the things in his/her room. Also, have him/her set</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> aside the things that s/he </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">will want you to bring to GL with you to have on Liberty and at "A" School.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> Things </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">to take PIR weekend, which must be able to fit in </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">his/her black backpack (obtained at RTC),</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> include: favorite underwear, </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">laptop, cell phone charger, </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">and one set of clothes--some choose a favorite</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> T-shirt or 2 and have the jeans sent later</font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">. <span><strong>Now that </strong></span><span><strong>"the box" is not sent home some pack a</strong></span></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><span><strong> SMALL</strong></span></font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><span><strong>backpack with these things so that they have</strong></span><span> </span><span><strong>them once they get their box after</strong></span></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><span><strong> graduation so they have them at "A" School. Be sure it and the</strong></span><strong> clothes worn will fit in a</strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><strong> 14x14x14 box. </strong>Things you </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">will be able to send later, depending on the "A" </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">School and its length may</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> i</font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">nclude: a</font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">dditional set/s of </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">clothes, gaming system, musical instrument, a </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">few favorite pictures...</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> (You can check on the site for his/her "A" School to help determine what is and is not allowed and</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> how soon. If you don't </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">know where your future Sailor will go for training, go to</font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/forum/topics/ratings-a-school-locations-and" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ratings, A School</a></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/forum/topics/ratings-a-school-locations-and" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Locations, and Links to Groups</a><font size="3">.)</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><strong>SCAM ALERT:</strong> If your future Sailor has any bank cards or credit cards, have him/her call a week or so before the ship date and let the bank or issuing agent know the dates that s/he will be in BC and provide a contact number of a loved one that they can call if there are any charges made on the card from any place other than the NEX at RTC. There have been reports of charges being made while the recruit is in BC. Sometimes the charges are not able to be reversed if they are not discovered until after BC. There have been some reports of credit cards being maxed out before the charges were discovered.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">Although your future Sailor is covered by Tricare health insurance from the day s/he swears in at MEPS on the way to RTC, I suggest that you don’t drop your Future Sailor’s health insurance until after PIR. If something happens and s/he is sent home, s/he may have trouble getting health insurance, so this is one case where I say to plan for the worst case situation when I typically tell loved ones to plan to attend PIR on time and don't think about the possibility of being sent home or a delayed PIR. Check with your agent to see how easy it would be to add him/her back on if s/he were to be separated and if your policy allows dependents to be added at any time, then you may be able to remove him/her from the policy once s/he has sworn in at MEPS and is on the way to RTC. Being separated from the armed services is not a qualifying condition that allows a person to be added on outside of the regular enrollment time for many policies.<br/></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><font size="3"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Females should get their hair cut in the last week before leaving if they wish to do so.</span></strong> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Have her go to a good stylist and have her hair cut well above collar length and she should be fine and may not even need another haircut until A School. (See <a href="http://www.public.navy.mil/BUPERS-NPC/SUPPORT/UNIFORMS/UNIFORMREGULATIONS/CHAPTER2/Pages/2201PersonalAppearance.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.public.navy.mil/BUPERS-NPC/SUPPORT/UNIFORMS/UNIFORMREGULATIONS/CHAPTER2/Pages/2201PersonalAppearance.aspx</a>.)</span></font><font size="3"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"> New female recruits are permitted to keep long hair if they wish and are taught how to properly wear their hair in a Navy regulation bun. Female recruits who wish to have their hair cut may still request to do so. Hair pins and barrettes that match the hair color may be permitted. Corn rows that are uniform in size and distance apart and do not include beads or other adornment have been permitted for some as long as the length is above the collar for those females with hair that would better be styled in that manner. There are some videos on youtube that discuss appropriate hairstyles for females while in Navy BC and afterwards. Your future Sailor's hair should be her natural hair color when she ships because she will not be able to do any color touch ups during BC. Recruits with unnatural looking hair color, including highlights, have been required to dye their hair, so it's best to address that before shipping. Your future Sailor will need to remove any nail polish or fake nails on both hands and feet before reporting to MEPS and should not wear makeup to MEPS or to RTC.<br/></span></font></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><font size="3"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><strong>Females who are on birth control pills</strong> prior to shipping should take their birth control pills with them along with a signed and dated note from their physician. The recruit will either be permitted to keep them or they will be tossed and something will be prescribed from the pharmacy. All female recruits are offered the option of birth control during boot camp.</span></font></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><strong>Earrings are not permitted at Boot Camp</strong> except for graduation photos and PIR and those must meet Navy standards and can be purchased at the NEX.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span><strong>Males with facial hair should shave prior to shipping</strong> to make the first few shaves at RTC easier.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">Relax and enjoy the time you have together.</font></span></strong> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">Don't start missing your loved one before s/he leaves. Make the time together good for everyone.<br/></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><font size="3"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">If your future Sailor wears contacts,</span></strong> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">make sure that s/he wears glasses or takes glasses and a contact case to RTC because s/he will have to remove contacts upon arrival and it will be several days before the eye exam and new glasses are given and s/he will not have any eye correction during that time. <strong>In</strong> <strong>fact, your recruit could be without correction for nearly a week if s/he does not take/wear glasses to RTC and it could be longer if your recruit is held in P-days for some reason.</strong> (The vision exam is on P-3 or P-4 and glasses are received that day, but there is no processing on the weekend, so it is usually about a week or longer for most recruits from the time they arrive to the time they receive their glasses. See <a href="http://www.lovell.fhcc.va.gov/locations/USSRedRover.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.lovell.fhcc.va.gov/locations/USSRedRover.asp</a>.) Those who wear glasses are able to keep and wear them until after they receive their new glasses, then they must put their civilian glasses in their A/B drawer and can wear them for pictures and PIR if they meet Navy standards. Some recruits have been able to keep contacts in a case along with a small amount of solution. They must put them in their "Valuables Sock" and then A/B drawer and can wear them for pictures and PIR. You will be able to send contacts to your recruit to wear for the graduation pictures and for PIR.</span></font></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><font size="3"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">If your future Sailor wears a retainer,</span></strong> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">s/he will be able to keep it at RTC as long as it was declared in the paperwork; a waiver may be required for some ratings. Recruiters sometimes tell future Sailors to remove them, but your future Sailor should respectfully refuse and ask that the retainer/s be documented. If your then recruit wears the retainer/s to BC, then it will be more likely that s/he will remember to keep the retainer/s and not accidentally put it/them in "the box" when packing it. Permanent retainers may be a disqualifying condition for some ratings, so if there is a choice between permanent or removable retainers, then choose removable retainers.<br/></span></font></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><strong>If you accompany your future Sailor to the Recruiter’s Office</strong> prior to his/her shipping out, walk a few steps behind and be alert as you approach the recruiter’s door. Your future Sailor will have to stop and request permission to enter. You don’t want to accidentally walk into your future Sailor as s/he is executing the salute before entering.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><strong>On the day s/he leaves</strong>, remind him/her to drink plenty of water because s/he will be drug tested at MEPS or soon after arrival at RTC and DO have him/her take his/her cell phone and charger because s/he can call/text you along the way and will be able to make that last call to you from it. Let him/her know to call once s/he gets to Chicago before getting to RTC so you will have a little more time to talk because the next call will be a scripted 15-30 second call and there will not be time for chitchat. There are no longer phone banks to make the "I'm here!" calls from, so your then recruit must call from a cell phone, either his/her own or a borrowed one.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">There have been reports in the past of people taking cell phones and/or watches prior to the recruits getting to RTC. Let your future Sailor know that at no time prior to packing "the box" should anyone ask for those or other personal items--if it happens, they need to respectfully decline the offer and then get the name of the individual and report it. Anything that a recruit cannot keep will be packed "the box" and held for them until later and they will put anything that they can keep in their "Valuables sock" and keep it with them.</font></span></strong></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">See <a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/REQUIRED%20CHECKLIST.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/REQUIRED%20CHECKLIST.pdf</a>, </font> <font size="3"><a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/WHAT%20TO%20BRING.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/WHAT%20TO%20BRING.pdf</a>, and <a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/WHAT%20NOT%20TO%20BRING.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/WHAT%20NOT%20TO%20BRING.pdf</a>. These documents are also available in other forms at <a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/recruits.html#prepare" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/recruits.html#prepare</a>.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">A video that may be helpful:</font> <a href="http://navyformoms.ning.com/video/what-to-bring-to-boot-camp" target="_blank" rel="noopener">What To Bring to Boot camp</a><font size="3">.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">I hope that helps.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">Check out the discussion</font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/profile/Arwen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arwen</a> <font size="3">posted,</font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/forum/topics/your-recruit-s-final-meps-experience-an-overview-of-their-last" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Your recruit's final MEPS experience - an overview of their last ho...</a><font size="3">; but be sure to read my reply concerning the statement about not eating for a day or two--Recruits DO eat. I also suggest that you join the group,</font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boot Camp Moms (and loved ones)</a><font size="3">, and start checking out the Pages (found under the pictures of the Members) there;</font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/arrival-and-what-happens-at-the-rtc" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arrival and What Happens at RTC</a> <font size="3">will let you know what happens at RTC and what to expect.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">Make sure to join the group for the month that your future Sailor leaves to connect with others with loved ones who may be leaving the same day/week and may have PIR with your Future Sailor. Each of the following is a clickable link.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinjanuary" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for Boot Camp in January</a><font size="3"> </font><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinfebruary" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for Boot Camp in February</a></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinmarch" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for bootcamp in March</a><font size="3"> </font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinapril" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for bootcamp in April</a></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinmay" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for bootcamp in May</a><font size="3"> </font> <a href="http://navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinjune" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for bootcamp in June</a></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinjuly" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for bootcamp in July</a><font size="3"> </font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinaugust" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin'</a></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinaugust" target="_blank" rel="noopener">for bootcamp in August</a></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinseptember" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for bootcamp in September</a><font size="3"> </font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinoctober" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP - Leavin' for bootcamp in October</a> </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinnovember" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for bootcamp in November</a><font size="3"> </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampindecember" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for bootcamp in December</a></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">You may also want to check out</font> <font size="3"><span class="feed-story-header dy-clearfix"><a href="http://navyformoms.ning.com/group/deppersinbutnotyet" target="_blank" rel="noopener">»» Welcome to the MEPS and DEP group ««</a></span>.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> </font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><font size="3">Some have asked about the blue candle tradition and have wanted to include blue candles as favors at an "Anchors Aweigh" party, so check out</font> <a href="http://navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/blue-candles" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Blue Candles</a><font size="3">.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">If you have a young child and would like a book to help explain about Daddy (or Mommy) being away at boot camp, then check out <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span id="ebooksProductTitle" class="a-size-extra-large">Hooyah Daddy!!: My Daddy's in Navy boot camp</span></span> <span class="a-size-large a-color-secondary a-text-normal"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Kindle Edition</span> available from amazon.com at</span> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CXIQ54G?*Version*=1&*entries*=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CXIQ54G?*Version*=1&*entries*=0</a>.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p>The Page, <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/what-does-mean-a-guide-to-navy-abbreviations-and-terminology" target="_blank" rel="noopener">What does ??? mean? (A Guide to Navy Abbreviations and Terminology)</a>, will help you with many of the new terms you will come across.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">After your loved one has shipped:</span></strong></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">If your loved one is on your auto insurance, you can take him/her off of the policy. When s/he is home on leave your Sailor will be able to drive your vehicle and be covered without being added back on if you give him/her permission to drive the vehicle. (See the info in number 9 above concerning your recruit's vehicle.)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Call and put your recruit's cell phone on hold. (See number 9 above.)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Check out <a href="https://navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/what-is-it-like-during-the-14-days-of-rom" target="_blank" rel="noopener">What is it like during the 14 days of ROM?</a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Check out the information in <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/arrival-and-what-happens-at-the-rtc" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arrival and What Happens at RTC</a> to know what is happening and what to expect. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Join <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boot Camp Moms (and loved ones)</a> if you have not already done so.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Try to be be patient and to remember "No news is good news!"</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Join your PIR group once you receive the form letter. PIR groups are posted in <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boot Camp Moms (and loved ones)</a> and in the DEP groups.<a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/forum/topics/groups-listed-by-pir-date" target="_blank" rel="noopener"></a></span></li>
</ul>
<p style="background: white;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 8pt;">The above information is provided by <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/profile/lemonelephant" target="_blank" rel="noopener">lemonelephant</a></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 8pt;">, the mom of a retired Sailor.</span></p>
<p style="background: white;"><span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 8pt;">Discussion updated 08/01/2020<br/></span></span></p> Link to MEPS nationwidetag:navyformoms.ning.com,2012-01-27:1971797:Topic:68186692012-01-27T20:53:34.653ZHannah88https://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/NicksMom738
<p>This link has some interesting info and I haven't seen it posted yet, so I thought I would share. The page that comes up when you open it is a map of the whole country, so you can see where the nearest MEPS is to where you live. Click on that MEPS to go directly to that page.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Enjoy!!</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://www.mepcom.army.mil/battalions/index.html" target="_blank">MEPS Map</a></p>
<p>This link has some interesting info and I haven't seen it posted yet, so I thought I would share. The page that comes up when you open it is a map of the whole country, so you can see where the nearest MEPS is to where you live. Click on that MEPS to go directly to that page.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Enjoy!!</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://www.mepcom.army.mil/battalions/index.html" target="_blank">MEPS Map</a></p> New Recruiter in towntag:navyformoms.ning.com,2011-10-11:1971797:Topic:65478962011-10-11T23:19:01.537ZTJsMamahttps://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/TJsMama
<p>Hi,</p>
<p>My son is in the DEP and the man that recruited him has a terminal illness (if I'm understanding correctly) so the recruitment office has brought in a new recruiter. When the new recruiter came in they promoted my son to Asst. Recruit Chief Petty Officer (ARCPO). The day they promoted him, this new recruiter called my son while he was in school (school has a rule about not having cell phones turned on) and when my son didn't answer he left a scathing voicemail about "if you're not…</p>
<p>Hi,</p>
<p>My son is in the DEP and the man that recruited him has a terminal illness (if I'm understanding correctly) so the recruitment office has brought in a new recruiter. When the new recruiter came in they promoted my son to Asst. Recruit Chief Petty Officer (ARCPO). The day they promoted him, this new recruiter called my son while he was in school (school has a rule about not having cell phones turned on) and when my son didn't answer he left a scathing voicemail about "if you're not going to call me back then maybe you dont NEED to be the ARCPO. My son called him back later (after school) and explained why he didn't get back to him immediately and he thought that'd be the last time it happened...wrong. yesterday he got another scathing voicemail from same recruiter. Ive gotten sketchy details but it seems the Captain reamed the new guy out for calling my son at school, and that my son, while in school, is a student first, and Navy personnel second.</p>
<p>You can imagine my frustration with this new person and I'm not sure what I can if things happen in the future. Advice?</p> Information about DEPtag:navyformoms.ning.com,2011-01-26:1971797:Topic:46253652011-01-26T16:33:22.593ZPoliceWifeNavyMomhttps://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/TNPoliceWife
<p>My daughter finished MEPS yesterday but there were no jobs. She told the liason that she was open to pretty much anything with the exception of Chef (she can't cook for anything, she even burns toast) and she didn't want to be in the boiler room. LOL. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The job counselor was really nice and told her that because she was open, they would find her something quick. She was ready to ship out yesterday LOL. She is disappointed but I told her, the wait might be a good…</p>
<p>My daughter finished MEPS yesterday but there were no jobs. She told the liason that she was open to pretty much anything with the exception of Chef (she can't cook for anything, she even burns toast) and she didn't want to be in the boiler room. LOL. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The job counselor was really nice and told her that because she was open, they would find her something quick. She was ready to ship out yesterday LOL. She is disappointed but I told her, the wait might be a good thing. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Can anyone share information about the whole DEP thing. What's the average wait, etc. Anything you can offer is good. Thanks! </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Shell </p> Weight problems for a big guytag:navyformoms.ning.com,2009-11-29:1971797:Topic:31764252009-11-29T21:10:21.781ZArwenhttps://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/Arwen
My son is huge, a bit over 6'4" with big, broad shoulders. He's also naturally lean, with a large frame and little fat. He was about 208 lbs when he entered DEP, well below his weight limit.<br />
<br />
When he first started the chief (his recruiter) told us to feed him more because he was having energy problems with his run. So we did.<br />
<br />
Chris has been working out exactly as instructed, running, push-ups, sit-ups, etc. Now he breezes through the PT test, continues to improve his times and reps and he's…
My son is huge, a bit over 6'4" with big, broad shoulders. He's also naturally lean, with a large frame and little fat. He was about 208 lbs when he entered DEP, well below his weight limit.<br />
<br />
When he first started the chief (his recruiter) told us to feed him more because he was having energy problems with his run. So we did.<br />
<br />
Chris has been working out exactly as instructed, running, push-ups, sit-ups, etc. Now he breezes through the PT test, continues to improve his times and reps and he's lost an inch or two around his waist. He didn't have a lot of fat to start with, he's nearing 6-pack abs.<br />
<br />
Problem is that he has also gained about 10 pounds and is close to his weight limit for his height. The chief told him to stop gaining weight and to keep working on his fitness. But his fitness is increasing his muscle bulk (he bulks up if you look at him sideways), and therefore his weight! If he keeps working out and eating enough to keep his energy up he will go above his weight limit. When he was playing football his lean play weight was about 235, 10 pounds over the limit.<br />
<br />
How do we keep him fit and strong for the PT test, but under the weight limit? He has 55 days until boot camp. How much advantage is there for Deppers to take the knowledge and fitness test?tag:navyformoms.ning.com,2009-11-20:1971797:Topic:31492562009-11-20T06:02:33.495ZArwenhttps://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/Arwen
Since he has nothing else to do (no job, no school, no friends in our new town) Chris has been working hard studying his DEP book and working out.<br />
<br />
Today he passed the fitness test at the monthly DEP meeting and is close to passing the other stuff (ranks/rates, phonetic alphabet, Sailor's Creed, etc).<br />
<br />
I know he will get an automatic promotion for passing, but does it do anything else for him? Will anyone really care that he has done all this work before entering boot camp? He has to do it all…
Since he has nothing else to do (no job, no school, no friends in our new town) Chris has been working hard studying his DEP book and working out.<br />
<br />
Today he passed the fitness test at the monthly DEP meeting and is close to passing the other stuff (ranks/rates, phonetic alphabet, Sailor's Creed, etc).<br />
<br />
I know he will get an automatic promotion for passing, but does it do anything else for him? Will anyone really care that he has done all this work before entering boot camp? He has to do it all again in boot camp, right?<br />
<br />
What's the point? Why do they award sailors with a promotion for something they will learn again in a few months anyway?