As far as the first call...they are NOT guaranteed to call. Most get 3 calls: the "I'm here" call, the "I'm still alive" call (3 weeks) and the "I'm a Sailor" call (after Battlestations)...some only get the last one, some get all, some get more....depends on the division, RDC and the rct. Watch for the 847 area code and the id is usually payphone...occ it is withheld or restricted. Sometimes they get a quick info call the first week or two...the id is US Government then. They all need calling cards...it eats up 30 minutes to just make a call from a payphone....so they need a bunch of minutes. They can buy calling cards at the NEX. If you send them one ...make sure it is activated first (saves time) When you get your first call DO YOUR BEST NOT TO CRY…your rct will be emotional and most likely will be tearful and if they’re not, they will be if you are and then you’ll waste valuable talking time crying. Let them talk…they don’t get to talk much at boot camp, have questions and a pen and paper by the phone to jot down what they say. When they call and you hear their sweet voice…everything you wanted to ask will go out of your mind. If they are upset..just reassure them, let them know that it will get better, it is only a few weeks and after boot camp it is MUCH better. Tell them you love them, yes you do miss them but are looking SO forward to seeing them march through those doors at PIR. Then, hang up and come on here and cry and shout and be happy that you heard from your rct !!! In the Navy, "no news is good news." They are allowed to contact you almost immediately if something goes wrong, and if they cannot, the Navy does. It was just over five weeks from the time my son (JessicaB SailorMom's) left home and his first call, four weeks is typical.

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One thing to add to this is that occasionally the rcts get a quick "information" call during the first few weeks. The id is "US Government" then and area code still "847". If your rct is in the 800 divisions, IT, CTT, CTI (any job that handles confidential info) have phone numbers, addresses of references, scout masters, teachers, employers, friends, etc. by the phone.

Usually this call is short and sweet but sometimes the RDC will let them chat a for a few minutes. Have questions by the phone that you need to ask....have these ready for the 3 week call as well.

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Also, if you miss a call :-(...never call the number back. If you were to call back and an RDC answers it...could mean trouble for your recruit.