Thanks, great info, belovedbyHim, and good to know. Hadn't heard this before! So he'd be shipped to A school right after PIR, but be on hold in GP, not Great Lakes, right?
Cimbry11, my future sailor is SW, too! He had to sign up as MM when he went through meps, but luckily, an SW position opened up. It was his top choice.
Thanks, great info, belovedbyHim, and good to know. Hadn't heard this before! So he'd be shipped to A school right after PIR, but be on hold in GP, not Great Lakes, right? (and just curious why sailors from the fleet would coming to school.)
Cimbry11, my future sailor is SW, too! He had to sign up as MM when he went through meps, but luckily, an SW position opened up. It was his top choice.
Catsandkoi-- Most likely yes he will be on hold at his A school. I'm not sure where that is for SW. My Bee is a BU and that was the procedure for their A school. (My guess is that it is similar for all of them.) Sailors from the Fleet are first since they are higher in rank and "More valuable asset" then Reserves since they are paid for every day they are "Active" and they don't want to pay them to just sit around. Then regular sailors in Alpha order by arrival date. At PIR you will have very limited time with your sailor. Plan not to sleep much if at all while you are there!! Sadly flying to visit in GP is tough! First no good airports-- Closest Major airport is New Orleans, flying to GP is EXPENSIVE!! then They may rank up but they are not usually granted overnight privileges so you have to meet them outside the main gate. and last but biggest is they don't know in advance when they might get to leave base!! My bee had 4 weeks that he could get off and 1 where he got weekend liberty off base and just when I decided to try and go visit he called to say he was starting class the next week,(He then got bumped 3 times!! ARGHHH) and would not have any time off base to see me! Very rarely will they get held at GL. It is usually because of lack of available flights- Weather delays. Of course this is Ma Navy and she is prone to change her mind at the very last millisecond!! Just memorize "Hurry up and wait" and "the plan is that whatever you plan, plan for it to change, unless you planned on it changing!"(Also know as "Plans.... We don't need no stinkin' PLANS!!" Just obey the plan though!!)
My Bee was Stationed in Sicily Italy for his first 3 years after A school. He loved and hated it! He chipped paint, fixed minor damage to walls and doors and basically stood watch at the gate a lot! He hadn't been to Combat training but he had to do guard duty since they were short on MP's and had LOADS of Bees with not much to do. He did enjoy the fact that he had access to the shop and he made several projects in his spare time! (Tardis bookshelf, Ships Wheel Shadow box for his dad, Coin rack, Wall shelf out of a piece of Sicilian Olive wood) After that he was sent to join a Battalion that had just left on Deployment. That kind of Stunk b/c he had to go to ECS (combat training there in GP) then report to his Battalion and he couldn't put in for leave with anyone, since he was no longer at his old duty station but not checked in to his new duty station either! On that deployment and the one he has coming up he has been dealing with pouring concrete. Lots and Lots of concrete!!! It is kind of humorous how much concrete work he is doing now!! He extended his sea duty for another 4 years so He'll be at the 9 year point when his contract is up. At that point he needs to decide if he wants to get out or put in another 11 for retirement. He likes what he's doing well enough and I guess he'll stay unless something happens that he wants to do more. He did just get OSHA certified and he's happy about being able to add Safety and Inspections to his resume. He's needing to get his Warfare pin to advance in his rating so that is his next goal!
belovedbyHim, that's quite a journey! When you extend your seaduty for 4 years, does that mean he'll be deployed the whole time? Also, is it true that seabees never set foot on ships and fly to where they're needed? (Did you visit him in Sicily?)
Sorry for the Delay cattsandkoi. I was running errands. No extending sea duty does not equate to deployment the whole time. It just means he will not get a shore duty assignment before then. Yes it is true that they almost never set foot on a ship. It is the Navy so Never say never!! As long as there is an airstrip nearby they will fly. And YES I went to Italy!! It was AMAZING!!! We were there nearly 3 weeks and I wished I'd had 3 months!! This is Cefalu (pronounced Shef-a-loo). It's on the Northern side of Sicily (Just over Mt Etna)!
Oh my gosh, that picture is beautiful! We're hoping our son is stationed somewhere fabulous. He'd love to be somewhere overseas. That long wait to find out where will be so hard!!!
catsandkoi--anywhere He goes you can find beauty. Also keep in mind that most duty stations change every 3 years. NOT Always though!! My DH was in the Navy when we first got married. He was Sent to Coronado for schooling after he got his commission and then all of his duty stations were in San Diego!! However we loved it there and I was so sad when we moved as civilians 16 years after we arrived. Your son needs to focus on getting ready for Bootcamp (Are you watching the Facebook bootcamp videos!!) and getting physically and mentally tough so that he can do well there. everything else after that is a complete crap shoot as far as location and timing.
BelovedbyHim, can you help me with the terminology? I thought he'd be stationed or based in one spot after A school for the 5 years he's enlisted. what is a "duty station?" Is that the same thing as where he's based?
He is running and doing situps, pushups every day. What can you recommend for getting mentally tough? I'll be sure he watches some of those videos if he hasn't already.
You were so lucky to be in San diego for so long! It is absolutely gorgeous there.
Prayers to you guys, loulou. Hopefully it will all come together for him by then! How far off the time is he right now? I'm also worried about my son's run time. He leaves in November, and he's under 16:10 right now, but not close to 12:15 yet.
catsandkoi -- Duty station the ship or base where sailors are stationed. Most Duty station assignments are 3 years long. (Most not all!) TAD- Temporary Assigned Duty- An assignment lasting 2-30 months at a command or a temporary assignment to a command for a specific job. Bees can be based at ANY US military base anywhere in the world. They are not normally based at the same base the whole time, HOWEVER since there are only 2 main Sea Bee bases in the US at this time, they often are only assigned to one of the 2 and may end up at the same place for the whole time. Yes, their Duty Station is where they are based. You might want to read the files to learn more of the Lingo. Your son should really work on the run. He wants to arrive at or below the limit to lessen the physical stress. Have him practice, Air Chair (Squats), push ups and sit ups as well. Better to arrive able to exceed the standards than to just squeak by.
To get mentally tough he would benefit from watching the videos, there are the "Official" ones as well as just a simple Google search will help, and realizing that they are not out to get him but need to break him down so he can learn to work as a team as a sailor. They all get yelled at. Nothing he will ever do, no matter how good will be good enough. I think they would even find fault with God, if they thought it would make him a better Sailor! You can't really train mental toughness, either you are resilient or you are not. That is what they are looking for as these kids go through this process.
Lastly, He HAS to keep his nose clean!!! Get good grades, don't make stupid choices (UA drinking, drugs, fights). I know several young people who were set to go then during their Senior Year they decided to "just Try" various things once and it screwed them up big time!! (Pregnancy makes BC really rough!!!) Just keep in mind that the Navy doesn't have to take you if you can't follow instructions!!
loulou-- welcome to the hive and Deep breaths!! They will really work him on the run! The RDC's are likely as frustrated with the recruiters as with him. It's good that he is determined. Hopefully he will get it down soon. My BU had Pneumonia and was on LLD when he got to his final run. He was cleared by medical that morning, Walked (walked/ran) back to the barracks to change into his PT Gear, Walked (Ran) to the gym and got there with less than 5 minutes to rest/recover before he had to take his final run before BS21! He made it by the aglets on his shoelaces! He was still sick but he managed to make it. We just passed the 5 year mark this last week (Aug 30) and yes the Bees are the place to Be!!
Thanks belovedbyHim! I'll get on him about running. (He's trying, every day. Not sure why he can't increase his speed.) He's already graduated, and he's a great kid. He's keeping his nose clean, and we're keeping him in bubble wrap so he doesn't get hurt!
Thanks so much loulou! We belong to the YMCA and I think I'm going to hire a trainer to work with him a few times at the track and figure out what he's doing wrong. (because anything I or his dad says means nothing.) I'm so glad I found this group. I feel the same way about the recruiters. "Don't worry about it." They haven't done PT with him at all! Thanks for the tips on breathing. I'm also going to have him start meditating for 10 minutes every day before he goes. I think it will really help with the stress. I wonder if he'd have the opportunity to spend 10 minutes a day doing that at BC? He leaves Nov 14 so we still have some time, but the window is closing!!
Loulou-- Don't worry about taking up space on here. It is good for folks to hear several different perspectives! Yes, the recruiters job is to get them to sign up so they promise the moon and smooth seas but reality is so very different!!
Catsandkoi-- if you haven't already done so you may want to join the DEP mom page. There are more folks there that have kids waiting to deploy and you may find that to be super helpful.
Finally, Yes Mom's know NOTHING!! Our young people seem amazed that we can walk, talk and breathe at the same time! However I'm here to tell you that they do grow out of it!! One day you'll hear them comment that you do/did know what you were talking about and you'll be overjoyed!!!
belovedbyHim I will find the DEP page. Great idea. And thanks for those videos! I knew they'd be screaming, but didn't expect the anger behind it. I hope he can handle it.
Catsandkoi-- That is the mental toughness I was referring to!! These videos will make BC easier for your recruit than it was for mine. we had no clue! BC is designed to force them to handle themselves well under all conditions. It is easy when things are going well but they are on a ship at sea or a base overseas and are their only source of help and rescue. They have to be able to keep their wits about them is insanely crazy stressful situations if they want to stay safe! BC is designed to sort that out. These groups may be helpful too: https://navyformoms.ning.com/group/deppersinbutnotyet
Join the first and last groups first. They'll help the most with getting ready to leave and then join the BC group once you are not so overwhelmed. You will also want to join your PIR group once you get the letter. Also if you are on FB you may want to join the FB equivalent of these pages. There is a TON of support info that just didn't exist even the 5 years ago that I started this journey and certainly none of it was here when my DH was in the Navy. I can't imagine how tough it was on Moms 30, 50, 75 years ago to have their sons run off to join the Navy! They had to rely on snail mail and if they were lucky an overseas phone call!! I don't know if I could take the heartache of not knowing!
Any other Gulf Port Moms worried about Hurricane Gordon? I live in California and glued to every technology thing I have. My son did say there is a 4:30pm Curfew for tonight.
I shouldn't be worried but it's kind of hard not be!
Yes Gidget I am very worried. Living in Indiana we never experienced anything like that and he has been in Gulfport for 3.5 years now and usually deployed when the storms come in but yes I have told him to keep me updated through this whole thing. It is hard not to worry. Which Battalion is your son in?
My son is with NBC 11... My son was stationed here in Sacramento with my husband and I. He was with NCB 18. This whole hurricane weather is a bit new to me and scary. I have been reassured that they are ok. Base is built on a Hill and as long as they follow the curfew rules and take care of their house and cars they way they are suppose to be.. then everyone should be good!
A Cat 1 Hurricane is Just a Big Thunderstorm. They will get lots of Rain and lots of wind but they should be just fine. I have friends and family down there who just park the cars in the covered parking, and put the yard stuff away but otherwise don't really do anything different. They have said that we have crazier weather here (CO) than a Cat1 storm there. Now Cat 2-5 they pay closer attention but they said a cat 1 is nothing big. I'm sure the base has been telling them for a few days what they need to do to get ready.
Yes, all is fine. The storm bypassed them. The base is built for that kind of weather but a momma still worries LOL. My son is in Battalion 133. He just got his 2nd class promotion and moved off base, he was so happy. He is doing great. Very proud of him and all the rest of them. We are going out there for Thanksgiving I can't wait, it has been awhile since I have had a hug from my boy.
Curious if anyone's sailor is a steelworker. That's my son's rate. (leaves for BC in November.) Curious what kind of deployments they've been on. (if you can say.)
Good morning Ladies - I'm on here so infrequently but I still get updates via email - catsandkoi, my son is a Steelworker (SW). It will be 5 years the beginning of October that he left for bc, so we've been at this awhile. He was assigned to NMCB1 in Gulfport upon completion of A school. They only deploy for 6 months at a time, and then they are home for a year before deploying again. He's been deployed to Okinawa (during a super typhoon), Rota (Spain), and Guam (during the crazy North Korea situation when he was threatening to test missiles that direction). He has been in Gulfport for Hurricane Nate last year and this most recent storm. They don't get too worked up about that stuff. Right now, he is in C school (back in Gulfport) taking classes to become an instructor. He should be finishing that up in November, I believe.
Thanks for sharing your experience, barefoot1. That all sounds amazing (and a bit scary.) He really wants to see the world, so I hope he has a similar journey. Has he mostly been responding to natural disasters? What does your son do when he's not deployed? Also, does he ever end up doing work that isn't steelwork?
So are you saying all SWs only deploy for six months?
Did you ever visit him anywhere he was deployed? Is there time for them to spend with you when they're deployed? Sorry for all the questions, just excited to find an SW mom!
I had plenty of questions when my "Bee" switched rates and became a Seabee, too! It's exciting and exhilarating and terrifying for us Moms - we raise our kids to become independent and strong, and then they go off and leave us! lol My son was not part of any of the groups that went to help with natural disasters, though he was put on alert last year when Florida was poised to get pummeled by whatever hurricane hit there. They have different jobs to do when they are at home port, some of which may have NOTHING to do with steelwork. Last year he helped oversee the gun range. It makes no sense to me, but I have learned to be prepared for anything and everything to change with the Navy.
It's my understanding that the deployment situation (of only being gone 6 months at a time) is that way for all Seabees, but I could be mistaken. I could have visited him but was not able to. I know quite a few Seabee Moms who have gone to visit their kids in Greece, Italy, Japan, Spain, etc... My son has gotten to see some really amazing things on his deployments - I encouraged him to take advantage of the opportunities presented and/or available to him while he's on this journey! He has developed some amazing friendships/brotherhood, not just with guys in his battalion but with guys in other battalions, too. Good luck to your son and please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns you may have!
Hey Catsandkoi-- Normal deployments for everyone are 6 months. They have been on extended deployments since 9/11 due to previous administrations draw-downs in personnel. Bees were mostly luck to still have 6 months.(though not always) You can try and visit your bee or Sailor when they are on deployment but it is not easy. Often they are not in a location that is particularly "Touristy" and they are not normally granted leave when they are. They get liberty (Time off) for a couple of days but the reality is they are there to do a Mission and that is their focus. They work long hours (14-24 hours at a stretch is not unheard of) and liberty is often spent catching up on sleep. Now it is not always that way-- sometimes it is just like having a 9-5 job just in a different country but they often don't know ahead of time what it will look like so making last minute travel plans overseas can get pricey! It is easier and less costly to visit if they are stationed overseas. They can take leave(vacation)during your visit and you would have more than a day or 2 together. Yes they often do stuff that has no bearing on their rate. When my Bee(BU) was stationed in Italy he was on guard duty (normally a MA rate) and he is a Range Master at his current duty station as a result of gaining that skill. Responding to Natural disasters is a tricky position. By law they cannot sen the military in to do a job that can be done by civilian sources even if the Seabees can do a better job for less. They also don't usually have search & rescue training since they are considered a combat unit. It is nuts I know but that is how government works. They do go on Humanitarian and good will missions though. Some DET groups may be sent to build/repair hospitals, schools, US government assets in other countries to help that country think well of America. They don't often go in and build housing following a hurricane or earthquake. Sad I know, but it's reality.
Thanks so much for your thoughtful answers, barefoot1 and belovedbyHim. I'm just so anxious to know what his life in the Navy will be like! Your information really helps. :)
catsandkoi-- I don't know your faith background but the verses from the bible that say"Cast your cares on Him for He cares for you"( 1 Peter 5:7) and "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life" (Luke 12:25-31) are so true!! If you are anxious before your son ships you will be the one who suffers. It's natural to be curious and excited and yes even a little concerned but just as I was encouraging your sailor to develop that mental toughness and resilience, you will want to work on finding a peace in the not knowing. It is not easy and we all still find ourselves "worried" and anxious (the North Korea kerfuffle for example!!) but I hope you will be able to find peace despite all of it! Have those tough talks now (what if somethings happens to us or to you... when do you want to be told bad/sad news....how do you want to be told) when he's still home and you can hug him after (to comfort your momma heart!!) but know that every experience is different too. We are here to support each other and yes sometimes we have to remind each other to but on our big girl Navy mom panties and move forward. I hope that we have helped you as you prepare for your Navy journey.
Thanks for the kind words, belovedbyHim. I am a chronic worrier and have been working on it! You're right, I'm just causing myself grief. I do need to have faith all will be well. As I'm sure you all know, it's just so hard to send your kiddo off to this really big endeavor without knowing exactly what they're getting into! But hearing everyone else's experiences has really helped. Thanks so much!
Barefoot1, I was thrilled to see your post. My son is still in BC, his PIR date is Dec. 7th. If all goes well, he is to be an SW as well. He originally wanted to be a seal, but alas, he is color blind. He has been welding for the last two years of HS and loved it so chose Seabees SW. He was slightly concerned going in he might not be in the fray of it all, so to speak, but from your post, It sounds like he will be quite occupied and most definitely in the thick of it all. Quick question: with his PIR date beings as it is, might he get to have leave for Christmas? I know I am jumping the gun a bit...just curious. Thank you!
Wow Skye, our boys are quite similar! Mine is also SW and color blind and spent several years in high school welding. Here's hoping to a great Navy career for both of them!
Exciting to see some activity here in the SeaBee Moms group. Thank you belovedbyHim for telling about your experiences with an active Seabee son! I was curious about those things also!
catsandkoi, I am not sure of my sons PIR date yet, but it could possibly be the same as yours. Or, it will be the week after, I haven't yet received a letter. :-)
My son is a CM and heading to A School in Port Hueneme after basic. Where is your sons A School?
Hi 2gooddogs! My son's ship date is 11/14. When is yours? He's been in DEP for almost a year, so I can't believe we're this close! A school for SW is in Gulfport. Praying he gets through basic. My stomach is churning because his best run so far has been 13:30. Hoping he can get it down before then!!!
catsndkoi My son is in Boot Camp now and tell your son not to stop running and exercising. I got very excited to get his form letter in the mail and a chance to see his hand writing and signs of life from him and on the same day (yesterday) I was heartbroken to hear how many family members got very emotional calls home saying they were not passing! My advice: practice, practice and practice...tell him to learn those chain of commands and the 11 general orders and get that run down. I am very stunned at the amount of SR that come home. Very best of luck to him.
Wow Skye, our boys are quite similar! Mine is also SW and color blind and spent several years in high school welding. Here's hoping to a great Navy career for both of them!
Catsandkoi urs please tell your son to be prepared for the initial prt before he leaves. The new CO isn’t messing around and recruits are being sent home in the first few days if they don’t pass, unlike 6 months ago when they were sent to another division to work on it and try again. My son has been there for almost 9 months now because of injuries he got 4 Dayan before graduation. He was such an asset and everyone wanted him in so they were allowing him to heal and finish even though it wasn’t going to takenup to a year. But the new CO said no way and sent him to medical board for medical doshacharge since he’s been there over 180 days. He told me that they get around 80-100 new recruits being sent home every week . So regardless of what the recruiter says , run time has to be ready before that first prt and since it’s usally after all the shots he should make sure it’s really goodness’s in case he’s not feeling well. Good luck to him, if gen goes in prepared he will do great.
catsandkoi I am sorry I thought I ready your son was PIR 12/7/18 but I see now that was Skye!
My son left 10/11/18 and other than the "I'm here and safe" and the box I have not heard from him yet. So I am not sure of his PIR date. So Skye my son might (or might not be PIR with yours)
My son was running close to the allotted 1 1/2 mile initial run time but not exactly. I am hoping that ....running with the group on a track instead of our dirt road alone...he will run faster. Until I hear something either way I am anxious about it.
His recruiter never gave him anything to learn during DEP and told him "don't worry about the run" so now that he is gone and I see all of these things he should have been studying for... I am even more anxious.
I go to bed and remind myself that everyone says "No News is Good News" so .... I have NO NEWS so he must be doing OK.
Thanks Seabee mom. Am I reading correctly that your son is being discharged? If so, I'm sorry! My son is at 13:30 for the run right now. So even though it's over the 16:00 you need to get in, they're still going to send him home? He won't get the 8 weeks to work on it?
2gooddogs - Yes, I would think if all has gone well for him he should be in the same PIR as my son. I just got my form letter yesterday. First testing was also the day before and yesterday. Don't take it to the bank, but if you did not hear from him today or yesterday then he probably passed. His form letter maybe about 2 days behind my son's. He arrived on the 9th. Hang in there...No news is usually good news. If you are on FB, Join our PIR Group https://www.facebook.com/search/str/pir+12-07-18+navy+boot+camp+s... There is tons of info there about BC. Also, do not be alarmed when you get the security form to enter all who are going to graduation with you. They made a mistake and sent one with only 3 guest slots. There is a website on the form that you can download to enter in 4 guests.
Thank you for the link! I will wait until I receive a letter with a division before I join....I would hate to join it then he is in a different division!
My son will go to Port Hueneme, CA for A School as a CM.
How do you know the first testing was the day before and yesterday? Did he tell you that in his letter? I just wish I knew what day of BC he is on...as far as I can tell there is no way to know when he left p-days and went to bc with so many variables like filling a division.
I am over thinking this probably...I just NEED that form letter...LOL :-)
2gooddogs-- You are right to keep saying No News is Good News. You will live by that for the next several years! 10days in and they are most likely good to go for this part! The not knowing is tough but it isn't the worst thing. Have you watched the BC Videos that came out over the summer? If not you might find them helpful. You can also join the Bootcamp Moms page on here to get an idea of what to expect, as well as all the PIR and Div. Specific pages on this site. It really helps to know when other moms are getting letters and calls so you are hopefully not going to miss any. Keep your phone on and the ringer loud at all times!! (Let your bosses know you may have to take this "Urgent" call!! LOL) You'll make it!!
CanDo!Mom-- Not really, not formal in the way most think of anyway. There is a ceremony but it is short and most of the time the Bee's are leaving shortly afterwards (that day or the next couple) for their next assignment. He may or may not be able to put in for leave depending on how much he has and where he is headed next. If the Batallion is deployed he may not be granted leave. It is completely up to his next command for the holidays. He should be finding out soon where he's headed soon and he should contact them ASAP to find out about their holiday stand down plans and put in for leave.
Thank you. We know he has another session of schooling for combat training (he is a BU). And fortunately we already know when he will be home for Christmas - I can't wait! He will be stationed in Mississippi so maybe that is why. I was just wondering if the graduation ceremony was worth trying to get to. As always, thank you for the information and update. Have a great day!
catsandkoi
Thanks, great info, belovedbyHim, and good to know. Hadn't heard this before! So he'd be shipped to A school right after PIR, but be on hold in GP, not Great Lakes, right?
Cimbry11, my future sailor is SW, too! He had to sign up as MM when he went through meps, but luckily, an SW position opened up. It was his top choice.
Aug 31, 2018
catsandkoi
Thanks, great info, belovedbyHim, and good to know. Hadn't heard this before! So he'd be shipped to A school right after PIR, but be on hold in GP, not Great Lakes, right? (and just curious why sailors from the fleet would coming to school.)
Cimbry11, my future sailor is SW, too! He had to sign up as MM when he went through meps, but luckily, an SW position opened up. It was his top choice.
Aug 31, 2018
catsandkoi
BelovedbyHim, can you tell us anything about your sailor's past deployments? Like where, type of mission etc?
Aug 31, 2018
belovedbyHim
Catsandkoi-- Most likely yes he will be on hold at his A school. I'm not sure where that is for SW. My Bee is a BU and that was the procedure for their A school. (My guess is that it is similar for all of them.) Sailors from the Fleet are first since they are higher in rank and "More valuable asset" then Reserves since they are paid for every day they are "Active" and they don't want to pay them to just sit around. Then regular sailors in Alpha order by arrival date.
At PIR you will have very limited time with your sailor. Plan not to sleep much if at all while you are there!! Sadly flying to visit in GP is tough! First no good airports-- Closest Major airport is New Orleans, flying to GP is EXPENSIVE!! then They may rank up but they are not usually granted overnight privileges so you have to meet them outside the main gate. and last but biggest is they don't know in advance when they might get to leave base!! My bee had 4 weeks that he could get off and 1 where he got weekend liberty off base and just when I decided to try and go visit he called to say he was starting class the next week,(He then got bumped 3 times!! ARGHHH) and would not have any time off base to see me!
Very rarely will they get held at GL. It is usually because of lack of available flights- Weather delays. Of course this is Ma Navy and she is prone to change her mind at the very last millisecond!! Just memorize "Hurry up and wait" and "the plan is that whatever you plan, plan for it to change, unless you planned on it changing!"(Also know as "Plans.... We don't need no stinkin' PLANS!!" Just obey the plan though!!)
Aug 31, 2018
belovedbyHim
My Bee was Stationed in Sicily Italy for his first 3 years after A school. He loved and hated it! He chipped paint, fixed minor damage to walls and doors and basically stood watch at the gate a lot! He hadn't been to Combat training but he had to do guard duty since they were short on MP's and had LOADS of Bees with not much to do. He did enjoy the fact that he had access to the shop and he made several projects in his spare time! (Tardis bookshelf, Ships Wheel Shadow box for his dad, Coin rack, Wall shelf out of a piece of Sicilian Olive wood)
After that he was sent to join a Battalion that had just left on Deployment. That kind of Stunk b/c he had to go to ECS (combat training there in GP) then report to his Battalion and he couldn't put in for leave with anyone, since he was no longer at his old duty station but not checked in to his new duty station either! On that deployment and the one he has coming up he has been dealing with pouring concrete. Lots and Lots of concrete!!! It is kind of humorous how much concrete work he is doing now!! He extended his sea duty for another 4 years so He'll be at the 9 year point when his contract is up. At that point he needs to decide if he wants to get out or put in another 11 for retirement. He likes what he's doing well enough and I guess he'll stay unless something happens that he wants to do more. He did just get OSHA certified and he's happy about being able to add Safety and Inspections to his resume. He's needing to get his Warfare pin to advance in his rating so that is his next goal!
Aug 31, 2018
catsandkoi
belovedbyHim, that's quite a journey! When you extend your seaduty for 4 years, does that mean he'll be deployed the whole time? Also, is it true that seabees never set foot on ships and fly to where they're needed? (Did you visit him in Sicily?)
Aug 31, 2018
belovedbyHim
Sorry for the Delay cattsandkoi. I was running errands. No extending sea duty does not equate to deployment the whole time. It just means he will not get a shore duty assignment before then. Yes it is true that they almost never set foot on a ship. It is the Navy so Never say never!! As long as there is an airstrip nearby they will fly. And YES I went to Italy!! It was AMAZING!!! We were there nearly 3 weeks and I wished I'd had 3 months!! This is Cefalu (pronounced Shef-a-loo). It's on the Northern side of Sicily (Just over Mt Etna)!
Aug 31, 2018
catsandkoi
Oh my gosh, that picture is beautiful! We're hoping our son is stationed somewhere fabulous. He'd love to be somewhere overseas. That long wait to find out where will be so hard!!!
Sep 1, 2018
belovedbyHim
catsandkoi--anywhere He goes you can find beauty. Also keep in mind that most duty stations change every 3 years. NOT Always though!! My DH was in the Navy when we first got married. He was Sent to Coronado for schooling after he got his commission and then all of his duty stations were in San Diego!! However we loved it there and I was so sad when we moved as civilians 16 years after we arrived. Your son needs to focus on getting ready for Bootcamp (Are you watching the Facebook bootcamp videos!!) and getting physically and mentally tough so that he can do well there. everything else after that is a complete crap shoot as far as location and timing.
Sep 1, 2018
catsandkoi
BelovedbyHim, can you help me with the terminology? I thought he'd be stationed or based in one spot after A school for the 5 years he's enlisted. what is a "duty station?" Is that the same thing as where he's based?
He is running and doing situps, pushups every day. What can you recommend for getting mentally tough? I'll be sure he watches some of those videos if he hasn't already.
You were so lucky to be in San diego for so long! It is absolutely gorgeous there.
Sep 2, 2018
catsandkoi
Prayers to you guys, loulou. Hopefully it will all come together for him by then! How far off the time is he right now? I'm also worried about my son's run time. He leaves in November, and he's under 16:10 right now, but not close to 12:15 yet.
Sep 2, 2018
belovedbyHim
catsandkoi -- Duty station the ship or base where sailors are stationed. Most Duty station assignments are 3 years long. (Most not all!) TAD- Temporary Assigned Duty- An assignment lasting 2-30 months at a command or a temporary assignment to a command for a specific job. Bees can be based at ANY US military base anywhere in the world. They are not normally based at the same base the whole time, HOWEVER since there are only 2 main Sea Bee bases in the US at this time, they often are only assigned to one of the 2 and may end up at the same place for the whole time. Yes, their Duty Station is where they are based. You might want to read the files to learn more of the Lingo.
Your son should really work on the run. He wants to arrive at or below the limit to lessen the physical stress. Have him practice, Air Chair (Squats), push ups and sit ups as well. Better to arrive able to exceed the standards than to just squeak by.
To get mentally tough he would benefit from watching the videos, there are the "Official" ones as well as just a simple Google search will help, and realizing that they are not out to get him but need to break him down so he can learn to work as a team as a sailor. They all get yelled at. Nothing he will ever do, no matter how good will be good enough. I think they would even find fault with God, if they thought it would make him a better Sailor! You can't really train mental toughness, either you are resilient or you are not. That is what they are looking for as these kids go through this process.
Lastly, He HAS to keep his nose clean!!! Get good grades, don't make stupid choices (UA drinking, drugs, fights). I know several young people who were set to go then during their Senior Year they decided to "just Try" various things once and it screwed them up big time!! (Pregnancy makes BC really rough!!!) Just keep in mind that the Navy doesn't have to take you if you can't follow instructions!!
loulou-- welcome to the hive and Deep breaths!! They will really work him on the run! The RDC's are likely as frustrated with the recruiters as with him. It's good that he is determined. Hopefully he will get it down soon. My BU had Pneumonia and was on LLD when he got to his final run. He was cleared by medical that morning, Walked (walked/ran) back to the barracks to change into his PT Gear, Walked (Ran) to the gym and got there with less than 5 minutes to rest/recover before he had to take his final run before BS21! He made it by the aglets on his shoelaces! He was still sick but he managed to make it. We just passed the 5 year mark this last week (Aug 30) and yes the Bees are the place to Be!!
Sep 2, 2018
catsandkoi
Thanks belovedbyHim! I'll get on him about running. (He's trying, every day. Not sure why he can't increase his speed.) He's already graduated, and he's a great kid. He's keeping his nose clean, and we're keeping him in bubble wrap so he doesn't get hurt!
Sep 2, 2018
catsandkoi
Thanks so much loulou! We belong to the YMCA and I think I'm going to hire a trainer to work with him a few times at the track and figure out what he's doing wrong. (because anything I or his dad says means nothing.) I'm so glad I found this group. I feel the same way about the recruiters. "Don't worry about it." They haven't done PT with him at all! Thanks for the tips on breathing. I'm also going to have him start meditating for 10 minutes every day before he goes. I think it will really help with the stress. I wonder if he'd have the opportunity to spend 10 minutes a day doing that at BC? He leaves Nov 14 so we still have some time, but the window is closing!!
Sep 3, 2018
belovedbyHim
Loulou-- Don't worry about taking up space on here. It is good for folks to hear several different perspectives! Yes, the recruiters job is to get them to sign up so they promise the moon and smooth seas but reality is so very different!!
Catsandkoi-- if you haven't already done so you may want to join the DEP mom page. There are more folks there that have kids waiting to deploy and you may find that to be super helpful.
Finally, Yes Mom's know NOTHING!! Our young people seem amazed that we can walk, talk and breathe at the same time! However I'm here to tell you that they do grow out of it!! One day you'll hear them comment that you do/did know what you were talking about and you'll be overjoyed!!!
Sep 3, 2018
belovedbyHim
Ladies the Recruit Training Command has been releasing a series of bootcamp videos that you may find helpful/ comforting. You can find them here: https://www.facebook.com/NavyRecruitTrainingCommand/?hc_ref=ARQRK1U...
Sep 3, 2018
catsandkoi
belovedbyHim I will find the DEP page. Great idea. And thanks for those videos! I knew they'd be screaming, but didn't expect the anger behind it. I hope he can handle it.
Sep 4, 2018
belovedbyHim
Catsandkoi-- That is the mental toughness I was referring to!! These videos will make BC easier for your recruit than it was for mine. we had no clue! BC is designed to force them to handle themselves well under all conditions. It is easy when things are going well but they are on a ship at sea or a base overseas and are their only source of help and rescue. They have to be able to keep their wits about them is insanely crazy stressful situations if they want to stay safe! BC is designed to sort that out.
These groups may be helpful too: https://navyformoms.ning.com/group/deppersinbutnotyet
https://navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms
https://navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinnovember
Join the first and last groups first. They'll help the most with getting ready to leave and then join the BC group once you are not so overwhelmed. You will also want to join your PIR group once you get the letter. Also if you are on FB you may want to join the FB equivalent of these pages. There is a TON of support info that just didn't exist even the 5 years ago that I started this journey and certainly none of it was here when my DH was in the Navy. I can't imagine how tough it was on Moms 30, 50, 75 years ago to have their sons run off to join the Navy! They had to rely on snail mail and if they were lucky an overseas phone call!! I don't know if I could take the heartache of not knowing!
Sep 4, 2018
Gidget
Any other Gulf Port Moms worried about Hurricane Gordon? I live in California and glued to every technology thing I have. My son did say there is a 4:30pm Curfew for tonight.
I shouldn't be worried but it's kind of hard not be!
Sep 4, 2018
Monroviaindianamom
Yes Gidget I am very worried. Living in Indiana we never experienced anything like that and he has been in Gulfport for 3.5 years now and usually deployed when the storms come in but yes I have told him to keep me updated through this whole thing. It is hard not to worry. Which Battalion is your son in?
Sep 4, 2018
Monroviaindianamom
Sep 4, 2018
Gidget
Monroviaindianamo
My son is with NBC 11... My son was stationed here in Sacramento with my husband and I. He was with NCB 18. This whole hurricane weather is a bit new to me and scary. I have been reassured that they are ok. Base is built on a Hill and as long as they follow the curfew rules and take care of their house and cars they way they are suppose to be.. then everyone should be good!
What tesm is your daughter with?
Sep 4, 2018
Gidget
Monroviaindianamom... My son is currently active and not in the reserves anymore.
Sep 4, 2018
belovedbyHim
Ladies,
A Cat 1 Hurricane is Just a Big Thunderstorm. They will get lots of Rain and lots of wind but they should be just fine. I have friends and family down there who just park the cars in the covered parking, and put the yard stuff away but otherwise don't really do anything different. They have said that we have crazier weather here (CO) than a Cat1 storm there. Now Cat 2-5 they pay closer attention but they said a cat 1 is nothing big. I'm sure the base has been telling them for a few days what they need to do to get ready.
Sep 4, 2018
Monroviaindianamom
Yes, all is fine. The storm bypassed them. The base is built for that kind of weather but a momma still worries LOL. My son is in Battalion 133. He just got his 2nd class promotion and moved off base, he was so happy. He is doing great. Very proud of him and all the rest of them. We are going out there for Thanksgiving I can't wait, it has been awhile since I have had a hug from my boy.
Sep 5, 2018
OregonMom
Morning,
just heard about the weather over in MS.. any new news? sorry if this has already been said this morning..
Sep 5, 2018
Gidget
Heard from my son everything is good so far... just raining lots!! Whew, this mama was worried!! Congratulations to your son, Monroviaindiananamom.
Sep 5, 2018
catsandkoi
So glad the storm wasn't more serious!!
Curious if anyone's sailor is a steelworker. That's my son's rate. (leaves for BC in November.) Curious what kind of deployments they've been on. (if you can say.)
Sep 5, 2018
barefoot1
Good morning Ladies - I'm on here so infrequently but I still get updates via email - catsandkoi, my son is a Steelworker (SW). It will be 5 years the beginning of October that he left for bc, so we've been at this awhile. He was assigned to NMCB1 in Gulfport upon completion of A school. They only deploy for 6 months at a time, and then they are home for a year before deploying again. He's been deployed to Okinawa (during a super typhoon), Rota (Spain), and Guam (during the crazy North Korea situation when he was threatening to test missiles that direction). He has been in Gulfport for Hurricane Nate last year and this most recent storm. They don't get too worked up about that stuff. Right now, he is in C school (back in Gulfport) taking classes to become an instructor. He should be finishing that up in November, I believe.
Sep 6, 2018
catsandkoi
Thanks for sharing your experience, barefoot1. That all sounds amazing (and a bit scary.) He really wants to see the world, so I hope he has a similar journey. Has he mostly been responding to natural disasters? What does your son do when he's not deployed? Also, does he ever end up doing work that isn't steelwork?
So are you saying all SWs only deploy for six months?
Did you ever visit him anywhere he was deployed? Is there time for them to spend with you when they're deployed? Sorry for all the questions, just excited to find an SW mom!
Sep 6, 2018
barefoot1
I had plenty of questions when my "Bee" switched rates and became a Seabee, too! It's exciting and exhilarating and terrifying for us Moms - we raise our kids to become independent and strong, and then they go off and leave us! lol My son was not part of any of the groups that went to help with natural disasters, though he was put on alert last year when Florida was poised to get pummeled by whatever hurricane hit there. They have different jobs to do when they are at home port, some of which may have NOTHING to do with steelwork. Last year he helped oversee the gun range. It makes no sense to me, but I have learned to be prepared for anything and everything to change with the Navy.
It's my understanding that the deployment situation (of only being gone 6 months at a time) is that way for all Seabees, but I could be mistaken. I could have visited him but was not able to. I know quite a few Seabee Moms who have gone to visit their kids in Greece, Italy, Japan, Spain, etc... My son has gotten to see some really amazing things on his deployments - I encouraged him to take advantage of the opportunities presented and/or available to him while he's on this journey! He has developed some amazing friendships/brotherhood, not just with guys in his battalion but with guys in other battalions, too. Good luck to your son and please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns you may have!
Sep 6, 2018
belovedbyHim
Hey Catsandkoi-- Normal deployments for everyone are 6 months. They have been on extended deployments since 9/11 due to previous administrations draw-downs in personnel. Bees were mostly luck to still have 6 months.(though not always)
You can try and visit your bee or Sailor when they are on deployment but it is not easy. Often they are not in a location that is particularly "Touristy" and they are not normally granted leave when they are. They get liberty (Time off) for a couple of days but the reality is they are there to do a Mission and that is their focus. They work long hours (14-24 hours at a stretch is not unheard of) and liberty is often spent catching up on sleep. Now it is not always that way-- sometimes it is just like having a 9-5 job just in a different country but they often don't know ahead of time what it will look like so making last minute travel plans overseas can get pricey! It is easier and less costly to visit if they are stationed overseas. They can take leave(vacation)during your visit and you would have more than a day or 2 together.
Yes they often do stuff that has no bearing on their rate. When my Bee(BU) was stationed in Italy he was on guard duty (normally a MA rate) and he is a Range Master at his current duty station as a result of gaining that skill.
Responding to Natural disasters is a tricky position. By law they cannot sen the military in to do a job that can be done by civilian sources even if the Seabees can do a better job for less. They also don't usually have search & rescue training since they are considered a combat unit. It is nuts I know but that is how government works. They do go on Humanitarian and good will missions though. Some DET groups may be sent to build/repair hospitals, schools, US government assets in other countries to help that country think well of America. They don't often go in and build housing following a hurricane or earthquake. Sad I know, but it's reality.
Sep 6, 2018
catsandkoi
Thanks so much for your thoughtful answers, barefoot1 and belovedbyHim. I'm just so anxious to know what his life in the Navy will be like! Your information really helps. :)
Sep 6, 2018
belovedbyHim
catsandkoi-- I don't know your faith background but the verses from the bible that say"Cast your cares on Him for He cares for you"( 1 Peter 5:7) and "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life" (Luke 12:25-31) are so true!! If you are anxious before your son ships you will be the one who suffers. It's natural to be curious and excited and yes even a little concerned but just as I was encouraging your sailor to develop that mental toughness and resilience, you will want to work on finding a peace in the not knowing. It is not easy and we all still find ourselves "worried" and anxious (the North Korea kerfuffle for example!!) but I hope you will be able to find peace despite all of it! Have those tough talks now (what if somethings happens to us or to you... when do you want to be told bad/sad news....how do you want to be told) when he's still home and you can hug him after (to comfort your momma heart!!) but know that every experience is different too. We are here to support each other and yes sometimes we have to remind each other to but on our big girl Navy mom panties and move forward. I hope that we have helped you as you prepare for your Navy journey.
Sep 6, 2018
catsandkoi
Thanks for the kind words, belovedbyHim. I am a chronic worrier and have been working on it! You're right, I'm just causing myself grief. I do need to have faith all will be well. As I'm sure you all know, it's just so hard to send your kiddo off to this really big endeavor without knowing exactly what they're getting into! But hearing everyone else's experiences has really helped. Thanks so much!
Sep 7, 2018
Skye
Barefoot1, I was thrilled to see your post. My son is still in BC, his PIR date is Dec. 7th. If all goes well, he is to be an SW as well. He originally wanted to be a seal, but alas, he is color blind. He has been welding for the last two years of HS and loved it so chose Seabees SW. He was slightly concerned going in he might not be in the fray of it all, so to speak, but from your post, It sounds like he will be quite occupied and most definitely in the thick of it all. Quick question: with his PIR date beings as it is, might he get to have leave for Christmas? I know I am jumping the gun a bit...just curious. Thank you!
Oct 23, 2018
catsandkoi
Wow Skye, our boys are quite similar! Mine is also SW and color blind and spent several years in high school welding. Here's hoping to a great Navy career for both of them!
Oct 23, 2018
2gooddogs
Exciting to see some activity here in the SeaBee Moms group. Thank you belovedbyHim for telling about your experiences with an active Seabee son! I was curious about those things also!
catsandkoi, I am not sure of my sons PIR date yet, but it could possibly be the same as yours. Or, it will be the week after, I haven't yet received a letter. :-)
My son is a CM and heading to A School in Port Hueneme after basic. Where is your sons A School?
Oct 23, 2018
catsandkoi
Hi 2gooddogs! My son's ship date is 11/14. When is yours? He's been in DEP for almost a year, so I can't believe we're this close! A school for SW is in Gulfport. Praying he gets through basic. My stomach is churning because his best run so far has been 13:30. Hoping he can get it down before then!!!
Oct 23, 2018
Skye
catsndkoi My son is in Boot Camp now and tell your son not to stop running and exercising. I got very excited to get his form letter in the mail and a chance to see his hand writing and signs of life from him and on the same day (yesterday) I was heartbroken to hear how many family members got very emotional calls home saying they were not passing! My advice: practice, practice and practice...tell him to learn those chain of commands and the 11 general orders and get that run down. I am very stunned at the amount of SR that come home. Very best of luck to him.
Oct 23, 2018
catsandkoi
Wow Skye, our boys are quite similar! Mine is also SW and color blind and spent several years in high school welding. Here's hoping to a great Navy career for both of them!
Oct 23, 2018
Seabeemom
Catsandkoi urs please tell your son to be prepared for the initial prt before he leaves. The new CO isn’t messing around and recruits are being sent home in the first few days if they don’t pass, unlike 6 months ago when they were sent to another division to work on it and try again. My son has been there for almost 9 months now because of injuries he got 4 Dayan before graduation. He was such an asset and everyone wanted him in so they were allowing him to heal and finish even though it wasn’t going to takenup to a year. But the new CO said no way and sent him to medical board for medical doshacharge since he’s been there over 180 days. He told me that they get around 80-100 new recruits being sent home every week . So regardless of what the recruiter says , run time has to be ready before that first prt and since it’s usally after all the shots he should make sure it’s really goodness’s in case he’s not feeling well. Good luck to him, if gen goes in prepared he will do great.
Oct 23, 2018
2gooddogs
catsandkoi I am sorry I thought I ready your son was PIR 12/7/18 but I see now that was Skye!
My son left 10/11/18 and other than the "I'm here and safe" and the box I have not heard from him yet. So I am not sure of his PIR date. So Skye my son might (or might not be PIR with yours)
My son was running close to the allotted 1 1/2 mile initial run time but not exactly. I am hoping that ....running with the group on a track instead of our dirt road alone...he will run faster. Until I hear something either way I am anxious about it.
His recruiter never gave him anything to learn during DEP and told him "don't worry about the run" so now that he is gone and I see all of these things he should have been studying for... I am even more anxious.
I go to bed and remind myself that everyone says "No News is Good News" so .... I have NO NEWS so he must be doing OK.
Oct 23, 2018
catsandkoi
Thanks Seabee mom. Am I reading correctly that your son is being discharged? If so, I'm sorry! My son is at 13:30 for the run right now. So even though it's over the 16:00 you need to get in, they're still going to send him home? He won't get the 8 weeks to work on it?
Oct 23, 2018
Skye
2gooddogs - Yes, I would think if all has gone well for him he should be in the same PIR as my son. I just got my form letter yesterday. First testing was also the day before and yesterday. Don't take it to the bank, but if you did not hear from him today or yesterday then he probably passed. His form letter maybe about 2 days behind my son's. He arrived on the 9th. Hang in there...No news is usually good news. If you are on FB, Join our PIR Group https://www.facebook.com/search/str/pir+12-07-18+navy+boot+camp+s... There is tons of info there about BC. Also, do not be alarmed when you get the security form to enter all who are going to graduation with you. They made a mistake and sent one with only 3 guest slots. There is a website on the form that you can download to enter in 4 guests.
Oct 23, 2018
2gooddogs
Thank you for the link! I will wait until I receive a letter with a division before I join....I would hate to join it then he is in a different division!
My son will go to Port Hueneme, CA for A School as a CM.
How do you know the first testing was the day before and yesterday? Did he tell you that in his letter? I just wish I knew what day of BC he is on...as far as I can tell there is no way to know when he left p-days and went to bc with so many variables like filling a division.
I am over thinking this probably...I just NEED that form letter...LOL :-)
Oct 23, 2018
belovedbyHim
2gooddogs-- You are right to keep saying No News is Good News. You will live by that for the next several years! 10days in and they are most likely good to go for this part! The not knowing is tough but it isn't the worst thing. Have you watched the BC Videos that came out over the summer? If not you might find them helpful. You can also join the Bootcamp Moms page on here to get an idea of what to expect, as well as all the PIR and Div. Specific pages on this site. It really helps to know when other moms are getting letters and calls so you are hopefully not going to miss any. Keep your phone on and the ringer loud at all times!! (Let your bosses know you may have to take this "Urgent" call!! LOL) You'll make it!!
Oct 24, 2018
CanDo!Mom
Anyone have a sailor in A school at Gulfport now? My son is looking to finish A school Nov 6th. Is there a formal graduation for A School?
Oct 24, 2018
belovedbyHim
CanDo!Mom-- Not really, not formal in the way most think of anyway. There is a ceremony but it is short and most of the time the Bee's are leaving shortly afterwards (that day or the next couple) for their next assignment. He may or may not be able to put in for leave depending on how much he has and where he is headed next. If the Batallion is deployed he may not be granted leave. It is completely up to his next command for the holidays. He should be finding out soon where he's headed soon and he should contact them ASAP to find out about their holiday stand down plans and put in for leave.
Oct 24, 2018
CanDo!Mom
Thank you. We know he has another session of schooling for combat training (he is a BU). And fortunately we already know when he will be home for Christmas - I can't wait! He will be stationed in Mississippi so maybe that is why. I was just wondering if the graduation ceremony was worth trying to get to. As always, thank you for the information and update. Have a great day!
Oct 24, 2018