ITgal, I knew my son wasn't prepared either, so I waited for the call. I actually hoped he would get put in H (I know, mean mom) because I felt like it would be an inexpensive yet thorough lesson on getting your act together. It worked- he doesn't want to do it again, so he got his rear into gear. All in all, I am happy about H class. He learned so much that I think his time in actual class will go smoother, and he had more time to transition.
sunnyday: WOW, I am really surprised that they have discontinued the First Salute ceremony! That tradition goes way back to when (or before) real silver dollar coins were in circulation and easy to come by. (AND worth only one dollar!) I know OCS sometimes cancels some parts of the graduation week due to weather, but I didn't know they had done away with that part entirely. Since their Drill Instructor has put the just put the Ensigns through 12 weeks of H***, it always gave them a bit of satisfaction that NOW the DI had to salute THEM! I wonder if the Naval Academy still does First Salutes?
My profile pic is of my three sailors, officer in the middle and the two enlisted on either side (that's her twin sister). No approval was needed and when we walked to the spot where the first salutes were held, my son and daughter just walked up and stood beside the DI and Chief. My daughter gave silver dollars dated 100 years prior to her birth to her brother and sister, and other silver coins to the DI and Chief.
The OTC may have had to cancel the first salute ceremony one time but the tradition of receiving a first salute/silver coin is for any and all officers whenever they receive their commissioning, even my hubby who got his first salute at an Air Force base somewhere across country as he was traveling from OCS to his first duty station in San Diego. They didn't do the formal thing when he went through OCS, it was a lot different then!!!
Anna- Thanks so much for the info. As soon as I got done reading your post I had to go lurk on your page. You must be so proud of your kiddos!
We actually have some solid silver dollars from my husband's grandparents, so I am sure I can dig one of those up for the first salute. That should be pretty neat.
As far as my daughter wearing medals instead of ribbons, I don't even know if she has them. I guess I had better ask, huh?! At first she was asking if she could wear a nice dress instead of her dress whites (logistics of getting it from Italy to here and keeping it looking nice). I told her no, of course not. There would be no reason for a salute if she was not in uniform. She had a "duh" moment.
I have heard that the first salute at OCS graduation between the new officer and their drill instructor was discontinued because some were reselling the silver dollars they received. Some of those silver dollars are worth quite a bit of money, as I understand it. Keep in mind this is just what I was told by my son.
I hope it hasn't been. I'm really looking forward to it. It is still in the video that OCS has on their website, but then again, if they just discontinued it, they may not have had time to update the video. Those things are expensive and time consuming to produce.
sunnyday: Well gosh, I ASSUMED that the DI's were selling the silver dollars. What else would they do with them? If they have about 30-40 in each OCS class, and they take on a new class every 12 weeks, that's a lot of silver coins to just keep for mementos for the 3-yr tour they have at OCS. I assumed Drill Instructors had always cashed them in, so I'm not sure why the Navy would suddenly have an issue with this. Maybe they were blatantly selling them on eBay instead of discretely taking them to a coin shop. If an Ensign chose to give them a coin that was "worth quite a bit of money" instead of a cheaper one, then that was the Ensign's choice. The price of silver fluctuates, but there are silver coins to be had for $35 or so. You'd think they could still do the First Salutes ceremony and just give them a token or something, and not scrap the whole thing because some DI's were bragging about how much money they were making. But, far be it for me to question Navy policy!
I made that same assumption, and then thought that I was obviously unconcerned over something that maybe I should be outraged over. I mean, a silver dollar, even if it is old and made of pure silver, is a cheap price to pay for the lessons they should have learned from the DIs.
M's Mom - That's so funny, I had the same thought. My son's DI had a wife and 2 little girls at the Hi Moms reception and I remember thinking those coins could be put to good use. And that in no way diminishes the DI's appreciation for the gratitude that the new Ensigns are demonstrating (or the Ensigns satisfaction at receiving the salute from their one time 'tormentor').
The Naval Academy does not do a formal line up for first salutes - there are over 1,000 commissioned each year. In fact, they don't arrive to graduation wearing their Ensign/1st Lt insignia. After the hat toss, they have to meet up with family members who have their shoulder boards, collar devices, new cover, etc. Once they've put them on, they're ready for a first salute and they're told if they want that to be someone special they should arrange for the person to be there. After 4 years at the Academy, they don't have the same type of relationship with a single DI/Chief that the OCS grads do after an intense 12 weeks. They definitely do the coins - the local Academy parents association actually sells them as a fund raiser, though they can get them where ever they like.
No problem. We are counting down the days til graduation! So far none of his class has received their medical. Its so frustrating waiting but thats the government!. He has been a pilot for a while. Its what he got his BS in. He loves it and really hopes to do it in the Navy.
GalleyMom: I was worried also that my son would never pass the RLP inspection, because his rooms at home and college were always a huge mess, but he rose to the occasion when it counted, and passed first time. I'm sure your son will do fine. If your son goes into Intel, he will go to school next at NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach, VA. My son loved it there, although he got to experience his first hurricane as Sandy brushed by VB.
My son has been deployed since last August (10 mos !) on the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson. He was an Intel Officer working with a squadron of fighter jets launching air strikes against the Islamic State crazies in the Persian Gulf. They have been headed home for several weeks now, and after some much-deserved R&R liberty in Australia and Hawaii, the ship will arrive back in San Diego [OPSEC rules] "sometime in the next several days!" He has been able to email us every week or so, and call us on the phone when they are in port, like from Bahrain and Australia, but there was no instant communication like texting or immediate answers to email. Such is Navy life when deployed.
We have been keeping in touch regularly with our daughter-in-law. She is SO excited for DS to get back.! They just celebrated their second anniversary and he has been gone for 10 months of it! At least they don't have kids yet. That's got to be so hard on parents (& kids) when one spouse is deployed. Dear Son is headed to Japan next for 2-3 years, but his wife will go with him there.
GalleyMom: I'm able to exhale finally, as USS Carl Vinson, with DS aboard, pulled into port this morning in San Diego after 10 months at sea! DS is now headed back with his plane squadron to Whidbey Island Naval Air Station, Washington, near Seattle, where he has been stationed before he was deployed on the Vinson, and where his dear wife awaits.
They will be headed to Japan sometime in January. I think he will have a desk job there, hopefully M-F with weekends off. Better than working 16-hr days, 7 days a week on the ship, except when they had a few days' liberty during port calls. He has wanted to be on an aircraft carrier since he was a little boy, so this was kind of a dream fulfilled, but I think he's ready to be on land for a while!! Yes, hopefully hubby and I can visit the kids in Japan after they're settled.
My son got into Intel in a round-about way. He had been accepted into OCS as a pilot candidate, and passed two Navy physicals, and jumped through all the hoops that entailed. Then, three weeks into OCS, he had to take a flight physical where they scan every square inch, and they found out that he had a minor physical problem that was not life threatening and he could stay in the Navy, but it DQ'd him for pilot or flight officer. He was given a list of 12 other areas he could transfer to, and told to rank them in order of preference, but he might get #12, because "the needs of the Navy come first." He ranked Intel #1, and he got it, which was a relief, because he was afraid he'd be transferred to something he hated. He does like Intel, so far, so I hope your son can transfer. At least your son's getting his foot in the door with SWO, but he might actually like that.
Doreen: Welcome! I don't recall that there is a limit on the number of family members attending OCS graduation, but your candidate will have to submit a list of names of those attending to the Command a few weeks before graduation. If there are more total names turned in than seats available, I suppose some candidates could be told to trim their lists, but I've never heard of that happening. It was standing room only at my son's graduation, so get there way early. To get on the Base, all adults in your car must have a photo ID, and their names must be on the gate guard's guest list, so no last-minute additions! Since you are just starting the OCS experience, read back as far as you can on this comment wall and also read all the discussion forum topics above on this page, and we have probably answered many of your questions already. Good luck to your son!
GalleyMom: You will hear more from your son once they pass the RLP inspection, and then get email privileges. His generation doesn't do snail mail, so the GF is lucky she got letters! Does your son know your email address from memory? Because when they get email, it will be on a closed military server and they will NOT have access to their usual email program (Outlook,etc.) and their "contacts" list. He will have to type in the complete email address, and he may not remember it if he is used to just scrolling to "Mom" and clicking! Send him a letter now with all the email addresses you think he might want. You should be getting an email soon with the subject "TEST" from an address like @navy.mil. That is, unless he tests his email to the GF. ;-)
my DS is so close we can see it. just 7 more days...just waiting on his medical to come thru, I guess half the pilots are still waiting. Its rather frustrating!!
Tiggermanic, I'm saying a prayer for all that are still waiting for the Medical to come in!! Our LO got his letter today and it was such a relief. I pray everyone hears something soon!! 5 more days until we see our LO and just 7 days until our LO become Officers of the US NAVY!! :)
Thanks, they are thinking the rest should be monday. Im just keeping my fingers crossed! I cant wait to see them in their whites! The are an impressive bunch. My LO says that Newport is a nice town so I guess we will do some exploring when we get there. They have off base liberty this weekend and are pretty excited about it.
M's Mom!! HI!! I'm sorry I don't know how to work this site very good!! Yes our son just got his NAMI letter this morning!!! All is good!! He has done such a great job over the last weeks since we last talked!! He is the Guidon Bearer for the class!! That flag is by his side at all times!! LOL We are so proud of him and All the other Candidates!!
Thank you so much for checking up on him!! I wish I knew how to work this site better... I hope I haven't missed any other comments LOL
Tiggermanic, we are looking forward to the trip!! I hope the weather holds out for a Outside Graduation!! And I agree, they look so good in their Dress Whites!!
I looked at the weather forecast and it looks like nice weather...mid 70s and very little chance for rain on friday! Lets just keep our fingers crossed that it stays that way.
Tiggermanic and Quilter: Have a great time in Newport at graduation. You will be bursting with pride! If you have some spare time in Newport, take a tour of some of those "summer cottages" of the early 1900's rich folk. (What folks like me would call "mansions," not summer cottages!)
Quilter: So glad to hear that your son has done well, and will be commissioned soon! I know you & he were both disheartened when he was rolled back, but now you can be the voice of experience and encourage other Moms whose candidates get rolled to H class. I'm glad he hung in there. It's all about not quitting, no matter what! Is your son headed to Pensacola next?
Yes, we are so glad DS is back in the US after 10 mos at sea! His wife is especially glad he's home; they just celebrated their second anniversary and he's been gone for 10 mos of it! Talked to them both on the phone tonight and DS sounded tired, but glad to be back at Whidbey Island NAS, near Seattle, where he is stationed. He will take several weeks leave in August, so they will come here to Indiana to visit us. Then, they head to Japan in January. Join the Navy and see the world!
Yeah it sounds like nice weather. My son said to visit the naval warfare museum while we can so if we have time we will. I can't wait, just hoping we get the letter on Monday that says we are good to go!
Galleymom: Thanks for the info. Didn't realize there was a Japan Moms group here, but will definitely join that one too! There is nothing like the voice of experience, and I had so many of my questions answered on this site when my son was in OCS 3 years ago, so I try to pay it forward. Will definitely have some questions of my own for the Japan Moms who have travelled there to see their LO's.
Rosemom: Your sons recruiter should have the address. Or when he gets his orders to report it will have the address and a telephone number in case of emergencies.
Prayers please, there was a mistake made with my LO, Friday he was told his NAMI letter came in and all was Good.. today when he was turning in some paperwork his Lt told him he was still waiting on his NAMI letter. My LO said I was told last week it had came in, and the Lt said I'm sorry there must have been some miscommunication, we are still waiting :( Needless to say I'm broken. My LO has been there for 15 weeks, 3 over due to being rolled in the 3 rd week RLP you would think his would be in by now. So graduation is in 4 days and we know nothing still... please say a prayer for my LO and our family as we continue to wait on this letter. Thank you all in advance
Quilter: Unfortunately, this is common with the military. Hurry up & wait. But please don't worry. If his medical and orders don't come in before graduation, your son will STILL graduate and be commissioned with his class. He will just have to stay in Newport at the base, basically doing nothing, until the medical and orders come through. This happens to a few people in every OCS class. Most of them don't have to stay more than a week or two. My son didn't have his orders yet when we arrived on Wednesday of graduation week. We all went out for dinner, and he got a text from his LT telling him to hustle back to the base because his orders just came in and he had to sign them.
My son has been on the receiving end of bad info, too, and been told two completely contradictory things. Sometimes orders change at the last minute, after they have made plans. They all learn that this is life in the Navy!!! Semper Gumby, they say. --(Always flexible!)
Have a great time in Newport! He WILL graduate, even without NAMI and orders.
Quilter: Is your son in class 12-15? Someone asked about the OCS class number starting on June 14th (this Sunday,) and if your son's class is 12-15, then it would be 16-15. My son started OCS about June 14th in 2012, and his class was 16-12, so that should be about right.
M's mom, Thank you once again for your words of encouragement. It's been a very rough day here at home, I've just been worried sick.
I just cannot wrap my brain around the fact he has already been there 15 weeks, (3 extra weeks to get this done) so why hasn't his NAMI letter come yet.
I'm trying to remain positive really I am, but it's very hard. It could be worse, he could already by NPQ'd, I pray that doesn't happen..surely by now they would have done that...Do many get NPQ'd after graduation??
Rosemom: Welcome! I believe your son's OCS class starting Sunday, June 14th will be 16-15. Class 12-15 will graduate this Friday, which leaves 13-15, 14-15, and 15-15 as the continuing classes. Read back on this comment wall as far back as you can, and also the discussion forum topics above, and we have probably answered many of your questions already. If you do Facebook, search for "Navy OCS Class 16-15 Friends & Family" or similar wording and you may find a group for your son's class.
Quilter: If your son was told at his OCS flight physical that everything looked good, it is probably just a matter of how slowly things grind through the military system, and his letter will eventually show up. If he was told something was questionable at his physical and it would have to go higher up for a decision, then maybe that's the hold up, but that doesn't mean he is NPQ'd yet.
My son went into OCS as a pilot candidate after having sailed through two prior Navy physicals. Three weeks in at OCS, he underwent a flight physical in which they scan every square inch, and they found out that he has a minor physical anomaly, which is not life threatening and he can remain in the Navy, BUT it DQ'd him for pilot or flight officer. He was told at that time that he was NPQ and didn't have to wait on a letter. He was disappointed, naturally, but was able to switch to Intelligence, which I think is a better fit for him anyway. He likes it so far, so maybe it was a blessing in disguise for him. If your son was told that everything looked good at the physical, then it is probably just taking time to get processed. If for some reason he is found NPQ then he will be allowed to switch to something else, like my son.
He has passed everything at OCS, no flags whats so ever. He talked to his Lt. yesterday, and his Lt. even said that there is no reference to any problems. So we will take that as a plus at this point.
Unfortunately due to the many military cut backs, there is no other outlet for my LO at this time. My LO's roommate was NPQ'd 1 week before graduation last month and was told, there are no openings in any area in the Naval field at this time. That wonderful young man was then let go. It was very heartbreaking for many.
So that has really been in the back of my mind. It hit close to home.
Still no word today. My husband and I feel like the rug was just pulled out from beneath us. We were so happy this past weekend and looking forward to our trip, but the thought of having to leave him there again instead of bringing him home for a short visit is heartbreaking. Trust me seeing our LO is very thrilling, but knowing in the back of our minds that the commissioning may not take place really puts a damper on things. My 86 year father know's nothing yet, I don't have the heart to tell him. He flies to BWI today and then to OCS tomorrow..my brother a Colonel was suppose to be apart of the commissioning, he starts his trip to OCS tomorrow.
Sorry for sounding like a Debbie Downer, but I am at this point. There were so many wonderful things to be looking forward to, and now I'm having a heard time focusing on any of it.
Thank you again for your help and your encouraging words of wisdom....they really do help!!!
I totally agree with you. My LO is still one of the ones waiting on his letter also. Its so hard playing the waiting game. Its hard to decide what to do. I just checked into our flights and we are checked in but if we get the call today that he was NPQ'd its going to be heartbreaking. I know he will be devastated. This late in the game Im guessing there is no other options for jobs and I know they can reapply again in 6mos and not have to go through OCS again but still it would be heartbreaking.
Good luck to you and I hope we both hear good news today!!
I've been reading every bit of information out there over the last 24 hours. Many LO's have received their NAMI at the Hi Moms event!! One LO got his an hour before graduation. M's mom comments have really helped. I'm sitting here talking with my husband and reading what she has said, and were feeling a little bit more at ease.
There is no indication of any red flags per our LO's Lt. But you would think, since our LO has been there since Mar 1 his should be done! I even asked our LO to check with his Lt and see if our LO's paperwork is sitting on his previous Lt's desk, (since he rolled in the 3rd week) My thoughts were Oh my goodness, his NAMI came in with the rest of his class 11-15, but since he rolled and is now in 12-15 It just got lost going between Classes... My LO had his Lt check and he said that did not happen. So for some reason, my LO's NAMI is taking much longer to process, even without a flag on it..
I just keep praying!! Tiggermanic, I'm still praying for you LO as well!!
Yeah I have been praying for all of them. According to my LO there are still 7 that dont have their letter. I just hope we all hear something today. It would be pretty upsetting if we go out there and he doesnt graduate or gets NPQ'd at the last minute.
He did talk to his Lt and he said that it is really rare that they get NPQ'd this late in the game. So hopefully today will be a good day and we will all get great news.
Yes, my LO said the same, it's very rare that days before graduation to get NPQ'd. That is what were holding on to as well.
We can do this!! Just know your not alone with these feelings.. trust me, I wish I was all excited packing and planning our trip...but right now were just taking it hour by hour. No matter what.. we get to see our LO's very soon, that is what keeps me going.
I'm hoping both of you get good news soon. I will also say though, that is not unusual for some paperwork to get delayed longer than others. I went through this very same process when my daughter went through OCS in 2012. Her NAMI letter took longer than others and we were going through the guessing game of what if . . . . . I also don't want to alarm you but there are still many chances that they won't get to stay in the aviation community. My daughter had her flight training in Pensacola and knew of several classmates that were disqualified from aviation while in training. This Navy life is a roller coaster for sure and just when you think everything is fine, it all changes. I won't go into all the details but my daughter is currently on med hold and that problem came up a week before her winging ceremony. She did not get her wings yet and so officially is in a holding pattern. She had mentally prepared herself that she may not ever get to finish training and earn her wings. The aviation community is tougher than regular Navy and they don't have a problem letting officers go for some of the smallest things. It's all up to NAMI and we have to wait to see what they say regarding our daughter's situation.
So I'll keep your sons in my prayers and you can add my daughter to yours!!!! My sailor son gave me a key chain a couple years ago which I totally agree with - - - - Navy Mom, toughest job in the world!!!!!!!
Well we got the call!!! He has his NAMI letter. He said that there were still a few left, I hope you guys are one of the ones that got the letter also. I can finally breath!
Thank you all for your prayers... Tiggermanic Congratulation!! Now you can pack and look forward to your trip, I know you are just Thrilled :) Wonderful news!
Anna, I will keep your daughter in my prayers as well. Thank you for your advice and your encouragement. We are still waiting to hear.
I believe from what my LO said, there are only 2 left... Sadly this reminds me of his RLP days.. I had heard only 2 had failed. My LO was one of them..now again there are only 2...
Quilter: I'm sure his letter is coming. Hang in there. Just head to Newport with the belief that it will all work out. I'm thinking about you!
I'm flabbergasted to hear that the Navy is now just letting the candidates go if they fail medical, instead of letting them transfer!!!! Seems really harsh. There were several in my son's class including him who were NPQ'd from flight, and all were allowed to transfer designators at that time, back in 2012. Some of them even went through graduation and commissioning without their new designator, and just had to wait at Newport until it arrived. It kind of makes one wonder, if the Navy is full, why are they still taking in new OCS classes every three weeks? They apparently have spots open for the incoming. (Oops, there I go second-guessing Navy policy again. Sorry, Admiral.)
Anna: Sorry to hear about your daughter's setback. Hope all will be well soon, and she will get those wings! I think your daughter was in my son's OCS class (16-12) or soon after? I know it is true what you wrote about flight school being so difficult and many are let go. It may have been a blessing in disguise that my son was deemed NPQ for flight, as disappointing as that was, instead of him getting into flight school and being let go for not cutting it. Hope everything works out well for your daughter!
M's mom, I'm packing and looking forward to seeing our Fly Boy!!
About the Navy right now, that is what happened to the young man last month, so I was told.. I try not to go by hear say, but several people stated that right now everything is pretty much full in certain areas. Maybe this young man was given a choice and it wasn't for him, I'm not sure.
No matter what, it will all work out the way it's suppose to. I'm so glad we have you M's mom!! You help those of us in need in many ways!! Thank you again!!
Thank you for the prayers. I know my girl greatly appreciates all those who are praying for her!!! You are so right GaileyMom. This aviation community can certainly add many grey hairs!!! I have no experience with the Nuke field but wonder if it is as selective. But we do understand the need for these extreme measures. Tiggermanic, So happy your son got his letter!!! I assume he heads to P'cola after commissioning? Quilter, There could be many reasons why the young man left the Navy instead of just getting redesignated. Have faith, even if he doesn't get aviation for some reason, there may still be a place for him. M's Mom made a good point - if the Navy is so full why would they be accepting new candidates all the time? Still praying he gets his acceptance letter soon!!!!! M's Mom, My daughter was right behind your son in 17-12!!!! Your facebook group really helped me knowing what was coming up for my daughter's class. And I think all us Moms like to second guess Mother Navy. I really think she could ask our opinions on stuff beforehand!!!!! But still, no one asks my opinion!!!!!!
Hi everyone. I haven't posted a comment in a long time but do read the posts occasionally. My DS graduated OCS in 2012 and is a pilot.
Quilter, it is very difficult to wait and pray all goes well for your DS. This is only the beginning. Looking back I realize my DS had a relatively easy time of it, but every little bump in the road had me praying and worrying; It's just part of the journey. I think it is often worse for me then for him, lol. I hope you have an amazing trip and good news come soon. No matter what you will be so proud of him you will want to burst! I agree with Anna, there is probably more to the story about the candidate who was NPQ'd.
Anna, I'm sorry about your daughter delay and I'll pray that her winging will come very soon. She was a candio for my DS's class!
Okie Cowgirl
ITgal, I knew my son wasn't prepared either, so I waited for the call. I actually hoped he would get put in H (I know, mean mom) because I felt like it would be an inexpensive yet thorough lesson on getting your act together. It worked- he doesn't want to do it again, so he got his rear into gear. All in all, I am happy about H class. He learned so much that I think his time in actual class will go smoother, and he had more time to transition.
May 30, 2015
sunnyday
I was just at my son's OCS graduation in April and they have discontinued the practice of the silver dollar and first salute.
May 30, 2015
M's mom
sunnyday: WOW, I am really surprised that they have discontinued the First Salute ceremony! That tradition goes way back to when (or before) real silver dollar coins were in circulation and easy to come by. (AND worth only one dollar!) I know OCS sometimes cancels some parts of the graduation week due to weather, but I didn't know they had done away with that part entirely. Since their Drill Instructor has put the just put the Ensigns through 12 weeks of H***, it always gave them a bit of satisfaction that NOW the DI had to salute THEM! I wonder if the Naval Academy still does First Salutes?
May 30, 2015
Anna
Okie Cowgirl,
My profile pic is of my three sailors, officer in the middle and the two enlisted on either side (that's her twin sister). No approval was needed and when we walked to the spot where the first salutes were held, my son and daughter just walked up and stood beside the DI and Chief. My daughter gave silver dollars dated 100 years prior to her birth to her brother and sister, and other silver coins to the DI and Chief.
The OTC may have had to cancel the first salute ceremony one time but the tradition of receiving a first salute/silver coin is for any and all officers whenever they receive their commissioning, even my hubby who got his first salute at an Air Force base somewhere across country as he was traveling from OCS to his first duty station in San Diego. They didn't do the formal thing when he went through OCS, it was a lot different then!!!
May 30, 2015
Anna
Oh, I forgot to mention, the uniform for commissioning is formal so your daughter would need to wear medals, not ribbons.
May 30, 2015
Okie Cowgirl
Anna- Thanks so much for the info. As soon as I got done reading your post I had to go lurk on your page. You must be so proud of your kiddos!
We actually have some solid silver dollars from my husband's grandparents, so I am sure I can dig one of those up for the first salute. That should be pretty neat.
As far as my daughter wearing medals instead of ribbons, I don't even know if she has them. I guess I had better ask, huh?! At first she was asking if she could wear a nice dress instead of her dress whites (logistics of getting it from Italy to here and keeping it looking nice). I told her no, of course not. There would be no reason for a salute if she was not in uniform. She had a "duh" moment.
May 31, 2015
sunnyday
I have heard that the first salute at OCS graduation between the new officer and their drill instructor was discontinued because some were reselling the silver dollars they received. Some of those silver dollars are worth quite a bit of money, as I understand it. Keep in mind this is just what I was told by my son.
May 31, 2015
Okie Cowgirl
I hope it hasn't been. I'm really looking forward to it. It is still in the video that OCS has on their website, but then again, if they just discontinued it, they may not have had time to update the video. Those things are expensive and time consuming to produce.
May 31, 2015
M's mom
sunnyday: Well gosh, I ASSUMED that the DI's were selling the silver dollars. What else would they do with them? If they have about 30-40 in each OCS class, and they take on a new class every 12 weeks, that's a lot of silver coins to just keep for mementos for the 3-yr tour they have at OCS. I assumed Drill Instructors had always cashed them in, so I'm not sure why the Navy would suddenly have an issue with this. Maybe they were blatantly selling them on eBay instead of discretely taking them to a coin shop. If an Ensign chose to give them a coin that was "worth quite a bit of money" instead of a cheaper one, then that was the Ensign's choice. The price of silver fluctuates, but there are silver coins to be had for $35 or so. You'd think they could still do the First Salutes ceremony and just give them a token or something, and not scrap the whole thing because some DI's were bragging about how much money they were making. But, far be it for me to question Navy policy!
May 31, 2015
Okie Cowgirl
I made that same assumption, and then thought that I was obviously unconcerned over something that maybe I should be outraged over. I mean, a silver dollar, even if it is old and made of pure silver, is a cheap price to pay for the lessons they should have learned from the DIs.
May 31, 2015
ITgal
M's Mom - That's so funny, I had the same thought. My son's DI had a wife and 2 little girls at the Hi Moms reception and I remember thinking those coins could be put to good use. And that in no way diminishes the DI's appreciation for the gratitude that the new Ensigns are demonstrating (or the Ensigns satisfaction at receiving the salute from their one time 'tormentor').
The Naval Academy does not do a formal line up for first salutes - there are over 1,000 commissioned each year. In fact, they don't arrive to graduation wearing their Ensign/1st Lt insignia. After the hat toss, they have to meet up with family members who have their shoulder boards, collar devices, new cover, etc. Once they've put them on, they're ready for a first salute and they're told if they want that to be someone special they should arrange for the person to be there. After 4 years at the Academy, they don't have the same type of relationship with a single DI/Chief that the OCS grads do after an intense 12 weeks. They definitely do the coins - the local Academy parents association actually sells them as a fund raiser, though they can get them where ever they like.
May 31, 2015
Tiggermanic
No problem. We are counting down the days til graduation! So far none of his class has received their medical. Its so frustrating waiting but thats the government!. He has been a pilot for a while. Its what he got his BS in. He loves it and really hopes to do it in the Navy.
Jun 2, 2015
M's mom
GalleyMom: I was worried also that my son would never pass the RLP inspection, because his rooms at home and college were always a huge mess, but he rose to the occasion when it counted, and passed first time. I'm sure your son will do fine. If your son goes into Intel, he will go to school next at NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach, VA. My son loved it there, although he got to experience his first hurricane as Sandy brushed by VB.
My son has been deployed since last August (10 mos !) on the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson. He was an Intel Officer working with a squadron of fighter jets launching air strikes against the Islamic State crazies in the Persian Gulf. They have been headed home for several weeks now, and after some much-deserved R&R liberty in Australia and Hawaii, the ship will arrive back in San Diego [OPSEC rules] "sometime in the next several days!" He has been able to email us every week or so, and call us on the phone when they are in port, like from Bahrain and Australia, but there was no instant communication like texting or immediate answers to email. Such is Navy life when deployed.
We have been keeping in touch regularly with our daughter-in-law. She is SO excited for DS to get back.! They just celebrated their second anniversary and he has been gone for 10 months of it! At least they don't have kids yet. That's got to be so hard on parents (& kids) when one spouse is deployed. Dear Son is headed to Japan next for 2-3 years, but his wife will go with him there.
Jun 2, 2015
M's mom
GalleyMom: I'm able to exhale finally, as USS Carl Vinson, with DS aboard, pulled into port this morning in San Diego after 10 months at sea! DS is now headed back with his plane squadron to Whidbey Island Naval Air Station, Washington, near Seattle, where he has been stationed before he was deployed on the Vinson, and where his dear wife awaits.
They will be headed to Japan sometime in January. I think he will have a desk job there, hopefully M-F with weekends off. Better than working 16-hr days, 7 days a week on the ship, except when they had a few days' liberty during port calls. He has wanted to be on an aircraft carrier since he was a little boy, so this was kind of a dream fulfilled, but I think he's ready to be on land for a while!! Yes, hopefully hubby and I can visit the kids in Japan after they're settled.
My son got into Intel in a round-about way. He had been accepted into OCS as a pilot candidate, and passed two Navy physicals, and jumped through all the hoops that entailed. Then, three weeks into OCS, he had to take a flight physical where they scan every square inch, and they found out that he had a minor physical problem that was not life threatening and he could stay in the Navy, but it DQ'd him for pilot or flight officer. He was given a list of 12 other areas he could transfer to, and told to rank them in order of preference, but he might get #12, because "the needs of the Navy come first." He ranked Intel #1, and he got it, which was a relief, because he was afraid he'd be transferred to something he hated. He does like Intel, so far, so I hope your son can transfer. At least your son's getting his foot in the door with SWO, but he might actually like that.
Jun 4, 2015
M's mom
Doreen: Welcome! I don't recall that there is a limit on the number of family members attending OCS graduation, but your candidate will have to submit a list of names of those attending to the Command a few weeks before graduation. If there are more total names turned in than seats available, I suppose some candidates could be told to trim their lists, but I've never heard of that happening. It was standing room only at my son's graduation, so get there way early. To get on the Base, all adults in your car must have a photo ID, and their names must be on the gate guard's guest list, so no last-minute additions! Since you are just starting the OCS experience, read back as far as you can on this comment wall and also read all the discussion forum topics above on this page, and we have probably answered many of your questions already. Good luck to your son!
Jun 4, 2015
M's mom
GalleyMom: You will hear more from your son once they pass the RLP inspection, and then get email privileges. His generation doesn't do snail mail, so the GF is lucky she got letters! Does your son know your email address from memory? Because when they get email, it will be on a closed military server and they will NOT have access to their usual email program (Outlook,etc.) and their "contacts" list. He will have to type in the complete email address, and he may not remember it if he is used to just scrolling to "Mom" and clicking! Send him a letter now with all the email addresses you think he might want. You should be getting an email soon with the subject "TEST" from an address like @navy.mil. That is, unless he tests his email to the GF. ;-)
Jun 5, 2015
M's mom
Quilter: Seems like your son should be getting close to graduating OCS now? How's he doing?
Jun 5, 2015
Tiggermanic
my DS is so close we can see it. just 7 more days...just waiting on his medical to come thru, I guess half the pilots are still waiting. Its rather frustrating!!
Jun 5, 2015
Quilter
Tiggermanic, I'm saying a prayer for all that are still waiting for the Medical to come in!! Our LO got his letter today and it was such a relief. I pray everyone hears something soon!! 5 more days until we see our LO and just 7 days until our LO become Officers of the US NAVY!! :)
Jun 5, 2015
Tiggermanic
Thanks, they are thinking the rest should be monday. Im just keeping my fingers crossed! I cant wait to see them in their whites! The are an impressive bunch. My LO says that Newport is a nice town so I guess we will do some exploring when we get there. They have off base liberty this weekend and are pretty excited about it.
Jun 5, 2015
Quilter
M's Mom!! HI!! I'm sorry I don't know how to work this site very good!! Yes our son just got his NAMI letter this morning!!! All is good!! He has done such a great job over the last weeks since we last talked!! He is the Guidon Bearer for the class!! That flag is by his side at all times!! LOL We are so proud of him and All the other Candidates!!
Thank you so much for checking up on him!! I wish I knew how to work this site better... I hope I haven't missed any other comments LOL
Jun 5, 2015
Quilter
M's Mom, Happy Homecoming for you DS!! I was just reading your comment!! I know you must be so proud!! :)
Jun 5, 2015
Quilter
Tiggermanic, we are looking forward to the trip!! I hope the weather holds out for a Outside Graduation!! And I agree, they look so good in their Dress Whites!!
Jun 5, 2015
Tiggermanic
I looked at the weather forecast and it looks like nice weather...mid 70s and very little chance for rain on friday! Lets just keep our fingers crossed that it stays that way.
Jun 5, 2015
Quilter
Thank you Tiggemanic!! I can do the 70's, LOL
Jun 5, 2015
M's mom
Tiggermanic and Quilter: Have a great time in Newport at graduation. You will be bursting with pride! If you have some spare time in Newport, take a tour of some of those "summer cottages" of the early 1900's rich folk. (What folks like me would call "mansions," not summer cottages!)
Quilter: So glad to hear that your son has done well, and will be commissioned soon! I know you & he were both disheartened when he was rolled back, but now you can be the voice of experience and encourage other Moms whose candidates get rolled to H class. I'm glad he hung in there. It's all about not quitting, no matter what! Is your son headed to Pensacola next?
Yes, we are so glad DS is back in the US after 10 mos at sea! His wife is especially glad he's home; they just celebrated their second anniversary and he's been gone for 10 mos of it! Talked to them both on the phone tonight and DS sounded tired, but glad to be back at Whidbey Island NAS, near Seattle, where he is stationed. He will take several weeks leave in August, so they will come here to Indiana to visit us. Then, they head to Japan in January. Join the Navy and see the world!
Jun 5, 2015
Tiggermanic
Jun 5, 2015
M's mom
Galleymom: Thanks for the info. Didn't realize there was a Japan Moms group here, but will definitely join that one too! There is nothing like the voice of experience, and I had so many of my questions answered on this site when my son was in OCS 3 years ago, so I try to pay it forward. Will definitely have some questions of my own for the Japan Moms who have travelled there to see their LO's.
Is your son headed to flight school?
Jun 6, 2015
Tiggermanic
Rosemom: Your sons recruiter should have the address. Or when he gets his orders to report it will have the address and a telephone number in case of emergencies.
Jun 8, 2015
Quilter
Prayers please, there was a mistake made with my LO, Friday he was told his NAMI letter came in and all was Good.. today when he was turning in some paperwork his Lt told him he was still waiting on his NAMI letter. My LO said I was told last week it had came in, and the Lt said I'm sorry there must have been some miscommunication, we are still waiting :( Needless to say I'm broken. My LO has been there for 15 weeks, 3 over due to being rolled in the 3 rd week RLP you would think his would be in by now. So graduation is in 4 days and we know nothing still... please say a prayer for my LO and our family as we continue to wait on this letter. Thank you all in advance
Jun 8, 2015
M's mom
Quilter: Unfortunately, this is common with the military. Hurry up & wait. But please don't worry. If his medical and orders don't come in before graduation, your son will STILL graduate and be commissioned with his class. He will just have to stay in Newport at the base, basically doing nothing, until the medical and orders come through. This happens to a few people in every OCS class. Most of them don't have to stay more than a week or two. My son didn't have his orders yet when we arrived on Wednesday of graduation week. We all went out for dinner, and he got a text from his LT telling him to hustle back to the base because his orders just came in and he had to sign them.
My son has been on the receiving end of bad info, too, and been told two completely contradictory things. Sometimes orders change at the last minute, after they have made plans. They all learn that this is life in the Navy!!! Semper Gumby, they say. --(Always flexible!)
Have a great time in Newport! He WILL graduate, even without NAMI and orders.
Jun 8, 2015
M's mom
Quilter: Is your son in class 12-15? Someone asked about the OCS class number starting on June 14th (this Sunday,) and if your son's class is 12-15, then it would be 16-15. My son started OCS about June 14th in 2012, and his class was 16-12, so that should be about right.
Jun 8, 2015
Quilter
M's mom, Thank you once again for your words of encouragement. It's been a very rough day here at home, I've just been worried sick.
I just cannot wrap my brain around the fact he has already been there 15 weeks, (3 extra weeks to get this done) so why hasn't his NAMI letter come yet.
I'm trying to remain positive really I am, but it's very hard. It could be worse, he could already by NPQ'd, I pray that doesn't happen..surely by now they would have done that...Do many get NPQ'd after graduation??
Jun 8, 2015
Quilter
M's Mom, yes my LO is in 12-15
Jun 8, 2015
M's mom
Rosemom: Welcome! I believe your son's OCS class starting Sunday, June 14th will be 16-15. Class 12-15 will graduate this Friday, which leaves 13-15, 14-15, and 15-15 as the continuing classes. Read back on this comment wall as far back as you can, and also the discussion forum topics above, and we have probably answered many of your questions already. If you do Facebook, search for "Navy OCS Class 16-15 Friends & Family" or similar wording and you may find a group for your son's class.
Jun 9, 2015
M's mom
Quilter: If your son was told at his OCS flight physical that everything looked good, it is probably just a matter of how slowly things grind through the military system, and his letter will eventually show up. If he was told something was questionable at his physical and it would have to go higher up for a decision, then maybe that's the hold up, but that doesn't mean he is NPQ'd yet.
My son went into OCS as a pilot candidate after having sailed through two prior Navy physicals. Three weeks in at OCS, he underwent a flight physical in which they scan every square inch, and they found out that he has a minor physical anomaly, which is not life threatening and he can remain in the Navy, BUT it DQ'd him for pilot or flight officer. He was told at that time that he was NPQ and didn't have to wait on a letter. He was disappointed, naturally, but was able to switch to Intelligence, which I think is a better fit for him anyway. He likes it so far, so maybe it was a blessing in disguise for him. If your son was told that everything looked good at the physical, then it is probably just taking time to get processed. If for some reason he is found NPQ then he will be allowed to switch to something else, like my son.
Jun 9, 2015
Quilter
Thank you M's Mom,
He has passed everything at OCS, no flags whats so ever. He talked to his Lt. yesterday, and his Lt. even said that there is no reference to any problems. So we will take that as a plus at this point.
Unfortunately due to the many military cut backs, there is no other outlet for my LO at this time. My LO's roommate was NPQ'd 1 week before graduation last month and was told, there are no openings in any area in the Naval field at this time. That wonderful young man was then let go. It was very heartbreaking for many.
So that has really been in the back of my mind. It hit close to home.
Still no word today. My husband and I feel like the rug was just pulled out from beneath us. We were so happy this past weekend and looking forward to our trip, but the thought of having to leave him there again instead of bringing him home for a short visit is heartbreaking. Trust me seeing our LO is very thrilling, but knowing in the back of our minds that the commissioning may not take place really puts a damper on things. My 86 year father know's nothing yet, I don't have the heart to tell him. He flies to BWI today and then to OCS tomorrow..my brother a Colonel was suppose to be apart of the commissioning, he starts his trip to OCS tomorrow.
Sorry for sounding like a Debbie Downer, but I am at this point. There were so many wonderful things to be looking forward to, and now I'm having a heard time focusing on any of it.
Thank you again for your help and your encouraging words of wisdom....they really do help!!!
I hope we hear something soon
Jun 9, 2015
Tiggermanic
I totally agree with you. My LO is still one of the ones waiting on his letter also. Its so hard playing the waiting game. Its hard to decide what to do. I just checked into our flights and we are checked in but if we get the call today that he was NPQ'd its going to be heartbreaking. I know he will be devastated. This late in the game Im guessing there is no other options for jobs and I know they can reapply again in 6mos and not have to go through OCS again but still it would be heartbreaking.
Good luck to you and I hope we both hear good news today!!
Jun 9, 2015
Quilter
Tiggermanic,
I've been reading every bit of information out there over the last 24 hours. Many LO's have received their NAMI at the Hi Moms event!! One LO got his an hour before graduation. M's mom comments have really helped. I'm sitting here talking with my husband and reading what she has said, and were feeling a little bit more at ease.
There is no indication of any red flags per our LO's Lt. But you would think, since our LO has been there since Mar 1 his should be done! I even asked our LO to check with his Lt and see if our LO's paperwork is sitting on his previous Lt's desk, (since he rolled in the 3rd week) My thoughts were Oh my goodness, his NAMI came in with the rest of his class 11-15, but since he rolled and is now in 12-15 It just got lost going between Classes... My LO had his Lt check and he said that did not happen. So for some reason, my LO's NAMI is taking much longer to process, even without a flag on it..
I just keep praying!! Tiggermanic, I'm still praying for you LO as well!!
Jun 9, 2015
Tiggermanic
Yeah I have been praying for all of them. According to my LO there are still 7 that dont have their letter. I just hope we all hear something today. It would be pretty upsetting if we go out there and he doesnt graduate or gets NPQ'd at the last minute.
He did talk to his Lt and he said that it is really rare that they get NPQ'd this late in the game. So hopefully today will be a good day and we will all get great news.
Jun 9, 2015
Quilter
Yes, my LO said the same, it's very rare that days before graduation to get NPQ'd. That is what were holding on to as well.
We can do this!! Just know your not alone with these feelings.. trust me, I wish I was all excited packing and planning our trip...but right now were just taking it hour by hour. No matter what.. we get to see our LO's very soon, that is what keeps me going.
Jun 9, 2015
Anna
Quilter and Tiggermanic,
I'm hoping both of you get good news soon. I will also say though, that is not unusual for some paperwork to get delayed longer than others. I went through this very same process when my daughter went through OCS in 2012. Her NAMI letter took longer than others and we were going through the guessing game of what if . . . . . I also don't want to alarm you but there are still many chances that they won't get to stay in the aviation community. My daughter had her flight training in Pensacola and knew of several classmates that were disqualified from aviation while in training. This Navy life is a roller coaster for sure and just when you think everything is fine, it all changes. I won't go into all the details but my daughter is currently on med hold and that problem came up a week before her winging ceremony. She did not get her wings yet and so officially is in a holding pattern. She had mentally prepared herself that she may not ever get to finish training and earn her wings. The aviation community is tougher than regular Navy and they don't have a problem letting officers go for some of the smallest things. It's all up to NAMI and we have to wait to see what they say regarding our daughter's situation.
So I'll keep your sons in my prayers and you can add my daughter to yours!!!! My sailor son gave me a key chain a couple years ago which I totally agree with - - - - Navy Mom, toughest job in the world!!!!!!!
Jun 9, 2015
Tiggermanic
Well we got the call!!! He has his NAMI letter. He said that there were still a few left, I hope you guys are one of the ones that got the letter also. I can finally breath!
Jun 9, 2015
Quilter
Anna, Tiggermanic and GalleyMom
Thank you all for your prayers... Tiggermanic Congratulation!! Now you can pack and look forward to your trip, I know you are just Thrilled :) Wonderful news!
Anna, I will keep your daughter in my prayers as well. Thank you for your advice and your encouragement. We are still waiting to hear.
I believe from what my LO said, there are only 2 left... Sadly this reminds me of his RLP days.. I had heard only 2 had failed. My LO was one of them..now again there are only 2...
Jun 9, 2015
Tiggermanic
I will keep you in my prayers that your LO gets it!!! Hope to see ya there this friday!
Jun 9, 2015
M's mom
Quilter: I'm sure his letter is coming. Hang in there. Just head to Newport with the belief that it will all work out. I'm thinking about you!
I'm flabbergasted to hear that the Navy is now just letting the candidates go if they fail medical, instead of letting them transfer!!!! Seems really harsh. There were several in my son's class including him who were NPQ'd from flight, and all were allowed to transfer designators at that time, back in 2012. Some of them even went through graduation and commissioning without their new designator, and just had to wait at Newport until it arrived. It kind of makes one wonder, if the Navy is full, why are they still taking in new OCS classes every three weeks? They apparently have spots open for the incoming. (Oops, there I go second-guessing Navy policy again. Sorry, Admiral.)
Jun 9, 2015
M's mom
Anna: Sorry to hear about your daughter's setback. Hope all will be well soon, and she will get those wings! I think your daughter was in my son's OCS class (16-12) or soon after? I know it is true what you wrote about flight school being so difficult and many are let go. It may have been a blessing in disguise that my son was deemed NPQ for flight, as disappointing as that was, instead of him getting into flight school and being let go for not cutting it. Hope everything works out well for your daughter!
Jun 9, 2015
Quilter
M's mom, I'm packing and looking forward to seeing our Fly Boy!!
About the Navy right now, that is what happened to the young man last month, so I was told.. I try not to go by hear say, but several people stated that right now everything is pretty much full in certain areas. Maybe this young man was given a choice and it wasn't for him, I'm not sure.
No matter what, it will all work out the way it's suppose to. I'm so glad we have you M's mom!! You help those of us in need in many ways!! Thank you again!!
Jun 9, 2015
Anna
Thank you for the prayers. I know my girl greatly appreciates all those who are praying for her!!! You are so right GaileyMom. This aviation community can certainly add many grey hairs!!! I have no experience with the Nuke field but wonder if it is as selective. But we do understand the need for these extreme measures. Tiggermanic, So happy your son got his letter!!! I assume he heads to P'cola after commissioning? Quilter, There could be many reasons why the young man left the Navy instead of just getting redesignated. Have faith, even if he doesn't get aviation for some reason, there may still be a place for him. M's Mom made a good point - if the Navy is so full why would they be accepting new candidates all the time? Still praying he gets his acceptance letter soon!!!!! M's Mom, My daughter was right behind your son in 17-12!!!! Your facebook group really helped me knowing what was coming up for my daughter's class. And I think all us Moms like to second guess Mother Navy. I really think she could ask our opinions on stuff beforehand!!!!! But still, no one asks my opinion!!!!!!
Jun 10, 2015
NYNancy
Quilter, it is very difficult to wait and pray all goes well for your DS. This is only the beginning. Looking back I realize my DS had a relatively easy time of it, but every little bump in the road had me praying and worrying; It's just part of the journey. I think it is often worse for me then for him, lol. I hope you have an amazing trip and good news come soon. No matter what you will be so proud of him you will want to burst! I agree with Anna, there is probably more to the story about the candidate who was NPQ'd.
Anna, I'm sorry about your daughter delay and I'll pray that her winging will come very soon. She was a candio for my DS's class!
Jun 10, 2015