Bootcamp

[marlena]

My son left for bootcamp on Wednesday and I've been crying off and on ever since.  I feel so lost not beling able to call him, FB him or contact hm in any way.  I never thought it would be this difficult.  I'm really struggling. I'm not worried about his safety, just feel so disconnected, like he's gone forever.  He is my firstborn too, maybe that's it?   I don't know, but he reached this milestone that I feel like I wasn't prepared for.  Anyone else feel like that?

[Mary]

My daughter left Wednesday too. I feel exactly like you do! I think it's pretty normal. You are not alone no matter how it feels right now.

[2ifbysea]

Melissa, I know how you feel..my son arrived at GL Nov. 17 "11 and his PIR is 1-20-12. For the first 3 weeks it was very difficult for both of us; for me because I am now living alone and miss him greatly, for him because he is facing the challenges, mental and physical, of boot camp. (at one point he was 90% sure he would quit) About the fourth to fifth week I noticed a change in his letters. He seemed to have made that adjustment to boot camp life, and he was now looking in advance to the inspections, drills and tests that his division would face. He wasn't complaining about how hard it was, rather focusing on his/their achievments. His sense of pride in himself and his division was growing, and I suspect his self respect as well. Yes, I am proud, very proud. No, your son may not be on the sidelines with you, and yes it is normal to miss him, but he serves a greater purpose now. He and others in the military protect our freedoms so that we may enjoy those soccer games. So, if you will, he is there with you, only in a different way. You will feel better soon. And the next time you close your eyes and see his smiling face, think of that face, smiling while wearing his dress blues and white sailor cap.

[Becky]

I had read your message a few weeks back and was wondering how you are doing and how your daughter is doing.  I hope your husband is doing well in Afghanistan and I keep your family as well as all serving our country in my prayers.  My youngest son left Jan 24th for boot and we can't wait to see him at PIR on 3/16.  Hang in there! 

[BunkerQB]

Becky, are you going to PIR?  If yes, you should join this group ASAP. I left you a comment on your page. Click MY PAGE tab on the menu bar. Good luck and thank your son for us.

PIR: Mar 16, 2012           TG 18 - 14 Divisions (087–096, 807–808 & 918–919)

Be sure to ask your sailor recruit to order the photos and DVDs. The group has lots of info on PIR stuff.

PIR Reference Information Group (clickable link)

[Carol Aileen]

reading the new moms comments brings back memories... Today is my son's 3 yr Navy annv.  I remember leaving him at MEPS.... it was so hard - and then waiting for each phone call and letter through out boot camp.   But know that it does get easier!  once BC is done and when  he started the next stage we were able to stay in contact - technology these days is so much nicer then 30-40 yr ago!    My son is turning into a wonderful adult with great expriences.  He posted this on FB today:

Has now been in the Navy for three full years. Still think it was the best decision of my life.

I am very proud of him and of his decision. I miss him still, but I know that he is happy and learning lots.   N4Moms  got me through the worst of it - find a group to join,  Boot camps moms and then your PIR Group.  You are not alone in your feelings, it helps to chat with others!

 

 

[r11210]

Oh man you are making me tear up. My son heads out on the 23rd and some days I can't wait but most days I dread it. How was your son when you parted? Did you let him see you cry or did you hold it in until he was gone? I am so excited for him and so proud but when I look at him I still see my little boy. I hope you feel better soon and I will follow you so I know what to expect. Thank you for sharing. 

[gator div 065]

Hi everyone,

When I dropped off my Daughter a week before christmas at a Hotel I cried and I stood tall and told her to show the Navy what a great person they are getting.  Yes let them see you cry and that you stand behind them and are proud of them.  But I would suggest to start writing letters lots of them they will need them to make it though.  I was able to talk to her last night for 20 mins and already I hear the change in her a stronger person, she is half way threw and It hurts and I worry still, I think about her all the time. She said it is so hard there but she know's they are training to protect there country.   : )

[marlena]

My son was stoic when he left.  But as a Mom, I could see through it.  He had a mix of excitement and nervousness.  We are very close, so I'm sure there was a bit of Mom separation anxiety as well.  However, I did not cry in front of him.  I wanted him to feel nothing but support.  He knew and still knows that he and my daughter are my whole world.  As a single mom, I have been their mom and dad, and they know me as well as I know them.  I know what you mean about seeing your little boy.  That's EXACTLY how I have seen my son.  This is what I posted as my Facebook status the day he left:

Saying 'so long' to your kids is never easy. I know that my little boy will come back forever changed. Of course I'm proud of him. But idk, its still hard and hurts. I love him so much. But my child is now a man. And its hard to let go.

 

 

[janetthomp]

You cant help but cry....it is gut wrenching and I thought I was prepared....My son cried a little but mostly his dad, girlfriend and I did...I have cried every day....Nothing could prepare me for not talking to him...His last phone call was awful....He hasn't even been gone a week....I tried to be strong but We all lost it...Hope it goes okay for you!

[Steph68]

My son leaves today, 1-23-12, also.  He will stay tonight in a hotel in San Diego and then will be on his way tomorrow.  How is your son handling it?  I thought I would be strong, but just fell apart yesterday.  I keep telling myself 8 weeks isnt long.  

[mjlitte]

My son left 1/18. It was so hard that first day, especially waiting for the call. You try to be so strong and totally breakdown after. I thought it would be easier. We have 3 other children at home, seeing how upset they were made it ten.times worse for myself. It took about 4 good days of on and off crying. Today is 6 days in and I can actually type on here and not feel so sad. People do tell you how you should be so proud....Of course you are, just so damn sad at the same time. I am awaiting the box nd hopefully get the address at some point too. Before we know it. It will be graduation day :)

[JT's Mama]

Whats helping me get through each day is that I can't wait to see the pride on HIS face, the pride HE feels on graduation day.  That will make it all worthwhile :}