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Comment by Ellen on August 24, 2011 at 8:15am

I would say the homecoming dates are more volatile than PIR dates, just because it depends on so much. Right now the date is the same as it was when they left, but it hasn't been confirmed. The latest I've heard is that it won't be confirmed until the CO turns over in November, my husband told me that, I don't know how true anything is though. We also have to buy airline tickets, and I'm trying to surprise my husband by finding a house and having us moved into it before he gets home, so it's frustrating to not know a date or be able to plan.I guess you could also buy the refundable tickets and then switch the date if needed.

 

As for the actual day, I believe they make exceptions because they know so many people will want to see the homecoming. You may need to get a guest pass at the Pass and Id office or just have your drivers license. The Ombudsman or FRG should announce more exact details as it gets closer.

 

It's exciting to start thinking about it though, feels like it's just around the corner!

Comment by Rebecca4 on August 24, 2011 at 12:51am

Just wondering if homecoming dates are like PIR dates--could change?  Do out of state people wait until a month before to make airline reservations?  Also, a question on how do families get on base to watch the ships come in without their sailor?  Or, do you even go on base?  Never have done this before!

Comment by reignbowtopia on August 6, 2011 at 2:45pm

Is it better to use UPS rather than USPS?  Boxes aren't a problem for me, although the flat rate is usually slightly less expensive for similar sized boxes.   I run a  motorcycle dealership and I have a variety of boxes to choose from. 

 

I'm not very creative so my packages will probably be rather boring.  Since I am a motorcycle dealer I am trying to put together a motorcycle themed package.  Do you think the Sailors would think it was weird if I included like toy motorcycles?  I know space is limited so I'm trying to find items that would amuse, but not take up too much room.

Comment by Ellen on August 5, 2011 at 8:19pm

On the UPS website, you can request that a 10 pack of military care boxes can be delivered to your home for free. It takes about a week, and it's not required to use this type of box, but it's nice because there is a spot specifically for the address. They are also flat rate boxes that cost 12.95 to ship. There really is no guarantee on when they will receive the package because it depends on where they are, but since they're currently in port they're having mail call everyday. It's not really necessary to have insurance on the package unless it's irreplaceable, I just bought it for the first time when I sent my husband his new Nook.

 

There is a list of things you can't legally send (alcohol, drugs, adult items) in addition to what the post office does not let you send (aerosol cans, etc). It's definitely fun to put the packages together though! I've done a few themed ones since Father's day and 4th of July have passed, and will do a themed one for his birthday coming up!

Comment by reignbowtopia on August 5, 2011 at 7:58pm

ok, so being new to sending items I could use some advise.  Son recently joined the Truxtun crew.  I want to send him a couple of things.  Any suggestions on the most economical way to send package?  How about the fastest way to send package even if it cost more?  Pitfalls to be aware of or tips?

Comment by Ellen on July 24, 2011 at 10:14pm

That's how we felt about Dahlgren too! We lived there about 8 months and I was miserable for the first few months until we met people and made the most of it!

 

Right now we're in St. Louis with family for the summer, but I go to Mizzou and will graduate in December, so not too far from Sedalia!

Comment by Ellen on July 24, 2011 at 10:08pm

I'm sure it will work out! Norfolk gets a bad rap sometimes, but we lived there last year, and are looking for a house there now (we're in Missouri now while I finish school and wait out deployment). There are certain parts to start away from for sure, but if you're able to get on the list for Whitehurst Farms or Ben Moreell, those are nicer areas of Norfolk, and safe!

 

So are you moving from Dahlgren then?

Comment by Ellen on July 24, 2011 at 10:00pm

The schools in Va Beach are better than Norfolk! But the housing at Oceana is not the best, I knew a lot of people who lived in Wadsworth and they all decided to move out after a few months because of drama and it was so tight. There are other housing areas down there though also, and I've heard better things about them!

 

Definitely more communication than expected, that's for sure! My daughter is 3 as well!

Comment by Ellen on July 21, 2011 at 10:46pm

My husband has his laptop with him, but only uses it to write and to chat with us on webcam when they hit port. It's a good time passer though if he likes to play games or anything on it.

Major things before deployment that come to mind:

- car insurance: if he has a car with him, he can have it stored and pay way less. Even if he doesn't and is on your policy, call them and the rate will drop

- phone: can suspend service

- uniforms: have enough to last

Everything else we did before hand was related to myself and our daughter, so probably wouldn't apply to him. But for an extensive list, I know the fleet and family website and USAA have a good offering of things to do before they leave.

Comment by reignbowtopia on July 21, 2011 at 10:40pm

He is leaving to join the ship soon than I expected.  He doesn't have much with him, but I am wondering about his laptop.  Should I have him send it back to me until he is back in Norfolk?  He is single and just arrived in Norfolk Monday.   Any suggestions regarding what he should be taking care of before he leaves?

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