My son will be going to Sasebo Japan also

[sharie.trumble]

Hello all.  My son just found out that after he is finished with his A school he is on his ay to Sasebo, Japan.  When he called he was so upset that I couldn't understand a word he was saying.  He is engaged to be married and that news just shattered their plans.  I am glad to know this is here for those individuals that don't know what to expect while their children and or spouce is overseas.  I have sooooo many unanswered questions as does my son.  Not even sure where to begin. 

Is there a time limit as to how long they can be stationed overseas?  If the Navy did not tell him he was going to be on a ship, does that mean he is land bound?  These are the silly questions I have.

All friends and answers are more than welcome.

[Anti M]

His orders will have the name of his command on them, whether it is a ship or shore duty.   The "time limit" is also printed on the orders.   When he was told he was going to Sasebo, they should have told him the command.  He should ask.

Unaccompanied tours can be two or three years.   

[navybluemom]

The news is a shocker when they say Japan - we moms were hoping for something closer!  However, this is the Navy and what they signed on for.  I have to continually tell myself this is the way it is, and it is my son's life, and his choices he made.  And I can't be more proud of him!  My son has been in Sasebo now for two months.  The good news is I hear from him often.  He has a Japanese phone with magic jack, which he says is the cheapest way to go.  His deployments are shorter, too, than if he were stateside.  He has had only good things to say about Sasebo - that helps that he likes it.  Sure, I would love to have him in San Diego, but for now this is what I have to accept.  Get on here anytime you need to and vent.  We all have our strong days and not-so-strong days - but we will all get through this.  Our kids will have some wonderful memories and have a chance to make a difference around the globe.  My son recently went underway so I am missing the phone calls from him.  My hubby tells me, oh, but what a great time he is having!  I really have to continually change my mindset and think positively.  Your son will come around, too, if he is having reservations at the moment.  I hope this helped somehow someway!  What ship will your son be on?

[JMill'smom (Tammy)]

My son has been in Japan for 2 years now. He still has 2 to go. He is stationed on the USS TORTUGA. It's hard and I would love to say that it gets easier, but the truth is that you just have to remember that they are taking the paths of there own lives now. We can not choose those paths for them. You will have periods of time that you will miss him like crazy and just want to see him for a few mintues. Then there are times that it's easier and you just know he will call when he can, and it's ok. Just don't feel like your alone on this because believe it or not there are thousands of mothers that feel the same way you do. Just get on here and chat and meet them, let them be your support group to help you through those not so great days. I will be the first to volunteer.

[Linda]

JMill'sMom is right.  You will find lots of support here.  My son has also been in Japan for two years and still has two more years to go.  I miss him very much and eagerly wait for his phone calls and emails.  My phone is with me at all times and is never turned off for any reason because I never know when he will call.  I've received calls from him at ALL hours of the day and night.  Only the people here know how I feel.  There is no one around me who knows, so I come here.  I don't tell my son what I'm feeling though because I don't want him to worry.  Navy for Moms is a great place.  Come here as often as you want or need to.

[sharie.trumble]

Question on orders. is anyone able to read the orders? I cannot figure out the duration of my sons station in Sasebo. I am also working with his student loan and they want to know. Any help in this would be appreciated.