Thanks to all of you who took a moment to send words of encouragement, prayers or good thoughts towards our AIRR candidates today. They all passed battlestations! Yahoo!! They received a really high score. I think the division earned a 4.98 out of 5. Not sure what that means... but it sounds like they pulled together and worked as a team and that is the point... I'm sure. I started breaking down about 2:30. I thought something must be wrong... why hadn't I received a call yet...but bless you Lydia... You came to my rescue...reassured me that all was well and you were right! Phew!! Thanks again to all of you who have gone before... and are willing to share your support with me and my group of AIRR candidates. You ARE ALL MY ANGELS! Sending hugs to all!
Jodi- Yes... work really did get in the way today! My call came when I was working with a client. Thankfully, she allowed me a few minutes to talk to my son... and then I had to go... but I did have 9 wonderful minutes with my son today!!! Yay!! It is time to win the lottery... I will ask the lottery agent to please only sell me the winning ticket. I will set us all up for life and we can tour the world supporting our sons and other military parents. Who's up for that???
Count me in Jodi! And congratulations to all of you who had Sailors finishing Battle Stations this week. Boot Camp is almost finished and you will be with them soon. Safe travels for those of you attending PIR.
About time frames from Air Crew to RSS - there is no set time; some people go right in to it with no wait, and some have months of waiting. My son graduated Boot Camp in Oct 12 and arrived in Pensacola a day later; he completed Air Crew almost immediately but then was on hold until January 13 - however, there were maintenance issues with the pools on base and so no classes were brought up while they were being repaired. While on hold they continued to train the guys and to watch them closely - those run/swim times, push up/pull up/sit ups, etc while on hold are important and people ARE watching. Your Sailor needs to be working hard and doing his best especially while on hold when it is easy to think there is no reason to push yourself.
Once he began RSS in January, he completed that phase and graduated in July. From there he went to SERE in San Diego and then had another hold until he started FRS (or FRAC) in September. (Case in point - Mama D's son graduated Boot Camp, Air Crew, & RSS with my son, but they didn't leave Pensacola together, though they are both in San Diego - he arrived two weeks behind my son for SERE, but isn't scheduled for FRS until November, though my son informs me they could graduate RFS within weeks of each other, depending on how training runs.) Right now he says they are scheduled for completion in January or Feb, but with the government shut down, there could be some training issues once they get to flight status, which was supposed to be next week.
Anywho, the point of that was - there is no time frame; there is no rhyme nor reason as to why one guy gets picked up for this class and another guy has hold for several more weeks. You just tell your Sailor to work hard, and keep his nose clean.
Congratulations to all the new Sailors! Moms, you are almost through Boot camp - your own personal one! Soon! Safe travels to all of you that will be going to PIR.
my son arrived at boot camp a few weeks ago, 9/23. He is on Ship09, Div011. Does anyone know why they haven't formed a 800 Division, or if and when they will? I haven't been able to talk to my son, hopefully this weekend I'll get the call, so I have so many questions.
Starboard D is a hold patter of helo flight... helos will fly a D formation up above the fleet day and night... just a holding pattern to keep watch... Hence the name Starboard D for the kids who are on hold for RSS...... The first School they will have to pass is Naval Aircrew Candidate School.... NACCS... then they will go on hold for RSS.... hold times vary for a multitude of reasons just like Melissa said........ my son left BC (3 years ago) in August ... he phased up very fast and was on hold for NACCS from August until late October.. then he classed up for RSS almost 2 months later in fact right in the middle of RSS he came home for Christmas then after they went back finished RSS mid January.. was on hold for A school until March... his hold times were not as bad as some that I have heard and I know some are longer now... however it does provide them great time to beef back up on their body as well as on the PT .... remember the attrition rate for RSS is around 75 - 80 percent... as MK5 said, some just can't take the hold times or after all the PT and pool swimmer etc... they decide it is just not for them and they DOR (Drop on Request) and many just fail out and go un-designated. So just lend all the support you can muster up and remind them that the hold times can actually help them to make it!!! swim swim swim flutter kicks by the hundreds, mask clearing,.. controlled breathing.. running on the beach.. throw in mask and fins find them put them on clear their mask all within a minute and under the water and that is only a few of the things they will need to practice over and over and over...... work with buddies and do buddy tows, the hardest part my son said in RSS is simply that so many guys just dont pay attention to the instructors and do exactly what they say... one pinky finger out of place and they will fail them... so the mental is hard.. again hold times can be an exercise in mental.. which is very beneficial!!! I have posted man pictures of my son on here in the past but he is out of all training and attached to his squad... however, never ever allow their names to be visible.. so if in doubt, just don't post any, especially as MK5 said while they are still in their training phases.. and this is a public site - anyone in the world literally can access this page..
If you want any who are not sure.... please go up to the discussion forum, click on View All and you will see the OPSEC rules.. as well as Phases and Liberty and also the Path of the Rescue swimmer they are awesome to answer some of yalls questions... When in doubt, leave it out...
rescueswimmermom - hi there!!!!! You son should already have his division assigned BUT AND you will get a letter it is a form letter with some very importants notes, instructions AND his mailing address which will include the Division.... hang in there.... you should be getting that letter any day now and his box.... keep us posted!!!! Unless something has changed that division was already established.. you can also call his recruiter and USUALLY they are good at giving you this info... =)
Lydia- wow! I learn something new everyday on this site! Thanks for the insight about Starboard D name! Also, thanks for the reminder about the work that is ahead! The road is long and winding...hmmm sounds like a song!
With all this news about the Affordable Care Act in the paper, can anyone tell me (us) just what kind of health insurance coverage our sailors have and what the coverage is. Our sailor is still on our insurance and we would like to drop that coverage if it is "safe". I see TRICARE, but don't know what level they get. Most of the talk there is for family/kid coverage and that doesn't apply.
Thanks in advance for any info.
And Lydia--thanks for the Starboard D info --- didn't know about the D formation. Do the ARS go in the helos, or only "dry" air crew?
Saltyocean. I cant remember at what point your Sailor is in this pipeline????? BUT below I posted a link that has phone number help lines you might be able to find out more detail... Ill message my son and ask him but it could be weeks before I hear back from him......... I would not drop anything yet if your Sailor is still in training.....until you know for certain...Ill definitely ask around and see if I can find out but always remember you can call your Sailors recruiter or any recruiter for that matter and ask...
As for the Rescue Swimmer AWS/AIRR...(Check your childs contract it will be on there). my son's contract was for Aircrew Rescue Swimmer... there are many responsibilities that a Rescue Swimmer performs..also depending upon if they are Sierra or Romeo.. which they will be assigned after RSS if they pass... from Starboard D to Cargo transfers people transfers to boots on the ground rescue AND Sea Rescues..(haha there are acronyms for all these but I forget them) my son fly's every day with his Squadron.. two Rescue Swimmers and two Pilots...unless they are doing helo maintenance.. and believe me, once they graduate FRS and are assigned to their Squad... they are learning every square inch of that helo including take off and landings (which are the responsibility of the Rescue Swimmers -the pilots depend on them for both) The Rescue Swimmer is responsible for Pre- flight checks to be sure the bird is sound and able to fly.. They are considered WET not DRY. My understanding of DRY is that they actually have a job on the ship and request Rescue Swimmer training as secondary to their actual Rate... Remember also that there is Sierra or Romeo (please go up to the discussion forum click on View all and read the Path of the Rescue Swimmer) so there are difference in the two.... it really sounds complicated but its not... just hard when you are just starting out with your Sailor...
Here is a link to some phone number of TriCare depending on whether your Sailor is North, South, East, West or overseas.... Im sure you will get some answers if you call them..... =)
People kept asking me what Starboard D meant and I had no clue. Thanks Lydia for all that info! You are such a godsend of help. :)
Proudmama you are funny.
Saltyocean - Great question! I was wondering that myself seeing as we have to renew our insurance very soon! BTW - Our boys are in the same Starboard D right now except that mine is closer to moving on to RSS - about 1 more week or at least that is what it was a week and a half ago. Who knows now!
Well I am so happy to hear my son started FRAC today. He was right in the middle of SERE, but due to the government shut down they had to pull them all. He said he will go back and do it again once everything gets situated. Just frustrating because they were almost done with the 2 weeks.
Lydia - could you please explain the difference of a CSAR if you know? My son completed training as a Sierra and then was offered a CSAR. He already knows his squadron, but I am wondering what the difference is. I know it is combat search and rescue, but really don't know what the differences are.
All carriers will have SAR capable crews. Not all fleets have CSAR trained crews. CSAR is not just the air crew, it includes the ground troops as well. For instance, a Marine Expeditionary unit is not technically qualified for CSAR unless it is designated Special Operations Capable as in MEU (SOC). CSAR training includes combat training not included in SAR school and periodic evaluations.
To get SAR training volunteer for air crew. You'll need an aviation rate. Once you get on an air crew you'll need to volunteer for CSAR training.
The Marines who rescued Scott O'Grady were CSAR qualified. I would suppose the Marines who rescued the Air Force pilot in Libya were CSAR qualified.
So it is deeper and further Aircrew training.. not just water rescue but land as well
Yall who are headed to PIR... take your binocular, tissues and your loudest screaming voices =)
OH it is totally unacceptable what the "govt" is doing to our service members.. ugggggggggg..... so many are struggling to pay their rent, day care, food... while they all collect their BIG paycheck and go play golf.... Okay well anyhoooo I agree funny that they stopped SERE,,, arrrrrrrrrrrrg There are also some Sailors due to come home and they wont let them yet... ???? I dont get it at all....... =( Well, that is why us ladies are here for each other... to share joy, sorrow, worries.... and even to brag!!!!! AND dbristol........ WOOHOO THAT YOUR BOY STARTED FRS... FLEET REPLACEMENT SQUADRON... awesome!!!!!!! So see there is good in bad situations.... at least that is what I keep telling myself!!!!!!!!
Lydia, if you can, go over to the Heads at Ease group. We did pillowcases for the USS Boxer and one of the guys posted a picture of one of the helo's either landing or taking off the ship in the Pacific. He mentions the crew includes 8 rescue swimmer/door gunners!. It will be in the discussion forum and as of this morning it was the first one listed.
Jodi kewl beans will do.... thank you sweetie.....
Okay hey Saltyocean..and yall who are asking..... this is for you... something I read
UPDATED: TRICARE Statement About Government Shutdown
On October 9, 2013, the Defense Health Agency updated their statement about the government shutdown:
"We know that those who rely on the Military Health System (MHS) are concerned about how the government shutdown might impact their health care and are taking appropriate actions to assure that our beneficiaries are cared for. TRICARE beneficiaries using providers in the private sector should feel no effects at this time."
dbristol- I have been thinking about your son so much! His SERE training was interrupted due to gov't shutdown... ughhhhh! So when he returns to that training, does he start from the beginning or can he start where he left off? How is your son handling all of this?
Lydia-thanks for keeping us informed and helping us all along the way!
NancyN- Thanks for all your words of wisdom both on this site and the others that we share... I'm thinking of your son! Has he started RSS?
Melissa- thanks for reviewing your experience with the time frames from Aircrew school to RSS
Jodi, Heartstrings, and MK5 diver... all your encouragement, words of wisdom and recommendations have been soooooo appreciated!
Well, the government shutdown impacted two divisions as they prepared for Battlestations, they were put on hold! They were not able to complete them before graduation. So... parents were able to come and see their kids PIR -but it was strictly for the parents. Those divisions have to wait and complete Battlestations this week. Although it didn't impact our 820 division, I just thought I would share that with you all since we are all one big Navy family.
Our brand new sailors are now in P'Cola... and the waiting begins for aircrew school...any tips, suggestions? What helped your son or daughter succeed in Aircrew school?
I so appreciate all of you in this group! I wish we could all meet sometime-somewhere...experienced members with sons/daughters who have finished the pipeline and those who are just beginning.... Has there ever been a get together of parents of the sailors who are in the AIRR pipeline or who have completed it?
My son got through his wait for A school by volunteering a lot. He also did a lot of PT (throughly enjoyed running on the beach with the Blues overhead!) and reading up on his next adventure with the Navy.
Proudmama - My son was told they would have to start SERE completely over once funding starts again. Guess he just got a taste of it before completely going through it. He had lost 8 pounds in just 4 days. (He definately does not have any spare to lose). He is just rolling with it. He was extremely frustrated at the time because they only had a few more days, but has gotten over it. He has started his FRS training now, so that is keeping him busy. He is definately hoping he gets to do it out in California before he goes to Norfolk Virginia for his CSAR training. It is just one of those things. They are so anxious to get through the training part and keep pressing on, but he is getting more patient knowing there is nothing he can do during the hold times other than keep up the work outs and keep your mind focused.
In Florida he had alot of volunteer opportunities and loved doing them. I would suggest telling your sailor to look for these. It makes a good impression. Also work out like crazy!!!!!
HI everyone.... yup this shut down and the feuding between Republicans and Democrats and the President... is exhausting....Im sick to death of it and I no long turn on the news but once a week........ BUT ..... the only good thing I can say is... our kids are fighting for these freedoms of difference... freedoms of speech and press... and so many others.... the right to difference... anyway... arrrrrrrrrrg......... love you all tons... so happy for our new Sailors... we are here for yall.... what a long arduous pipeline they and yall are in for ... stay here... we are here to love, vent, help.. xoxoxoxoxox
Ok... so if you want to go to the movies... I have a new movie for everyone to go see... Captain Phillips. It is not a political movie. It is a telling of how Captain Phillips is taken hostage and the Navy saves him. Guess which ship was involved? You guessed it... the Boxer (and two other ships...don't remember the names of them). Two thumbs up!
Is aircrew school the same as air warfare school? I've been reading the Path of the Rescue Swimmer and other posts and I am not sure if those are the same school or if they are different schools. Also, when reading about phases... why would someone phase up from I to II in 4 days and others take up to 2 weeks?
Good Morning Proudmama, I can't answer your question about the time they Phase up (only can tell you it was 2 weeks before my son moved to Phase II). No air warfare is not the same as Aircrew Candidate school. My son really enjoyed Aircrew school. Hope all my fellow moms have a great weekend.
Proudmama, phasing up depends on a variety of things. My son phased up fairly quickly however he was also demoted to phase 1 several times too. It wasn't based on his behavior but the behavior of the barracks he was in. When someone screws up, everyone in that barracks is punished.
proud... never ever ever heard of Air Warfare School in the rate.... it is NACCS, RSS, A School and FRS.... that is the Rescue Swimmer Pipeline.... actually yes they can Phase up really fast.. it is a matter of inspections of room and uniforms etc.... it depends on the sailor and his roomates....
Hi, Lydia, how is your son doing? Did he mention if he received a pillowcase recently? The HeadsAtEase is starting to hear back from the sailors on the USS Boxer and a few sent pictures. I hope your son is doing great!
Jodi... hi sista.... I have asked him of FB but since I asked him 6 days ago I have gotten no messages as of yet... however on the USS boxer site I saw several kids holding them up .... no he was not in the photo but I know they have been receiving them and I know if would be the first to grab one hahahahaha.... so I will let you know when he lets me know.... Im anxious to hear from him... I have a feeling through adding 2 and 2 that I know where he is and what he is doing but of course OPSEC rules do not allow he or myself to say and i dont know for certain just my instinct so I don't know If Ill here from him for a while... but the photo I saw was soooooo sweet... BIG smiles let me see if I can go back and trace my steps and find the photo and Ill post it here.
To you mammas who are done with PIR and kids are now in Pcola hang in there next will be Phasing up while waiting to class up for NACCS.... while they are doing both they neeeeeeed to be beefing back up those PTs and their physical self...... xoxoxoxoxox
HEY Jodi..... I found it I can't believe I did tho..hahahah it is in the Bark Of The Boxer news letter that they post on the USS Boxer site on FB... can you believe I remembered that... what???? hahah here is the link
@dbristol - I was chatting with my son the other day and he mentioned that the guys who were pulled from SERE were dumped (his word) into his squadron. Don't know if that means our boys know each other, but it does mean they are together. =)
Great picture Lydia - I love what the Heads at Ease group is doing. I would love to help out, but my sewing machine broke and I haven't replaced it and really haven't decided if I am going to. Do you know if it is possible to just send a donation or fabrics or such to the group?
Tomorrow I travel to Pensacola to see my sailor graduate from RSS. Please let me know if anyone else might be heading that way too. I would love to meet you.
Melissa, Sue from Heads At Ease would gladly welcome a donation of fabric or money. If you go to the Heads At Ease group you will see an email address for MaryEllen who helps Sue with deciding where the pillowcases go etc. I have been a part of the group since my son joined. It's a little thing but the sailors seem to really enjoy them.
Congratulations to your boys MK5Diver and MaryKay! What great accomplishments they have made and how proud you both must be. I am super excited for all of you! So sorry you can't be there to see your boy graduate MaryKay. Hopefully MK5Diver will share pictures with you!
WELL howdy everyone!!!! OH Imm so excited for our RSS grads... such a hard hard hard school.... yall sure were quiet in here during that time.... =) guess you were busy down on your knees praying !!!!! It is a GREAT graduation and if you can go GO!!!!!!!!! I could not afford it, so my dear Navy Mom friend who lived right down hear by went for me and she taped it AND got me lots of photos...
I did ask my son about the pillow cases and he said that his group had not received anything and in fact he said he knew nothing about it... so I explained it to him... and I told him that I was sure eventually they would all get theirs... Such a great idea... I have one for him in his Christmas / Birthday care package already... I am sending out 40 Santa Hats filled with stuff for all of his Squadron.. sheeeeesh... they are going to be so excited.. all kinds of neat stuff hubby and I bout to go in each one.. I said well, CHARGE IT just CHARGE IT hahahahaha........
Soooooooo time to muster everyone.... where is everyone who has not been on for a while??? Where are we in our pipeline yall...... time passes and it is hard to remember who is where doing what..... Ill go first.... my B man is through the pipeline, got his wings and is deployed on the USS Boxer who knows where... okay now its ALL yalls turn!!!!
My son is on his very first detachment on the USS Roosevelt after arriving in Jacksonville from San Diego. I'm trying to adapt to not being able to contact him with any regularity.
Ok, My sailor is in Jacksonville right now but expects to head to San Diego sometime around February once he finishes FRAC. He is a Bravo right now, I think he was the last to be assigned to this as they are phasing it out. He flew 4 times last week so he is really pumped. He loves it! One of the most exciting things to happen to him and the others at JAX is that Tim McGraw is giving a free concert there next month!
Lydia, I know that eventually he will get a pillowcase because the motto of Heads at Ease is All Or None. They do ship in waves since there are so many on the ship so they probably haven't got to him yet (though I'm surprised he hasn't since the picture I told you about came from a rescue swimmer I think)
Congrats to all that had sailors graduate on Friday and continued prayers for those on deployment or waiting to class up.
BJ yes here is the link.... yall this is a cool, surfer, but active awesome Church. I know the pastor Steve Bombaci personally... we attended college together.. and his wife Karen is a doll... my son started going there upon arrival in SD and now there are about 6 Rescue Swimmers and other navy kids who go... he invited a bunch of them and they fell in love... they even have a Surfing Ministry!!!!! Good luck to your Sailor!!!! let me know... and tell him to tell Steve that Lydia sent him hahahaha
kkr.... OH man do I know what you mean... my B is very good about FB messaging me as often as he can but the Boxer seems to have old antiquated computers ...
MaryK ... if he graduated RSS then he should know if he is Romeo or Sierra...congrats on your other son and daughter a well....
Jodi .. OH I am sure that the pillow cases will flow on to all of them... no worries there! Kewl, your Sailor will love San Diego... they all seem too... Love that Tim McGraw... such a Patriot!!! Be sure and share the link to Newbreak PB if he enjoys going to church... especially one that is board shorts and lots of military and surfers hahaha...... they are sooo active in the community.. lots of beach clean ups, skate park cleanups, festivals, Surfing ministry...
NancyNature- Prayers to your son as he begins his class!
Jodi- It sounds like your son is getting to put all of the lessons he has learned together to actually go out there and do his job! How wonderful for him!!! They are phasing out Bravo?? So what happens to him when that happens? Does he start training all over again??
KKR Hoosier- Let us newbies know how your son enjoys his first detachment... prayers to him!
BJ ship- I hope you get to visit your son in San Diego... and stay at the Navy Lodge on Coronado Island! Just don't make my mistake and walk past that big white sign that says "Shooting Range"!
MaryKay- What stage in the pipeline is your son?? My son is in Florida too...but at the "beginning to wait" stage...
Lydia- I don't even know where to begin... You are seriously a wonderful, giving, thoughtful person who is extremely patient and answered each and every one of my pm's . I think if my son makes it through the pipeline... you should get an award!!!...
Aster, Vitamama??? How are you all?
MK5 Diver- How was graduation??? I thought of your son that morning!
Sending out big NMH for all our sons/daughters and to their moms whichever stage in the pipeline they are....:!!!
proudmama, from what he has said he may stay a Bravo or be rolled into the Romeo platform later. He called last night. He flew again and did really well on all his tests. He has been studying every night which is good. We may or may not go down for Thanksgiving to see him. He had some plans so we are leaving it up to him to decide if he wants to change them. If we don't see him at Thanksgiving then I'll have to wait for Christmas, sigh.
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
How exciting!!!! Please let us know when you get the call. Work always seems to get in the way doesn't it?
Oct 4, 2013
Tiffany
Oct 4, 2013
nancynature
Praying all those who had BSs today and all the moms waiting to hear!!!!
Oct 4, 2013
proudmama
Thanks to all of you who took a moment to send words of encouragement, prayers or good thoughts towards our AIRR candidates today. They all passed battlestations! Yahoo!! They received a really high score. I think the division earned a 4.98 out of 5. Not sure what that means... but it sounds like they pulled together and worked as a team and that is the point... I'm sure. I started breaking down about 2:30. I thought something must be wrong... why hadn't I received a call yet...but bless you Lydia... You came to my rescue...reassured me that all was well and you were right! Phew!! Thanks again to all of you who have gone before... and are willing to share your support with me and my group of AIRR candidates. You ARE ALL MY ANGELS! Sending hugs to all!
Oct 4, 2013
proudmama
Jodi- Yes... work really did get in the way today! My call came when I was working with a client. Thankfully, she allowed me a few minutes to talk to my son... and then I had to go... but I did have 9 wonderful minutes with my son today!!! Yay!! It is time to win the lottery... I will ask the lottery agent to please only sell me the winning ticket. I will set us all up for life and we can tour the world supporting our sons and other military parents. Who's up for that???
Oct 4, 2013
Melissa
Count me in Jodi! And congratulations to all of you who had Sailors finishing Battle Stations this week. Boot Camp is almost finished and you will be with them soon. Safe travels for those of you attending PIR.
About time frames from Air Crew to RSS - there is no set time; some people go right in to it with no wait, and some have months of waiting. My son graduated Boot Camp in Oct 12 and arrived in Pensacola a day later; he completed Air Crew almost immediately but then was on hold until January 13 - however, there were maintenance issues with the pools on base and so no classes were brought up while they were being repaired. While on hold they continued to train the guys and to watch them closely - those run/swim times, push up/pull up/sit ups, etc while on hold are important and people ARE watching. Your Sailor needs to be working hard and doing his best especially while on hold when it is easy to think there is no reason to push yourself.
Once he began RSS in January, he completed that phase and graduated in July. From there he went to SERE in San Diego and then had another hold until he started FRS (or FRAC) in September. (Case in point - Mama D's son graduated Boot Camp, Air Crew, & RSS with my son, but they didn't leave Pensacola together, though they are both in San Diego - he arrived two weeks behind my son for SERE, but isn't scheduled for FRS until November, though my son informs me they could graduate RFS within weeks of each other, depending on how training runs.) Right now he says they are scheduled for completion in January or Feb, but with the government shut down, there could be some training issues once they get to flight status, which was supposed to be next week.
Anywho, the point of that was - there is no time frame; there is no rhyme nor reason as to why one guy gets picked up for this class and another guy has hold for several more weeks. You just tell your Sailor to work hard, and keep his nose clean.
Oct 4, 2013
nancynature
Congratulations to all the new Sailors! Moms, you are almost through Boot camp - your own personal one! Soon! Safe travels to all of you that will be going to PIR.
Oct 4, 2013
AOnavymomTN
my son arrived at boot camp a few weeks ago, 9/23. He is on Ship09, Div011. Does anyone know why they haven't formed a 800 Division, or if and when they will? I haven't been able to talk to my son, hopefully this weekend I'll get the call, so I have so many questions.
I'm so thankful for this support group.
Oct 5, 2013
Lydia (For B - The Sea is Ours)
MK5Diver and Dunmier.....
Starboard D is a hold patter of helo flight... helos will fly a D formation up above the fleet day and night... just a holding pattern to keep watch... Hence the name Starboard D for the kids who are on hold for RSS...... The first School they will have to pass is Naval Aircrew Candidate School.... NACCS... then they will go on hold for RSS.... hold times vary for a multitude of reasons just like Melissa said........ my son left BC (3 years ago) in August ... he phased up very fast and was on hold for NACCS from August until late October.. then he classed up for RSS almost 2 months later in fact right in the middle of RSS he came home for Christmas then after they went back finished RSS mid January.. was on hold for A school until March... his hold times were not as bad as some that I have heard and I know some are longer now... however it does provide them great time to beef back up on their body as well as on the PT .... remember the attrition rate for RSS is around 75 - 80 percent... as MK5 said, some just can't take the hold times or after all the PT and pool swimmer etc... they decide it is just not for them and they DOR (Drop on Request) and many just fail out and go un-designated. So just lend all the support you can muster up and remind them that the hold times can actually help them to make it!!! swim swim swim flutter kicks by the hundreds, mask clearing,.. controlled breathing.. running on the beach.. throw in mask and fins find them put them on clear their mask all within a minute and under the water and that is only a few of the things they will need to practice over and over and over...... work with buddies and do buddy tows, the hardest part my son said in RSS is simply that so many guys just dont pay attention to the instructors and do exactly what they say... one pinky finger out of place and they will fail them... so the mental is hard.. again hold times can be an exercise in mental.. which is very beneficial!!! I have posted man pictures of my son on here in the past but he is out of all training and attached to his squad... however, never ever allow their names to be visible.. so if in doubt, just don't post any, especially as MK5 said while they are still in their training phases.. and this is a public site - anyone in the world literally can access this page..
If you want any who are not sure.... please go up to the discussion forum, click on View All and you will see the OPSEC rules.. as well as Phases and Liberty and also the Path of the Rescue swimmer they are awesome to answer some of yalls questions... When in doubt, leave it out...
rescueswimmermom - hi there!!!!! You son should already have his division assigned BUT AND you will get a letter it is a form letter with some very importants notes, instructions AND his mailing address which will include the Division.... hang in there.... you should be getting that letter any day now and his box.... keep us posted!!!! Unless something has changed that division was already established.. you can also call his recruiter and USUALLY they are good at giving you this info... =)
Congrats to our new Sailors!!!!
Oct 6, 2013
proudmama
Oct 6, 2013
Saltyocean
With all this news about the Affordable Care Act in the paper, can anyone tell me (us) just what kind of health insurance coverage our sailors have and what the coverage is. Our sailor is still on our insurance and we would like to drop that coverage if it is "safe". I see TRICARE, but don't know what level they get. Most of the talk there is for family/kid coverage and that doesn't apply.
Thanks in advance for any info.
And Lydia--thanks for the Starboard D info --- didn't know about the D formation. Do the ARS go in the helos, or only "dry" air crew?
Oct 6, 2013
Lydia (For B - The Sea is Ours)
Saltyocean. I cant remember at what point your Sailor is in this pipeline????? BUT below I posted a link that has phone number help lines you might be able to find out more detail... Ill message my son and ask him but it could be weeks before I hear back from him......... I would not drop anything yet if your Sailor is still in training.....until you know for certain...Ill definitely ask around and see if I can find out but always remember you can call your Sailors recruiter or any recruiter for that matter and ask...
As for the Rescue Swimmer AWS/AIRR...(Check your childs contract it will be on there). my son's contract was for Aircrew Rescue Swimmer... there are many responsibilities that a Rescue Swimmer performs..also depending upon if they are Sierra or Romeo.. which they will be assigned after RSS if they pass... from Starboard D to Cargo transfers people transfers to boots on the ground rescue AND Sea Rescues..(haha there are acronyms for all these but I forget them) my son fly's every day with his Squadron.. two Rescue Swimmers and two Pilots...unless they are doing helo maintenance.. and believe me, once they graduate FRS and are assigned to their Squad... they are learning every square inch of that helo including take off and landings (which are the responsibility of the Rescue Swimmers -the pilots depend on them for both) The Rescue Swimmer is responsible for Pre- flight checks to be sure the bird is sound and able to fly.. They are considered WET not DRY. My understanding of DRY is that they actually have a job on the ship and request Rescue Swimmer training as secondary to their actual Rate... Remember also that there is Sierra or Romeo (please go up to the discussion forum click on View all and read the Path of the Rescue Swimmer) so there are difference in the two.... it really sounds complicated but its not... just hard when you are just starting out with your Sailor...
Here is a link to some phone number of TriCare depending on whether your Sailor is North, South, East, West or overseas.... Im sure you will get some answers if you call them..... =)
http://www.tricare.mil/ContactUs/CallUs.aspx
Oct 6, 2013
Saltyocean
Thank you Lydia. Our sailor is in the AIRR group which just started Starboard D....one week into it. So is still in training.
Thank you for your informative reply.
Oct 6, 2013
nancynature
People kept asking me what Starboard D meant and I had no clue. Thanks Lydia for all that info! You are such a godsend of help. :)
Proudmama you are funny.
Saltyocean - Great question! I was wondering that myself seeing as we have to renew our insurance very soon! BTW - Our boys are in the same Starboard D right now except that mine is closer to moving on to RSS - about 1 more week or at least that is what it was a week and a half ago. Who knows now!
Oct 6, 2013
dbristol
Lydia - could you please explain the difference of a CSAR if you know? My son completed training as a Sierra and then was offered a CSAR. He already knows his squadron, but I am wondering what the difference is. I know it is combat search and rescue, but really don't know what the differences are.
Any input from anyone would be great.
Oct 7, 2013
Lydia (For B - The Sea is Ours)
dbristol -----
All carriers will have SAR capable crews. Not all fleets have CSAR trained crews. CSAR is not just the air crew, it includes the ground troops as well. For instance, a Marine Expeditionary unit is not technically qualified for CSAR unless it is designated Special Operations Capable as in MEU (SOC). CSAR training includes combat training not included in SAR school and periodic evaluations.
To get SAR training volunteer for air crew. You'll need an aviation rate. Once you get on an air crew you'll need to volunteer for CSAR training.
The Marines who rescued Scott O'Grady were CSAR qualified. I would suppose the Marines who rescued the Air Force pilot in Libya were CSAR qualified.
So it is deeper and further Aircrew training.. not just water rescue but land as well
Yall who are headed to PIR... take your binocular, tissues and your loudest screaming voices =)
Oct 8, 2013
sweetpea4
dbristol,
that just burns my chaps that SERE was interrupted!!!!
Oct 8, 2013
nancynature
I agree...I just don't understand how they can just stop it(SERE)...aren't the 'teachers' active military?
Oct 8, 2013
Lydia (For B - The Sea is Ours)
OH it is totally unacceptable what the "govt" is doing to our service members.. ugggggggggg..... so many are struggling to pay their rent, day care, food... while they all collect their BIG paycheck and go play golf.... Okay well anyhoooo I agree funny that they stopped SERE,,, arrrrrrrrrrrrg There are also some Sailors due to come home and they wont let them yet... ???? I dont get it at all....... =( Well, that is why us ladies are here for each other... to share joy, sorrow, worries.... and even to brag!!!!! AND dbristol........ WOOHOO THAT YOUR BOY STARTED FRS... FLEET REPLACEMENT SQUADRON... awesome!!!!!!! So see there is good in bad situations.... at least that is what I keep telling myself!!!!!!!!
Oct 8, 2013
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
Lydia, if you can, go over to the Heads at Ease group. We did pillowcases for the USS Boxer and one of the guys posted a picture of one of the helo's either landing or taking off the ship in the Pacific. He mentions the crew includes 8 rescue swimmer/door gunners!. It will be in the discussion forum and as of this morning it was the first one listed.
Oct 9, 2013
Lydia (For B - The Sea is Ours)
Jodi kewl beans will do.... thank you sweetie.....
Okay hey Saltyocean..and yall who are asking..... this is for you... something I read
UPDATED: TRICARE Statement About Government Shutdown
On October 9, 2013, the Defense Health Agency updated their statement about the government shutdown:
"We know that those who rely on the Military Health System (MHS) are concerned about how the government shutdown might impact their health care and are taking appropriate actions to assure that our beneficiaries are cared for. TRICARE beneficiaries using providers in the private sector should feel no effects at this time."
To read the rest of the updated statement, go to:www.tricare.mil/Welcome/MediaCenter/News/Archives/10_9_13_Shutdown.
Sure love my friends here!!!!!!
Oct 9, 2013
Lydia (For B - The Sea is Ours)
just sharing info for mammas whose kids are through the pipe line...
http://www.militaryfamily.org/publications/enewsletters/military-fa...
Oct 10, 2013
proudmama
dbristol- I have been thinking about your son so much! His SERE training was interrupted due to gov't shutdown... ughhhhh! So when he returns to that training, does he start from the beginning or can he start where he left off? How is your son handling all of this?
Lydia-thanks for keeping us informed and helping us all along the way!
NancyN- Thanks for all your words of wisdom both on this site and the others that we share... I'm thinking of your son! Has he started RSS?
Melissa- thanks for reviewing your experience with the time frames from Aircrew school to RSS
Jodi, Heartstrings, and MK5 diver... all your encouragement, words of wisdom and recommendations have been soooooo appreciated!
Oct 14, 2013
proudmama
Well, the government shutdown impacted two divisions as they prepared for Battlestations, they were put on hold! They were not able to complete them before graduation. So... parents were able to come and see their kids PIR -but it was strictly for the parents. Those divisions have to wait and complete Battlestations this week. Although it didn't impact our 820 division, I just thought I would share that with you all since we are all one big Navy family.
Our brand new sailors are now in P'Cola... and the waiting begins for aircrew school...any tips, suggestions? What helped your son or daughter succeed in Aircrew school?
I so appreciate all of you in this group! I wish we could all meet sometime-somewhere...experienced members with sons/daughters who have finished the pipeline and those who are just beginning.... Has there ever been a get together of parents of the sailors who are in the AIRR pipeline or who have completed it?
Oct 14, 2013
chopsmom
My son got through his wait for A school by volunteering a lot. He also did a lot of PT (throughly enjoyed running on the beach with the Blues overhead!) and reading up on his next adventure with the Navy.
Oct 14, 2013
proudmama
Chopsmom and Travelsalot- great advice! Thanks:)
Oct 14, 2013
dbristol
Proudmama - My son was told they would have to start SERE completely over once funding starts again. Guess he just got a taste of it before completely going through it. He had lost 8 pounds in just 4 days. (He definately does not have any spare to lose). He is just rolling with it. He was extremely frustrated at the time because they only had a few more days, but has gotten over it. He has started his FRS training now, so that is keeping him busy. He is definately hoping he gets to do it out in California before he goes to Norfolk Virginia for his CSAR training. It is just one of those things. They are so anxious to get through the training part and keep pressing on, but he is getting more patient knowing there is nothing he can do during the hold times other than keep up the work outs and keep your mind focused.
In Florida he had alot of volunteer opportunities and loved doing them. I would suggest telling your sailor to look for these. It makes a good impression. Also work out like crazy!!!!!
Oct 14, 2013
Lydia (For B - The Sea is Ours)
HI everyone.... yup this shut down and the feuding between Republicans and Democrats and the President... is exhausting....Im sick to death of it and I no long turn on the news but once a week........ BUT ..... the only good thing I can say is... our kids are fighting for these freedoms of difference... freedoms of speech and press... and so many others.... the right to difference... anyway... arrrrrrrrrrg......... love you all tons... so happy for our new Sailors... we are here for yall.... what a long arduous pipeline they and yall are in for ... stay here... we are here to love, vent, help.. xoxoxoxoxox
HI dbristol
Oct 14, 2013
proudmama
Ok... so if you want to go to the movies... I have a new movie for everyone to go see... Captain Phillips. It is not a political movie. It is a telling of how Captain Phillips is taken hostage and the Navy saves him. Guess which ship was involved? You guessed it... the Boxer (and two other ships...don't remember the names of them). Two thumbs up!
Oct 14, 2013
proudmama
Is aircrew school the same as air warfare school? I've been reading the Path of the Rescue Swimmer and other posts and I am not sure if those are the same school or if they are different schools. Also, when reading about phases... why would someone phase up from I to II in 4 days and others take up to 2 weeks?
Oct 17, 2013
Tiffany
Oct 18, 2013
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
Proudmama, phasing up depends on a variety of things. My son phased up fairly quickly however he was also demoted to phase 1 several times too. It wasn't based on his behavior but the behavior of the barracks he was in. When someone screws up, everyone in that barracks is punished.
Oct 18, 2013
Lydia (For B - The Sea is Ours)
proud... never ever ever heard of Air Warfare School in the rate.... it is NACCS, RSS, A School and FRS.... that is the Rescue Swimmer Pipeline.... actually yes they can Phase up really fast.. it is a matter of inspections of room and uniforms etc.... it depends on the sailor and his roomates....
Hi Heart and Jodi I sure love you ladies
Oct 19, 2013
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
Hi, Lydia, how is your son doing? Did he mention if he received a pillowcase recently? The HeadsAtEase is starting to hear back from the sailors on the USS Boxer and a few sent pictures. I hope your son is doing great!
Oct 19, 2013
Lydia (For B - The Sea is Ours)
Jodi... hi sista.... I have asked him of FB but since I asked him 6 days ago I have gotten no messages as of yet... however on the USS boxer site I saw several kids holding them up .... no he was not in the photo but I know they have been receiving them and I know if would be the first to grab one hahahahaha.... so I will let you know when he lets me know.... Im anxious to hear from him... I have a feeling through adding 2 and 2 that I know where he is and what he is doing but of course OPSEC rules do not allow he or myself to say and i dont know for certain just my instinct so I don't know If Ill here from him for a while... but the photo I saw was soooooo sweet... BIG smiles let me see if I can go back and trace my steps and find the photo and Ill post it here.
To you mammas who are done with PIR and kids are now in Pcola hang in there next will be Phasing up while waiting to class up for NACCS.... while they are doing both they neeeeeeed to be beefing back up those PTs and their physical self...... xoxoxoxoxox
Oct 20, 2013
Lydia (For B - The Sea is Ours)
HEY Jodi..... I found it I can't believe I did tho..hahahah it is in the Bark Of The Boxer news letter that they post on the USS Boxer site on FB... can you believe I remembered that... what???? hahah here is the link
http://issuu.com/ussboxer/docs/barkoftheboxer_october_10-email
Oct 20, 2013
Melissa
@dbristol - I was chatting with my son the other day and he mentioned that the guys who were pulled from SERE were dumped (his word) into his squadron. Don't know if that means our boys know each other, but it does mean they are together. =)
Great picture Lydia - I love what the Heads at Ease group is doing. I would love to help out, but my sewing machine broke and I haven't replaced it and really haven't decided if I am going to. Do you know if it is possible to just send a donation or fabrics or such to the group?
Oct 23, 2013
MK5Diver
Hello everyone!
Tomorrow I travel to Pensacola to see my sailor graduate from RSS. Please let me know if anyone else might be heading that way too. I would love to meet you.
Hope you and your sailors are well and happy!
Cheers!
MK5Diver
Oct 23, 2013
proudmama
Congrats to all the new RSS graduates!! Impressive:) Cheers to the new graduates and their families!!!
Oct 23, 2013
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
Congrats to all the graduates. I also couldn't be there when my son graduated but one of the dads there filmed it and posted it on Youtube.
Oct 24, 2013
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
Melissa, Sue from Heads At Ease would gladly welcome a donation of fabric or money. If you go to the Heads At Ease group you will see an email address for MaryEllen who helps Sue with deciding where the pillowcases go etc. I have been a part of the group since my son joined. It's a little thing but the sailors seem to really enjoy them.
Oct 24, 2013
Melissa
Thanks Jodi.
Congratulations to all of you who have sons/daughters graduating RSS! Safe travels to those of you going to Pensacola and enjoy your visits!
Oct 24, 2013
nancynature
Congratulations to your boys MK5Diver and MaryKay! What great accomplishments they have made and how proud you both must be. I am super excited for all of you! So sorry you can't be there to see your boy graduate MaryKay. Hopefully MK5Diver will share pictures with you!
Oct 24, 2013
Lydia (For B - The Sea is Ours)
WELL howdy everyone!!!! OH Imm so excited for our RSS grads... such a hard hard hard school.... yall sure were quiet in here during that time.... =) guess you were busy down on your knees praying !!!!! It is a GREAT graduation and if you can go GO!!!!!!!!! I could not afford it, so my dear Navy Mom friend who lived right down hear by went for me and she taped it AND got me lots of photos...
I did ask my son about the pillow cases and he said that his group had not received anything and in fact he said he knew nothing about it... so I explained it to him... and I told him that I was sure eventually they would all get theirs... Such a great idea... I have one for him in his Christmas / Birthday care package already... I am sending out 40 Santa Hats filled with stuff for all of his Squadron.. sheeeeesh... they are going to be so excited.. all kinds of neat stuff hubby and I bout to go in each one.. I said well, CHARGE IT just CHARGE IT hahahahaha........
Soooooooo time to muster everyone.... where is everyone who has not been on for a while??? Where are we in our pipeline yall...... time passes and it is hard to remember who is where doing what..... Ill go first.... my B man is through the pipeline, got his wings and is deployed on the USS Boxer who knows where... okay now its ALL yalls turn!!!!
Oct 26, 2013
kkrHoosier
My son is on his very first detachment on the USS Roosevelt after arriving in Jacksonville from San Diego. I'm trying to adapt to not being able to contact him with any regularity.
Oct 26, 2013
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
Ok, My sailor is in Jacksonville right now but expects to head to San Diego sometime around February once he finishes FRAC. He is a Bravo right now, I think he was the last to be assigned to this as they are phasing it out. He flew 4 times last week so he is really pumped. He loves it! One of the most exciting things to happen to him and the others at JAX is that Tim McGraw is giving a free concert there next month!
Lydia, I know that eventually he will get a pillowcase because the motto of Heads at Ease is All Or None. They do ship in waves since there are so many on the ship so they probably haven't got to him yet (though I'm surprised he hasn't since the picture I told you about came from a rescue swimmer I think)
Congrats to all that had sailors graduate on Friday and continued prayers for those on deployment or waiting to class up.
Oct 27, 2013
Lydia (For B - The Sea is Ours)
HI yall!!! Thankx for the Muster!!!
BJ yes here is the link.... yall this is a cool, surfer, but active awesome Church. I know the pastor Steve Bombaci personally... we attended college together.. and his wife Karen is a doll... my son started going there upon arrival in SD and now there are about 6 Rescue Swimmers and other navy kids who go... he invited a bunch of them and they fell in love... they even have a Surfing Ministry!!!!! Good luck to your Sailor!!!! let me know... and tell him to tell Steve that Lydia sent him hahahaha
http://newbreak.org/pacific-beach
kkr.... OH man do I know what you mean... my B is very good about FB messaging me as often as he can but the Boxer seems to have old antiquated computers ...
MaryK ... if he graduated RSS then he should know if he is Romeo or Sierra...congrats on your other son and daughter a well....
Jodi .. OH I am sure that the pillow cases will flow on to all of them... no worries there! Kewl, your Sailor will love San Diego... they all seem too... Love that Tim McGraw... such a Patriot!!! Be sure and share the link to Newbreak PB if he enjoys going to church... especially one that is board shorts and lots of military and surfers hahaha...... they are sooo active in the community.. lots of beach clean ups, skate park cleanups, festivals, Surfing ministry...
Oct 27, 2013
Lydia (For B - The Sea is Ours)
Here is their Face Book link..... I like it even better because you see tons of photos and activities on there.....
https://www.facebook.com/NewbreakPacificBeach
Oct 27, 2013
proudmama
NancyNature- Prayers to your son as he begins his class!
Jodi- It sounds like your son is getting to put all of the lessons he has learned together to actually go out there and do his job! How wonderful for him!!! They are phasing out Bravo?? So what happens to him when that happens? Does he start training all over again??
KKR Hoosier- Let us newbies know how your son enjoys his first detachment... prayers to him!
BJ ship- I hope you get to visit your son in San Diego... and stay at the Navy Lodge on Coronado Island! Just don't make my mistake and walk past that big white sign that says "Shooting Range"!
MaryKay- What stage in the pipeline is your son?? My son is in Florida too...but at the "beginning to wait" stage...
Lydia- I don't even know where to begin... You are seriously a wonderful, giving, thoughtful person who is extremely patient and answered each and every one of my pm's . I think if my son makes it through the pipeline... you should get an award!!!...
Aster, Vitamama??? How are you all?
MK5 Diver- How was graduation??? I thought of your son that morning!
Sending out big NMH for all our sons/daughters and to their moms whichever stage in the pipeline they are....:!!!
Oct 29, 2013
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
proudmama, from what he has said he may stay a Bravo or be rolled into the Romeo platform later. He called last night. He flew again and did really well on all his tests. He has been studying every night which is good. We may or may not go down for Thanksgiving to see him. He had some plans so we are leaving it up to him to decide if he wants to change them. If we don't see him at Thanksgiving then I'll have to wait for Christmas, sigh.
Oct 29, 2013