MaryMama, I certainly am no expert. I can only tell what my son's experience was. It is tough. This is a part of the training where instructors really find out who is committed. Many get rolled from this class with another opportunity to try. My son made it two weeks and failed a test he didn't think he failed. Many moms will tell you that pressure in itself is a test. They say instructors watch to see how you react under the stress. He had to wait and start all over again. The second time through was much better. He had been there before, knew what to expect, and was, for a while, a bit of a leader because he helped others. He graduated from RSS in July and will start the next part of his training mid-August (he thinks). Feel free to ask anything I didn't answer....not sure I'll know, but I'll try. :)
MaryMama, as mtnestr said, this where they test our boys to see how badly they want to become a rescue swimmer. Your son will be pushed hard but if he just keeps his eye on the "prize" and works really hard he can make it through. The attrition rate is high and if he does get rolled back it isn't the end of the world. He will get to try again. Just keep encouraging him and he should do alright. It will also be hard on you because he will call telling you how sore he is and how tired he is and you know there isn't anything you can do to make it better but you both will make it through. Good luck to both of you!
Hey all! How is everyone? Seems like I have been gone forever, and then when I tried to get on today, I had to actually remember a password because I updated my computer. Oh the horrors!
Welcome to all the newbies - hope everyone is doing well and hanging tough.
I see much of the discussion is how to make it through RSS - as Jodi said, your son will be pushed HARD. He needs to remember, as do you, that 90% of what is happening is mental. Sure, they have to be in great shape and willing to work, work, work like they have never worked before, but if they can get past all the bull that gets pushed at them and power through, it's smooth sailing at the end of it.
Well, not really because then they get to go to SERE and A School, and then more training..... but seriously, keep your head in the game and it will end well.
In the meantime, we're here to answer questions and be cheerleaders. =)
The next class is actually their "A" School....Naval Aviation. It is just on the other side of base. The length of this depends on whether they are determined to be Romeo or Sierra (types of helicopter). Romeo is a longer training. They will find this out before "A" School starts. After this, they go either to Jacksonville, Norfolk, or San Diego...again, depending on their helicopter....
My son is still in Jacksonville, doing really well. He said he will be there until next July. Finished SERE school and fortunately did well. I hope everyone is doing well. I feel fortunate that I still get to talk to him as much as I can, especially when I talk to other Navy moms whose sons graduated boot camp with mine and they haven't seen or spoken to their sailors in weeks. I am not looking forward to that :(
My son completed all phases of the pipeline back in April. He's stationed in SD and very happy. Should get his wings soon. The training and studying continues, though. It's on-going.
Our son also came from BUDS. At first I think his struggle was just getting over the disappointment. Then it's difficult to adjust to the waiting periods. Going from RUN!RUN!RUN! (with a boat on your head!) to the waiting is hard. The last thing is food. Not sure if anyone else's son that came from BUDS has talked about the food but our son has. Not only did they get double rations out in San Diego, apparently is was really great food.
The instructors are really awesome in Pensacola so your son is in good hands there. Once he's assigned duties and starts class he'll be fine. The program is tough and challenging but he'll be prepared.
Our son has finished in Pensacola and is headed out to the East Coast now! I think when he got to Pensacola from BUDS he was disappointed to be there. Now I really think he's going to miss it. He's done really well with the program. I wish your son the same experience.
If you have a chance to attend graduation try and go. You get to meet the instructors, classmates and get a mini class in what they do as Rescue Swimmers. The Navy Lodge in Pensacola is beautiful too.
Hi, Birdie, My older son went to Pensacola from BUDs. He trained in IT and is now placed elsewhere. My younger son is currently AIRR.....so I have some experience with both programs, but not exactly the same situation as your son.
My son is now an Air Rescue Swimmer and did come from BUDS. Like others who have already posted, the waiting was definately difficult considering the fast pace of everything leading up to BUDS and BUDS itself. It seemed like a well oiled machine as compared to the Air Rescue Swimmer pipeline. I believe they have streamlined it better now as compared to what my son experienced when he went through. Either way--the school is still pretty difficult but nothing most of the guys from BUDS can't handle. When I ask my son if he would go back to BUDS he has said he hasn't ruled it out but he really loves his job, loves his squadron and loves jumping out of helicopters! Everything about the job is dangerous and they are a great group of sailors. Good luck to your son and to your family.
We have been a "Navy family" going on two years and I have not yet ever been sure of when either of them will get leave more than a couple weeks ahead (if that). My suggestion would be to wait.....if you can't wait, I suggest using SouthWest airlines as they allow you to make changes flights without penalty. I know that's not what you want to hear, but I have always been told I have to be Navy Flexible...or Navy Gumby.
also, even though there may be a break in classes, there are still duties and watches that need to be maintained.....and there isn't a guarantee leave will be granted....others who've been around longer can chime in if you have more info.
MaryMama, if your son is in Pensacola and still in school, he will probably get to come home for Christmas as the school is shut down. However in my son's case he didn't get leave granted until about 2 weeks or so before. If I remember correctly many of the moms just took the gamble and booked flights. I however was not that brave and had to pay almost double to get my sailor home that first year. It was worth it though :). I wouldn't count on Thanksgiving as that is such a short time off and he may have duties to perform.
MaryMama, I will chime in with Jodi - don't count on Thanksgiving leave. My son was supposed to be allowed to come home for Thanksgiving because his brother was getting married and he was the Best Man - only at the last minute, there was no leave granted and instead he stayed on base and stood watch.
My son's PIR is November 6, then he will be headed to Pensacola, will AIRR school start right away? Are there more then one class at a time or do they hold them all in a holding pattern till classes are full?
Widlernessnut it's been a while since my son was there but there was a lot of hurry up and wait. It will depend on what classes are available and how full they are from here on out. Suggest to your son to volunteer during the hold times. It will keep him busy and out of trouble plus it will look good to his superiors:). Good luck to your son.
A's mom I can't help you out since my son is still in the states but I found a group called Bahrain Moms that may be able to help you with your questions. Go to the Groups section all the way to the top of the page and type in Bahrain Moms in the search engine below the all groups heading. I wish you luck in your search:)
A's Mom What did you want to know about the base in Bahrain? Is your son on a ship or assigned to the base? My son was deployed in the Persian Gulf on the USS Charles Vinson August 14-June 15.
So had brain fart, my son was on the Carl Vinson! They also refer to it as chucky V so that's where Charles came from in my head so A if you want to message me maybe I can help you.
Thank you so much Jodi-alumni Ship 4 and Mama D. Yes my son was assigned to his new squadron and is headed over there. Jodi - I found and join the Bahrain moms group. Thank you so much for the info.
Just found out once my youngest is done in P'cola, he'll head to San Diego (verbal orders)....never been to CA. Living in Iowa, I will look forward to a WINTER visit. ;) ...he goes mid-november-ish.
MaryMama, please don't give up hope - many of us whose kids have made it through were rolled. It does not mean they are done. One of the things the instructors look for is that kid that WILL NOT give up - that wants this more than anything, because in the heat of a rescue, those instructors need to be 100% sure that these swimmers will make that rescue. Please tell your son, if he really wants this, he needs to fight for it and not give up - this goes completely against what they are taught in boot camp but it is what the instructors want and need to see. I was where you are - worried sick about my boy, but he came back stronger than ever and now has made it all the way through the pipeline and has his wings. Don't give up if this is what he wants. Feel free to PM if you want to talk.
I agree with jaxietwo! Although my son isn't quite done, I've seen also...many, many were rolled along the way. I am told the instructors really look for their reaction to the diversity. My son failed a test test near the end of RSS and passed his retake with flying colors!
MaryMama, I agree with jaxietwo and mtnester. Tell your son to not let it get him down but to go at it harder than ever. He really needs to show the instructors that he wants this. To get rolled isn't necessarily the end, they usually get the opportunity to try again. He just needs to buckle down and really try hard.
However do remember the attrition rate in this rating is very high. I know of several that didn't remain in the RSS program but are still successful and happy with other ratings in the Navy so it's not a mark against him if that happens. I wish both you and your son the best and I will be thinking of you both:)
Birdie, I always use USPS Priority Mail. There is a large box that is shaped like a game board box that fits a lot in it. Anything that fits in those boxes ships for about $ 15.80 if you do everything online through USPS.com. Track the package online and when it arrives text your son and let him know so he can go pick it up at the base post office. It helps to track it because sometimes the base post office can't find it. If you have proof that it was delivered to them they will look harder :)
Just made flight arrangements for my son to come home Christmas time, can't wait to see him!!! Wondering if other moms have come across this issue? He started dating a girl down in Florida and I am afraid he is just spending too much time with her. He is in the last leg of training but not done until July and although he has only dated her 4 months already talking marriage!!! He just turned 20!!! He says stuff like how much more money he could make and that he has a lot of friends down there getting married. He wanted to be a rescue swimmer and see the world, now he is hoping to be stationed in Jacksonville!! I'm afraid he has found a surrogate family in her family and misses home but I can't talk to him about it without him getting defensive. And she is coming with him at Christmas. Any advise moms???
Marianne, I know of several friends whose sailors married after only knowing their spouses for a short time. So far they are doing okay. One is married to another service member and they are just now stationed in the same place after about 9 months, I think, apart. The other married a civilian. I understand how concerned you are though. I know that you want to talk them out of it but try not to. From experience you may just be hurting yourself in the end. Just listen and hope he realizes that he is talking about a lifetime commitment and he will decide to wait a while. Congrats on getting your flight arrangements. I made my son's too. Not to rush the holidays but I'm really looking forward to December:)
My sailor said there are actually 2 different groups from Jacksonville, 1 group goes the 10 days before/including Christmas and the other group goes after, my son is on the after group. They were given the info last week
Wow, Marianne, 4 mos. is a short time for ANYONE, especially at the age of 20. Hmmmmm, trying to put myself in your shoes. My son is 19, but has been dating the same girl for 4 years....I love her, so I think I'd be okay. But 4 months? Here's my advice: Try to withhold judgement until after you meet her. Did you trust your son's judgement before he left? He's still the same person....hopefully even more mature! ;) Maybe you'll meet her and understand why he has fallen in love with her....maybe you will, too! I think it's okay to let your son know how you feel (respectfully), but Jodi is right, they will remember forever that you gave your blessing or that you gave disapproval. You don't want to start out being THAT mother-in-law! My MIL looked at me and said, "Well, you know, when our family members get married, it's forever, I hope you know that!" You can guess where that story goes....26 years later I still remember....
Birdie - you have probably already mailed your package, but I will add that in my experience the cost of overnight or two day shipping is not worth it. Chances are it will get to the base in the shipping time frame, but it might take a week or longer for the package to actually be delivered to your son. Like Jodi, I use the big USPS priority box and stuff it full.
Marianne - I'll agree with the others and say offer your support, but (nicely) let your son know that you think 4 months (and during the stress of RSS/A School) is NOT the time to be making major life choices. If she is the right girl right now, she will be the right girl in a year or two when things are more settled. And more money is NEVER the reason to get married!
My son just booked his flight for Thanksgiving! He is actually flying into Texas and picking up his sister (who will be 8 months pregnant by then) and driving her up here so that she doesn't have to spend the holiday alone since her husband will still be in AL. He flies in on the 19th and we get him until Dec 1. I can't wait!
Hi everyone! Yes. It seems that many get married young when in the military... wise words about how to handle this topic from the members in this group!
I thought I would hop on for a moment. I remember joining this group in winter of 2013 when my son was just in DEP..I read everything I could get my hands on regarding this pipeline!! Beyond that, I remember having the support of everyone when my daughter was medivac'd from Guam to SD, when my son's eye test came back a little off, and when my son went through RSS. He has since graduated from the pipeline in August...and is attached to the Blue Hawks. Anybody's son from that squadron on here? He is working on those precious wings... he's making good progress-but he is Romeo so I am not sure how much longer it may take to get that gold! I look back and had support from so many- made some wonderful friends.. and have even met one or two for lunch!
I actually have a tear in my eye as I say thanks to Melissa, Jodi... and of course LYDIA...and so many more... I don't know how I could have handled this without your support and encouragement. Thank you all!!!
Hi, proudmama, glad to hear that your son is doing well. I hope things have settled down a little in your life after all that has happened to your family in the past 2 years. Time goes by pretty fast, doesn't it? It's hard for me to imagine my son has been in over 3 years :)
My son is graduating mid-Nov. from A School (Romeo) and heading directly to San Diego and is starting SERE before the end of November. We're hoping for a nice long leave over Christmas!
proudmama - hello! My son is with the Bluehawks also! He is currently on the USS George Washington. How is your daughter doing and her w children?
Jodi-alumni Ship 4 how you?! you have been so helpful to me since my son went to Boot Camp June 2012.
Jeanine, congratulations, it will go so fast! Enjoy this time! ;)
mtnestr- Yes another Romeo! My son loves San Diego and so do we (my husband and I) if you are able to - visit him and stay at the Navy Lodge North Island, wonderful!
ha ha yes, we'll be sure to get to SD while he is there....it'd be crazy to be from Iowa and not try to get to CA...I'm thinking mid-January would be perfect! :)
SailorW'sWife
Aug 3, 2015
mtnestr
MaryMama, I certainly am no expert. I can only tell what my son's experience was. It is tough. This is a part of the training where instructors really find out who is committed. Many get rolled from this class with another opportunity to try. My son made it two weeks and failed a test he didn't think he failed. Many moms will tell you that pressure in itself is a test. They say instructors watch to see how you react under the stress. He had to wait and start all over again. The second time through was much better. He had been there before, knew what to expect, and was, for a while, a bit of a leader because he helped others. He graduated from RSS in July and will start the next part of his training mid-August (he thinks). Feel free to ask anything I didn't answer....not sure I'll know, but I'll try. :)
Aug 6, 2015
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
MaryMama, as mtnestr said, this where they test our boys to see how badly they want to become a rescue swimmer. Your son will be pushed hard but if he just keeps his eye on the "prize" and works really hard he can make it through. The attrition rate is high and if he does get rolled back it isn't the end of the world. He will get to try again. Just keep encouraging him and he should do alright. It will also be hard on you because he will call telling you how sore he is and how tired he is and you know there isn't anything you can do to make it better but you both will make it through. Good luck to both of you!
Aug 10, 2015
Melissa
Hey all! How is everyone? Seems like I have been gone forever, and then when I tried to get on today, I had to actually remember a password because I updated my computer. Oh the horrors!
Welcome to all the newbies - hope everyone is doing well and hanging tough.
I see much of the discussion is how to make it through RSS - as Jodi said, your son will be pushed HARD. He needs to remember, as do you, that 90% of what is happening is mental. Sure, they have to be in great shape and willing to work, work, work like they have never worked before, but if they can get past all the bull that gets pushed at them and power through, it's smooth sailing at the end of it.
Well, not really because then they get to go to SERE and A School, and then more training..... but seriously, keep your head in the game and it will end well.
In the meantime, we're here to answer questions and be cheerleaders. =)
Aug 12, 2015
mtnestr
Is there anyone that would happen to be going to RSS graduation on Friday?
Aug 13, 2015
mtnestr
chirp, chirp.....chirp, chirp.....pretty quiet here....anyone out there still have a loved one in AIRR? :)
Sep 19, 2015
Jeanine
Sep 21, 2015
mtnestr
Hello, Jeanine, My son finished RSS in July and is in the next class....will be in P'cola for about 10 more weeks.
Sep 22, 2015
Jeanine
Sep 22, 2015
mtnestr
The next class is actually their "A" School....Naval Aviation. It is just on the other side of base. The length of this depends on whether they are determined to be Romeo or Sierra (types of helicopter). Romeo is a longer training. They will find this out before "A" School starts. After this, they go either to Jacksonville, Norfolk, or San Diego...again, depending on their helicopter....
Sep 22, 2015
Jeanine
Sep 22, 2015
Marianne
Sep 23, 2015
TXmom
My son completed all phases of the pipeline back in April. He's stationed in SD and very happy. Should get his wings soon. The training and studying continues, though. It's on-going.
Sep 23, 2015
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
TXmom, is your son a Sierra or a Romeo? My son is a Romeo in SD.
Sep 23, 2015
TXmom
Jodi, He's Sierra; Squadron 14.
Sep 23, 2015
Grace
Hi Birdie,
Sep 26, 2015
mtnestr
Hi, Birdie, My older son went to Pensacola from BUDs. He trained in IT and is now placed elsewhere. My younger son is currently AIRR.....so I have some experience with both programs, but not exactly the same situation as your son.
Sep 26, 2015
MK5Diver
My son is now an Air Rescue Swimmer and did come from BUDS. Like others who have already posted, the waiting was definately difficult considering the fast pace of everything leading up to BUDS and BUDS itself. It seemed like a well oiled machine as compared to the Air Rescue Swimmer pipeline. I believe they have streamlined it better now as compared to what my son experienced when he went through. Either way--the school is still pretty difficult but nothing most of the guys from BUDS can't handle. When I ask my son if he would go back to BUDS he has said he hasn't ruled it out but he really loves his job, loves his squadron and loves jumping out of helicopters! Everything about the job is dangerous and they are a great group of sailors. Good luck to your son and to your family.
Sep 29, 2015
mtnestr
We have been a "Navy family" going on two years and I have not yet ever been sure of when either of them will get leave more than a couple weeks ahead (if that). My suggestion would be to wait.....if you can't wait, I suggest using SouthWest airlines as they allow you to make changes flights without penalty. I know that's not what you want to hear, but I have always been told I have to be Navy Flexible...or Navy Gumby.
Sep 29, 2015
mtnestr
also, even though there may be a break in classes, there are still duties and watches that need to be maintained.....and there isn't a guarantee leave will be granted....others who've been around longer can chime in if you have more info.
Sep 29, 2015
A's Mom
Sep 29, 2015
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
MaryMama, if your son is in Pensacola and still in school, he will probably get to come home for Christmas as the school is shut down. However in my son's case he didn't get leave granted until about 2 weeks or so before. If I remember correctly many of the moms just took the gamble and booked flights. I however was not that brave and had to pay almost double to get my sailor home that first year. It was worth it though :). I wouldn't count on Thanksgiving as that is such a short time off and he may have duties to perform.
Sep 30, 2015
Melissa
MaryMama, I will chime in with Jodi - don't count on Thanksgiving leave. My son was supposed to be allowed to come home for Thanksgiving because his brother was getting married and he was the Best Man - only at the last minute, there was no leave granted and instead he stayed on base and stood watch.
Oct 1, 2015
Wildernessnut
My son's PIR is November 6, then he will be headed to Pensacola, will AIRR school start right away? Are there more then one class at a time or do they hold them all in a holding pattern till classes are full?
Oct 1, 2015
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
Widlernessnut it's been a while since my son was there but there was a lot of hurry up and wait. It will depend on what classes are available and how full they are from here on out. Suggest to your son to volunteer during the hold times. It will keep him busy and out of trouble plus it will look good to his superiors:). Good luck to your son.
Oct 2, 2015
A's Mom
Oct 2, 2015
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
A's mom I can't help you out since my son is still in the states but I found a group called Bahrain Moms that may be able to help you with your questions. Go to the Groups section all the way to the top of the page and type in Bahrain Moms in the search engine below the all groups heading. I wish you luck in your search:)
Oct 2, 2015
Mama~D Ship 4 Div 822
A's Mom What did you want to know about the base in Bahrain? Is your son on a ship or assigned to the base? My son was deployed in the Persian Gulf on the USS Charles Vinson August 14-June 15.
Oct 2, 2015
Mama~D Ship 4 Div 822
Oct 2, 2015
A's Mom
Oct 3, 2015
mtnestr
Just found out once my youngest is done in P'cola, he'll head to San Diego (verbal orders)....never been to CA. Living in Iowa, I will look forward to a WINTER visit. ;) ...he goes mid-november-ish.
Oct 9, 2015
jaxietwo
MaryMama, please don't give up hope - many of us whose kids have made it through were rolled. It does not mean they are done. One of the things the instructors look for is that kid that WILL NOT give up - that wants this more than anything, because in the heat of a rescue, those instructors need to be 100% sure that these swimmers will make that rescue. Please tell your son, if he really wants this, he needs to fight for it and not give up - this goes completely against what they are taught in boot camp but it is what the instructors want and need to see. I was where you are - worried sick about my boy, but he came back stronger than ever and now has made it all the way through the pipeline and has his wings. Don't give up if this is what he wants. Feel free to PM if you want to talk.
Oct 15, 2015
mtnestr
I agree with jaxietwo! Although my son isn't quite done, I've seen also...many, many were rolled along the way. I am told the instructors really look for their reaction to the diversity. My son failed a test test near the end of RSS and passed his retake with flying colors!
Oct 15, 2015
jaxietwo
MaryMama I've sent you a message - check up top on the left.
Oct 15, 2015
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
MaryMama, I agree with jaxietwo and mtnester. Tell your son to not let it get him down but to go at it harder than ever. He really needs to show the instructors that he wants this. To get rolled isn't necessarily the end, they usually get the opportunity to try again. He just needs to buckle down and really try hard.
However do remember the attrition rate in this rating is very high. I know of several that didn't remain in the RSS program but are still successful and happy with other ratings in the Navy so it's not a mark against him if that happens. I wish both you and your son the best and I will be thinking of you both:)
Oct 16, 2015
mtnestr
Well said, Jodi!
Oct 17, 2015
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
Birdie, I always use USPS Priority Mail. There is a large box that is shaped like a game board box that fits a lot in it. Anything that fits in those boxes ships for about $ 15.80 if you do everything online through USPS.com. Track the package online and when it arrives text your son and let him know so he can go pick it up at the base post office. It helps to track it because sometimes the base post office can't find it. If you have proof that it was delivered to them they will look harder :)
Oct 19, 2015
Marianne
Oct 19, 2015
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
Marianne, I know of several friends whose sailors married after only knowing their spouses for a short time. So far they are doing okay. One is married to another service member and they are just now stationed in the same place after about 9 months, I think, apart. The other married a civilian. I understand how concerned you are though. I know that you want to talk them out of it but try not to. From experience you may just be hurting yourself in the end. Just listen and hope he realizes that he is talking about a lifetime commitment and he will decide to wait a while. Congrats on getting your flight arrangements. I made my son's too. Not to rush the holidays but I'm really looking forward to December:)
Oct 19, 2015
Marianne
Oct 19, 2015
Marianne
Oct 19, 2015
mtnestr
Wow, Marianne, 4 mos. is a short time for ANYONE, especially at the age of 20. Hmmmmm, trying to put myself in your shoes. My son is 19, but has been dating the same girl for 4 years....I love her, so I think I'd be okay. But 4 months? Here's my advice: Try to withhold judgement until after you meet her. Did you trust your son's judgement before he left? He's still the same person....hopefully even more mature! ;) Maybe you'll meet her and understand why he has fallen in love with her....maybe you will, too! I think it's okay to let your son know how you feel (respectfully), but Jodi is right, they will remember forever that you gave your blessing or that you gave disapproval. You don't want to start out being THAT mother-in-law! My MIL looked at me and said, "Well, you know, when our family members get married, it's forever, I hope you know that!" You can guess where that story goes....26 years later I still remember....
Oct 19, 2015
Melissa
Birdie - you have probably already mailed your package, but I will add that in my experience the cost of overnight or two day shipping is not worth it. Chances are it will get to the base in the shipping time frame, but it might take a week or longer for the package to actually be delivered to your son. Like Jodi, I use the big USPS priority box and stuff it full.
Marianne - I'll agree with the others and say offer your support, but (nicely) let your son know that you think 4 months (and during the stress of RSS/A School) is NOT the time to be making major life choices. If she is the right girl right now, she will be the right girl in a year or two when things are more settled. And more money is NEVER the reason to get married!
My son just booked his flight for Thanksgiving! He is actually flying into Texas and picking up his sister (who will be 8 months pregnant by then) and driving her up here so that she doesn't have to spend the holiday alone since her husband will still be in AL. He flies in on the 19th and we get him until Dec 1. I can't wait!
Oct 19, 2015
proudmama
Hi everyone! Yes. It seems that many get married young when in the military... wise words about how to handle this topic from the members in this group!
I thought I would hop on for a moment. I remember joining this group in winter of 2013 when my son was just in DEP..I read everything I could get my hands on regarding this pipeline!! Beyond that, I remember having the support of everyone when my daughter was medivac'd from Guam to SD, when my son's eye test came back a little off, and when my son went through RSS. He has since graduated from the pipeline in August...and is attached to the Blue Hawks. Anybody's son from that squadron on here? He is working on those precious wings... he's making good progress-but he is Romeo so I am not sure how much longer it may take to get that gold! I look back and had support from so many- made some wonderful friends.. and have even met one or two for lunch!
I actually have a tear in my eye as I say thanks to Melissa, Jodi... and of course LYDIA...and so many more... I don't know how I could have handled this without your support and encouragement. Thank you all!!!
Oct 26, 2015
Jodi-alumni Ship 4
Hi, proudmama, glad to hear that your son is doing well. I hope things have settled down a little in your life after all that has happened to your family in the past 2 years. Time goes by pretty fast, doesn't it? It's hard for me to imagine my son has been in over 3 years :)
Oct 27, 2015
Jeanine
Oct 27, 2015
mtnestr
My son is graduating mid-Nov. from A School (Romeo) and heading directly to San Diego and is starting SERE before the end of November. We're hoping for a nice long leave over Christmas!
Oct 27, 2015
aster
proudmama - hello! My son is with the Bluehawks also! He is currently on the USS George Washington. How is your daughter doing and her w children?
Jodi-alumni Ship 4 how you?! you have been so helpful to me since my son went to Boot Camp June 2012.
Jeanine, congratulations, it will go so fast! Enjoy this time! ;)
mtnestr- Yes another Romeo! My son loves San Diego and so do we (my husband and I) if you are able to - visit him and stay at the Navy Lodge North Island, wonderful!
Nov 1, 2015
mtnestr
ha ha yes, we'll be sure to get to SD while he is there....it'd be crazy to be from Iowa and not try to get to CA...I'm thinking mid-January would be perfect! :)
Nov 1, 2015
Jeanine
Nov 1, 2015