We just returned from Rhode Island and the graduation ceremony lasted no more than 30 minutes. It was easy to leave right after the ceremony as the classes are not that large and there isn't much traffic. The traffic to the base the evening before for Hi Moms is terrible. Leave an hour before the event starts.
Just received news that I have grade 2 breast cancer. I need to be able to break the news to my son, but I would rather not do it over the phone. I live in TX & disabled due to Rheumatoid arthritis (not receiving disability $ currently). Wondering if the military / Navy has been known to help with things like this? Doctors are going to want to move pretty quickly with operating on tumor & beginning treatment & I would very much like to see my son to tell him in person before all that takes place.
Please if any answers would be greatly appreciated.
Happy Mother's Day! Just leaving Fresno now after a wonderful week with DS!! We helped him settle into his new house and his schedule even worked out that we got to see quite a bit of him between flights and classes. Saved my tears for the airport and then let them go. Visits are so precious! He gave me roses this morning too!
Hi Suzie, it is hard to plan for times together isn't it? We were really fortunate this time around. Your DS must be almost through, right? How are things in his neck of the woods?
CheriH, I think our kids know each other too! Wish I'd have had the chance to meet your DS while I was there, but we didn't end up going to base...lots of sunshine and home remodeling at his house instead.
Barb--I'm so glad you had a marvelous time! And yes, they do know each other. My DS speaks highly of yours. I was able to see mine and his wife briefly the weekend before Mother's Day. Made a quick trip to see my new grandbaby and DS and wife came up for a visit too.
Saying goodbye is always hard for me if I don't know when I'm going to see them next. Takes a couple extra hugs and goodbyes to actually leave. Fortunately my DS puts up with it!
Does anyone know the schedule of how often the aviators class up for the initial pilot instruction (API maybe?). My son is scheduled to graduate from OCS August 15th, but was originally slated to graduate July 24th. I didn't know his class up date even for the first graduation date, and I am guessing that it might or might not change based on how often the classes start.
After 9 months, the USS Carl Vinson has left Hawaii and is on its way to San Diego. Husband and I are flying down on Tuesday to help with activities at the squadron. Very excited! They left last August 22, it's been a long deployment. Just a few more days and the squadron will be home safe and sound. Our thoughts are with the family of VFA 94 for their lost in September on this deployment.
Okie Cowgirl -- i don't know that there is a "schedule" So much depends on the weather, the availability of civilian instructors, maintenance of the planes, etc. Our ds was told they "thought" he'd be starting the next phase of instruction "as soon as instructors are available" (supposed to be about 2 weeks), it's now about 5 weeks later & he still hasn't started because of maintenance & weather delays -- can't predict those
Got a text from DS yesterday with a picture of him in front of an F18...he had just finished his 1st solo flight! Hubby asked him to rate flying it on a scale of 1-10 and he responded with a 25! Guess he liked it! Can't believe he actually flew one. Seems like such a long time since he first decided that was his goal. Wow.
It's been an awesome two days! Yesterday was Change of Command and our DS flew in to North Island as the new skipper of HSC-15. It was very cool as he and the former CO led the eight helos in from the USS Carl Vinson flying in formation over the Coronado bridge. Today we went to the fly in of HSM-73 and to the arrival of the Vinson. Very emotional couple of days.
Helomom, congrats to your son, ours is leaving his squadron and going to a staff position. It will be a huge change for him and his family. After 14 years of flying, being behind a desk will be an adjustment. But he knows he needs to do this for his next career advancement.
Thanks everyone. This is a career milestone for DS. Paymaster - This may be our DS's last flying gig. Next he has to check off his joint tour as they didn't credit his tour in Afghanistan with ISAF as a joint tour. If that is positive and in the right place, with the right people, he could screen for major command. If the planets align... You know how it goes; needs of the Navy, hard work, Navy first-family second, and luck.
My DS is in Primary/Basic in Milton. He's kind of down in the dumps. So much time passes between his flights that he finds he has regressed by the time his next flight comes around, so he's not flying as well as he feels he can. he has only one more flight with his onwing before his sola and feels stressed. Now he's been sick and vomiting every day for 5 days, yesterday he say the nurse and grounded himself. he's no better today, so he's going to see the Dr which means he'll get grounded medically. So now he's worried that he'll really regress by the time he can fly again. just venting. This is the first time since he started NROTC that he has been upset. I know he'll be fine. Kay M, congratulations on your DS's accomplishments and winging. The E-6 is one of the planes my DS is interested in flying.
Hi Kay M, congratulations to your son. We were in Corpus last July for our son's winging. What a proud time it was. Enjoy!
helenp, I'm so sorry to hear about your son's struggles. My son had some doubts about his abilities early in training. I was a difficult time for him and me. I thank God it all worked out for him and I hope your son will also do well and feel better very soon.
My son is set to start Advanced at Corpus on June 29. What is the estimated timeline for his completion and winging? We would like to plan on being there but néed to budget and schedule around his and his brother's weddings this year.
I haven't been much of an active poster, but have been watching and reading of so many success stories. How wonderful--for our loved ones, for their moms and for us as Americans. We have so much for which to be proud and thankful!
helenp, my DS is in Primary at Milton as well. He was a commercial aviation major in college so he has quite a bit of flight experience from college, but that also included getting "weathered" regularly. He has hit much of the same luck (to comedic proportions) in Primary. All he can do is chuckle and let the frustration roll off his back. He can't change the weather--it is what it is. He was weathered again today--he had beautiful skies in Milton, but where he had to go had a "little thunderstorm" and after waiting an hour and a half, he said it hadn't moved so they gave up for the day. He's not scheduled tomorrow. Que sera, sera. Hopefully, your DS will soon come to realize that they are all suffering the same situations together.
helenp, I just wanted to add that I think Kay M is spot on--Primary isn't a "weeder" class. The Navy wants your DS to succeed and he will with all the support he has.
Thanks everyone for the support. Most of the time my son has a great attitude and rolls with the punches. I guess that's why this burp is more noticeable. I think getting sick pushed him over the brink. He went to the Dr today who diagnosed gastritis and gave him medication. Hopefully, once he feels better, he'll get his "can do" attitude back.
My two cents: He will make it! I'm pretty sure everyone has a story of waiting, cancellations, going med-down and feeling like they are getting behind. Our DS winged last July and is now in the FRS flying the F18. He still gets frustrated with cancellations but he and his wife keep a list of "reasons" for cancellations (so they can laugh about it.) The most recent was the air conditioning broke in the ATC tower and it was 105 degrees or something. Tell him to hang in there, keep praying and know that this is very normal!
Hi All,
My son is planning a wedding in Northern VIrginia this summer. He actually is legally married, having done so civilly prior to his deployment last summer. He and his wife now want to have a ceremony and reception to say their vows and celebrate with family and friends. The venue is set, located in Chantilly VA, close to Dulles airport. Does anyone know if there is a way to have a military ceremony off the base? I am trying to contact chaplains, however, have not been successful in getting this information. My son was based in Norfolk and is now in San Diego. So, coordinating this is a bit challenging. I did speak to one chaplain in Norfolk, but she was not very helpful. I read somewhere, (I don't remember where I stumbled on this info) that there are reserve units or honor guards around the country who will show up at military weddings and do the sword arch. does anyone know how this can be done?
Hello Everyone. My DS is in primary in Milton. He recently passed his solo and started acrobatics. He is getting airsick again. They are going to have the physiologist fly with him to try to figure it out because his airsickness is atypical. He said most people have problems with rolls, but he's having it with during g's. Has anyone's aviators had this, and if so, what helped? Thank you.
helenp -- i'm no help, except for prayers! Our ds is in primary in Corpus. He will hopefully begin acrobatics by the end of the month & i'm hoping he doesn't get airsick. Will be following your thread closely.
Thanks for your thoughts. I know he'll be OK. He got over the initial airsickness and I thought that was it. I must learn to not have expectations. He seems to have a good attitude. though, and will do whatever he needs to do. They're just challenged because he's not having it the way most experience it.
Prayers for carrier quals please...my husband and I are vacationing on the east coast looking at the night and praying for blue skies and soft landings.....
Praying as well, Barb...as Suzie said, fair winds and following seas and a relaxing vacation for you and your hubby! Please let us know when you get the news!
Well ladies, I have two weeks of work left before I retire. Thirty years and I'm done! My DH retired two years ago so we have a long list of projects to do here at the house and an equally long list of places to travel to. Here's latest from our DS's squadron. The adventure continues. http://www.public.navy.mil/airfor/hsc15/Pages/CO.aspx
Hi Suzie, still keeping my phone about two inches from my hand...they were held up in port for some mechanical issues, so now it's hard to gauge what the timeline will be. DS face-timed as they headed out to sea, it was really cool and I only let a few tears squirt out while talking to him! We're hanging in and just counting on all that training to see him through. Thanks for checking in...it's good to hear that there's a vacation in sight. Like you said, they haven't had a vacation besides coming home for the holidays in years. We had a great but really short time in Boston. It was nice to get away.
Helomom, such great news all the way around. Congratulations to you and for your whole family...these "kids" sure make us proud! Take care everyone.
James - Congratulations! My DS got back from 3 years in Japan in December & started as an instructor at Top Gun in late January. It's an extremely challenging job!
He's estimating being on the road about 200 days per year. Yes, 200. This is only the 3rd week he's been at home in Fallon since June 1st. I hope your DS doesn't have that type of schedule.
Anyway, it's a great honor (and career step if he stays in.)
Just joined this group today and would like to introduce myself. I am AJ's Mom and he is about to finish his 1st year of flight training in Pensacola. Praying he does his 2nd year in Corpus...only 3 and half hours from Austin! I work part time. I also have a grown daughter. I live in Austin, TX and would like to meet other Navy Moms in Austin; I'm not sure how to find them. Looking forward to meeting some other Moms!
Welcome proudmom, I am not in Austin, I'm in St. Louis, but my DS is also finishing Primary flight training soon in Milton and hopes to go to Corpus next. I wonder if it's possible they know one another. What squadron is he in?
sunnyday
Apr 21, 2015
Helomom
Apr 26, 2015
CheriH
Fantastic Helomom! Next best thing to being there.
Apr 26, 2015
Proud2bnavyMom
Just received news that I have grade 2 breast cancer. I need to be able to break the news to my son, but I would rather not do it over the phone. I live in TX & disabled due to Rheumatoid arthritis (not receiving disability $ currently). Wondering if the military / Navy has been known to help with things like this? Doctors are going to want to move pretty quickly with operating on tumor & beginning treatment & I would very much like to see my son to tell him in person before all that takes place.
Please if any answers would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Proud2bNavyMom
Apr 26, 2015
naturegirl1
when we had a death in the family, our son went to the chaplain and received alot of support and help from him.
I dont know if there is any way to communicate with that office directly.
Apr 26, 2015
Helomom
Apr 26, 2015
Barb
May 10, 2015
Barb
Hi Suzie, it is hard to plan for times together isn't it? We were really fortunate this time around. Your DS must be almost through, right? How are things in his neck of the woods?
CheriH, I think our kids know each other too! Wish I'd have had the chance to meet your DS while I was there, but we didn't end up going to base...lots of sunshine and home remodeling at his house instead.
Have a good week everyone!
May 11, 2015
CheriH
Barb--I'm so glad you had a marvelous time! And yes, they do know each other. My DS speaks highly of yours. I was able to see mine and his wife briefly the weekend before Mother's Day. Made a quick trip to see my new grandbaby and DS and wife came up for a visit too.
Saying goodbye is always hard for me if I don't know when I'm going to see them next. Takes a couple extra hugs and goodbyes to actually leave. Fortunately my DS puts up with it!
Is your DS's new house in Lemoore or Hanford?
May 12, 2015
Okie Cowgirl
Does anyone know the schedule of how often the aviators class up for the initial pilot instruction (API maybe?). My son is scheduled to graduate from OCS August 15th, but was originally slated to graduate July 24th. I didn't know his class up date even for the first graduation date, and I am guessing that it might or might not change based on how often the classes start.
May 31, 2015
Helomom
May 31, 2015
J/J Mom
Okie Cowgirl -- i don't know that there is a "schedule" So much depends on the weather, the availability of civilian instructors, maintenance of the planes, etc. Our ds was told they "thought" he'd be starting the next phase of instruction "as soon as instructors are available" (supposed to be about 2 weeks), it's now about 5 weeks later & he still hasn't started because of maintenance & weather delays -- can't predict those
Jun 1, 2015
jamielss
Jun 1, 2015
CheriH
Got a text from DS yesterday with a picture of him in front of an F18...he had just finished his 1st solo flight! Hubby asked him to rate flying it on a scale of 1-10 and he responded with a 25! Guess he liked it! Can't believe he actually flew one. Seems like such a long time since he first decided that was his goal. Wow.
Jun 4, 2015
Helomom
Jun 5, 2015
Barb
Wow! Congrats to everyone, what exciting times!
Jun 5, 2015
J/J Mom
So So exciting for all of you & your Navy families.
Congrats to all.
Jun 5, 2015
NYNancy
Jun 11, 2015
Paymaster
Jun 14, 2015
Helomom
Jun 14, 2015
Paymaster
Helomom.....Oh yes, Navy first, family second. How well we know. Good luck to your son in his new position. At least we get to have him stay in SD!
Jun 15, 2015
helenp
My DS is in Primary/Basic in Milton. He's kind of down in the dumps. So much time passes between his flights that he finds he has regressed by the time his next flight comes around, so he's not flying as well as he feels he can. he has only one more flight with his onwing before his sola and feels stressed. Now he's been sick and vomiting every day for 5 days, yesterday he say the nurse and grounded himself. he's no better today, so he's going to see the Dr which means he'll get grounded medically. So now he's worried that he'll really regress by the time he can fly again. just venting. This is the first time since he started NROTC that he has been upset. I know he'll be fine. Kay M, congratulations on your DS's accomplishments and winging. The E-6 is one of the planes my DS is interested in flying.
Jun 16, 2015
NYNancy
helenp, I'm so sorry to hear about your son's struggles. My son had some doubts about his abilities early in training. I was a difficult time for him and me. I thank God it all worked out for him and I hope your son will also do well and feel better very soon.
Jun 16, 2015
kaarinac
Jun 16, 2015
jsefamily
I haven't been much of an active poster, but have been watching and reading of so many success stories. How wonderful--for our loved ones, for their moms and for us as Americans. We have so much for which to be proud and thankful!
helenp, my DS is in Primary at Milton as well. He was a commercial aviation major in college so he has quite a bit of flight experience from college, but that also included getting "weathered" regularly. He has hit much of the same luck (to comedic proportions) in Primary. All he can do is chuckle and let the frustration roll off his back. He can't change the weather--it is what it is. He was weathered again today--he had beautiful skies in Milton, but where he had to go had a "little thunderstorm" and after waiting an hour and a half, he said it hadn't moved so they gave up for the day. He's not scheduled tomorrow. Que sera, sera. Hopefully, your DS will soon come to realize that they are all suffering the same situations together.
Jun 16, 2015
jsefamily
helenp, I just wanted to add that I think Kay M is spot on--Primary isn't a "weeder" class. The Navy wants your DS to succeed and he will with all the support he has.
Jun 16, 2015
helenp
Thanks everyone for the support. Most of the time my son has a great attitude and rolls with the punches. I guess that's why this burp is more noticeable. I think getting sick pushed him over the brink. He went to the Dr today who diagnosed gastritis and gave him medication. Hopefully, once he feels better, he'll get his "can do" attitude back.
Jun 16, 2015
CheriH
My two cents: He will make it! I'm pretty sure everyone has a story of waiting, cancellations, going med-down and feeling like they are getting behind. Our DS winged last July and is now in the FRS flying the F18. He still gets frustrated with cancellations but he and his wife keep a list of "reasons" for cancellations (so they can laugh about it.) The most recent was the air conditioning broke in the ATC tower and it was 105 degrees or something. Tell him to hang in there, keep praying and know that this is very normal!
Jun 18, 2015
Rosemarie
My son is planning a wedding in Northern VIrginia this summer. He actually is legally married, having done so civilly prior to his deployment last summer. He and his wife now want to have a ceremony and reception to say their vows and celebrate with family and friends. The venue is set, located in Chantilly VA, close to Dulles airport. Does anyone know if there is a way to have a military ceremony off the base? I am trying to contact chaplains, however, have not been successful in getting this information. My son was based in Norfolk and is now in San Diego. So, coordinating this is a bit challenging. I did speak to one chaplain in Norfolk, but she was not very helpful. I read somewhere, (I don't remember where I stumbled on this info) that there are reserve units or honor guards around the country who will show up at military weddings and do the sword arch. does anyone know how this can be done?
Jun 23, 2015
helenp
Hello Everyone. My DS is in primary in Milton. He recently passed his solo and started acrobatics. He is getting airsick again. They are going to have the physiologist fly with him to try to figure it out because his airsickness is atypical. He said most people have problems with rolls, but he's having it with during g's. Has anyone's aviators had this, and if so, what helped? Thank you.
Jul 21, 2015
J/J Mom
helenp -- i'm no help, except for prayers! Our ds is in primary in Corpus. He will hopefully begin acrobatics by the end of the month & i'm hoping he doesn't get airsick. Will be following your thread closely.
Jul 21, 2015
Paymaster
Sorry helenp....not help here, mine never got sick.
Jul 21, 2015
ulua
sorry Helen, this must be such a worry for you. I will pray for you and your LO. There are many highs and lows on this journey.
Jul 21, 2015
helenp
Thanks for your thoughts. I know he'll be OK. He got over the initial airsickness and I thought that was it. I must learn to not have expectations. He seems to have a good attitude. though, and will do whatever he needs to do. They're just challenged because he's not having it the way most experience it.
Jul 21, 2015
Barb
Aug 6, 2015
CheriH
Praying as well, Barb...as Suzie said, fair winds and following seas and a relaxing vacation for you and your hubby! Please let us know when you get the news!
Aug 7, 2015
Quilter
Sending Prayers Barb!!!
Aug 7, 2015
JudyM
Carrier Quals are enough to give parents gray hair. You just have to trust the system and the abilities of your pilot.
Aug 8, 2015
Helomom
Aug 10, 2015
Barb
Hi Suzie, still keeping my phone about two inches from my hand...they were held up in port for some mechanical issues, so now it's hard to gauge what the timeline will be. DS face-timed as they headed out to sea, it was really cool and I only let a few tears squirt out while talking to him! We're hanging in and just counting on all that training to see him through. Thanks for checking in...it's good to hear that there's a vacation in sight. Like you said, they haven't had a vacation besides coming home for the holidays in years. We had a great but really short time in Boston. It was nice to get away.
Helomom, such great news all the way around. Congratulations to you and for your whole family...these "kids" sure make us proud! Take care everyone.
Aug 10, 2015
Helomom
Aug 23, 2015
J/J Mom
James -- that sounds great! Congrats to him!!
Aug 24, 2015
Marianne
James - Congratulations! My DS got back from 3 years in Japan in December & started as an instructor at Top Gun in late January. It's an extremely challenging job!
He's estimating being on the road about 200 days per year. Yes, 200. This is only the 3rd week he's been at home in Fallon since June 1st. I hope your DS doesn't have that type of schedule.
Anyway, it's a great honor (and career step if he stays in.)
Aug 25, 2015
proudmom
Just joined this group today and would like to introduce myself. I am AJ's Mom and he is about to finish his 1st year of flight training in Pensacola. Praying he does his 2nd year in Corpus...only 3 and half hours from Austin! I work part time. I also have a grown daughter. I live in Austin, TX and would like to meet other Navy Moms in Austin; I'm not sure how to find them. Looking forward to meeting some other Moms!
Aug 29, 2015
helenp
Welcome proudmom, I am not in Austin, I'm in St. Louis, but my DS is also finishing Primary flight training soon in Milton and hopes to go to Corpus next. I wonder if it's possible they know one another. What squadron is he in?
Aug 29, 2015
proudmom
Just spoke with my son; he's in squadron six. Also, what does DS stand for?
Aug 29, 2015
Dawn
Aug 29, 2015
helenp
Mine is in Training Squadron 6. proudmom, I'll invite you to a private message so we can exchange info
Aug 29, 2015
proudmom
I'd like that helenp.
Aug 29, 2015
proudmom
i'd like that helenp.
Aug 29, 2015