Katze...I have no clue why the price difference is sooo huge? When I used to fly to SoCal, I always flew into Burbank because it was closer to where my mom lived. ONCE I flew into LA because it was a little cheaper (not $300!!) but the extra gas and the amount of traffic I had to deal with to get to Mom's ended up eating up the savings!! It is great to have them home, isn't it? I can't wait to see my son at his FMTB graduation...in 5 weeks from today!!
Drama its all going so fast! But the timing couldn't be better. This past weekend we dropped my younger son off in NC to go to High Point University. So my Sailor coming home is perfect timing! Funny how next week both my sons will be in NC! LOL a little over two hours apart but in the same state. I wonder if its time to move LOL
Hi all, I have a couple of questions that I'm hoping to get answers to. My son is currently in school at San Antonio. I wanted to attend his graduation from the corpsman school and after seeing some of the posts I'm absolutely going. He gave me the date of October 9th, I've read a few of the posts and sounds like that can change...can it? I'm flying a rather far distance so don't want to purchase my ticket and have it been on a different date. Also do the sailors go to their designated poet straight away or is there a few days before they report? not sure if anyone knows the answers but if you do I'd love to hear what you know. Thanks
hi cyndyi...my son is in san antonio also...grads on oct 2...i'm concerned as well about the date changing but hope it stays...my son will have a couple weeks after grad. before he leaves for san diego...i believe each one may be different, still learning myself...sorry i could not help you more! :)
Thanks singlelady, do you have any idea when we'll know the date for sure? I'm expecting to hear from my son today and hoping that he' knows for sure. guess I'll have to wait to get my ticket but don't want to wait to long as the cost goes up. I'm guessing your son started a week ahead of mine? Do you know if they graduate a class weekly?
no ma'am i have no idea...i did not realize about the dates maybe changing until today when i read on another mom's statement...i am concerned but trying not to worry, LOL!! and the graduation ceremony schedule i have no idea either...i'm still so new at all this and everyday seems i have a new question...my son tells me i ask too many questions...and he'll let me know as soon as he finds out...i'm just a mom ya know...LOL!
I don't want to put a damper on anything but NOTHING in the Navy is set in stone. I booked my ticket for my son's graduation knowing that it might change...and it did. The graduation didn't change but when he was able to come home on leave did...it was a day sooner so I had to change my ticket which is why I now book my flights involving his graduations on Southwest!! There is no change fee with them. When I changed my ticket with USAir, I told them it was due to the military and a change in my son's orders. She waived the fee just this time after much haggling. I did have to pay the difference in the cost of the ticket. My son took 14 days leave as he didn't have to report to Camp P right away. He did RAP duty while home so he earned back 5 days of leave.
singlelady....my son says the same thing about me. "Why do you have to ask so many questions?"
Im flying Delta and asked if I could change my flight to an earlier one, if needed.I was told that for $50.00 I would need to call them 3 hours prior to the time I would like to leave and they will put me on an earlier flight, if possible. Its called"same day confirmation" Not sure if that helps...or just some more info. out there
My son is graduating on this coming Tues.....hopefully.
If he is not supposed to report to his duty station until Aug. 20th and only comes home for 12 days which puts him at his duty station on Sept. 9th do they count those extra days(from the 9th - 20th) leave days or not.... since he will be at duty station early?
LOL I think most of our sons say the same thing. Good thing we have this site to help us with info. My son found out about 2 weeks before graduation when graduation was. The amount of time they get to come home depends on the flight they get when they call to change their flight to go home. Make sure if they do call they do it the minute they get thewir ticket. My son's friend could not fly out right away because he waited and they flights got booked.
It may be safest to call and get information from the Navy student administration office at METC, phone 210-808-3841. Recruiters can also answer questions regarding leave. Sailors' experiences can vary and we don't want to see new corpsmen get anything wrong right out of the gate :)
My son was at Camp from 17 July to 27 July when they moved into Devil Doc Hall. It was not leave! He worked in the hospital and there was endless mustering!
Tell your new corpsmen to hang onto the hard copy of their orders for dear life, by the way - With all the traveling and so on, this is one thing not to misplace :)
Looks like you're right about the navy and nothing really set, speaking with my son today..after being told numerous times that graduation was on the 9th...changed to the 16th, bottom line is when he graduates, he graduates! Hopefully I'll be able to get time off and tickets...and know in a manner that it won't cost an arm and a leg!
cyndyj...I am not the most patient person and I normally have my life organized and planned. I am learning patience and to 'go with the flow' ever since my son enlisted!!
Lol "hurry up n wait!" I too am a planner. I have things booked and done the minute I know we are doing something. Waiting until we knew for sure when the graduation date was not only drove me nuts......tickets went from $800.00 round trip for two people to $1200.00! It stinks but I too am trying to learn how to live with it and go with the flow.
My corpsman's not on the Iwo Jima, but having led the MAS August "adoption" of the junior enlisted on the Iwo this month I feel like they're ALL mine LOL We packed 54 boxes yesterday at our packing party here!!
Ok not sure this is the right place to ask and I know nothing is set in stone, but would like to get an idea of how things work. My son will be in NC training with the Marines until Dec 23. Then he will go to VA for 3 years. Being that it is so close to the holidays would he be able to come home? Does he put in a Chit with NC or VA? Will the base be closed down so he can fly home? Does anyone have an idea or where I can find the answers? Thanks for listening and your help
Corpsman Momma Kat....I am going to Camp P for my son's graduation from FMTB the end of September. I booked my flight on Southwest and got a really great fare from Oregon to California. (Believe it or not those fares can be ridiculously high even tho' it's all West Coast). Do you do any of those Priceline or Expedia sites? I am still looking into hotels in the Oceanside area near Camp P.
DramaSoul, you might try looking at Carlsbad - we've stayed at the Tamarack Beach Resort because it's right across the street from the beach - and hopefully rates will be dropping now.
Hello from the coast of Maine! Summer activities have prevented me from all but lurking here. BUT this weekend we are overun with Sailors off the USS Normandy. Yesterday I was part of the VIP welcoming comittee allowed to board and had a incredibly interesting full tour. The head Corpman plucked me out of group for a private tour of the medical facilities on board. She was so great! The Sailors are participating in our Windjammer Weekend festival...building boat competition, lobster crate race etc, I am hosting the Corpman onboard to my house tomorrow for a lobster dinner! Apparently they are very excited to be spoiled. Here is a picture of me in the Captain's chair. Also footnote...no Riverines for my son...got orders to Djibouti in 2013. Not sure what to think about that.
MEsailormom, How neat was/is that with the USS Normandy! I sure could go for some lobster right now as well! And, now you get to plan a wonderful trip to Djibouti to visit your son, or maybe he can meet you at a resort somewhere not too far away instead...:-)
Uss Normandy Corpsmen...3 lobsters, 3 ears of corn, and only 2 blueberry pie a la Ben & Jerry each! Dropped them at the ship with full bellies, smiles and a care package in each of their hands. I think their Moms will be pleased. ;)
Hi All...need some advice on where to stay for graduation. As of right now I will be at Ward Lodge for the night before and one more night. I will be there for a couple of more days. I could stay at Ward Lodge but I was looking at other places. Tamarack is not in the budget and some of the other places in Oceanside had not-such-good reviews...especially the one with the strip joint next to it! Any suggestions??
Hey Ruthella! I'm just peeking in too for a sec but so very good to see you, miss our late night chats... Talked to a certain Princess earlier aka MM, who had too good a time at a wine tasting today, pretty funny lol
DramaSoul - you're going to have such a wonderful time! I just love when our moms get to take these trips. Hope to see pics from CA soon. 'Night all!
Ohhhhh my BFF is telling on me. Lol Yes, I had an amazing time at the Capitola Art and Wine Fest hmmmmm lol I might have had more wine then Art lol
Ruthella I miss you so much ! I am one who lurks now I have been so busy : ) Yay !
Lol Ruthella I sure have missed our conversations .. M won't be there no kids allowed not even the adult ones. Lol My niece lives and knows the Right People sooooo Yay ! Maybe I'll meet Mr Right hmmmm oh, right that's your job and Marcy and I are still waiting..
I'm with Maltobella. Sitting in my car, just got to work and thought I'd check email before beginning my day. Tears...those leaks...flowing down my cheeks. Thanks Moms for being here.
My son graduated Tuesday from A school at Fort Sam. It is now legal for me to join this group. I am now a mother of a Corpsman. Happy to be here and learn and share with each and every one of you.
Talking with mikesmom today, I'm reminded that ten days from now is National Gold Star Moms Day. It's "a day for people to recognize and honor those who have lost a son or daughter while serving the United States Armed Forces." (Gold Star Mother's Day)
At the first Blue Stars Moms meeting I ever attended, a mother whose son had just been buried came into the meeting; she was now a Gold Star mom. It was a moment I can and will never forget; wish never had to happen...I can only speak for my own emotions, both complicated and simple; and my respect for her being there, especially soon, is beyond conveying. Bless all military families...
DramaSoul
Katze...I have no clue why the price difference is sooo huge? When I used to fly to SoCal, I always flew into Burbank because it was closer to where my mom lived. ONCE I flew into LA because it was a little cheaper (not $300!!) but the extra gas and the amount of traffic I had to deal with to get to Mom's ended up eating up the savings!! It is great to have them home, isn't it? I can't wait to see my son at his FMTB graduation...in 5 weeks from today!!
Aug 24, 2012
Katze90210 (3/113)
Drama its all going so fast! But the timing couldn't be better. This past weekend we dropped my younger son off in NC to go to High Point University. So my Sailor coming home is perfect timing! Funny how next week both my sons will be in NC! LOL a little over two hours apart but in the same state. I wonder if its time to move LOL
Aug 24, 2012
cyndyj
Hi all, I have a couple of questions that I'm hoping to get answers to. My son is currently in school at San Antonio. I wanted to attend his graduation from the corpsman school and after seeing some of the posts I'm absolutely going. He gave me the date of October 9th, I've read a few of the posts and sounds like that can change...can it? I'm flying a rather far distance so don't want to purchase my ticket and have it been on a different date. Also do the sailors go to their designated poet straight away or is there a few days before they report? not sure if anyone knows the answers but if you do I'd love to hear what you know. Thanks
Aug 24, 2012
singlelady
hi cyndyi...my son is in san antonio also...grads on oct 2...i'm concerned as well about the date changing but hope it stays...my son will have a couple weeks after grad. before he leaves for san diego...i believe each one may be different, still learning myself...sorry i could not help you more! :)
Aug 24, 2012
cyndyj
Thanks singlelady, do you have any idea when we'll know the date for sure? I'm expecting to hear from my son today and hoping that he' knows for sure. guess I'll have to wait to get my ticket but don't want to wait to long as the cost goes up. I'm guessing your son started a week ahead of mine? Do you know if they graduate a class weekly?
Aug 24, 2012
singlelady
no ma'am i have no idea...i did not realize about the dates maybe changing until today when i read on another mom's statement...i am concerned but trying not to worry, LOL!! and the graduation ceremony schedule i have no idea either...i'm still so new at all this and everyday seems i have a new question...my son tells me i ask too many questions...and he'll let me know as soon as he finds out...i'm just a mom ya know...LOL!
Aug 24, 2012
DramaSoul
I don't want to put a damper on anything but NOTHING in the Navy is set in stone. I booked my ticket for my son's graduation knowing that it might change...and it did. The graduation didn't change but when he was able to come home on leave did...it was a day sooner so I had to change my ticket which is why I now book my flights involving his graduations on Southwest!! There is no change fee with them. When I changed my ticket with USAir, I told them it was due to the military and a change in my son's orders. She waived the fee just this time after much haggling. I did have to pay the difference in the cost of the ticket. My son took 14 days leave as he didn't have to report to Camp P right away. He did RAP duty while home so he earned back 5 days of leave.
singlelady....my son says the same thing about me. "Why do you have to ask so many questions?"
Aug 24, 2012
1proudmom
Im flying Delta and asked if I could change my flight to an earlier one, if needed.I was told that for $50.00 I would need to call them 3 hours prior to the time I would like to leave and they will put me on an earlier flight, if possible. Its called"same day confirmation" Not sure if that helps...or just some more info. out there
...
Aug 24, 2012
1proudmom
My son is graduating on this coming Tues.....hopefully.
If he is not supposed to report to his duty station until Aug. 20th and only comes home for 12 days which puts him at his duty station on Sept. 9th do they count those extra days(from the 9th - 20th) leave days or not.... since he will be at duty station early?
Aug 24, 2012
Katze90210 (3/113)
LOL I think most of our sons say the same thing. Good thing we have this site to help us with info. My son found out about 2 weeks before graduation when graduation was. The amount of time they get to come home depends on the flight they get when they call to change their flight to go home. Make sure if they do call they do it the minute they get thewir ticket. My son's friend could not fly out right away because he waited and they flights got booked.
Aug 24, 2012
Marcy ~ Corpsman Mom
It may be safest to call and get information from the Navy student administration office at METC, phone 210-808-3841. Recruiters can also answer questions regarding leave. Sailors' experiences can vary and we don't want to see new corpsmen get anything wrong right out of the gate :)
Aug 24, 2012
DramaSoul
My son was at Camp from 17 July to 27 July when they moved into Devil Doc Hall. It was not leave! He worked in the hospital and there was endless mustering!
Marcy, goood advice!!
Aug 24, 2012
Marcy ~ Corpsman Mom
Tell your new corpsmen to hang onto the hard copy of their orders for dear life, by the way - With all the traveling and so on, this is one thing not to misplace :)
Aug 24, 2012
cyndyj
Looks like you're right about the navy and nothing really set, speaking with my son today..after being told numerous times that graduation was on the 9th...changed to the 16th, bottom line is when he graduates, he graduates! Hopefully I'll be able to get time off and tickets...and know in a manner that it won't cost an arm and a leg!
Aug 24, 2012
DramaSoul
cyndyj...I am not the most patient person and I normally have my life organized and planned. I am learning patience and to 'go with the flow' ever since my son enlisted!!
Aug 25, 2012
Katze90210 (3/113)
Aug 25, 2012
Marcy ~ Corpsman Mom
Yay Blueside! - Here are the Medical Department corpsmen currently deployed on USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7) - great looking group!
Aug 25, 2012
Marcy ~ Corpsman Mom
My corpsman's not on the Iwo Jima, but having led the MAS August "adoption" of the junior enlisted on the Iwo this month I feel like they're ALL mine LOL We packed 54 boxes yesterday at our packing party here!!
Aug 27, 2012
mikes mom
Aug 27, 2012
DramaSoul
Great pic and I agree with Betty B.
Aug 27, 2012
Marcy ~ Corpsman Mom
Our packing party for the Iwo yesterday with our "Gator Navy" gator mascot on the table next to my mom :)
Aug 27, 2012
Katze90210 (3/113)
Ok not sure this is the right place to ask and I know nothing is set in stone, but would like to get an idea of how things work. My son will be in NC training with the Marines until Dec 23. Then he will go to VA for 3 years. Being that it is so close to the holidays would he be able to come home? Does he put in a Chit with NC or VA? Will the base be closed down so he can fly home? Does anyone have an idea or where I can find the answers? Thanks for listening and your help
Aug 29, 2012
DramaSoul
Corpsman Momma Kat....I am going to Camp P for my son's graduation from FMTB the end of September. I booked my flight on Southwest and got a really great fare from Oregon to California. (Believe it or not those fares can be ridiculously high even tho' it's all West Coast). Do you do any of those Priceline or Expedia sites? I am still looking into hotels in the Oceanside area near Camp P.
Sending lots of prayers for you and your family.
Aug 30, 2012
Marcy ~ Corpsman Mom
DramaSoul, you might try looking at Carlsbad - we've stayed at the Tamarack Beach Resort because it's right across the street from the beach - and hopefully rates will be dropping now.
Aug 31, 2012
MEsailormom
Hello from the coast of Maine! Summer activities have prevented me from all but lurking here. BUT this weekend we are overun with Sailors off the USS Normandy. Yesterday I was part of the VIP welcoming comittee allowed to board and had a incredibly interesting full tour. The head Corpman plucked me out of group for a private tour of the medical facilities on board. She was so great! The Sailors are participating in our Windjammer Weekend festival...building boat competition, lobster crate race etc, I am hosting the Corpman onboard to my house tomorrow for a lobster dinner! Apparently they are very excited to be spoiled. Here is a picture of me in the Captain's chair. Also footnote...no Riverines for my son...got orders to Djibouti in 2013. Not sure what to think about that.
Sep 1, 2012
vettespace
MEsailormom, How neat was/is that with the USS Normandy! I sure could go for some lobster right now as well! And, now you get to plan a wonderful trip to Djibouti to visit your son, or maybe he can meet you at a resort somewhere not too far away instead...:-)
Sep 1, 2012
DramaSoul
MEsailormom....WOW!! So cool. I am with vettespace...gotta be some resort somewhere to meet your son.
Sep 1, 2012
MEsailormom
Uss Normandy Corpsmen...3 lobsters, 3 ears of corn, and only 2 blueberry pie a la Ben & Jerry each! Dropped them at the ship with full bellies, smiles and a care package in each of their hands. I think their Moms will be pleased. ;)
Sep 2, 2012
mikes mom
Sep 2, 2012
Marcy ~ Corpsman Mom
That sounds just wonderful!! Yes, I think their moms will be more than pleased, they'll be deeply touched by your big heart and generosity.
Hey I just noticed...next one to join our group puts us at 600 members!!! Who will it be...........
Sep 3, 2012
Marcy ~ Corpsman Mom
BTW MEmom, that pic is fabulous!!
Sep 3, 2012
DramaSoul
Hi All...need some advice on where to stay for graduation. As of right now I will be at Ward Lodge for the night before and one more night. I will be there for a couple of more days. I could stay at Ward Lodge but I was looking at other places. Tamarack is not in the budget and some of the other places in Oceanside had not-such-good reviews...especially the one with the strip joint next to it! Any suggestions??
Sep 8, 2012
DramaSoul
Thanks, Kathy! I may end up just stayin' on base at Ward Lodge. I have to say...talked with my son tonight. I am getting excited!
Sep 10, 2012
Marcy ~ Corpsman Mom
Hey Ruthella! I'm just peeking in too for a sec but so very good to see you, miss our late night chats... Talked to a certain Princess earlier aka MM, who had too good a time at a wine tasting today, pretty funny lol
DramaSoul - you're going to have such a wonderful time! I just love when our moms get to take these trips. Hope to see pics from CA soon. 'Night all!
Sep 10, 2012
mikes mom
Ruthella I miss you so much ! I am one who lurks now I have been so busy : ) Yay !
Sep 10, 2012
mikes mom
Sep 10, 2012
mikes mom
Sep 10, 2012
mamawalrus
Hi all.. its been a very longgg time since i have been on here.. I thought I would get back and put some moms back in my life.
I will try and go back a month and read all the way to now.
Sep 13, 2012
mikes mom
Sep 13, 2012
abbyblue
I no longer have two sailors I will be leaving this group
Sep 16, 2012
Maltobella (HM - San Antonio)
Sep 16, 2012
Maltobella (HM - San Antonio)
Kathy, thanks for making me cry first thing this morning!
Sep 20, 2012
DramaSoul
Sep 20, 2012
OKCsuzieq
Sep 20, 2012
DaniHMItalyMom
My son graduated Tuesday from A school at Fort Sam. It is now legal for me to join this group. I am now a mother of a Corpsman. Happy to be here and learn and share with each and every one of you.
Sep 20, 2012
mikes mom
Sep 20, 2012
Marcy ~ Corpsman Mom
Welcome Dami and all new moms!
Such an awesome group of moms here.
Talking with mikesmom today, I'm reminded that ten days from now is National Gold Star Moms Day. It's "a day for people to recognize and honor those who have lost a son or daughter while serving the United States Armed Forces." (Gold Star Mother's Day)
At the first Blue Stars Moms meeting I ever attended, a mother whose son had just been buried came into the meeting; she was now a Gold Star mom. It was a moment I can and will never forget; wish never had to happen...I can only speak for my own emotions, both complicated and simple; and my respect for her being there, especially soon, is beyond conveying. Bless all military families...
Sep 21, 2012
mikes mom
Sep 21, 2012
mikes mom
I have a date tonight .. dinner at my house hmmm he'll have to get along with Hazel. : )
Sep 21, 2012
mikes mom
Sep 21, 2012