Hi jamielss, I think James and Spencer had connected, according to what he wrote to his GF. I guess they moved to new rooms tonight, ready for the dreaded RLP. I thought they had to sleep on the floor the night before. Someone took James' boot cleaning kit when he was in the infirmary and he had a scuffed boot - things seem tense there for obvious reasons! Good thoughts tonight to them all.
Another popular gift, although it is very pricey is a Navy sword. You can call the NEX in Newport to order it. You give them your LO's height so they know what size sword is needed. You can get the sword engraved. They will have it ready for you to pick up when you go there for graduation.
Other ideas which of course depend on what they are going to be doing after commissioning: a good watch, something that can be lit at night, new Ensigns usually get the middle of the night watch. A nice camera is always good, esp. if they will be going on a deployment. Also if they will be spending a lot of time underway, an iPad or Kindle is nice if they like to read. Depending on their job, a nice pair of binoculars may be helpful. There are also decorative items you can find on line, like a ship's clock, or various naval wall plaques.
Best of luck to your son as he begins his career. Be ready to swell with pride when you see your son in his dress uniform, and don't forget your kleenex! The transformation they make over the course of OCS is amazing.
I got my DS a nice garment bag and cap box from Marlowe and white who sell for uniforms. Reasonably priced. Also got hon three books, the newly commissioned naval officers guide, the bluejackets Manuel and the nanel officers guide
Thanks for the gift ideas....and someone asked if he was an aviator...yes, or at least he hopes to be! He wears Costas now but may switch to aviator style!
And we already have "seen" the transformation...he has become a man in his weeks at OCS and we cannot wait to see him in a month! We are bringing a gang so not sure if all of us can go to Hi mom but will all be there for graduation. It is my Christmas gift to myself!
I don't want to send an alarming post, but are you aware of an incident happening to one of the candidates of 03-13? My daughter was a candio to this class and she's trying to find out if it was one of her buds. You can friend request me and send a private message if you prefer. Thank you.
Sent you a friend request. When you go to your page you will see a box in the upper right. It will have your name, the sign out link, your inbox, alerts, and settings. If you click on the inbox that will show you if you have any messages. Then you can click on compose on the right side of the heading and you select which friend you want to message. Then type your message and send!!!!
As navymom9875 posted, I also got my son an "Ensign Box" from the Good Wood Store. I had it engraved with The Navy Seal, and his full name, and Officer Candidate School Class 16-12A, and the date of graduation. It is like a woman's jewelry box with lots of little compartments lined with felt. It is used for storing their medals, pins, insignias, and all the stuff they put on their uniforms, while the uniforms are at the cleaners. My son really liked his. We also got him a nice travel garment bag for his uniforms, and took it to graduation. He arrived at OCS with only a small carry-on suitcase, and then they issue them a seabag. But there is no way they can get all of their uniforms and gear in just that, so we took him the garment bag, and also two collapsible duffel bags, and he still had it all stuffed for the trip home! We asked our son in advance about a sword, and he said don't bother. Other than using it for an arch at a military wedding, or wearing it at some rare high ceremonial occasion, he said it would just hang on the wall and collect dust. So, he told us not to waste the money, but your loved one may feel differently about a sword.
Thanks, Leanne. That is a very nice offer. I don't think my son has visitor privileges yet...he is only in week 2. I would ask for prayers for him though. He is sick...been running a fever...but so far has made it through. They put him in ice Friday to try to get the fever down. As a mom I am beyond worried. His wife received a phone call Friday night and an email today. He is having a rougher time because of being sick. He really is a tough guy...nothing kept him from athletic practices/games, including mono...but this is a bit more taxing than 2-a-days in 110 degree heat. Prayers for his physical, emotional, and spiritual strength are greatly appreciated.
Thanks for the post, Leanne. I was wondering how Newport did in the storm. My son graduated OCS there on Sept 7. He is now in Intel School at NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach. He said it poured and blew for two days there, but they didn't lose power. The pictures out of NYC and New Jersey are heartbreaking, though. In our prayers....
Thank you Leanne for such a nice offer...we have heard from our son this week and he reported that all is well...to gordons4, I will keep your son in my prayers. My son entered with a shin/leg injury and I was worried sick about him being able to keep up. He did and now is in week 8....but a fever is so concerning and so I hope and pray he will be well soon. These guys and girls are so strong and determined.
Leanne, No he is not in the hospital or sick quarters, he is still with his class. He has been sent to medical a few times and given ib profin to try to get the fever down. When that didn't work they put him in ice last Fri. I just know he is stressed over not performing as well as others in the class. I am not from a military background at all so this is all new, and scary, to me. Thanks so much for your prayers.
I have read on the facebook OCS pages that we can send boxes of protein bars before they are allowed to receive their candio boxes, as long as the only thing in the box is protein bars and there is enough for the whole class. My son is only in his second week so I have no way of confirming this with him. Am I going to get him in trouble if we send a box of protein bars to his class this earlier into the program?
gordons4, Don't send any boxes, packages, or anything other than letters before your son tells you it is ok. He will have to do extra PT or something not fun. They call it something but I forget what. It would not be good. My son graduated from OCS one year ago. Blessings to you and your son. I remember those days of waiting to hear how my son was doing.
gordons4, I agree with Mayapple. I don't think you should send anything but letters now. You don't want your son in trouble besides being sick. It is fairly common for some of them to get sick the first few weeks of OCS. My son graduated Sept 7, and he and several of his classmates were sick with sore throats and coughs for over a week. They are in such close quarters, and under such physical/ mental stress the first few weeks, that I think it weakens their immune systems. If somebody brings in a virus to OCS, they ALL get it. Before my son reported to OCS, I was reading the posts on here, and it seemed like every mom had a story of sickness running through their loved one's class! I think the DI's expect this, so they will be watching out for your son. Hopefully, he will get over it soon, and be feeling much better!
Thank you Mayapple and M's mom...having this mom contact is so good. I will not send a thing, other than letters, until I get the okay directly from my son. This is such a great group...once a mom, always a mom. Thank you for your prayers and support. Oh, and I'll give myself a real name...I'm Sheri. :)
My husband graduated from OCS a little while before you did. Were you as surprised at all the changes to the training as he was? Were the female candidates still separated from the guys?
Question. I have seen talk about sending an extra candio box for those who may not receive one...and I plan on doing that when we hit the candio phase...but what about sending letters to encourage those who may not receive any mail from home? Is that just dorky? Too much of a team mom type thing? Would my son get ridiculed for that? I know my son is getting plenty of letters from family, but I started thinking today how sad it must be for those who don't have that kind of support.
That is a wonderful thought!! I don't know your son but I think if you ask him he could tell you if there was someone who could use some encouragement from a supportive mom!! Then either get a name from him or just send the letter to him and have him pass it on. I doubt he would get ridiculed for that. He can always privately give the letter to his shipmate. I know my daughter depended on those encouraging letters from home and also little jokes and pictures I printed out to bring a little joy to her nights when she would read and re read her letters!!!
A Candio Box is a care package that you can send for your loved one to open in the middle of their 9th week at OCS - when they are in the "Candio Phase." Usually these boxes are filled with the candidates favorite snacks, candy, foods, etc. Some people throw magazines in there. Whatever you want! Also, people decorate the inside of the boxes. See attachment for an example.
aggiemom: As shown in Navygf820's picture, most people use a US Postal Service "large" size flat-rate box for the Candio boxes. It makes into a box about 12 inches square by 6 inches deep. You can stuff as much as you want in it and there is no weight limit, and it still ships for under $16. This is WAY cheaper than a comparable-sized box sent by UPS or FedEx. Just ask at your Post Office; you don't even have to pay for the box until you bring it back to ship it. Most people decorate the inside as shown. Do NOT send any packages (just letters) until they become Candidate Officers (Candios) at nine weeks. They can receive pretty much anything after that, EXCEPT anything resembling weapons--NO squirt guns, NERF dart guns, etc. (NERF footballs are OK.), and NO alcohol or tobacco. They can receive multiple boxes, but my son said they had so MUCH food they couldn't eat it all, even with everyone sharing with those who didn't get any. They are only in OCS for three more weeks after that, so lots of it got thrown away, so keep that in mind, and don't overdo it!
gordons4: I think that is very thoughtful of you to want to send letters to those who aren't getting any! Each OCS class elects a "mail body" who distributes all the incoming mail to his/her fellow classmates. The mail body could tell your son who never gets any mail. If you then address the letters directly to the other candidates, no one would know your son was in on it. Even if they did, I don't think they would ridicule your son. OCS encourages them to be a team, so a "team Mom" sending letters to some who usually don't get any would be appreciated, I think.
aggiemom: Before your son starts OCS on Nov 11, read all the posts here as far back as you can. That really helped me to know what to expect, and it was great to be able to ask questions of veteran OCS moms. Now that I AM a veteran OCS mom (son graduated Sept 7), I am trying to "pay it forward" to help you newbies. Besides this site, if you do Facebook, join (or start) the FB group of your son's OCS class "Family & Friends." That way if anyone gets class news from their loved one at OCS, they can share it with all. Also, make sure you "like" the "OTCNewport" Facebook page. This page is posted directly from Officer Training Command Newport. The class officers of each OCS class post weekly updates about what the class has been doing that week, and they also post PHOTOS of each class doing inspections, physical fitness tests, etc. It just made our day when we saw our son in some of the pictures!! Here's a big tip: make sure your son has your phone # and email address MEMORIZED before he goes to OCS. His own phone will be taken and put in storage the first day, and he will have to use a pay phone for that first-day 2-minute phone call. (Send a pre-paid phone card with him.) If he's used to just scrolling on his phone to "MOM," he may not even know your actual number! Same thing when they get email. They will NOT have access to their usual email program and "contacts" list, so you'll have to send a letter with everyone's email addresses. The candidates usually send out a "test" email at three weeks, but don't get email and weekend phone privileges until they pass the Room-Locker-Personnel (RLP) inspection at four weeks.
As M's mom said, it is very help to be part of this group, and even to be part of the groups ahead of yours so you can see what's coming. Writing lots of letters helps you feel connected and like you are doing your part in helping your son to get through. :)
Thanks for the info, I've been reading the posts here for a couple months now. I was already on the OTCNewport page and have joined the class page. Phone cards are on the shopping list, will probably send a couple with him to share just in case somebody else doesn't have one.
aggiemom: Sounds like you are prepared, Mom! That first phone call they are allowed, just to tell you they are there, may not come until Monday or Tues, so don't panic if you don't get a call on Sunday night. Depends on how big his class is. We didn't get called til Tuesday. Also get phone cards with LOTS of minutes! (I got my son's at Walmart.) Those pay phones they have to use charge the cards something like 15 minutes just to connect the call!!! Some of the phones are bad and hard to hear. After that first call, don't expect to hear from him again, except for maybe letters, for four weeks. The Navy wants to wean the candidates (AND their loved ones) off of constant communication with each other. Just keep telling yourself that "no news is GOOD news" because that means he is still in the program and not coming home! Write every day, but don't expect lots of letters back. They have very little free time, and there is not an outgoing mailbox close to the barracks to mail them. It is an ordeal for this electronic generation to actually handwrite a "snail mail" letter! BTW, cute dog on your profile pic!!!!!
M's mom - thanks, that's Abby my 11yo mini Aussie. I hope I am prepared for when he leaves. It will be interesting to see how leave works at Christmas. I think I'd really prefer they went straight through. We're having a small Thanksgiving turkey tomorrow and I'm using my last vacation days next week to spend with him & do whatever he wants to do.
aggiemom: If you go to ocs.navy.mil, there is a link on the right side of the home page under the "Technical Training" picture that explains the holiday leave policy for OCS. The school will be "standing down" for two weeks between Dec 21 and Jan 4, but each candidate will only get leave for ONE of those weeks, EITHER Dec 21-Dec 28, OR Dec 28-Jan 4. The other week they must be at OCS, and will be on work detail, stripping and waxing the floors and cleaning all the classrooms, and the barracks. They have to put in a request for the week they want, but they get what they get. Such is life in the military. My son is now in Intelligence School in Virginia Beach, and they will have the same policy. He will get one week leave out of the two, and he'll have to be there for the other week, even though the school will be closed. I think OCS will get Thanksgiving Day "off" of classes, and they will probably have a turkey dinner for them in the chow hall. My son was at OCS on July 4th, and even though they still had to do PT (physical training) that day, they had a cookout for them with hot dogs, hamburgers and all the trimmings, and he was allowed to call home that day. For those who will be at OCS on Christmas and New Year's day, I'm sure they will be allowed to call home.
When my son was in OCS over Christmas 2 years ago they could take both weeks if they wanted to but it put them in a leave deficit that they would have to make up after graduation. Or they could just take one week so they wouldn't owe so many days back.
He said before he left if he could take two weeks he would, even if it meant he went in the hole with his leave. He left Sat, got a call last night but the connection was so bad I couldn't hear him. He had not lived at home for 6 years so I thought I would be OK. I was wrong, I know it'll get better. First letter has been written.
Yes, some of those pay phones are bad, and you can't hear them. The candidates were in line, and didn't have any choice as to which phone to use for that first call. When he gets weekend phone privileges after the fourth week, he will be able to pick his phone, especially if he calls after the rest are finished. Write and tell him if he picks up a phone and hears static before he even dials, hang that one up, and pick another. This has been an ongoing problem, but OCS has not seen fit to get the phones fixed in that barracks because it will be demolished soon. They are building a new OCS barracks right now which may be open early next year, so hopefully the new phones will be better for future classes! No news is GOOD news the first four weeks! After that, they can email, and it gets better!
aggiemom, My son is in class 05 and also has not lived at home for 6 yrs--and I thought it would be easier, too. The last time we had any direct communication from him was the morning he reported...he called to tell us goodbye and he loved us one more time. (sniff, sniff) He is recently married so his wife is getting any calls and so far all the letters. She is great about sharing with us right away and my son has given her a few messages to pass onto us. I had to realize real fast that this is not about me...it's about him and his future and dreams. It's so hard being the mom. You will do great and we are here to help you through. Sheri
It is hard being the mom. I told my son (class 14-12) to call his girlfriend when he was limited on time and she could pass info on. Which she did. I was glad I told him that so he didn't have to feel guilty. When he was able to call more mom got calls. It was great.
gordons4: I hope your son has written to his wife that he is now feeling better! (You said that he had a fever.) The lack of communication is hard on all of us, especially those who have been used to texting or talking to their loved one every day! This is how it will be when they are on sea duty, especially those on submarines! You may not hear from them for weeks, or even months while on a sub tour of duty. When they can communicate, it seems to go to the spouse or gf/bf, and not Mom. This is what happens when they grow up and leave the nest! (sniff) It is said, "Once a Marine, ALWAYS a Marine." Well, once a MOM..... :-)
my son started ocs class 06/13 a week ago saturday, can anyone tell me if i can start sending letters to him, and also when their graduation might be, thanks.
Start sending lettered right away. They may not get them right away but will get them. Join face book page for his class it is US Navy OCS class 6-13 family and friends. Also join OCS Facebook (offeicer training command newport) page as they will post information and pictures. Graduation is usually 12 weeks after start on a Friday.
Has your son started classes yet? Jenn is still on hold and thinks her group won't class up until Feb or later.
Cookie,
You definitely need to join the Facebook pages. I hate to direct anyone away from the NavyForMoms site but as Dawn said OTCN posts on facebook and you can see pictures and read class updates. They already posted pics of 06-13's first couple events.
thanks to anna and dawn, i am so excited that there are groups like this, it's so helpful when there is no one to talk to about what is going on, i have checked out both sights and am so happy to report that i saw my son in some pictures on the otcn sight, can't wait to check tonight., thanks again.
He is done with IFS and the leadership classes. Will start API in January. They started work on the pool used for API in Oct and won't start any more classes until JAnuary they said. One of his classmates got API done before they started the pool ( he didnt need IFS) so he is now off to Primary but has not been flying there yet. He has another friend that they had do the pool part of API but not class part yet. They kind of miss them all up it seems. So long answer but no API until January.
jamielss
Yes!! our son is 04-13. Have you seen the pictures on facebook?
Oct 17, 2012
Navygf820
Hi Jamesmum :) RLP tomorrow! Let's all pray for our men and women of 04-13
Oct 24, 2012
Jamesmum
Oct 25, 2012
momoffive
Does any one have any graduation gift ideas for OCS graduates? My son in is class 03-13 and graduation is not far away....thank you !!
Oct 26, 2012
Jamesmum
Oct 26, 2012
navymom9875
Ensign boxes are a popular gift item. I got mine from this site and my LO really liked it.
http://www.thegoodwoodstore.com/Products/military-graduation-boxes-...
Another popular gift, although it is very pricey is a Navy sword. You can call the NEX in Newport to order it. You give them your LO's height so they know what size sword is needed. You can get the sword engraved. They will have it ready for you to pick up when you go there for graduation.
Other ideas which of course depend on what they are going to be doing after commissioning: a good watch, something that can be lit at night, new Ensigns usually get the middle of the night watch. A nice camera is always good, esp. if they will be going on a deployment. Also if they will be spending a lot of time underway, an iPad or Kindle is nice if they like to read. Depending on their job, a nice pair of binoculars may be helpful. There are also decorative items you can find on line, like a ship's clock, or various naval wall plaques.
Best of luck to your son as he begins his career. Be ready to swell with pride when you see your son in his dress uniform, and don't forget your kleenex! The transformation they make over the course of OCS is amazing.
Oct 26, 2012
Dawn
Oct 26, 2012
momoffive
Thanks for the gift ideas....and someone asked if he was an aviator...yes, or at least he hopes to be! He wears Costas now but may switch to aviator style!
And we already have "seen" the transformation...he has become a man in his weeks at OCS and we cannot wait to see him in a month! We are bringing a gang so not sure if all of us can go to Hi mom but will all be there for graduation. It is my Christmas gift to myself!
Oct 26, 2012
Anna
momoffive,
I don't want to send an alarming post, but are you aware of an incident happening to one of the candidates of 03-13? My daughter was a candio to this class and she's trying to find out if it was one of her buds. You can friend request me and send a private message if you prefer. Thank you.
Oct 26, 2012
momoffive
Anna, not sure how to friend request you or send you a private message...I have a FB page, my name is Carol Conlon if you can contact me.
Oct 26, 2012
Anna
Momoffive,
Sent you a friend request. When you go to your page you will see a box in the upper right. It will have your name, the sign out link, your inbox, alerts, and settings. If you click on the inbox that will show you if you have any messages. Then you can click on compose on the right side of the heading and you select which friend you want to message. Then type your message and send!!!!
Oct 26, 2012
M's mom
As navymom9875 posted, I also got my son an "Ensign Box" from the Good Wood Store. I had it engraved with The Navy Seal, and his full name, and Officer Candidate School Class 16-12A, and the date of graduation. It is like a woman's jewelry box with lots of little compartments lined with felt. It is used for storing their medals, pins, insignias, and all the stuff they put on their uniforms, while the uniforms are at the cleaners. My son really liked his. We also got him a nice travel garment bag for his uniforms, and took it to graduation. He arrived at OCS with only a small carry-on suitcase, and then they issue them a seabag. But there is no way they can get all of their uniforms and gear in just that, so we took him the garment bag, and also two collapsible duffel bags, and he still had it all stuffed for the trip home! We asked our son in advance about a sword, and he said don't bother. Other than using it for an arch at a military wedding, or wearing it at some rare high ceremonial occasion, he said it would just hang on the wall and collect dust. So, he told us not to waste the money, but your loved one may feel differently about a sword.
Oct 26, 2012
M's mom
Anna: Now you have me curious! What happened to one of the candidates in 03-13? Hope it wasn't anything serious.
Oct 27, 2012
Anna
M's mom,
I don't know much, but I think we should keep class 03-13 in our prayers. All our loved ones in OCS need our love and support!!!!
Oct 27, 2012
gordons4
Thanks, Leanne. That is a very nice offer. I don't think my son has visitor privileges yet...he is only in week 2. I would ask for prayers for him though. He is sick...been running a fever...but so far has made it through. They put him in ice Friday to try to get the fever down. As a mom I am beyond worried. His wife received a phone call Friday night and an email today. He is having a rougher time because of being sick. He really is a tough guy...nothing kept him from athletic practices/games, including mono...but this is a bit more taxing than 2-a-days in 110 degree heat. Prayers for his physical, emotional, and spiritual strength are greatly appreciated.
Oct 30, 2012
M's mom
Thanks for the post, Leanne. I was wondering how Newport did in the storm. My son graduated OCS there on Sept 7. He is now in Intel School at NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach. He said it poured and blew for two days there, but they didn't lose power. The pictures out of NYC and New Jersey are heartbreaking, though. In our prayers....
Oct 30, 2012
momoffive
Thank you Leanne for such a nice offer...we have heard from our son this week and he reported that all is well...to gordons4, I will keep your son in my prayers. My son entered with a shin/leg injury and I was worried sick about him being able to keep up. He did and now is in week 8....but a fever is so concerning and so I hope and pray he will be well soon. These guys and girls are so strong and determined.
Oct 30, 2012
gordons4
Leanne, No he is not in the hospital or sick quarters, he is still with his class. He has been sent to medical a few times and given ib profin to try to get the fever down. When that didn't work they put him in ice last Fri. I just know he is stressed over not performing as well as others in the class. I am not from a military background at all so this is all new, and scary, to me. Thanks so much for your prayers.
Oct 30, 2012
gordons4
I have read on the facebook OCS pages that we can send boxes of protein bars before they are allowed to receive their candio boxes, as long as the only thing in the box is protein bars and there is enough for the whole class. My son is only in his second week so I have no way of confirming this with him. Am I going to get him in trouble if we send a box of protein bars to his class this earlier into the program?
Oct 31, 2012
Mayapple
gordons4, Don't send any boxes, packages, or anything other than letters before your son tells you it is ok. He will have to do extra PT or something not fun. They call it something but I forget what. It would not be good. My son graduated from OCS one year ago. Blessings to you and your son. I remember those days of waiting to hear how my son was doing.
Oct 31, 2012
M's mom
gordons4, I agree with Mayapple. I don't think you should send anything but letters now. You don't want your son in trouble besides being sick. It is fairly common for some of them to get sick the first few weeks of OCS. My son graduated Sept 7, and he and several of his classmates were sick with sore throats and coughs for over a week. They are in such close quarters, and under such physical/ mental stress the first few weeks, that I think it weakens their immune systems. If somebody brings in a virus to OCS, they ALL get it. Before my son reported to OCS, I was reading the posts on here, and it seemed like every mom had a story of sickness running through their loved one's class! I think the DI's expect this, so they will be watching out for your son. Hopefully, he will get over it soon, and be feeling much better!
Oct 31, 2012
gordons4
Thank you Mayapple and M's mom...having this mom contact is so good. I will not send a thing, other than letters, until I get the okay directly from my son. This is such a great group...once a mom, always a mom. Thank you for your prayers and support. Oh, and I'll give myself a real name...I'm Sheri. :)
Oct 31, 2012
Anna
Leanne,
My husband graduated from OCS a little while before you did. Were you as surprised at all the changes to the training as he was? Were the female candidates still separated from the guys?
Nov 2, 2012
gordons4
Question. I have seen talk about sending an extra candio box for those who may not receive one...and I plan on doing that when we hit the candio phase...but what about sending letters to encourage those who may not receive any mail from home? Is that just dorky? Too much of a team mom type thing? Would my son get ridiculed for that? I know my son is getting plenty of letters from family, but I started thinking today how sad it must be for those who don't have that kind of support.
Nov 2, 2012
Anna
gordons4,
That is a wonderful thought!! I don't know your son but I think if you ask him he could tell you if there was someone who could use some encouragement from a supportive mom!! Then either get a name from him or just send the letter to him and have him pass it on. I doubt he would get ridiculed for that. He can always privately give the letter to his shipmate. I know my daughter depended on those encouraging letters from home and also little jokes and pictures I printed out to bring a little joy to her nights when she would read and re read her letters!!!
Nov 2, 2012
aggiemom
My son starts Nov 11, what is a candio box?
Nov 2, 2012
Navygf820
A Candio Box is a care package that you can send for your loved one to open in the middle of their 9th week at OCS - when they are in the "Candio Phase." Usually these boxes are filled with the candidates favorite snacks, candy, foods, etc. Some people throw magazines in there. Whatever you want! Also, people decorate the inside of the boxes. See attachment for an example.
Nov 2, 2012
Navygf820
Nov 3, 2012
M's mom
aggiemom: As shown in Navygf820's picture, most people use a US Postal Service "large" size flat-rate box for the Candio boxes. It makes into a box about 12 inches square by 6 inches deep. You can stuff as much as you want in it and there is no weight limit, and it still ships for under $16. This is WAY cheaper than a comparable-sized box sent by UPS or FedEx. Just ask at your Post Office; you don't even have to pay for the box until you bring it back to ship it. Most people decorate the inside as shown. Do NOT send any packages (just letters) until they become Candidate Officers (Candios) at nine weeks. They can receive pretty much anything after that, EXCEPT anything resembling weapons--NO squirt guns, NERF dart guns, etc. (NERF footballs are OK.), and NO alcohol or tobacco. They can receive multiple boxes, but my son said they had so MUCH food they couldn't eat it all, even with everyone sharing with those who didn't get any. They are only in OCS for three more weeks after that, so lots of it got thrown away, so keep that in mind, and don't overdo it!
Nov 3, 2012
M's mom
gordons4: I think that is very thoughtful of you to want to send letters to those who aren't getting any! Each OCS class elects a "mail body" who distributes all the incoming mail to his/her fellow classmates. The mail body could tell your son who never gets any mail. If you then address the letters directly to the other candidates, no one would know your son was in on it. Even if they did, I don't think they would ridicule your son. OCS encourages them to be a team, so a "team Mom" sending letters to some who usually don't get any would be appreciated, I think.
Nov 3, 2012
M's mom
aggiemom: Before your son starts OCS on Nov 11, read all the posts here as far back as you can. That really helped me to know what to expect, and it was great to be able to ask questions of veteran OCS moms. Now that I AM a veteran OCS mom (son graduated Sept 7), I am trying to "pay it forward" to help you newbies. Besides this site, if you do Facebook, join (or start) the FB group of your son's OCS class "Family & Friends." That way if anyone gets class news from their loved one at OCS, they can share it with all. Also, make sure you "like" the "OTCNewport" Facebook page. This page is posted directly from Officer Training Command Newport. The class officers of each OCS class post weekly updates about what the class has been doing that week, and they also post PHOTOS of each class doing inspections, physical fitness tests, etc. It just made our day when we saw our son in some of the pictures!! Here's a big tip: make sure your son has your phone # and email address MEMORIZED before he goes to OCS. His own phone will be taken and put in storage the first day, and he will have to use a pay phone for that first-day 2-minute phone call. (Send a pre-paid phone card with him.) If he's used to just scrolling on his phone to "MOM," he may not even know your actual number! Same thing when they get email. They will NOT have access to their usual email program and "contacts" list, so you'll have to send a letter with everyone's email addresses. The candidates usually send out a "test" email at three weeks, but don't get email and weekend phone privileges until they pass the Room-Locker-Personnel (RLP) inspection at four weeks.
Nov 3, 2012
gordons4
aggiemom--Here is a link to the OCS 6-13 Family and Friends page on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/546897392002520/?bookmark_t=group
As M's mom said, it is very help to be part of this group, and even to be part of the groups ahead of yours so you can see what's coming. Writing lots of letters helps you feel connected and like you are doing your part in helping your son to get through. :)
Nov 3, 2012
aggiemom
Thanks for the info, I've been reading the posts here for a couple months now. I was already on the OTCNewport page and have joined the class page. Phone cards are on the shopping list, will probably send a couple with him to share just in case somebody else doesn't have one.
Nov 3, 2012
M's mom
aggiemom: Sounds like you are prepared, Mom! That first phone call they are allowed, just to tell you they are there, may not come until Monday or Tues, so don't panic if you don't get a call on Sunday night. Depends on how big his class is. We didn't get called til Tuesday. Also get phone cards with LOTS of minutes! (I got my son's at Walmart.) Those pay phones they have to use charge the cards something like 15 minutes just to connect the call!!! Some of the phones are bad and hard to hear. After that first call, don't expect to hear from him again, except for maybe letters, for four weeks. The Navy wants to wean the candidates (AND their loved ones) off of constant communication with each other. Just keep telling yourself that "no news is GOOD news" because that means he is still in the program and not coming home! Write every day, but don't expect lots of letters back. They have very little free time, and there is not an outgoing mailbox close to the barracks to mail them. It is an ordeal for this electronic generation to actually handwrite a "snail mail" letter! BTW, cute dog on your profile pic!!!!!
Nov 3, 2012
aggiemom
M's mom - thanks, that's Abby my 11yo mini Aussie. I hope I am prepared for when he leaves. It will be interesting to see how leave works at Christmas. I think I'd really prefer they went straight through. We're having a small Thanksgiving turkey tomorrow and I'm using my last vacation days next week to spend with him & do whatever he wants to do.
Nov 3, 2012
M's mom
aggiemom: If you go to ocs.navy.mil, there is a link on the right side of the home page under the "Technical Training" picture that explains the holiday leave policy for OCS. The school will be "standing down" for two weeks between Dec 21 and Jan 4, but each candidate will only get leave for ONE of those weeks, EITHER Dec 21-Dec 28, OR Dec 28-Jan 4. The other week they must be at OCS, and will be on work detail, stripping and waxing the floors and cleaning all the classrooms, and the barracks. They have to put in a request for the week they want, but they get what they get. Such is life in the military. My son is now in Intelligence School in Virginia Beach, and they will have the same policy. He will get one week leave out of the two, and he'll have to be there for the other week, even though the school will be closed. I think OCS will get Thanksgiving Day "off" of classes, and they will probably have a turkey dinner for them in the chow hall. My son was at OCS on July 4th, and even though they still had to do PT (physical training) that day, they had a cookout for them with hot dogs, hamburgers and all the trimmings, and he was allowed to call home that day. For those who will be at OCS on Christmas and New Year's day, I'm sure they will be allowed to call home.
Nov 4, 2012
aggiemom
That is how I interpreted the leave policy, only one week but my son says two. That's what he was told, he'll figure it out soon enough.
Nov 4, 2012
navymom9875
When my son was in OCS over Christmas 2 years ago they could take both weeks if they wanted to but it put them in a leave deficit that they would have to make up after graduation. Or they could just take one week so they wouldn't owe so many days back.
Nov 4, 2012
aggiemom
He said before he left if he could take two weeks he would, even if it meant he went in the hole with his leave. He left Sat, got a call last night but the connection was so bad I couldn't hear him. He had not lived at home for 6 years so I thought I would be OK. I was wrong, I know it'll get better. First letter has been written.
Nov 12, 2012
M's mom
Yes, some of those pay phones are bad, and you can't hear them. The candidates were in line, and didn't have any choice as to which phone to use for that first call. When he gets weekend phone privileges after the fourth week, he will be able to pick his phone, especially if he calls after the rest are finished. Write and tell him if he picks up a phone and hears static before he even dials, hang that one up, and pick another. This has been an ongoing problem, but OCS has not seen fit to get the phones fixed in that barracks because it will be demolished soon. They are building a new OCS barracks right now which may be open early next year, so hopefully the new phones will be better for future classes! No news is GOOD news the first four weeks! After that, they can email, and it gets better!
Nov 12, 2012
gordons4
aggiemom, My son is in class 05 and also has not lived at home for 6 yrs--and I thought it would be easier, too. The last time we had any direct communication from him was the morning he reported...he called to tell us goodbye and he loved us one more time. (sniff, sniff) He is recently married so his wife is getting any calls and so far all the letters. She is great about sharing with us right away and my son has given her a few messages to pass onto us. I had to realize real fast that this is not about me...it's about him and his future and dreams. It's so hard being the mom. You will do great and we are here to help you through. Sheri
Nov 12, 2012
Dawn
Nov 12, 2012
M's mom
gordons4: I hope your son has written to his wife that he is now feeling better! (You said that he had a fever.) The lack of communication is hard on all of us, especially those who have been used to texting or talking to their loved one every day! This is how it will be when they are on sea duty, especially those on submarines! You may not hear from them for weeks, or even months while on a sub tour of duty. When they can communicate, it seems to go to the spouse or gf/bf, and not Mom. This is what happens when they grow up and leave the nest! (sniff) It is said, "Once a Marine, ALWAYS a Marine." Well, once a MOM..... :-)
Nov 12, 2012
cookie
my son started ocs class 06/13 a week ago saturday, can anyone tell me if i can start sending letters to him, and also when their graduation might be, thanks.
Nov 17, 2012
Dawn
Nov 17, 2012
cookie
thank you so much dawn for your help and imformation!
Nov 17, 2012
Dawn
Nov 17, 2012
Anna
Dawn,
Has your son started classes yet? Jenn is still on hold and thinks her group won't class up until Feb or later.
Cookie,
You definitely need to join the Facebook pages. I hate to direct anyone away from the NavyForMoms site but as Dawn said OTCN posts on facebook and you can see pictures and read class updates. They already posted pics of 06-13's first couple events.
Nov 17, 2012
cookie
thanks to anna and dawn, i am so excited that there are groups like this, it's so helpful when there is no one to talk to about what is going on, i have checked out both sights and am so happy to report that i saw my son in some pictures on the otcn sight, can't wait to check tonight., thanks again.
Nov 17, 2012
Dawn
Nov 17, 2012