Sailors becoming Hospital Corpsmen at A School in San Antonio, TX - best rating in the Navy! The Hospital Corps is the Navy's only enlisted Corps and the most decorated in the Navy. Families, friends and loved ones, join in!
My daughter went through Corpsman school a couple of years ago. They are not allowed any kind of hot pad for cooking or anything else, only the microwave provided. My daughter would get salad stuff and have that for dinner. Some nights she would make scrambled eggs in the microwave.
My son finished corpsman school a couple of weeks ago, they are provided all meals (bfast, lunch, dinner); however, the class is near the eating area so for bfast and lunch it is near. By dinner they are a bit far away because by that time they are in the barracks and must walk to chow. So it is up to them if they want to walk back either way they can eat if they chose to. Remember they are technically not allowed to have a car while in A school so they do walk to and from and use uber/taxi/public transportation during liberty days. You can not keep a rice cooker, foreman grill etc. in your room but do get a microwave and mini fridge ( I think he and his roomy went half on the fridge , can't recall) you can have your own tv, comforter, pillow sheets, plates, game counsel, sound bar, electric tooth brush, etc. My son goes weekly to the store to stalk up on some foods so he can eat in his room when he feels like it (eggs, cereal, snacks), He is still there for C school (13 more months). I do know that in school they have coffee (coffee maker, sugar) they all pitch in a couple of bucks a week so they can have that while in school. Hope that helps you all.
@Diane My son graduated almost 2 years ago, and he did the same as your daughter. My son did allot of walking but he made due with what was available. That was not his permanent station so he just made due.
@Marianne, My son arrived at A School on 1/19/19. I have heard from him by text about every other day. He says classes start tomorrow (1/28) and he is anxious to get started. They don't have mail boxes yet and that should happen next week. Last Monday, they had a 3 hour briefing and then a tour of the base. He says the food isn't as good as at the RTC because it's "Army" food! So far, they have just been settling in and getting used to this "new normal." In their living quarters, they have only one roommate but share living and kitchen space with other Sailors. So far, he hasn't been assigned a roommate and is enjoying the space after living in the ship with so many others. He expects to get a roommate very soon. They have a fridge and microwave for meals on their own. No other small appliances are allowed. He is a little frustrated with this since microwave meals are high in sodium and preservatives and not all that healthy.
Yesterday, he got a jury summons in the mail here at home! I took a picture of the summons and sent it to him so he can let the court know that he isn't available to sit on a jury from San Antonio.
He has been in regular contact with his girlfriend and brother. I think your son will start calling or texting you as soon as he is feeling settled in. Be patient!
@Catherine, Thank you so much for easing the quiet chaos in my mind. I did manage bootcamp for the most part with some grace but I did think my Sailor would be...slightly more in touch. I was told by someone that if he's not calling he's fine and I know that to be true.
Thank you for your insight into what it looks like for our sons!
@Marianne, no problems! We moms have to stick together :) I think my son has had regular contact because he wants me to make sure his girlfriend is doing ok. She is a nursing student and they will be doing some of the same classes and skills that the HM are working on. He is also trying to decide what he wants me to send to him once he has a mail box.
My son is in San Antonio too. I don’t hear from him that much. We get a call once a week, on the weekend. In fact got a call this evening. We talked 20 minutes. I know he’s busy and I’m doing really good by giving him his space. It’s hard, it really is. We shipped him his first care package and he loved it and was surprised. We did the big priority box for $18.90 where if it fits it ships. So we stuffed the box with goodies from Trader Joe’s and Target. It was good for me to purchase items for him just like I did when he was living home.
My son graduated in November 2018, he is in greenside training. It is hard work, but he is doing it. He said most of his class from A school is there. At least he knows people. Does anyone know if they are sending more almost full classes to greenside training. Just curious.
My son acts like going to C school will not be an option after A school. What determines that next step? From what he’s heard most males will go FMF. Fleet Marine Forces
while my son was there (grad was Nov) we sent care packages. He likes pasta and we sent some made by Barilla I think called ready pasta- they microwave in about 2 minutes. No refrigeration needed so easy to keep on hand for last minute hunger. Also protein bars other small handy things for when he would study and need something.
@Caherine and @Tammy-together is the only way I'll make it. You know - they never talked about this side of parenting in the "What to expect when you're expecting" books. I left his room but moved the box to send to A School into the closet because I couldn't take looking at it anymore. I don't even have an address yet...Do they have to earn permission from that too? Sometimes I think I won't look on here anymore cause I feel like I'm so in the dark. Thanks for listening.
Marianne, awww, no, you're not in the dark. We're here. Yea, the address can take awhile. My son's PIR was 12/14/18 and would say I got an address about 2 weeks ago. He keep saying that he hadn't gotten his P.O. box # yet. HIs address is Fort Sam Houston. But there is a # that is specifically for him. Sounds like he has access to his very own mail box.
I heard from my Sailor today. No mail box yet and he is hoping by the end of the week or next week. He has a list of a few things he'd like from home. I put his winter gear all in storage since I know he won't need that! He says when they phase up, they can start wearing some civilian clothes for certain things.
I asked about classes and he was asked to wait a week to start since he has some of the certifications already. He said the instructor asked him to wait and help out with the orientation for the next class that will start on Monday. He is ok with doing that but is still anxious to get started. I guess we are on Navy time now!
Once class starts they will be busy. When they phase up and can go off base- they tend to really enjoy that. My son liked to go dancing and to the river walk. We liked that we could facetime and talk to him more than RTC.
Thanks all - my daughter says it looks like a regular twin. I sent her a mattress topper because she says she can feel the springs poking through. I guess I'll let you all know if it's too short!
No. We had heard that graduations were normally Thursdays or Fridays but my son graduated from HM on a Monday (1/28/19). Even the time was up in the air until the last minute - they were originally told that it would be afternoon but it was actually 10 or 11 am. My advice is to remain flexible and ready if you want to attend graduation!
Hello, new here. My SR arrived at METC last night. Just checking out some of the new resources now. I did not find N4M until last two weeks of bootcamp. TIA for all the great experiences you share together here.
Hi, I miss this place. My son graduated today, March 15, Hospital Corpsman, class 040, and I couldn't be there. Are there any moms who happened to tape it? I've looked everywhere online, but it's hit or miss with metc taping A school graduation. I'm just sick about it. PIR is a monumental day and I loved it all. After seeing recent HM A school grad videos, it's not to be missed because it's small and personal.
My boy makes me crazy with keeping in touch or up to date. said he didn't know his grad date, then I learned here it was with his orders. Gah! I didn't have an address until 10 days ago. online purchases arrived but envelopes came back. had 2 different addresses from metc and frailish hall, still don't know if it's right. the 3320 CPL Johnson Road pckgs delivered, but letters came back. frailish said address was 3288 CPL and needed his mailbox no. Son, of course didn't know and had to go to every box and try his key after I badgered him. it was too late tho, I still have the envelopes in front of me. metc said no mailbox needed. I saw someone asking about a mailing address, so I had to share my experience and add to the confusion.
Hi all- latest update on my Sailor he graduated FMTB-E on Wed. came home last night- Midnight! 4 hour delays at the airport. He is reserves so his duty station is home for now. So super proud of him and all of his mates.
mern, that's a coveted position (is it called rank?). You're family must be on top of the world! What's the proper response...Corpman Up? Only marines give the Doc title? Forget it, I'm givin' him a big California WOOT!
VenturaMari - thats a long drive. I will keep him in thoughts for safe travel. What platoon was he in? Maybe our guys knew each other. congrats to him as well!!
He is driving across with a buddy that he has known I think since bootcamp! They are making really good time. They left yesterday and have already made it to New Mexico!
He is reserves so he is home. I know he would like to get on a ship or attached to a Marine unit. We shall see. Dreytown if you look back through this page, you will see my son's story. He has had a few challenges thrown his way, so for him to be where he is- we are so super proud of him.
So...anyone here had their Sailor stationed at Quantico? What is/was that like? My son is graduating A school on May 22 and will be able to come home for a visit before heading to his next duty station and C school. So excited!
Hi, Thanks for adding me to the group. my daughter is not there yet, her PIR is not until May 10. I was wanting to go ahead and get a jump start on getting her some food gift cards. can anyone help me out with what is actually on base since they can't leave for a while ? like Subway, Burger King etc...
I don't get in the group very often anymore- Just thought I would share some good info. My son is a reservist, He just had his 2nd drill weekend. He earned a Naval Achievement medal for his help when a fellow sailor went down during their pt. That sailor is ok. Very proud of him
Catherine
@mayawolf, good point. I texted my son and he said he didn't know but would ask. A Foreman grill would give them lots of options!
Jan 20, 2019
diane
My daughter went through Corpsman school a couple of years ago. They are not allowed any kind of hot pad for cooking or anything else, only the microwave provided. My daughter would get salad stuff and have that for dinner. Some nights she would make scrambled eggs in the microwave.
Jan 20, 2019
Californiamom
My son finished corpsman school a couple of weeks ago, they are provided all meals (bfast, lunch, dinner); however, the class is near the eating area so for bfast and lunch it is near. By dinner they are a bit far away because by that time they are in the barracks and must walk to chow. So it is up to them if they want to walk back either way they can eat if they chose to. Remember they are technically not allowed to have a car while in A school so they do walk to and from and use uber/taxi/public transportation during liberty days. You can not keep a rice cooker, foreman grill etc. in your room but do get a microwave and mini fridge ( I think he and his roomy went half on the fridge , can't recall) you can have your own tv, comforter, pillow sheets, plates, game counsel, sound bar, electric tooth brush, etc. My son goes weekly to the store to stalk up on some foods so he can eat in his room when he feels like it (eggs, cereal, snacks), He is still there for C school (13 more months). I do know that in school they have coffee (coffee maker, sugar) they all pitch in a couple of bucks a week so they can have that while in school. Hope that helps you all.
Jan 21, 2019
DereksMom
@Diane My son graduated almost 2 years ago, and he did the same as your daughter. My son did allot of walking but he made due with what was available. That was not his permanent station so he just made due.
Jan 21, 2019
Catherine
@Marianne, My son arrived at A School on 1/19/19. I have heard from him by text about every other day. He says classes start tomorrow (1/28) and he is anxious to get started. They don't have mail boxes yet and that should happen next week. Last Monday, they had a 3 hour briefing and then a tour of the base. He says the food isn't as good as at the RTC because it's "Army" food! So far, they have just been settling in and getting used to this "new normal." In their living quarters, they have only one roommate but share living and kitchen space with other Sailors. So far, he hasn't been assigned a roommate and is enjoying the space after living in the ship with so many others. He expects to get a roommate very soon. They have a fridge and microwave for meals on their own. No other small appliances are allowed. He is a little frustrated with this since microwave meals are high in sodium and preservatives and not all that healthy.
Yesterday, he got a jury summons in the mail here at home! I took a picture of the summons and sent it to him so he can let the court know that he isn't available to sit on a jury from San Antonio.
He has been in regular contact with his girlfriend and brother. I think your son will start calling or texting you as soon as he is feeling settled in. Be patient!
Jan 27, 2019
Marianne
@Catherine, Thank you so much for easing the quiet chaos in my mind. I did manage bootcamp for the most part with some grace but I did think my Sailor would be...slightly more in touch. I was told by someone that if he's not calling he's fine and I know that to be true.
Thank you for your insight into what it looks like for our sons!
Jan 27, 2019
Catherine
@Marianne, no problems! We moms have to stick together :) I think my son has had regular contact because he wants me to make sure his girlfriend is doing ok. She is a nursing student and they will be doing some of the same classes and skills that the HM are working on. He is also trying to decide what he wants me to send to him once he has a mail box.
Jan 27, 2019
Tammy⚓️Girl
My son is in San Antonio too. I don’t hear from him that much. We get a call once a week, on the weekend. In fact got a call this evening. We talked 20 minutes. I know he’s busy and I’m doing really good by giving him his space. It’s hard, it really is. We shipped him his first care package and he loved it and was surprised. We did the big priority box for $18.90 where if it fits it ships. So we stuffed the box with goodies from Trader Joe’s and Target. It was good for me to purchase items for him just like I did when he was living home.
Jan 27, 2019
Marianne
@Tammy Girl, @Catherine, I don't know WHERE I would be if it wasn't for you ladies.
Thank you for walking next to me...
Jan 28, 2019
Tammy⚓️Girl
Marianne, thank you for your support as well.
Jan 28, 2019
VenturaMari
My son graduated in November 2018, he is in greenside training. It is hard work, but he is doing it. He said most of his class from A school is there. At least he knows people. Does anyone know if they are sending more almost full classes to greenside training. Just curious.
Jan 28, 2019
VenturaMari
RNmom,
I have been looking as well.
Jan 28, 2019
Tammy⚓️Girl
My son acts like going to C school will not be an option after A school. What determines that next step? From what he’s heard most males will go FMF. Fleet Marine Forces
Jan 28, 2019
VenturaMari
They will get further orders. With my son, females went to greenside training as well, then they get to their duty station.
Jan 28, 2019
Lauren - Ship 11 Div 317
It may also depend on their grades, my son was in the top few of his class and did get assigned to a C School, Needs of the Navy as always
Jan 28, 2019
mern
while my son was there (grad was Nov) we sent care packages. He likes pasta and we sent some made by Barilla I think called ready pasta- they microwave in about 2 minutes. No refrigeration needed so easy to keep on hand for last minute hunger. Also protein bars other small handy things for when he would study and need something.
Jan 28, 2019
Catherine
@Marianne and Tammy_girl...we moms have to stick together! Sons never understand that moms need information :)
Jan 28, 2019
Marianne
@Caherine and @Tammy-together is the only way I'll make it. You know - they never talked about this side of parenting in the "What to expect when you're expecting" books. I left his room but moved the box to send to A School into the closet because I couldn't take looking at it anymore. I don't even have an address yet...Do they have to earn permission from that too? Sometimes I think I won't look on here anymore cause I feel like I'm so in the dark. Thanks for listening.
Jan 29, 2019
Tammy⚓️Girl
Marianne, awww, no, you're not in the dark. We're here. Yea, the address can take awhile. My son's PIR was 12/14/18 and would say I got an address about 2 weeks ago. He keep saying that he hadn't gotten his P.O. box # yet. HIs address is Fort Sam Houston. But there is a # that is specifically for him. Sounds like he has access to his very own mail box.
We are here for you.
Jan 29, 2019
Catherine
I heard from my Sailor today. No mail box yet and he is hoping by the end of the week or next week. He has a list of a few things he'd like from home. I put his winter gear all in storage since I know he won't need that! He says when they phase up, they can start wearing some civilian clothes for certain things.
I asked about classes and he was asked to wait a week to start since he has some of the certifications already. He said the instructor asked him to wait and help out with the orientation for the next class that will start on Monday. He is ok with doing that but is still anxious to get started. I guess we are on Navy time now!
Jan 29, 2019
mern
Once class starts they will be busy. When they phase up and can go off base- they tend to really enjoy that. My son liked to go dancing and to the river walk. We liked that we could facetime and talk to him more than RTC.
Jan 30, 2019
A 10
Anyone know what size the beds are at METC?
Jan 31, 2019
Tammy⚓️Girl
Twin because that’s how it looked on Face Time.
Jan 31, 2019
Tammy⚓️Girl
I was hoping it was a twin XL.
Jan 31, 2019
VenturaMari
I just asked my son, who just graduated a few months ago, and he thinks they were extra long. He is 6' and he wasn't hanging off the end of the bed.
Jan 31, 2019
A 10
Thanks all - my daughter says it looks like a regular twin. I sent her a mattress topper because she says she can feel the springs poking through. I guess I'll let you all know if it's too short!
Feb 1, 2019
Tammy⚓️Girl
A twin size mattress is 38 inches wide by 75 inches long
A twin XL size mattress is 38 inches wide by 80 inches long
Feb 1, 2019
NavyMoeder
Have a sailor headed to A school in the next few weeks. Can they have personal vehicles?
Feb 22, 2019
mern
When my son was there, he didn't have a car- he used uber a lot.
Feb 22, 2019
PhillyMom
Does anyone know the graduation dates or where to find the graduation date for 2019?
Feb 26, 2019
Tammy⚓️Girl
Our son is graduating Friday, April 26, 2019. I have no idea where to find graduation dates though. Sorry.
Feb 26, 2019
Emma
Do they always graduate on Fridays?
Feb 27, 2019
SusanKav
No. We had heard that graduations were normally Thursdays or Fridays but my son graduated from HM on a Monday (1/28/19). Even the time was up in the air until the last minute - they were originally told that it would be afternoon but it was actually 10 or 11 am. My advice is to remain flexible and ready if you want to attend graduation!
Feb 27, 2019
NavyMoeder
Hello, new here. My SR arrived at METC last night. Just checking out some of the new resources now. I did not find N4M until last two weeks of bootcamp. TIA for all the great experiences you share together here.
Mar 3, 2019
Dreytown
Hi, I miss this place. My son graduated today, March 15, Hospital Corpsman, class 040, and I couldn't be there. Are there any moms who happened to tape it? I've looked everywhere online, but it's hit or miss with metc taping A school graduation. I'm just sick about it. PIR is a monumental day and I loved it all. After seeing recent HM A school grad videos, it's not to be missed because it's small and personal.
My boy makes me crazy with keeping in touch or up to date. said he didn't know his grad date, then I learned here it was with his orders. Gah! I didn't have an address until 10 days ago. online purchases arrived but envelopes came back. had 2 different addresses from metc and frailish hall, still don't know if it's right. the 3320 CPL Johnson Road pckgs delivered, but letters came back. frailish said address was 3288 CPL and needed his mailbox no. Son, of course didn't know and had to go to every box and try his key after I badgered him. it was too late tho, I still have the envelopes in front of me. metc said no mailbox needed. I saw someone asking about a mailing address, so I had to share my experience and add to the confusion.
Mar 15, 2019
mern
Dreytown have you seen the FB page https://www.facebook.com/groups/365855973496773/ it's a close group if you aren't on it already. also https://www.facebook.com/NMTSCFSH/ page may post - sometimes a few days after so keep watching.
Mar 15, 2019
mern
Hi all- latest update on my Sailor he graduated FMTB-E on Wed. came home last night- Midnight! 4 hour delays at the airport. He is reserves so his duty station is home for now. So super proud of him and all of his mates.
Mar 15, 2019
Dreytown
mern, that's a coveted position (is it called rank?). You're family must be on top of the world! What's the proper response...Corpman Up? Only marines give the Doc title? Forget it, I'm givin' him a big California WOOT!
Mar 15, 2019
VenturaMari
My son graduated Wednesday as well and is driving to CA from NC.
Mar 15, 2019
mern
VenturaMari - thats a long drive. I will keep him in thoughts for safe travel. What platoon was he in? Maybe our guys knew each other. congrats to him as well!!
Mar 15, 2019
VenturaMari
He is driving across with a buddy that he has known I think since bootcamp! They are making really good time. They left yesterday and have already made it to New Mexico!
He was in the 2nd platoon.
Mar 15, 2019
mern
My son was in 1st Platoon. What is his next duty station? San Diego?
Mar 15, 2019
VenturaMari
Lemoore, he requested Japan....he really wanted to go overseas or on a ship.
Mar 15, 2019
VenturaMari
Where is your going Mern?
Mar 15, 2019
mern
He is reserves so he is home. I know he would like to get on a ship or attached to a Marine unit. We shall see. Dreytown if you look back through this page, you will see my son's story. He has had a few challenges thrown his way, so for him to be where he is- we are so super proud of him.
Mar 15, 2019
VenturaMari
That's right, I did read that....Its Friday and has been a super busy week!
I just can't wait to see my fine Sailor! He is so ready to get to his duty station and do the job he has been in training for!
Mari
Mar 15, 2019
Catherine
So...anyone here had their Sailor stationed at Quantico? What is/was that like? My son is graduating A school on May 22 and will be able to come home for a visit before heading to his next duty station and C school. So excited!
Mar 23, 2019
Shelley
Does anyone have a new sailor that graduated bootcamp 3/29/19 & started A school 4/1/19?
Apr 3, 2019
buttercup
Hi, Thanks for adding me to the group. my daughter is not there yet, her PIR is not until May 10. I was wanting to go ahead and get a jump start on getting her some food gift cards. can anyone help me out with what is actually on base since they can't leave for a while ? like Subway, Burger King etc...
Apr 17, 2019
mern
I don't get in the group very often anymore- Just thought I would share some good info. My son is a reservist, He just had his 2nd drill weekend. He earned a Naval Achievement medal for his help when a fellow sailor went down during their pt. That sailor is ok. Very proud of him
May 14, 2019