Hello I have not been on NFMs in a very long time. My son went with the ship when it was deployed with a injured ankle. He stayed on untill first stop and had it xrayed was told it was broken and was sent back to VA . Norfolk doc said it wasnt broken...has been in physical therapy ever sence then about a mth ago they decided to do surgery. The surgery was friday. He is now is not attached to the ship anylonger but when he is all healed up he wants to be attached to the Donald Cook again! He is really bored to death on Limited duty.
Hello, ladies! It's been awhile since I've checked in, but I've enjoyed catching up. My sailor's 'going fishing' very soon. He's a Watch Captain and was excited to be chosen for Rapid Response Team. Getting ready to take advancement exam, hoping for PO...(fingers crossed) He feels honored to be an escort to the Enterprise on their final cruise before decom.
pjhhern-My daughter is a CS on the George Washington! Maybe they will meet up sometime. Of course the ship is HUGE and there are several different galley crews so they might never even see each other. She is enjoying Japan and looking forward to deployment. Make sure you son brings some warm clothes, it's really cold there!
Our son, Kyle is.deployed with the USS Enterprise. He was placed in the Officer's Wardroom, apparently that is the best place to be. He likes it thus far because he doesn't have the long, long days and gets a chance to work out now. For a guy who received a nomination to the US Naval Academy to now be working in the Officers galley, interesting. Long story about the nomination, he can still apply again if he wants to. Though pretty sure he won't, may try for STA-21. He and his wife, Kelsey have to do what is beat for them as a young couple. They are both 19 and have a great future to look forward to. She is taking on-line college classes while he is deployed. She is home with us which works for all of us and eases his mind.
Hoping all your Sailors are doing well, keeping all in thoughts and prayers.
My daughter is also in the Officer's Wardroom. She loves it but as they are preparing for inspections and deployment the whole ship is working lots and lots of hours and are super tired.
My son Timothy is on the Enterprise...working long nights in the foward galley... He is with the strike squardon vfa-211 he is one of 3 cooks for them....but while they are on the ship he has to be in the galley for now.!he loves it though... he likes working nights!
For what I understand there are others who have to work in the galley's at some point while there. So far, things are going well which is good to hear. Counting down the days.
Yes, the "Big E" has over 300 Marines. There could be more now though, that was before they left Norfolk. We were on the boat when they started coming aboard with all their gear. I have a few pics of them, they mustered in groups as well. They probably call it something different though. Lol
They are having, well already had a big gig tonight, Diego had to work it. He will be taking a tour on Friday and looking forward to seeing some of the country. He surprised Kels this morning, he woke her up which was great! She wasn't expecting a call from him. Hoping he is able to take lots of pictures! We have friends that have cousins who have a place in Greece and go each year for the summer. Her daughter has gone a couple of times, I have seen some beautiful pictures of the land.
Lauren, Yes the ship is there. I am not sure what town they are near though. They ferry everyone to the land as the ship is out on the water. Diego won't be home for months yet, there are reports out there how long his ship will be out and about. Hope Niko gets what he wants, then again, it really is what the Navy needs are. Best of luck to him.
Well, an update on how our Sailor has had a great time with the sightseeing tour he and a buddy too on Friday. They got to see just about everything, sure can't wait to see photos. He went out on Thursday with some single guys, well let's just say it wasn't his cup of tea. Over all, great experience in Greece and right now he is sleeping. He calls Kels when he can and she let's us know what is going on. One perk having her home with us. Love it!!
Well, the "Big E" has left Greece. Not sure where they are heading, hoping they have safe travels. Glad all those aboard her were able to enjoy Greece. They are posting pictures while there and Wow!! Such cool pictures!!! Wonderful weather and history. Can't wait to see all of Diego's pictures. He will do an awesome slide show when he gets home.
We had the weekend with our son after PIR. He didnt fly to S. C. Untold Wednesday, so it worked out well for us. Our son didn't start out doing Culinary.
Nancy, I went to my SR's PIR and he didn't go straight to FT Lee afterwards. He spent about ten days at Greta Lakes then went to Ft Lee. I was able to spend the whole weekend with him. Meh had to go back to the barracks at night but I picked him up every morning. I Stayed until Monday so I kept him as late as I could on Sunday. Went down to Chicago and the Navy Pier. Had a great time. My mother in law flew out for it too and my SR really enjoyed it. He was able to get his phone after he checked into his temporary barracks and we bought him a new laptop.
I think my son will end up in Va. His recruiter told him he would stay in the GL or CA or VA. He said he was pretty sure he would stay in GL. I told josh not to bet on it. I am glad I read that the class is now in Va. That means I can drive up there on the weekends. We Live in NC. I have a friend that has a house in Norfolk- so it really would work out well for our family. I hope he is not too disappointed as he wanted to go to Calf.
Lauren and Johanna- that you so much for the reply- I am gonna be proud of him no matter where he goes- At the time being he is single ( fingers crossed he says that way ) So- wait and see seem like what we will be doing. at this time... I am praying he makes it. He has had a very rough first 3 weeks.
My son attended the school in VA. He found it very different than a Navy base. They have different rules than Navy. He did not like his time there but knew that it was a short stay to begin his rate. He is now in San Diego and currently on deployment. It took a little getting used to being on deployment, but after a few monthes he has settled in the routine of daily life. I encourage you and family members to write letters, send care packages. This will keep them motivated. I wish the best for all the CS. They have a great job that keeps all the other Sailors going day in and day out.
More private group so that we can talk more freely about our sailors....... I will fancy it up tomorrow.... anyone want to be co- admins - to field request...make sure they are legit. Any help would be great.
Yep, keep focused on PIR!!! It will be an amazing and unforgettable day for everyone!!! Take lots of pictures together too. Our son didn't start out in this rate, so not sure how things work as to when they leave for A school. We had our Sailor during the day over the weekend, he had to report back each night. He didn't leave Chicago until Wednesday for his A school at the time. Long story, truly a journey for my family. Things don't always work out the way you want them to. Anyway, enjoy the ride!!!!
My husband just left for GL on the 24th. His rate is CS. I just found out that the A school has been changed to VA instead of GL. They are still using the handouts with rate info at MEPS saying it's GL!
We are both born and raised in Oklahoma, where I currently live.
This is our first time being apart for more than 3 days, also! Yikes!!!
I'm really nervous about everything because I know how unexpected it all can be, that's military life! Any advice or input is appreciated :)
Welcome Skyla, I agree that you need to join your PIR group. It will help you get through the upcoming weeks. Our son has been in since September 2010, though he didn't start out in CS. Long story, but he went to VA. for 'A' school. It is a new area on Ft. Hood base and it is really nice. The Navy and Air Force share their area. It is an Army base and rules are different, remember our son didn't start with CS, so he was already used to another rate and when he got to Ft. Hood he was put back in regards to what he could and could not do. It really stunk, but he.got through it. He drove his truck there, but couldn't drive it. They allowed him to go and start it for ten minutes each week. It was stored in an area on base. Different rules to follow, but everyone gets through it. Our son had 32 people in his class. Each class is different and mixed with Army, Navy, Air Force so he will work with many others. Hang in there, you will get through all of this just as your SR will. So much to look forward to, let us know when you have questions!!!! Welcome to the Navy rollercoaster, hang on and enjoy the ride!!!!
He has only been gone since the 24th and I was surprised to have already received his box yesterday afternoon but I know it will be a while longer until I get the form letter. I'm already looking at flight + hotel packages for PIR (mainly because I've never flown or traveled out of state alone so I am curious about how much it will be) and every roudtrip plus 3 night stay is around $800 so far. Wow!!!
Thank you for the replies! I will keep everyone posted when I find out more! :)
I will be flying from Oklahoma. Regarding the discount for PIR or military, is it better to book when I fly in or online? I wanted to get something in advance so I don't risk them being full when I get there Thursday night but there isn't any option online for PIR. Just trying to figure out the best way to go about it! Thanks for the input :)
We drove from our hometown in MI. to PIR. We are less than six hours away so it worked for us. We stayed at the Ramada Inn, they did the Meet and Greet. We had a great time meeting many moms from this site! Wonderful people, Navy families. You will find that out, enjoy getting to know many. We also took the shuttle service, be in the lobby early though. It is much easier than driving your car. Enjoy every moment!!
I don't think I will have enough time off of work or class to make the drive from Oklahoma. Plus going by myself, I would hate to fall asleep! haha I'm the best at road trips although it would probably save some money :)
I got my husband's address today from the recruiter before I got my form letter but he said this is the permanent address/ship and he will PIR on 6/22 as well! I can't wait to talk to and meet with family members who also have a SR in the same DIV :)
There is a great group called Boot Camp Mom's that was so helpful while my son was going through boot camp. a lot of questions were answered in the group. I had many that first month he was gone.
My son is on deployment and is on his first CS assignment. He says he likes what he is cooking and has perfected Turkey Ala King. He graduated from the morning routine of breakfast to trying new things. I enjoy hearing about what he is creating and serving. Anyone else heard from there son or daughter in the CS field?
Karen, I hear from my CS son every now and then. He's out on a trip right now so we rely on the boat's Facebook page to keep us updated on where he is at and he posts on his page too. He just got his shellback yesterday. He is really enjoying it!
Refresh my memory Lauren, he's on the ship that is decommissioning right? I'm guessing that's the only reason they'd be moving people around when their 4 years isn't up?
My son is enjoying his ship and Hawaii so far! Of course he wishes family and friends could be there too! but he has made some great friends already and seems to be settling in. They are actually out and about right now, his ship was in the news today! So cool to see that! After only a few weeks of being there, he was already asked to move up to the ward room!! So after some training, he will be cooking for the big dogs! Pressure!!
I miss him SO much but we communicate every day when he is in port =) 10 days of nothing and we'll hear from him again, can't wait!
My CS is in Japan, she was made watch captain less than 6 months after arriving. She loves it but misses home. Getting ready to be out soon for the first time for longer than two weeks so she will be busy busy. We text almost everyday and talk when in port at least once a week. Hoping she can come home for Christmas.
Happy Mother's Day!!!! Hoping we can hear from our Sailors!!! Our Sailor is out on the waters right now, he has been busy. He works the Officer's Ward room and has a chance to get to know them and vice versa. He gets to supervise those who rotate through, FSA's they are called. He works right along with them, they work long hours and do their job well. He gets time to relax and work out which is good. His wife is home with us, which is good. She keeps us updated with what is going on, she hears from him quite often.
Welcome to the newbies. Hang on and enjoy the ride!!!!
Congratulations to you and your Sailor Nancy!!! Being on 'hold' means they are on 'hold' until they get enough people to make a class to start. I have not heard of CS's being placed on hold, but I guess it can happen for all rates. He will 'class up' soon I am sure. You do know that CS school is at Ft. Lee, VA. It is a new facility and really nice. It is an Army base, different rules too. Not like Navy, they share with the Air Force. It all works. Best of luck!!!!
Nancy, glad he had a tour of the area he will be going to. In regards to rules, our son didn't start out in CS, so he was already past the 'phases' when he arrived and had to start all over. He drove his truck and couldn't drive it. He had to park it, he was allowed to go once a week to 'start' it for 'ten minutes' and that is it. It was hard for him to have to begin at phase one when he had been in for some time already. Overall, things worked out, he came in second in his class and moved on to fleet. He works in the Officer's Ward currently, he was 'requested' there as well as another area that he had worked before. The chief wouldn't allow him to go to the other area, so OW it is. Our daughter-in-love hears.from him almost every day, she is home with us so it works out well for us. I wish all the best for your son and all those getting through the program!!
Question for the Veteran Moms..... My son will be leaving Tuesday for Basic. After that he will be going to Ft Lee for CS school. What is the difference from being on a Navy base A school to an Army base? What will the rules be? Can they take their cell phones, laptops or other electronics? No vehicles either?
snj, I can't answer that as our son didn't start out in CS. When he received his orders to go, he had to drive his truck. Once there, he had to park his truck and was only allowed to start it for ten minutes a week. There are certain 'phases' they go through, our son having already gone through them, had to start at phase one which is they have to wear their uniforms, can't leave base, can't drive, etc. The Army has different rules and procedures than the Navy, I don't remember what they all were. Our son wasn't a happy camper though, he was past where they were and had to do things over. He took his cell phone, didn't have a laptop or other electronics. One piece of advice, make sure they LOCK up EVERYTHING!! There are sticky fingers everywhere, doesn't matter either, they will take anything and everything. The AIr Force is also there, they have great arrangements, as our son told us, 'they take good care of their people.'
Thank you Moms for your answers! Nancy good luck to your son and I look forward to hear how things are going for him. Sharon did your son like the school?
snj, The school is state of the art, so he liked that. He did well and came in second in his class. He didn't get his choice as far as his dream sheet, to the needs of the Navy they always say. He is stationed out of Norfolk, VA. deployed currently.
OMG hes a Sailor (div180)
Hello I have not been on NFMs in a very long time. My son went with the ship when it was deployed with a injured ankle. He stayed on untill first stop and had it xrayed was told it was broken and was sent back to VA . Norfolk doc said it wasnt broken...has been in physical therapy ever sence then about a mth ago they decided to do surgery. The surgery was friday. He is now is not attached to the ship anylonger but when he is all healed up he wants to be attached to the Donald Cook again! He is really bored to death on Limited duty.
Mar 5, 2012
Ellen B
Hello, ladies! It's been awhile since I've checked in, but I've enjoyed catching up. My sailor's 'going fishing' very soon. He's a Watch Captain and was excited to be chosen for Rapid Response Team. Getting ready to take advancement exam, hoping for PO...(fingers crossed) He feels honored to be an escort to the Enterprise on their final cruise before decom.
Mar 8, 2012
Cheryl
pjhhern-My daughter is a CS on the George Washington! Maybe they will meet up sometime. Of course the ship is HUGE and there are several different galley crews so they might never even see each other. She is enjoying Japan and looking forward to deployment. Make sure you son brings some warm clothes, it's really cold there!
Mar 18, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
Hoping all your Sailors are doing well, keeping all in thoughts and prayers.
Mar 20, 2012
Corina
My daughter is also in the Officer's Wardroom. She loves it but as they are preparing for inspections and deployment the whole ship is working lots and lots of hours and are super tired.
Mar 20, 2012
dtarmy06
My son Timothy is on the Enterprise...working long nights in the foward galley... He is with the strike squardon vfa-211 he is one of 3 cooks for them....but while they are on the ship he has to be in the galley for now.!he loves it though... he likes working nights!
Mar 22, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
Mar 26, 2012
dtarmy06
Johanna... Yes most Carriers have marines on them...I know the Enterprise does!
Mar 28, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
They are having, well already had a big gig tonight, Diego had to work it. He will be taking a tour on Friday and looking forward to seeing some of the country. He surprised Kels this morning, he woke her up which was great! She wasn't expecting a call from him. Hoping he is able to take lots of pictures! We have friends that have cousins who have a place in Greece and go each year for the summer. Her daughter has gone a couple of times, I have seen some beautiful pictures of the land.
Mar 28, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
Mar 28, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
Mar 31, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
Apr 1, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
Our son went through Ft. Lee last summer and is stationed at Norfolk, VA. He is currently deployed with the USS Enterprise.
Any questions, jump on in and someone will give ya some answers.
Apr 4, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
Apr 5, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
Apr 12, 2012
Diann CS Mom
Hope this helps!
Apr 12, 2012
Suzanne_S07/DIV161
I think my son will end up in Va. His recruiter told him he would stay in the GL or CA or VA. He said he was pretty sure he would stay in GL. I told josh not to bet on it. I am glad I read that the class is now in Va. That means I can drive up there on the weekends. We Live in NC. I have a friend that has a house in Norfolk- so it really would work out well for our family. I hope he is not too disappointed as he wanted to go to Calf.
Apr 19, 2012
Suzanne_S07/DIV161
Lauren and Johanna- that you so much for the reply- I am gonna be proud of him no matter where he goes- At the time being he is single ( fingers crossed he says that way ) So- wait and see seem like what we will be doing. at this time... I am praying he makes it. He has had a very rough first 3 weeks.
Apr 20, 2012
Suzanne_S07/DIV161
Thanks Lauren- I am writing him and writing him and just telling him to push through..... All Go- No Quit!! and I LOVE YOU BIG TIME!
Hopefully he will start getting my letters soon.
Apr 20, 2012
Karen H.
My son attended the school in VA. He found it very different than a Navy base. They have different rules than Navy. He did not like his time there but knew that it was a short stay to begin his rate. He is now in San Diego and currently on deployment. It took a little getting used to being on deployment, but after a few monthes he has settled in the routine of daily life. I encourage you and family members to write letters, send care packages. This will keep them motivated. I wish the best for all the CS. They have a great job that keeps all the other Sailors going day in and day out.
Apr 22, 2012
Suzanne_S07/DIV161
Got my first call today!!
Apr 22, 2012
Suzanne_S07/DIV161
http://www.facebook.com/groups/394133367275038/
Ship7 DIV 161 PIR 5-25
More private group so that we can talk more freely about our sailors....... I will fancy it up tomorrow.... anyone want to be co- admins - to field request...make sure they are legit. Any help would be great.
Apr 23, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
Apr 25, 2012
Skyla (SHIP 07 DIV 191)
Hi everyone!
My husband just left for GL on the 24th. His rate is CS. I just found out that the A school has been changed to VA instead of GL. They are still using the handouts with rate info at MEPS saying it's GL!
We are both born and raised in Oklahoma, where I currently live.
This is our first time being apart for more than 3 days, also! Yikes!!!
I'm really nervous about everything because I know how unexpected it all can be, that's military life! Any advice or input is appreciated :)
Thanks!
Apr 27, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
Apr 28, 2012
Skyla (SHIP 07 DIV 191)
He has only been gone since the 24th and I was surprised to have already received his box yesterday afternoon but I know it will be a while longer until I get the form letter. I'm already looking at flight + hotel packages for PIR (mainly because I've never flown or traveled out of state alone so I am curious about how much it will be) and every roudtrip plus 3 night stay is around $800 so far. Wow!!!
Thank you for the replies! I will keep everyone posted when I find out more! :)
Apr 28, 2012
Skyla (SHIP 07 DIV 191)
I will be flying from Oklahoma. Regarding the discount for PIR or military, is it better to book when I fly in or online? I wanted to get something in advance so I don't risk them being full when I get there Thursday night but there isn't any option online for PIR. Just trying to figure out the best way to go about it! Thanks for the input :)
Apr 30, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
Apr 30, 2012
Skyla (SHIP 07 DIV 191)
I don't think I will have enough time off of work or class to make the drive from Oklahoma. Plus going by myself, I would hate to fall asleep! haha I'm the best at road trips although it would probably save some money :)
May 1, 2012
Skyla (SHIP 07 DIV 191)
I got my husband's address today from the recruiter before I got my form letter but he said this is the permanent address/ship and he will PIR on 6/22 as well! I can't wait to talk to and meet with family members who also have a SR in the same DIV :)
May 1, 2012
Karen H.
There is a great group called Boot Camp Mom's that was so helpful while my son was going through boot camp. a lot of questions were answered in the group. I had many that first month he was gone.
May 4, 2012
Skyla (SHIP 07 DIV 191)
I think I've got it all figured out now except for the rental car vs. cab situation. Thanks everyone again!
May 5, 2012
Karen H.
My son is on deployment and is on his first CS assignment. He says he likes what he is cooking and has perfected Turkey Ala King. He graduated from the morning routine of breakfast to trying new things. I enjoy hearing about what he is creating and serving. Anyone else heard from there son or daughter in the CS field?
May 8, 2012
Diann CS Mom
May 9, 2012
BurstingwithPride
Refresh my memory Lauren, he's on the ship that is decommissioning right? I'm guessing that's the only reason they'd be moving people around when their 4 years isn't up?
My son is enjoying his ship and Hawaii so far! Of course he wishes family and friends could be there too! but he has made some great friends already and seems to be settling in. They are actually out and about right now, his ship was in the news today! So cool to see that! After only a few weeks of being there, he was already asked to move up to the ward room!! So after some training, he will be cooking for the big dogs! Pressure!!
I miss him SO much but we communicate every day when he is in port =) 10 days of nothing and we'll hear from him again, can't wait!
Enjoy the day everyone!
May 10, 2012
Corina
My CS is in Japan, she was made watch captain less than 6 months after arriving. She loves it but misses home. Getting ready to be out soon for the first time for longer than two weeks so she will be busy busy. We text almost everyday and talk when in port at least once a week. Hoping she can come home for Christmas.
May 10, 2012
Diann CS Mom
May 11, 2012
Corina
She's on the McCampbell. She also got there in November. When did your son graduate from A school? I wonder if they went to school together.
May 11, 2012
Diann CS Mom
May 11, 2012
Corina
She must have graduated a couple of weeks before he did cause she arrived in Japan early November.
May 11, 2012
Diann CS Mom
May 11, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
Welcome to the newbies. Hang on and enjoy the ride!!!!
May 13, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
May 19, 2012
snj1959
May 19, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
May 22, 2012
snj1959
Question for the Veteran Moms..... My son will be leaving Tuesday for Basic. After that he will be going to Ft Lee for CS school. What is the difference from being on a Navy base A school to an Army base? What will the rules be? Can they take their cell phones, laptops or other electronics? No vehicles either?
Thanks,
May 23, 2012
dtarmy06
yes they can have their cells phones and computers.... vehicles i dont know about....
May 23, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
snj, I can't answer that as our son didn't start out in CS. When he received his orders to go, he had to drive his truck. Once there, he had to park his truck and was only allowed to start it for ten minutes a week. There are certain 'phases' they go through, our son having already gone through them, had to start at phase one which is they have to wear their uniforms, can't leave base, can't drive, etc. The Army has different rules and procedures than the Navy, I don't remember what they all were. Our son wasn't a happy camper though, he was past where they were and had to do things over. He took his cell phone, didn't have a laptop or other electronics. One piece of advice, make sure they LOCK up EVERYTHING!! There are sticky fingers everywhere, doesn't matter either, they will take anything and everything. The AIr Force is also there, they have great arrangements, as our son told us, 'they take good care of their people.'
May 23, 2012
snj1959
Thank you Moms for your answers! Nancy good luck to your son and I look forward to hear how things are going for him. Sharon did your son like the school?
May 24, 2012
Sharon ~ K's Mom
snj, The school is state of the art, so he liked that. He did well and came in second in his class. He didn't get his choice as far as his dream sheet, to the needs of the Navy they always say. He is stationed out of Norfolk, VA. deployed currently.
Keep us posted on your Sailors!!!!
May 25, 2012