Greetings NavyStepMom, congratulations on being part of the CTI DLI family. My sailor was told at the end of BC. He didn’t get his request but is very happy with what he got. So no worries, all of the choices are great. I have gotten to visit Monterey so if you have questions feel free to ask.
Jmcserz my son had PIR 11/22; I personally had a carryon bag with his civilian clothes and his book bag with lap tops cell phone charges etc .. he had no issues carrying it as a matter of fact I was not the only parent with bags at airport for my SR; and he was happy to have his civilian clothes handy when he was able to use them he didn’t had to wait for me to mail them or spend money buying new ones
jmcsetz
It has been 3 years since my CTI was at BC but this is the way it was: phones given at the airport only. About giving clothes; they have sooo much to carry with them so to burden them with civilian clothes may not be a good idea. They will earn the privilege to wear civilian clothes. I don’t remember when but it is not immediately. Your CTI2B can let you know when they want clothes. I shipped USPS from NC to Monterey, CA and the cost was reasonable. Congratulations on being a part of this elite and silent family. Remember OPSEC and you will know why this site is not very active. We are here for the Moms and the questions you may have. You will love all the communication at DLI but also may be disappointed because of all the studying they have to do. It is pretty intense.
Hi everyone my sons PIR is 9/7 and then he will head off to DLI. I am so excited for him. Can anybody tell me how long the wait at the airport is when he flies out and will we be able to spend time with him on Saturday? Also will we get to talk to him more when he is at The DLI?
VFNDtoNavymom
We had a good amount of time at the airport. Even had lunch together. OPSEC does not allow us to mention times. So be careful. You will have time. Your SR will have their orders and can give your the info after PIR. Be ready to be flexible and enjoy your sailor. Yes, communication will be good. Give him his phone at the airport and anything else he asks for. Some want their personal computer. Don’t worry if he does not have one because he will be issued one at DLI. Don’t be disappointed if once classes begin the communication slows down. The school curriculum is intense. Proud of your sailor. Use this site to ask questions and bring your worries here and not to your CTI2B.
VFNDtoNavymom -- Welcome to CTI! I'm fairly new myself as my SA completed BC 6 months ago and is now at the DLI.
Everyone is correct in what they are saying; be flexible because the military can change the direction at the drop of a dime. Don't let it ruin your day. They are busy busy busy there with their studying, and they have to get in 3 days of PT, and muster, so they don't have a lot of free time. Maybe it's my SAs cell phone but the barracks don't always give the best phone coverage, btw, that's $49.99 a month and I don't think there are any other real options there. The first 6-8 weeks they will be working on orientation stuff and will not dive right into their language, so don't be surprised. It's all good though, it gives them an opportunity to get accumulated.
They do have to earn their privileges for civilian clothes and weekend off base time. We packed a complete set of civilian clothes, 1 pair of shoes, some underwear (they will really want those), running shorts, cell phone, charger, sunglasses (they can't have a certain kind though; and my SA's were the kind), favorite deodorant, couple of snacks, book, a note... I feel like there was something else, but I can't remember. I remember at the airport at how much stuff they had and it was a lot! They also had to carry their orders, at all time and they couldn't carry their backpacks on their right shoulder if I'm not mistaken so they could salute. I then shipped some more things in a in a couple more weeks, but to be honest a lot couldn't be worn from previously because weight was lost from BC!!! I had to ship the favorite pillow and soft blankie and xbox. I've shipped care packages and they've arrived no problem. A new phone is due to arrive on Monday, so we'll see how that goes. Regular mail from IL arrives in about 5 days. I try to use the Flat Rate from the USPS when I can because it will get there in 2 days and pretty cheap.
You won't necessarily fly out of Midway it could be O'Hare. you could private message me if you have questions about that.
When my SA when into Boot Camp it felt like death, which I know probably sounds weird, but it's the honest truth. There was no communication for probably 4 weeks and it about killed me. When I received the first call I was so overjoyed and full of love that I just cried. Now knowing that I'm not going to see my SA for almost a year, it breaks my heart. It will be Christmas before I get to see they come home.
Congratulations on this prestigious accomplishment! My CTI just reenlisted; let me offer you a little advice. While at DLI, there is absolutely NEVER enough time; they are inundated and have to study 24/7. They will have their phones, but just don't expect much. I sent lots of food, etc. Another thing to remember is that their jobs are of the utmost security. Unless my Sailor posted something, I never mentioned a word of what he was doing. Please take this seriously. Bravo Zulu to your boy!
My sailor is slightly more than halfway through Boot Camp and he just got his language assignment. I’ve seen other posts on here about sailors asking for a different language once they get to DLI and being granted the request. Can anyone here speak to that? Thanks.
Three Seas - my CTI petitioned DLI for a different language. She was assigned a level 2 language and had good reason for requesting the change to a level 4 language. If your CTI2B has a compelling reason to request the change then no harm in making the request. It is always what the Navy needs but they do not want to waste a good mind. I know of two recruits that was able to get their language changed while at BC so it is possible. Be sure to encourage your SR to embrace the language assigned while making his request. If he is planning a career he will have other opportunities to take other languages during his career.
My son just went to DLI Aug 4. He did request a language change but because there was no class starting soon in the other language he wanted it was not granted. He is a level 4
Good morning!! I understand we can't give specifics on this site and I respect that, but I am asking for your input on traveling out of said CTI location. Do you recommend flying out of another airport that is a drive away or do you recommend flying out of the local airport and getting a transfer flight, for example? I'm not sure how much detail we can provide on here, so I'm trying to be vague. What has been your experience? This will be the first time flying out for the holidays (can't come soon enough btw!!!) and tickets need to get booked here soon.
I guess it just depends on finances and time. For me, I'd be a little overwhelmed and tired to make a drive when I got home. Safe travels, anyway, and have a wonderful time with your Sailor!
I lived in that location for 2 years and if I could find a comparable flight I always flew into the closer location. I compared the flight costs and then if i was flying to the further spot, added in the cost of the shuttle (I think $35 each way) or a rental car. The close airport is so nice and small, you get off the plane and you're there! Also, you have to factor in the terrible traffic around the further airports.
Sambam32 - It is ok to say Monterrey. Daughter used local airport to fly home for holidays. West coast to east coast. No drama but delayed flights as always. She took Uber to airport.
Good for staying cautious. In the beginning I would not say anything. Now my daughter has taught me. Congratulations on you CTI2B
Our son is in BC and his PIR will be October 12. Can anyone tell me how much time he will have after PIR to hang out with us until he ships out to CTI in California?? When will he know for sure about his liberty? We bought our airline tickets but are wondering if we should change our return time/date?
AZartmom- our daughter just graduated BC on 8/31. We were able to take her off base right after PIR and she had to be back on base by 7 pm or 8pm. We brought her back “early” to a vapid the line getting back on base and hung out with her in the parking lot until we had to say good bye. Luckily her flight was at 6 am the next morning, so she was on the 1 am bus to’hare. We met her there (by the uso) at 1:30ish and got a gate pass and hung out with her till her flight!
She was able to tell us her flight infor the day she called to say i’m A sailor! If possible if you are flying, try to book a later flight. Apparently the kids from boot camp didn’t get to Monterey last week till midnight! So it can make for a long day at the airport of their flights are late!
feel free to PM me with any questions! I ask my daughter a ton of questions! Congratulations!
Thanks everyone for the feedback on airlines and transportation out of Monterey. Hopefully we'll get that booked this weekend before pricing goes up and/or flights become sparse.
So what happens now our son is in Monterey? As it so close to Christmas will he get leave to come home or get liberty so we could flight out to see him?
I remember my CTI was able to get leave for both Christmas seasons she spent there. First one she had been there 5 months second 17 months right before DLPT. So stressful.
Our son as just arrived .. So we thinking they will keep them there over the holiday but as we are new to this and your all saying the classes ate all closed .. But don't they have to get a load of Administrative paperwork done .. Help please
Our daughter just graduated last Friday and left the following morning for CA. She doesn't actually start her classes at DLI for a few weeks. Her chief at boot camp advised her to spend some of that time looking up whatever she could on her assigned language and what's going on in that part of the world. So I'd say being on top of current world events would be a good thing for your son to start from the get go.
Thank you @lovemynavydaughter Please keep us updated. I am so hoping we are able to visit before too long. Hope all is well with your daughter. Congrats.
Hi Momsy, welcome to the rollercoaster life of having a CTI2B. There is a lot of hard work ahead but well worth it. My daughter is starting her 3rd yr as a CTI and enjoys her work and team. It is a small group of people and those he will be in class with will be those he works with. So make good relationships. Enjoy PIR.
Hi, Starry! Congratulations to your son for getting into DLI and obviously scoring quite high on the language tests. My son graduated with Mandarin and has been in for 5 years now. Hopefully your son will get his first choice, but it is the Military where things can change according to their needs. One word of advice...they have to study 30 hours a day, everyday, even holidays. The program is so rigorous, I am not sure what the graduation statistics are, but, as a Mom, I hardly EVER heard from my son. Don't get hurt by this and send him food! Good luck!!
Hello! Our SR will PIR on 2/14 and then ship out to DLI immediately after. We’re so excited and proud of him and he truly seems excited and motivated with his rate choice. He’s submitted his language preferences so just waiting to get the final decision. We heard from him that he won’t start classes for about 45 days once he arrives out there. Assume that is so they can sync up classes with others that are starting since all branches would be sending their incoming CTI’s there? What do they do during that time? Oh, and what type of barracks are out there? Is it like boot camp or more like college dorm? We are planning a trip to CA at the end of Feb and may have the opportunity to get to Monterrey. What are the chances he might have liberty if he will have only been there for a couple weeks by that time? Lots of questions and appreciate any guidance from those that have gone before!
Hi Earin! Welcome to the group! My son just started his language a few weeks ago so I can give you the "scoop" from my perspective. It is not uncommon for him to wait prior to classes starting. Mine waited a long time to begin. The first few weeks are classes on the DLI and life in the Navy. He will be in classes all day for several weeks. After that he will probably do whatever it is his superiors need done- take things/papers to another department, help move furniture, pretty much anything that needs done he will do. He will have his electronics (yay!) so he can text/call when not in class. He will not be able to leave the base until he "phases up". He will begin in Phase 1- stay on base at all times. Phase 2 means you can go into town but have curfew. This phase may not occur for several months. Phase 3 means he can stay off base over night. Again, this will happen several months later. WE visited our some 3 weeks after PIR. We were able to have dinner with him on base and hang out! He gave us a tour of DLI. My husband was able to visit his room. It is college dorm style. He will have 1 or 2 roommates. My son has moved 3 times in a short period. Your son won't need a lot of "stuff". My son wanted a few of his favorite clothes/shoes, Nat Geo mags, books, headsets, etc. Nothing big because the rooms are tiny.
I hope this helps!! CONGRATS!!! I hope you get to go to PIR! Watch one online before you go. They are live every Friday. Sit in his division's designated section. I will never forget the moment those HUGE doors opened and the Recruits march in! I have tears in my eyes remembering it!!
Thank you pp2019 for all of the details! This is fantastic! We have no military experience in my or my husbands family so always have a ton of questions and so appreciate this site for connecting us with those that have gone before. I am glad to hear they will be kept busy before they start classes. We are going to PIR and am already welling up at the pride and anticipation seeing the divisions marching in. (I have a hard time just making it through the national anthem when it’s played out of respect and appreciation of what it stands for.)
It will be nice to have more communication with him but I will admit that I’ve enjoyed getting the handwritten letters while he’s been at BC. Ive seen on some other posts that having electronics insured is a strongly suggested idea due to theft. Have you heard anything like that from your son? Oh, and are the roommates all from the Navy or could they room with other branches?
I am with you! I cry when I see the Blue Angels fly over a stadium or hear the Anthem. I travel internationally for work and thank God every time I land back in the USA!
Yes, those handwritten letters are SO PRECIOUS!
Roommates are not necessarily from the Navy. I think they will put him in a room with others in his chosen language.
My son has the phone insurance for breakage, not theft. He's good at breaking screens :( I asked my son about theft because I had seen in other groups where someone had something stolen. My son said, "Mom, no, we don't have that issue." If it gives you/your son peace of mind, I would get it :)
pp2019 we are getting so close to PIR and since our SR was also gone for Christmas, looking at getting a couple gifts that he could have/use while at A school. If you have suggestions for these, I would be grateful for the ideas!
Good question! I would get him some books to read about Navy or military successes - here are a few my son read in 2019 (I looked at our Amazon orders :)) Alone at Dawn, Arabs at War, It's Your Ship, Get your Ship Together. I would get him books related to his country/language he will be studying at DLI. Airpods are good. My son wanted a new watch. I bought my son a triangle shaped pillow from Barnes and Noble that he can use to read his iPad in his lap in bed. Finally, an Amazon gift card for him to get whatever he needs is always a great idea!
Hi All - I am guessing the process is very different if you are transferring from another Navy program to DLI and are married. Still seems like a lot of "hurry up & wait", though. Anyone with any experience on family housing around DLI and the process surrounding that?
We are planning a visit out there in 2 weeks and would love any suggestions on things to do/see. Know he won’t be able to go off base yet so know it will be limited in what he/we can do.
Earin, not sure if you got a response about activities to do while on your visit. I suggest you explore the base -visit the cafeteria and share a meal and go see the pieces of the Berlin Wall! There are several plaques that have interesting stories your sailor will learn. In Monterey, Alvarado Street is fun to walk and explore. There is a nice aquarium. We walked from aquarium to Alvardo St. Go look at the seals sunning on the rocks! Lots to do! ENJOY IT!!!
Good evening! My sailor will be arriving Monterey next week. Anyone know how conditions are there? Restricted to base? He believes classes will begin soon as well. Since we live within 2 hours, so we'd like to know if we could meet for dinner or whatever. Hope everyone is hanging in during this super weird time.
mkl7993
Greetings NavyStepMom, congratulations on being part of the CTI DLI family. My sailor was told at the end of BC. He didn’t get his request but is very happy with what he got. So no worries, all of the choices are great. I have gotten to visit Monterey so if you have questions feel free to ask.
Jul 26, 2018
JWAK2008
Jul 29, 2018
JWAK2008
Jul 29, 2018
bbcregular
It has been 3 years since my CTI was at BC but this is the way it was: phones given at the airport only. About giving clothes; they have sooo much to carry with them so to burden them with civilian clothes may not be a good idea. They will earn the privilege to wear civilian clothes. I don’t remember when but it is not immediately. Your CTI2B can let you know when they want clothes. I shipped USPS from NC to Monterey, CA and the cost was reasonable. Congratulations on being a part of this elite and silent family. Remember OPSEC and you will know why this site is not very active. We are here for the Moms and the questions you may have. You will love all the communication at DLI but also may be disappointed because of all the studying they have to do. It is pretty intense.
Jul 29, 2018
VFNDtoNavymom
Hi everyone my sons PIR is 9/7 and then he will head off to DLI. I am so excited for him. Can anybody tell me how long the wait at the airport is when he flies out and will we be able to spend time with him on Saturday? Also will we get to talk to him more when he is at The DLI?
Jul 29, 2018
bbcregular
We had a good amount of time at the airport. Even had lunch together. OPSEC does not allow us to mention times. So be careful. You will have time. Your SR will have their orders and can give your the info after PIR. Be ready to be flexible and enjoy your sailor. Yes, communication will be good. Give him his phone at the airport and anything else he asks for. Some want their personal computer. Don’t worry if he does not have one because he will be issued one at DLI. Don’t be disappointed if once classes begin the communication slows down. The school curriculum is intense. Proud of your sailor. Use this site to ask questions and bring your worries here and not to your CTI2B.
Jul 29, 2018
sambam32
VFNDtoNavymom -- Welcome to CTI! I'm fairly new myself as my SA completed BC 6 months ago and is now at the DLI.
Everyone is correct in what they are saying; be flexible because the military can change the direction at the drop of a dime. Don't let it ruin your day. They are busy busy busy there with their studying, and they have to get in 3 days of PT, and muster, so they don't have a lot of free time. Maybe it's my SAs cell phone but the barracks don't always give the best phone coverage, btw, that's $49.99 a month and I don't think there are any other real options there. The first 6-8 weeks they will be working on orientation stuff and will not dive right into their language, so don't be surprised. It's all good though, it gives them an opportunity to get accumulated.
They do have to earn their privileges for civilian clothes and weekend off base time. We packed a complete set of civilian clothes, 1 pair of shoes, some underwear (they will really want those), running shorts, cell phone, charger, sunglasses (they can't have a certain kind though; and my SA's were the kind), favorite deodorant, couple of snacks, book, a note... I feel like there was something else, but I can't remember. I remember at the airport at how much stuff they had and it was a lot! They also had to carry their orders, at all time and they couldn't carry their backpacks on their right shoulder if I'm not mistaken so they could salute. I then shipped some more things in a in a couple more weeks, but to be honest a lot couldn't be worn from previously because weight was lost from BC!!! I had to ship the favorite pillow and soft blankie and xbox. I've shipped care packages and they've arrived no problem. A new phone is due to arrive on Monday, so we'll see how that goes. Regular mail from IL arrives in about 5 days. I try to use the Flat Rate from the USPS when I can because it will get there in 2 days and pretty cheap.
You won't necessarily fly out of Midway it could be O'Hare. you could private message me if you have questions about that.
When my SA when into Boot Camp it felt like death, which I know probably sounds weird, but it's the honest truth. There was no communication for probably 4 weeks and it about killed me. When I received the first call I was so overjoyed and full of love that I just cried. Now knowing that I'm not going to see my SA for almost a year, it breaks my heart. It will be Christmas before I get to see they come home.
Have a blessed night ladies.....
Jul 29, 2018
Babs
Congratulations on this prestigious accomplishment! My CTI just reenlisted; let me offer you a little advice. While at DLI, there is absolutely NEVER enough time; they are inundated and have to study 24/7. They will have their phones, but just don't expect much. I sent lots of food, etc. Another thing to remember is that their jobs are of the utmost security. Unless my Sailor posted something, I never mentioned a word of what he was doing. Please take this seriously. Bravo Zulu to your boy!
Jul 30, 2018
Three Seas
My sailor is slightly more than halfway through Boot Camp and he just got his language assignment. I’ve seen other posts on here about sailors asking for a different language once they get to DLI and being granted the request. Can anyone here speak to that? Thanks.
Aug 14, 2018
bbcregular
Aug 15, 2018
Three Seas
bbcregular - Thanks for the info. I"ll pass it along to him next time we speak.
Aug 15, 2018
Mimiof1
My son just went to DLI Aug 4. He did request a language change but because there was no class starting soon in the other language he wanted it was not granted. He is a level 4
Aug 15, 2018
Three Seas
Mimiof1 - Thanks for the info. I’ll let him know.
Aug 16, 2018
sambam32
Good morning!! I understand we can't give specifics on this site and I respect that, but I am asking for your input on traveling out of said CTI location. Do you recommend flying out of another airport that is a drive away or do you recommend flying out of the local airport and getting a transfer flight, for example? I'm not sure how much detail we can provide on here, so I'm trying to be vague. What has been your experience? This will be the first time flying out for the holidays (can't come soon enough btw!!!) and tickets need to get booked here soon.
Thank you for any help you can provide!!!
Sep 7, 2018
Babs
I guess it just depends on finances and time. For me, I'd be a little overwhelmed and tired to make a drive when I got home. Safe travels, anyway, and have a wonderful time with your Sailor!
Sep 7, 2018
Shelby
Sep 7, 2018
bbcregular
Good for staying cautious. In the beginning I would not say anything. Now my daughter has taught me. Congratulations on you CTI2B
Sep 7, 2018
Artmom2
Our son is in BC and his PIR will be October 12. Can anyone tell me how much time he will have after PIR to hang out with us until he ships out to CTI in California?? When will he know for sure about his liberty? We bought our airline tickets but are wondering if we should change our return time/date?
Sep 16, 2018
BlackBevy
AZartmom- our daughter just graduated BC on 8/31. We were able to take her off base right after PIR and she had to be back on base by 7 pm or 8pm. We brought her back “early” to a vapid the line getting back on base and hung out with her in the parking lot until we had to say good bye. Luckily her flight was at 6 am the next morning, so she was on the 1 am bus to’hare. We met her there (by the uso) at 1:30ish and got a gate pass and hung out with her till her flight!
She was able to tell us her flight infor the day she called to say i’m A sailor! If possible if you are flying, try to book a later flight. Apparently the kids from boot camp didn’t get to Monterey last week till midnight! So it can make for a long day at the airport of their flights are late!
feel free to PM me with any questions! I ask my daughter a ton of questions! Congratulations!
Sep 16, 2018
sambam32
Thanks everyone for the feedback on airlines and transportation out of Monterey. Hopefully we'll get that booked this weekend before pricing goes up and/or flights become sparse.
Counting the days....miss him terribly.
Sep 16, 2018
Artmom2
BlackBevy - this is former Azartmom - now Artmom2
Thanks for the info - appreciate your help. I think to PM you I need to be listed as a friend? Is that correct? I did a friend request.
Thanks again! Artmom2
Sep 18, 2018
Willowwoo
So what happens now our son is in Monterey? As it so close to Christmas will he get leave to come home or get liberty so we could flight out to see him?
Dec 16, 2018
mkl7993
They shut down for Christmas...they have ways for them to get to airports.
Dec 16, 2018
Deequilter
When you say shut down, do you mean their classes?
Dec 16, 2018
mkl7993
Yes. A lot leave for the holidays.
Dec 16, 2018
mkl7993
Since classes are out they seem more liberal with the leave
Dec 16, 2018
bbcregular
Dec 16, 2018
mkl7993
Dec 16, 2018
Willowwoo
Dec 16, 2018
SoSi
My son signed CTI today ... any tips appreciated.
Mar 7, 2019
LoveMyNavyDaughter
Our daughter just graduated last Friday and left the following morning for CA. She doesn't actually start her classes at DLI for a few weeks. Her chief at boot camp advised her to spend some of that time looking up whatever she could on her assigned language and what's going on in that part of the world. So I'd say being on top of current world events would be a good thing for your son to start from the get go.
Mar 8, 2019
SoSi
Thank you @lovemynavydaughter Please keep us updated. I am so hoping we are able to visit before too long. Hope all is well with your daughter. Congrats.
Mar 15, 2019
Momsy
My son is CTI and is currently at Great Lakes with a projected PIR of 6/21...
May 23, 2019
bbcregular
Hi Momsy, welcome to the rollercoaster life of having a CTI2B. There is a lot of hard work ahead but well worth it. My daughter is starting her 3rd yr as a CTI and enjoys her work and team. It is a small group of people and those he will be in class with will be those he works with. So make good relationships. Enjoy PIR.
May 24, 2019
Babs
Hi, Starry! Congratulations to your son for getting into DLI and obviously scoring quite high on the language tests. My son graduated with Mandarin and has been in for 5 years now. Hopefully your son will get his first choice, but it is the Military where things can change according to their needs. One word of advice...they have to study 30 hours a day, everyday, even holidays. The program is so rigorous, I am not sure what the graduation statistics are, but, as a Mom, I hardly EVER heard from my son. Don't get hurt by this and send him food! Good luck!!
Dec 9, 2019
Earin
Hello! Our SR will PIR on 2/14 and then ship out to DLI immediately after. We’re so excited and proud of him and he truly seems excited and motivated with his rate choice. He’s submitted his language preferences so just waiting to get the final decision.
We heard from him that he won’t start classes for about 45 days once he arrives out there. Assume that is so they can sync up classes with others that are starting since all branches would be sending their incoming CTI’s there? What do they do during that time? Oh, and what type of barracks are out there? Is it like boot camp or more like college dorm?
We are planning a trip to CA at the end of Feb and may have the opportunity to get to Monterrey. What are the chances he might have liberty if he will have only been there for a couple weeks by that time? Lots of questions and appreciate any guidance from those that have gone before!
Feb 1, 2020
pp2019
Hi Earin! Welcome to the group! My son just started his language a few weeks ago so I can give you the "scoop" from my perspective. It is not uncommon for him to wait prior to classes starting. Mine waited a long time to begin. The first few weeks are classes on the DLI and life in the Navy. He will be in classes all day for several weeks. After that he will probably do whatever it is his superiors need done- take things/papers to another department, help move furniture, pretty much anything that needs done he will do. He will have his electronics (yay!) so he can text/call when not in class. He will not be able to leave the base until he "phases up". He will begin in Phase 1- stay on base at all times. Phase 2 means you can go into town but have curfew. This phase may not occur for several months. Phase 3 means he can stay off base over night. Again, this will happen several months later. WE visited our some 3 weeks after PIR. We were able to have dinner with him on base and hang out! He gave us a tour of DLI. My husband was able to visit his room. It is college dorm style. He will have 1 or 2 roommates. My son has moved 3 times in a short period. Your son won't need a lot of "stuff". My son wanted a few of his favorite clothes/shoes, Nat Geo mags, books, headsets, etc. Nothing big because the rooms are tiny.
I hope this helps!! CONGRATS!!! I hope you get to go to PIR! Watch one online before you go. They are live every Friday. Sit in his division's designated section. I will never forget the moment those HUGE doors opened and the Recruits march in! I have tears in my eyes remembering it!!
Feb 1, 2020
Earin
Thank you pp2019 for all of the details! This is fantastic! We have no military experience in my or my husbands family so always have a ton of questions and so appreciate this site for connecting us with those that have gone before. I am glad to hear they will be kept busy before they start classes. We are going to PIR and am already welling up at the pride and anticipation seeing the divisions marching in. (I have a hard time just making it through the national anthem when it’s played out of respect and appreciation of what it stands for.)
It will be nice to have more communication with him but I will admit that I’ve enjoyed getting the handwritten letters while he’s been at BC.
Ive seen on some other posts that having electronics insured is a strongly suggested idea due to theft. Have you heard anything like that from your son? Oh, and are the roommates all from the Navy or could they room with other branches?
Feb 1, 2020
Earin
Congrats on your sons graduation from BC pp2019!
Feb 1, 2020
pp2019
I am with you! I cry when I see the Blue Angels fly over a stadium or hear the Anthem. I travel internationally for work and thank God every time I land back in the USA!
Yes, those handwritten letters are SO PRECIOUS!
Roommates are not necessarily from the Navy. I think they will put him in a room with others in his chosen language.
My son has the phone insurance for breakage, not theft. He's good at breaking screens :( I asked my son about theft because I had seen in other groups where someone had something stolen. My son said, "Mom, no, we don't have that issue." If it gives you/your son peace of mind, I would get it :)
Feb 1, 2020
Earin
pp2019 Oh, so glad to know I’m not the only one! So appreciate the info! Hope I can pay it forward!
Feb 1, 2020
Earin
pp2019 we are getting so close to PIR and since our SR was also gone for Christmas, looking at getting a couple gifts that he could have/use while at A school. If you have suggestions for these, I would be grateful for the ideas!
Feb 2, 2020
pp2019
Good question! I would get him some books to read about Navy or military successes - here are a few my son read in 2019 (I looked at our Amazon orders :)) Alone at Dawn, Arabs at War, It's Your Ship, Get your Ship Together. I would get him books related to his country/language he will be studying at DLI. Airpods are good. My son wanted a new watch. I bought my son a triangle shaped pillow from Barnes and Noble that he can use to read his iPad in his lap in bed. Finally, an Amazon gift card for him to get whatever he needs is always a great idea!
CONGRATS! Enjoy PIR!!!!
Feb 2, 2020
NotherNavyMom
Hi All - I am guessing the process is very different if you are transferring from another Navy program to DLI and are married. Still seems like a lot of "hurry up & wait", though. Anyone with any experience on family housing around DLI and the process surrounding that?
Feb 7, 2020
Earin
Our Sailor has arrived at DLI! Super excited for this next phase in his journey!
Feb 16, 2020
Earin
We are planning a visit out there in 2 weeks and would love any suggestions on things to do/see. Know he won’t be able to go off base yet so know it will be limited in what he/we can do.
Feb 16, 2020
Lorene
Good afternoon,
Any moms of a sailor who DORd from 800 division then went CTI? Wondering how it has gone. Thank you!
Lorene
Feb 18, 2020
pp2019
Earin, not sure if you got a response about activities to do while on your visit. I suggest you explore the base -visit the cafeteria and share a meal and go see the pieces of the Berlin Wall! There are several plaques that have interesting stories your sailor will learn. In Monterey, Alvarado Street is fun to walk and explore. There is a nice aquarium. We walked from aquarium to Alvardo St. Go look at the seals sunning on the rocks! Lots to do! ENJOY IT!!!
Feb 18, 2020
Earin
Thank you, pp2019 , for the suggestions! Can’t wait to get out to the sunshine!
Feb 23, 2020
Lorene
Good evening! My sailor will be arriving Monterey next week. Anyone know how conditions are there? Restricted to base? He believes classes will begin soon as well. Since we live within 2 hours, so we'd like to know if we could meet for dinner or whatever. Hope everyone is hanging in during this super weird time.
Apr 10, 2020