1st letter from bootcamp

Hi, my son started bootcamp on Jan 5th. Let me tell you it has been very hard for him.(and me!) It has only been two and a half weeks and he is lonely and exhausted! He says they are working them hard and he's so exhausted, it's hard to pass the physical fitness tests. Not to mention that they scream and yell at the recruits all the time--and even use the "F" word to them. I think this is uncalled for! They are scared enough being away from home and don't have to be treated so poorly! The Navy Recruiters lie to them and say they don't cuss as them, but its a lie and once our children are enlisted they find out the truth! I'm sure several new recruits are questioning "why" they signed up! I heard from other members that the first three weeks are the toughest. So hopefully things will get better for them. I hope your son will be fine.

They are breaking them down so they can build them up into the Navy way. If getting cussed at bothers your son that much he'll have a hard time in the weeks ahead. Tell him to do what he has to do, do it cheerfully and remember it won't last forever. You sent the Navy a boy. The Navy will send you back a man.

Hi Clarissa,
I got the exact same kind of letter - except my son said he knew he'd never make it 8 weeks. BUT he has 2 weeks down and no calls about issues home or to his recruiter...so he is venting to me but obviously sticking it out there. EVERYONE I know says that this is normal. When did he start and when is his PR scheduled??

Hang in there. At least we all have others to talk to going through the SAME anxiety, stress, and even fear.