What to expect at Commissioning

[my2sons]

My son is in OCS class 20-10A and I was hoping some moms from any earlier class has any info to share about this special time.  Since we need to make hotel reservations, how many people can we include at the ceremony? I heard something about the evening before meet and greet but does that only include parents?  Any info would be appreciated.  I'd like to start the hotel search soon,  being optimistic that shin splints won't cause him to roll.  Thanks

[pgrlisa]

My2sons

Congratulations on your son's upcoming commissioning! My daughter graduated with class 18-10 in June. As far as the hotel, the Navy Lodge is nice, reasonably priced and on base, so it's close to the events. There are also plenty of choices in and around Newport. You can bring as many people as you want, there is no limit. The Hi Moms event is open to all, I believe, but check with your son. Ours was a cocktail party, but each class designs their own. That's on Thursday night. Thursday afternoon is Pass in Review. This is less formal, but no less impressive. And graduation (Commissioning) is Friday morning at 0900. Our class also did a family fun run on Friday morning (0500), followed by a demonstration of their "beating" and chow hall routine. The run is open to anyone, but it's far from a walk in the park. They run at about 6 MPH for 1.5 miles. Slow for them, not so slow for me! After graduation are pictures, and first salutes.

I hope this helps. I'm sure other moms will chime in with their experiences. And you can probably check your class' group page in the OCS Graduates group.

Lisa

[my2sons]

Thanks so much for your input. I'll get hotel rooms booked soon. My son said nothing is organized yet but I'll pass on an early run. I was wondering how to find an OCS Graduate group? Is is a facebook thing, I'm not computer proficient? Thanks again and congratulations on your daughter's commissioning in June.

[pgrlisa]

my2sons - go to the Groups page on this site and look for OCS Graduate Moms. You can do a search for it. Once there, look for a group for your son's class. If there isn't one, start one!

[TrekkieDad]

Our son was commissioned two years ago, so a few things may have changed. We saved a little money by staying closer to Providence and renting a car. Prices were pretty high in Newport. The two events we attended were Hi Moms and the graduation. (Having flown in from the west coast, the other Friday morning events were just too early for us.)

Our son had to purchase tickets for the Hi Moms (ours was at the Officers Club). It was a reception with heavy hors d'oeuvres. The OC's put on a demonstration of their training, followed by a multimedia show of some of the "highlights" of their training.

Graduation was moved indoors due to rain earlier in the day. During the ceremony, there was at least one moment where all the participants stood still, and spectators were allowed to move about them and take photographs. Afterwards came official photos and first salutes.

After that, our son couldn't wait to get as far away from Newport as possible. He came home for a week and returned to Newport for SWO school.

[Sue]

My son graduated in February, and we stayed at the Navy Lodge. It was nice being right on base as the day we arrived (Wednesday) Newport got hit with more inches of snow than I can remember. We were lost in a blizzard and all I wanted to do is see my son! I know a lot of people also stayed at the Best Western which is right outside of the base (about a mile away). With the weather being so bad, and so many people not being able to make it in they were almost going to cancel PIR on Thursday afternoon. Thank goodness they didn't and held the ceremony for those of us who were able to make it. At graduation/commissioning the Admiral that was to speak was not able to make it in from California, although no one would have known and I don't think it mattered who talked you were just so thrilled for this day. My son was in 09-10 which was the first class that started the new format and I am sure things have changed even since then when I read other people's recap of the events. It is one of the most rewarding, joyful, moment of pride we have ever experienced. Best of luck to your son!

[Patrick's Mom]

My son is in OCS class 20-10B. His graduation (cross my fingers) should be Sept. 10. I am not sure if that is when your son graduates. I just called today to reserve a room at the Navy Lodge... but they are booked that weekend. The woman at the Navy Lodge told me there are other hotels around the base in the Newport area.
My son told me he did not think there was a limit on the number of people who could attend the Meet & Greet, but the organizers are trying to get a head count to prepare. He also said he would have tickets for immediate family, but his uncle's family may have to purchase tickets separately. I also have tons of practical questions similar to yours. So, I hope this limited information helps you a bit. Good luck & congratulations to your son.

[my2sons]

Hello, Andrew is 20-10A and my fingers are crossed too for Sept.10th. This is the last of the really tough weeks coming up. I booked 3 rooms at the Holiday Inn one mile from base. We have a lot of family going and will do what it takes for sleeping. Only booked 1 night(Thursday). Looking forward to the Hi Moms( looks like a cocktail party Thurs from 5:30-7:30 but he said everyone can go, just need to buy tickets. Waiting for a time on Pass and Review earlier on Thurs. so we know when to get on the road. What a journey this is and congratulations and good luck to Patrick.

[Goldie]

Hello, my son was in 18-10, and the entire graduation was more impressive that I had imagined it would be.... Take your
camera and take lots of photos, then you will be able to feel all the emotion and pride that you witness
as your LO , family and friends witness his/her incredible success. I think "the more the merrier" for
your son/daughter to know just how much we all appreciate their commitment, dedication and service
for all of us.....Best of luck