NuclearOPSMom: OCS graduation is USUALLY on Friday of the 12th week of OCS, week one beginning with the Sunday they began OCS. However, you don't want to buy plane tickets or make any other non-refundable arrangements just yet. If a candidate fails any physical fitness assessment, or the big Room, Locker, and Personnel inspection (RLP) at week 4, they will get "rolled" back to Holding Class, then join the next incoming class 3 weeks later, so their graduation then becomes 3 weeks later than expected. When my son was in OCS, we didn't buy plane tix until about 6-7 weeks in, to be sure; however you can easily change hotel reservations. If you are going to graduation anytime between Memorial Day-- Labor Day, know that Newport is swarming with tourists in the summer, so make hotels reservations early.
Most families arrived on Wednesday of graduation week, because there is a Thursday evening reception called "Hi Moms" for the families, usually cocktails and snacks. (but Dads and others are welcome too!) I think they call it that because we Moms always insist on being introduced to all of our kid's classmates and the Drill Instructors, etc. haha
Sorry - our family is new at this. For OCS graduation, are you limited to the number of family members that can attend graduation? Grandparents would like to share in this experience also, but was not sure how many would be allowed.
Each class is a bit different, but graduation usually allows many family members to attend. So, bring the grandparents! The 'Hi Moms' reception may be limited due to the venue capacity.
I don't recall that there was a limit on attendees to my son's OCS graduation, but he had to turn in a firm list of names a few weeks before. Every adult in your car going into the base must have a photo ID, and the gate guard will check these against the list of visitors' names submitted by the candidate, so no "surprise" guests! Arrive at the graduation ceremony EARLY---an hour before is not too early to get good seats, especially if you have a crowd. It was packed at my son's grad ceremony, and there was standing room only in the back of the auditorium.
As bkell32 wrote, the candidates themselves rent the location and pay for the food at the Hi Moms reception, so they are usually assessed so much per guest. Depending on how much the candidates decide to spend, it can be a cocktail reception, (what we had) or a full meal. If a candidate has a crowd coming he/she will have to pay for them all.
So we may get a call end of 4th week? Is that the only call until candios? When can I expect my first letter? She took stamps! Do they get a few minutes to write us? Thanks for all the information so fa. 11-16 Anxious Mom:)
Reposting my prior comment regarding phone calls. I got mail sooner than week 4.
After they pass RLP they will be able to use get on the phone list to use the phone on weekends. I think it was 15 min limit. From my experience it was after 8pm Fri or Sat or anytime Sun. This is not their cell phone, so be sure to answer any unknown caller from Rhode Island. They might need ATT prepaid phone cards to use for this. Don't worry, there are usually some available with minutes left from prior classes that they can use to make their first call. They will not get their cell phones back until much later after they become Candios (end of week 9 or even early week 10).
PaulaH what an exciting time for your daughter and an anxious time for us mom's. my son gradutation from OCS last sept. After RLP they do get to call and it was the first call since the day he checked in. They will also get email privileges. if i had checked my emails he sent the time slot he had to make his call thank God i was home and did not miss his call :) we were able to communicate thru the email and i did send a bit more snail mail too till he got his cell phone.
PaulaH: The only time they have to write snail mail letters to home is when they could be sleeping so don't expect too many, but keep those letters going TO your candidate, as they love getting mail. It's their only connection to the outside world for several weeks. Just DON'T send anything except letters---no goodies, gifts, etc, until they become Candios at week 10. Anything else sent before then will be confiscated as contraband, and the candidate will be punished with hundreds of pushups, even if they didn't ask for it to be sent! Make sure everyone who is writing to your daughter knows this.
Don't be anxious if you don't get any letters from your daughter. I think I only got two total from my son, until he got email at week four. These kids today do not DO snail mail.
Please remember that NO news is GOOD news the first few weeks of OCS. If they fail any test or inspection and get rolled back, they will be allowed to call home and tell you, so if you haven't heard anything, that's good!
After they pass the big Room, Locker, and Personnel (RLP) inspection at week four, they are usually allowed email privileges, and then you will hear more from her, although no texts until they are allowed their own cellphones back at week ten. If you think your daughter may not know your email address from memory, send her a letter now with all the email addresses you think she may want. They will be emailing from a closed government server, and will NOT have access to their usual email program, Outlook,etc, to look up email addresses, but must type the full address in from memory. You may get an email soon with the subject line something like test@navy.gov She will be assigned a military email address and you must use that to email her.
Hang in there! It gets better for them, and the anxious loved ones at home as they get further through the training.
I may have mentioned this before but when my LO was in OCS I sent a "letter" about every other day. It was usually a bit about what was going at home, since his was during football season, I would clip articles from on line newsletters and add them to my word document to let him know how his teams were doing, I would find random navy trivia stuff to send, added a crossword or suduko puzzle and whatever else seemed entertaining. My letters usually ended up being 7-8 pages of printed stuff. He told me later he enjoyed them, especially the puzzles. Even if he didn't finish them, it was a few minutes respite from everything else that was going on. All sent on plain white paper in a plain white envelope. They really don't have time or energy to communicate with the outside world those first weeks.
Letters are very important, especially at the beginning. I didn't get many back (maybe 2) but he said say "write and send pictures/news". So I wrote every day or two using the service write2them.org to send letters and photos. The service takes my email, prints it out and sends it in the appropriate white envelope. I think they mail it from closer to the base so it takes a couple of days off the mail time from where I am. It cost about $1.20 per letter (for a bit more than 2x a stamp) but for me, it is so convenient that I am writing more often. They will print out 4 sheets, double sided (so 8 pages of info). I generally wrote a bit and then cut and paste a few pictures along a bunch of news stories I think my son and his friends may find interesting or enjoy. The OCs have some down time on weekends (at least Sunday) to visit with other classes, sharing info and stories.
Go to this Pinterest Page for great idea's!! The Candio Box is something that our Candio's look forward to!! You can also google Candio Boxes and get more ideas!!
I forgot to tell you the size of the box!! 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. This is what I used. Have fun with it!! Decorate it and fill it with LOVE, and sweets!! I sent two! One box for my son and one for him to give away to someone who's Loved one didn't know anything about it!! I sent a note inside the giveaway box so my LO knew which one was for him!
How do you know when it the candid phase is? I would hate to miss sending my son a box but also do not want to send to early and get him in trouble Loved the idea to send an extra box Our family will surely do this
Dear NuclerOPSMom, When I was in charge of my LO's Class FB page I submitted a few "Files" for all to read concerning their LO's time at OCS. Here is the file I submitted on the Candio Box:
Candio Box
A CANDIO (Candidate Officer) box is a care package box that friends and family send to their LO’s during week 9. It is tradition that on the Wednesday of week 9 when your LO’s become CANDIO’s they are given these care packages filled with goodies that they love to eat and anything they ask for that they may need. Typically all they really want is food though.
These boxes are decorated on the inside, in some Navy/ Personal fashion making it a fun and meaningful arts and crafts project for friends and family and an awesome surprise for the new CANDIO’s as they do not know what’s inside.
CANDIO'S DO NOT HAVE ACCESS TO MICROWAVES, REFRIGERATORS OR COFFEEMAKERS IN THE NEW NIMITZ BUILDING. MICROWAVEABLES ARE NOT RECOMMENDED.
Time Line for CANDIO Box
Week 4:
Begin working on/decorating your CANDIO boxes
Week 9
MAIL BOXES TODAY - Do not mail boxes early. Early is NOT better in this situation.
Address boxes as "OC (Name of LO)"
Your LO’s receive/open their boxes, they are now CANDIOs
(This is the NO EARLIER THAN day they can receive boxes, not the only day. Some classes don't receive their boxes until Thursday or later because of their class team
Box Specifications
Any size box is acceptable; typically Large Flat Rate boxes from USPS are used because you will fill these boxes with goodies and they can getvery heavy. Large Flat Rate boxes are FREE to pick up from any local USPS branch
Do NOT require a signature on delivery on your box.
Limit on Boxes: Recommended you send no more than 2 per candidate because of storage purposes at OCS. However no official limit has been set
There are some CANDIO’s that will not receive any boxes because their family and friends did not know about this tradition; Candidates are often very willing to share their goodies. Do NOT send extra boxes addressed to “a Candidate In Need” - they will not be delivered. Any extra boxes should be sent directly to your LO with instructions to share.
What to Write on the OUTSIDE OF BOX -> VERY IMPORTANT!
You must write “CANDIO BOX” on the outside of your box. Sharpie it in big letters on the sides.
Before week 9 your LOs are still officer candidates The contents can be thrown out and your LOs can get in trouble or potentially SEAWALLED. You do not want to be the cause of your LO getting seawalled when they are so close to finishing the program. Being seawalled would only happen in EXTREME cases nonetheless it's best to try to avoid it.
CONTRABAND: Alcohol, tobacco, porn, gambling materials, medication, and live animals.
NuclearOPSMom and PaulaH: They go from being Officer Candidates to Candidate Officers-- "Candio's"--at week ten of OCS. As the class ahead of them graduates, they then become the "senior" class at OCS and are then supervising the regiment for weeks 10-12. They are then given many more privileges, like having their personal cell phones, and can then receive goodies from home!
As Quilter wrote, most families use a large-size flat rate box from the US Postal Service. They cost about $18 to mail, no matter how heavy you stuff it. Get the boxes from your Post Office. You don't have to pay for it until you mail it. They are priority mail, so they get to Newport in 2-3 days. You can send them end of week nine, just mark the box CANDIO, so they will hold it for them until they can have it. Tradition is to decorate the inside of the box in a Navy theme. Go to Hobby Lobby and get Navy stickers and decorating supplies.
We were told Candios can receive anything EXCEPT: alcohol, tobacco, and anything that looks like a weapon. So, no squirt guns, rubber band shooters, etc. I sent my son his personal laptop computer which he requested. They can receive more than one box, but don't go nuts. They are only at OSC for three more weeks, and my son said they couldn't possibly eat everything they were sent, even sharing it with those who didn't get any, so lots of it just gets thrown away. Magazines might be welcome, but I doubt they have any time to finish a book during those last three hectic weeks!!!
The end of February last year we started this Journey!!! Our LO is doing great!! Study Study Study is all that happens these days!! It's nice to facetime every once in awhile, but the best news is, my husband and I just purchased a new RV and we will be traveling very soon to visit our LO!!! I'm so excited!! Phone calls and facetime is great....but being there and holding our LO will be the icing on the cake!!
I've been keeping up with Navy Moms and helping out every once in awhile, but I'm still learning everyday myself!! You and many others are very supportive and very helpful!!
I can't believe it's been a year already!!! Love the news about the RV. My hubby and I are full-time Rvrs, spent all last year traveling the western US and then the last 6 months we've been wintering over in Jacksonville. We'll be leaving here in about 3 weeks and starting our travels all over the eastern US this year. Will end up heading for WA (where our son is getting transferred to) for a visit and then heading to southern CA for this coming winter. I highly recommend it if you get to travel often!!! Seeing our LOs is always the cherry on top!!!!
Wow thanks everyone. I'll get started by purchasing the box and slowly decorate and fill it up. It will be hard waiting to send though till week 9 , but I understand why!!!!! This really is motivating:)
I agree about your home state. Got to visit twice when my enlisted daughter was stationed threre. There are still several places I want to see so I'm hoping I get more time this time around!!!!!
That's awesome! Full time RVer's!! This is all new to us, and we are very excited!! I'm having a lot of fun buying new things and making it very comfy!! It's very hard to believe OCS for us was a year ago, I will NEVER forget that time in our lives ever!! I pray for the new Classes all the time!!!
Topdog, you will love traveling and spending time in your RV!! Just having our outside in our driveway is so much fun!! Our 1st trip will be to see our LO next month!! I can hardly wait!!!!
Now to convince my husband to take the RV to a quilt show east of here!!! Lot's of room for MORE FABRIC!! LOL!!
To all you RV'ers: I am jealous! I'm going to be working full-time for another 8 years or so before retirement, so not hitting the road any time soon. Hubby and I do travel several times per year, usually flying there and renting a car, but how cool that would be to just drive your home with you! Next big trip for us will be to go to Japan next year to see son & D-I-L at Yokota Base! May be forced to spend a few days in Hawaii on the way there and back, just to break up the long flight time into shorter legs.
Anna: I'm curious. I know we all can pay most bills online now, and do online banking, but how do you get mail if you are a full-time vagabond? Do you have a Post Office box somewhere? What address would one use for tax returns and such? I've always wondered what full-time travelers use for a mailing address!
Quilter: Good luck getting your hubby to go to the quilt show! I would have zero success at that with mine-- unless there was also a fishing expo nearby!!! haha
GalleyMom my son was in class 16-15 your must have been 1 or 2 class ahead of your LO. One other thing i would add about the candio box mine was flying out after graduation with limited spacce so i did not put a lots of $$ in decorating the box as i knew it would be hitting the recycle. bin. My kid is not a big sweet eater so it was filled with local beef jerky and peanuts and his favorite and cookies. Their class had a delay in receiving their boxes so much of the homemade goodiies were no longer any good by the time they got them. now off to go look at toy hauler.
My son graduates in 3 weeks from OCS. I'm just wondering what are some good graduation gifts? Is a garment bag or a box to hold his medals good gifts? How do they pack all their dress uniforms? Also, if he has to report somewhere right after he graduates, how many days do the typically give them? Does he have to pay for a plane ticket home to pack or is that payed for as moving expenses? Sorry, for all the questions! Thank you for any advice you have!
Mammaboom first congrats on your son's graduation from OCS. My son got a nice garment bag and a duffle bag from the navy exchange to load all his stuff in so buying one there might be an idea too maybe have him pick it out. We were fortunate to have our son fly home with us after OCS. We moved it a family vacation in Boston since being from the west coast none of us had been there.That was our present as he really did not what anything except for all of us to be together.(mom, dad and sister). My LO is a nuke so he reported to charlerston SC after spending 3 months in OHARP.( working at the recruiting at home area) he paid for his transportation home and back to charleston. He moved his belonging and was reimbursed by the navy for lodging and mileage and fuel. He had a choice to move it himself or havethe navy move it since he bought a new truck he choose to move it himself. Enjoy OCS and Hi Mom's and do forget to get up early and go watch their last PT.
Mammaboom, congrats on making it through OCS. I made my son an "Ensign box" for all his insignia. I inset an Ensign "Coin" in the top, and we bought him a couple of Navy coins that we thought were appropro for the occasion, including a coin from the VietNam era which is when and where his dad served. We also bought him his flight home right after graduation. He only had 3 days home as he had to report immediately to his next base. Loading his (very little car-a Pontiac Solstice) we realized he could barely fit his toothbrush and a change of underwear in there, so most of his stuff went into our suv and he and his dad tag teamed it to Pensacola. Since then we also bought him his Officer's Sword. Sadly that is still at our home. We are going to take it to him when he graduates the next phase of training.
Mammaboom: I will echo the others that luggage would be a good gift for an OCS grad. They will have several sets of uniforms, and boots, and hats, and there is no way they can fit all of that into the sea bag they are issued. We bought our son a nice, large, folding garment bag, and took that with us to graduation along with two other empty duffle bags that we stuffed in our suitcases. Many of the families hit the local Walmart for cheap luggage after graduation when they see how much stuff the new Ensign has to pack!
My son told us not to bother to get him a sword as it would just hang on the wall gathering dust. We did give him a wooden "Ensign Box" to hold his pins, insignias, medals, etc. I ordered it online from The Good Wood Store, and had it engraved with his name and OCS graduation date. He seemed to really like it, and still uses it today. They only wear the ribbons of the medals unless they're in full dress, so a box gives them a safe place to store the actual medals and other pins when they strip a uniform to take it to the cleaners.
After graduation, my son had 7 days travel time to report to NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach for Intel School. He was able to get a ticket on the same flight home as ours the day after graduation. (He had to pay for it--not the Navy.) Once home, he figured out what he needed to take with him for six months of school, loaded his pickup truck, and drove from Indiana to Virginia Beach. He may have been reimbursed for that mileage but I don't know.
Once your son gets his orders, he will know how much time he has to report to his next duty station, but some of them don't get their orders until graduation day or after, in which case, they have to stay in Newport until they do. Some of them get sent home to work in recruiting for a few months if it's going to be awhile before their class starts. I know it's hard to plan, but hopefully your son's orders will come in the next week or so, so he knows before graduation how much home time he will have! I know some of them in my son's class didn't get to go home, but had to leave the next day for their next assignment!
Wow, I've been away from my computer for a couple days and all kinds of sharing going on here!!! So happy to get caught up with all you wonderful moms.
Congratulations Mammaboom on your LO's upcoming graduation. I hope you enjoy your visit to Newport and all the graduation activities.
One comment I wanted to make on the candio box. We decorated and sent two to our daughter. One box was mostly a diorama of Florida where she was going for flight training. We glued in a large map of FL, shark, fish, flipflop stickers and even glued sand around the state map!! We went to Hallmark and got a small recordable music box and recorded Anchors Away on it. We didn't put much in that box because it would mess up the decorations. We even had little plastic palm trees that would pop up when she opened it!! She still has that box and gets a chuckle everytime she sees it!!! Our other box had some goodies and some of those microwavable cups that she would end up having for dinner on some of those crazy days when she couldn't get to the galley for any meals. Wouldn't even bother using a microwave just opened and wolfed it down. Not so much on the sweets either, granola bars, crackers, and individual drink mixes to make in her water bottle!!
Also, I wanted to mention, my enlisted daughter worked with personnel records when she was in, and would process pay records for both officer and enlisted. She recommends that your LOs save all receipts when traveling from one place to another, even if stopping off at home to pick up items they want with them, and submitting everything for reimbursement. The personnel department will go through it and determine what gets reimbursed. Some things you think wouldn't count would!!!
I hope you get that stop at the quilt show!! Tell hubby - compromise!!! I actually have my sewing machine with me!! It's amazing how much stuff you can store in the "basement" of a 5th wheel!!!!
M's mom,
Our sailor son is in Hawaii right now but will be transferring to WA after his upcoming deployment. He leaves in a few days for Scicily and will be gone for 6 months!!
As for the mail, we use our oldest son's address as our home of record. We have PA licenses, and our vehicles are registered there. He collects our mail, which isn't much because even our bills we have as online statements. But when we do get something important like tax papers and such, we just pick a place where we're going to, call ahead and ask if we can receive mail there and get the mailing address to use. Very important to call ahead because we've encountered a few places that won't accept mail if you aren't there yet!!! We usually pick 3 to 4 days out and son sends mail Priority and we usually meet up with our mail when we get there!!! One time, in West Yellowstone, our mail didn't come in before the morning we were packing up to leave. I called the local post office and they checked and our mail was there so we drove to the PO and picked it up rather than having the carrier take it out on the route. We would have had to wait till mid afternoon until he would show up with it!!! The hubby also recently found a place in Lake City, Florida that will establish an address for you, collect all your mail and send it out to you wherever you request. It costs about $200. a year, plus you pay for the postage. We are going to try that this coming year as son is temporarily moving for his job. We will get Florida licenses and registrations, etc. Will let you ladies know how this works out if you want!!!
Other than that, for those of you starting out with RVs, we love it, but we learned to really secure everything inside when traveling. We even had to add childproof locks on our kitchen cabinets cause with all the bouncing our trailer does, the doors kept popping open. Drawers too. We've heard, that when traveling down the road, the trailer bouncing is equivalent to a 4 or 5 point earthquake!!! Even check the refrigerator to make sure jars or bottles won't bounce around and make a mess. Once you park and set up, always open each and every door slowly to catch stuff that is poised and ready to fall out!!!!
And I'm always up for visiting Navy Moms across the country when we travel. I met up with 7 Mom Friends during last spring and summer travels!!!
I found the Facebook groups for each OCS class to be a wealth of information. I think there is a friends and family group you can ask to join. Search for 'Family & Friends Of Navy OCS 11-16'
My daughter is in 11-16 as well. I've estimated a friday graduation 5/27. Is that correct? I'd like to start making reservations since Memorial day weekend, but would like to confirm dates like NucelarOPSMom as well? I can't find anything officially.
When my son was in OCS the only official info I could find came from him. I just did the math, estimated the date to see what flights were available and as soon as he gave me the date I made my flight plans. I know it's frustrating but i have learned that's pretty much how it works in the military. I just ask him to let me know when he has a date for his next thing as my continuous asking would really drive him crazy. His graduation was the the Friday before Christmas so I understand the holiday situation. Sorry I don't have better info for you.
PaulaH - I would encourage making hotel reservations since they can be changed or cancelled. Newport, RI is a big summer tourist destination and hotels are likely to fill up. The Navy Lodge on base, on the other hand, sometimes frees up rooms 30 days out for personal travel. So, they may be full now and have availability later. If you want to stay there, it pays to keep calling.
I would hesitate to make air travel until later unless you find something you can change without too big of penalty (Southwest I hear is not bad for changes if you are military).
For those looking at upcoming graduation dates, especially Class 11-16...the only info I ever got about the Hi-Moms and graduation schedule came from my LO, and shared information on the Friends and Family facebook page for the class. Lean on your LO to find out from the OCS staff; they should have email/phone access by now. This was especially important because the graduation schedule for the class was changed (and always fluid) due to the Thanksgiving holiday. Our ceremony was moved up to Wednesday afternoon before Thanksgiving, which made travel an issue both ways. Fortunately we were driving, but many had flights to schedule.
I would just caution those wanting to make purchase airline tickets too early, unless you can find some that can be changed if needed, without large penalties. Until your loved one passes the big room, locker, personal inspection, they do stand a chance of being rolled back into another class.
Graduation for class 10-16 .. is May 6 and we have our airline tickets bought. There is some reference to buying tickets too early. I hope having already bought tickets now is not too early. This is my first experience in Newport, RI and will there be time to take our graduate out after graduation? I would also like to learn about first salute, "Hi Mom's"; dress attire for both and I heard rumbles of graduation gifts. Thank you in advance for your advice.
I think once your LO is through the first 6-7 weeks, you are safe to get airline tickets. There are not many rollable events after that. Just my opinion.
Hi Moms is different for each class. Mine was at the officers club and was dressy. Most men wore ties. I wore a dress but, I would not have felt out of place in dress slacks.
We were able to take our LO out after Hi Moms for dinner at a restaurant and to stay with us at our hotel (until 5am). They are free to leave after graduation once they have paperwork done, etc.
First salute is no longer done as far as I know...our class did not do this.
Many people did give gifts, I did not. Spending the money to bring everyone to Newport was our gift.
PaulaH and Patty Sue: You will find the best information about graduation activities from the Friends and Family Facebook group for your LO's class. While the Hi Moms reception varies from class, it seems that many are a late afternoon reception. People wore a wide range of attire at my son's event. Everything from cocktail dresses/suits to nice jeans. The attire is much less important than just being there for your LO. We were able to take my son out for dinner after the event. That may change depending on your LO’s Class Officers orders.
Gifts –
If you decide to give a gift and bring it to Graduation. I would suggest luggage or something small. They get so more uniform items than fit in the navy duffle. My son bought a garment bag at the NEX. He did ask us to bring a couple of large duffle bags in our carry-on out to Newport. And he used them both when packing up to leave OCS! So any large gift may add to packing issues if your LO will not be driving home to to their next duty station.
I gave my son two “challenge” coins after the ceremony as a gift. One which I had made through Things Remembered: http://www.thingsremembered.com/product/Military-Coins/168289.uts that I had OCS and his graduation date engraved on. I also found a challenge coin (on EBay) for the first ship he was assigned to. While he may have received one when he later arrived at the ship that will mean more to him, he seemed to appreciate receiving a small gift in person after the ceremony.
I want to thank all of you so much for taking time out of your busy day to write! It has filled my heart with such joy reading your responses, suggestions & words of advice! I've been reading and trying to learn as much as I can about being a Navy Mom, this site has taught me the most! May you & your LO be blessed with peace, health & happiness!
CL and Bkell32, thank you so much for your information in regards to my questions. I will be able to ask our LO what he needs us to bring and make plans for dinner. Any suggestions for a nice place for dinner? I also wondered if it is normal to have the erratic deposits during the OCS time. My LO is not sure what is being taken out and its' purpose. Thank you again
Patty Sue: Until they can log on and see the LES statements, the amounts seem very random. If there are any Navy spouses on here they can likely provide a better answer but I will give you my understanding from what I heard on the F&F Facebook group and my son. There is one monthly LES that details the month's pay and deductions. They are paid on the 1st and the 15th of each month, other than maybe that first month. The first month or two may be strange and appear erratic due to when they started in the month and when their uniform allowance shows up. When my son was in in 2015, the uniform allowance was about $1800. That showed up in his first paycheck because he started at the beginning of a month. That might not always be the case. Also they get a food allowance which is then pretty much deducted to cover food at OCS. Hope that helps. Sorry I don't have more details.
Regarding restaurants in Newport....there are MANY to choose from for any style, taste, or budget. I know some families went to The Mooring, which is quite nice and on the water. We went to Brick Alley Pub which is more casual and there were several OCS families there.
Here are a few restaurant suggestions I collected ahead of our trip out for graduation:
Brick Alley pub on Thames street: “Awesome place and they do take reservations. We made ours for 14 folks 2 weeks early.” “ We went to Brick Alley last night for dinner. It was good!”
Red Parrot: Wonderful lobster
Flo's Clam Shack “It is a shack but the freshest seafood. Nine of us were saying our meal was the best. We all ate different things. Flo's does have 2 different menus, one upstairs at the bar and the other one on the first floor.”
Corner Cafe on Broadway in Newport, “delicious food and so adorable.” (Breakfast/Lunch)
22 Bowens: Their website is 22bowens.com Also you can make reservations online thru opentable.
Providence Suggestions for things to do:
Providence (Renaissance city) is a small city so easily walk-able. Top 3 'day things' are as follows:
1. Definitely lunch on Federal Hill - Providence's Italian spot - outstanding (real) italian restaurants. No kidding - you will see mafia folks there!
2. Providence River Boat tour - great way to see Providence from the river (Address: The Hot Club Docks, 575 South Water Street, Providence, RI 02903 Phone Number: +1 401-580-2628).
3. If you are an intellectual; Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Museum is awesome - Best school of design in the world.
4. Finally, if you have just one thing to do - Sailboat cruise in Newport. Very cool sailing in a bark and seeing the Newport mansions from the ocean. You will be in the same sailing track as the old American Cup races. Address: Bannister's Wharf, Newport, RI 02840 Phone Number: 401 847-0298. Hope this helps.
NuclearOPSMom
Mar 13, 2016
M's mom
NuclearOPSMom: OCS graduation is USUALLY on Friday of the 12th week of OCS, week one beginning with the Sunday they began OCS. However, you don't want to buy plane tickets or make any other non-refundable arrangements just yet. If a candidate fails any physical fitness assessment, or the big Room, Locker, and Personnel inspection (RLP) at week 4, they will get "rolled" back to Holding Class, then join the next incoming class 3 weeks later, so their graduation then becomes 3 weeks later than expected. When my son was in OCS, we didn't buy plane tix until about 6-7 weeks in, to be sure; however you can easily change hotel reservations. If you are going to graduation anytime between Memorial Day-- Labor Day, know that Newport is swarming with tourists in the summer, so make hotels reservations early.
Most families arrived on Wednesday of graduation week, because there is a Thursday evening reception called "Hi Moms" for the families, usually cocktails and snacks. (but Dads and others are welcome too!) I think they call it that because we Moms always insist on being introduced to all of our kid's classmates and the Drill Instructors, etc. haha
Mar 13, 2016
NuclearOPSMom
Sorry - our family is new at this. For OCS graduation, are you limited to the number of family members that can attend graduation? Grandparents would like to share in this experience also, but was not sure how many would be allowed.
Mar 15, 2016
bkat3
Each class is a bit different, but graduation usually allows many family members to attend. So, bring the grandparents! The 'Hi Moms' reception may be limited due to the venue capacity.
Mar 15, 2016
M's mom
I don't recall that there was a limit on attendees to my son's OCS graduation, but he had to turn in a firm list of names a few weeks before. Every adult in your car going into the base must have a photo ID, and the gate guard will check these against the list of visitors' names submitted by the candidate, so no "surprise" guests! Arrive at the graduation ceremony EARLY---an hour before is not too early to get good seats, especially if you have a crowd. It was packed at my son's grad ceremony, and there was standing room only in the back of the auditorium.
As bkell32 wrote, the candidates themselves rent the location and pay for the food at the Hi Moms reception, so they are usually assessed so much per guest. Depending on how much the candidates decide to spend, it can be a cocktail reception, (what we had) or a full meal. If a candidate has a crowd coming he/she will have to pay for them all.
Mar 15, 2016
PaulaH
So we may get a call end of 4th week? Is that the only call until candios? When can I expect my first letter? She took stamps! Do they get a few minutes to write us? Thanks for all the information so fa. 11-16 Anxious Mom:)
Mar 16, 2016
bkat3
Reposting my prior comment regarding phone calls. I got mail sooner than week 4.
After they pass RLP they will be able to use get on the phone list to use the phone on weekends. I think it was 15 min limit. From my experience it was after 8pm Fri or Sat or anytime Sun. This is not their cell phone, so be sure to answer any unknown caller from Rhode Island. They might need ATT prepaid phone cards to use for this. Don't worry, there are usually some available with minutes left from prior classes that they can use to make their first call. They will not get their cell phones back until much later after they become Candios (end of week 9 or even early week 10).
Mar 16, 2016
topdog1p
PaulaH what an exciting time for your daughter and an anxious time for us mom's. my son gradutation from OCS last sept. After RLP they do get to call and it was the first call since the day he checked in. They will also get email privileges. if i had checked my emails he sent the time slot he had to make his call thank God i was home and did not miss his call :) we were able to communicate thru the email and i did send a bit more snail mail too till he got his cell phone.
Mar 16, 2016
PaulaH
Wow. That is great news. I didn't know about email. I'll make sure to check my account daily. This made my night. Thanks!
Mar 17, 2016
M's mom
PaulaH: The only time they have to write snail mail letters to home is when they could be sleeping so don't expect too many, but keep those letters going TO your candidate, as they love getting mail. It's their only connection to the outside world for several weeks. Just DON'T send anything except letters---no goodies, gifts, etc, until they become Candios at week 10. Anything else sent before then will be confiscated as contraband, and the candidate will be punished with hundreds of pushups, even if they didn't ask for it to be sent! Make sure everyone who is writing to your daughter knows this.
Don't be anxious if you don't get any letters from your daughter. I think I only got two total from my son, until he got email at week four. These kids today do not DO snail mail.
Please remember that NO news is GOOD news the first few weeks of OCS. If they fail any test or inspection and get rolled back, they will be allowed to call home and tell you, so if you haven't heard anything, that's good!
After they pass the big Room, Locker, and Personnel (RLP) inspection at week four, they are usually allowed email privileges, and then you will hear more from her, although no texts until they are allowed their own cellphones back at week ten. If you think your daughter may not know your email address from memory, send her a letter now with all the email addresses you think she may want. They will be emailing from a closed government server, and will NOT have access to their usual email program, Outlook,etc, to look up email addresses, but must type the full address in from memory. You may get an email soon with the subject line something like test@navy.gov She will be assigned a military email address and you must use that to email her.
Hang in there! It gets better for them, and the anxious loved ones at home as they get further through the training.
Mar 17, 2016
Marmie
I may have mentioned this before but when my LO was in OCS I sent a "letter" about every other day. It was usually a bit about what was going at home, since his was during football season, I would clip articles from on line newsletters and add them to my word document to let him know how his teams were doing, I would find random navy trivia stuff to send, added a crossword or suduko puzzle and whatever else seemed entertaining. My letters usually ended up being 7-8 pages of printed stuff. He told me later he enjoyed them, especially the puzzles. Even if he didn't finish them, it was a few minutes respite from everything else that was going on. All sent on plain white paper in a plain white envelope. They really don't have time or energy to communicate with the outside world those first weeks.
Mar 17, 2016
CindyN
Letters are very important, especially at the beginning. I didn't get many back (maybe 2) but he said say "write and send pictures/news". So I wrote every day or two using the service write2them.org to send letters and photos. The service takes my email, prints it out and sends it in the appropriate white envelope. I think they mail it from closer to the base so it takes a couple of days off the mail time from where I am. It cost about $1.20 per letter (for a bit more than 2x a stamp) but for me, it is so convenient that I am writing more often. They will print out 4 sheets, double sided (so 8 pages of info). I generally wrote a bit and then cut and paste a few pictures along a bunch of news stories I think my son and his friends may find interesting or enjoy. The OCs have some down time on weekends (at least Sunday) to visit with other classes, sharing info and stories.
Mar 17, 2016
topdog1p
PaulaH if you are on facebook go to officer training command newport they have posted pictures of 11-16 class! you may get a glimpse of your LO.
Mar 17, 2016
PaulaH
Thank you for all of this helpful info. I also just saw the pictures! She was in two of them! I'm going to use write2them.org today!
Mar 18, 2016
PaulaH
When candio phase arrvies, and we can send a box, is there a size limit on the box? Can put a book or magazine in the box?
Mar 18, 2016
Quilter
PaulaH,
Go to this Pinterest Page for great idea's!! The Candio Box is something that our Candio's look forward to!! You can also google Candio Boxes and get more ideas!!
www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?rs=ac&len=2&q=candio+box+ide...
Our LO was there last year at this time, a journey I will never forget!!!
Mar 18, 2016
Quilter
I forgot to tell you the size of the box!! 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. This is what I used. Have fun with it!! Decorate it and fill it with LOVE, and sweets!! I sent two! One box for my son and one for him to give away to someone who's Loved one didn't know anything about it!! I sent a note inside the giveaway box so my LO knew which one was for him!
Mar 18, 2016
NuclearOPSMom
Mar 18, 2016
Quilter
Dear NuclerOPSMom, When I was in charge of my LO's Class FB page I submitted a few "Files" for all to read concerning their LO's time at OCS. Here is the file I submitted on the Candio Box:
Candio Box
A CANDIO (Candidate Officer) box is a care package box that friends and family send to their LO’s during week 9. It is tradition that on the Wednesday of week 9 when your LO’s become CANDIO’s they are given these care packages filled with goodies that they love to eat and anything they ask for that they may need. Typically all they really want is food though.
These boxes are decorated on the inside, in some Navy/ Personal fashion making it a fun and meaningful arts and crafts project for friends and family and an awesome surprise for the new CANDIO’s as they do not know what’s inside.
CANDIO'S DO NOT HAVE ACCESS TO MICROWAVES, REFRIGERATORS OR COFFEEMAKERS IN THE NEW NIMITZ BUILDING. MICROWAVEABLES ARE NOT RECOMMENDED.
Time Line for CANDIO Box
Week 4:
Begin working on/decorating your CANDIO boxes
Week 9
MAIL BOXES TODAY - Do not mail boxes early. Early is NOT better in this situation.
Address boxes as "OC (Name of LO)"
Your LO’s receive/open their boxes, they are now CANDIOs
(This is the NO EARLIER THAN day they can receive boxes, not the only day. Some classes don't receive their boxes until Thursday or later because of their class team
Box Specifications
Any size box is acceptable; typically Large Flat Rate boxes from USPS are used because you will fill these boxes with goodies and they can getvery heavy. Large Flat Rate boxes are FREE to pick up from any local USPS branch
Do NOT require a signature on delivery on your box.
Limit on Boxes: Recommended you send no more than 2 per candidate because of storage purposes at OCS. However no official limit has been set
There are some CANDIO’s that will not receive any boxes because their family and friends did not know about this tradition; Candidates are often very willing to share their goodies. Do NOT send extra boxes addressed to “a Candidate In Need” - they will not be delivered. Any extra boxes should be sent directly to your LO with instructions to share.
What to Write on the OUTSIDE OF BOX -> VERY IMPORTANT!
You must write “CANDIO BOX” on the outside of your box. Sharpie it in big letters on the sides.
Before week 9 your LOs are still officer candidates The contents can be thrown out and your LOs can get in trouble or potentially SEAWALLED. You do not want to be the cause of your LO getting seawalled when they are so close to finishing the program. Being seawalled would only happen in EXTREME cases nonetheless it's best to try to avoid it.
CONTRABAND: Alcohol, tobacco, porn, gambling materials, medication, and live animals.
Mar 18, 2016
M's mom
NuclearOPSMom and PaulaH: They go from being Officer Candidates to Candidate Officers-- "Candio's"--at week ten of OCS. As the class ahead of them graduates, they then become the "senior" class at OCS and are then supervising the regiment for weeks 10-12. They are then given many more privileges, like having their personal cell phones, and can then receive goodies from home!
As Quilter wrote, most families use a large-size flat rate box from the US Postal Service. They cost about $18 to mail, no matter how heavy you stuff it. Get the boxes from your Post Office. You don't have to pay for it until you mail it. They are priority mail, so they get to Newport in 2-3 days. You can send them end of week nine, just mark the box CANDIO, so they will hold it for them until they can have it. Tradition is to decorate the inside of the box in a Navy theme. Go to Hobby Lobby and get Navy stickers and decorating supplies.
We were told Candios can receive anything EXCEPT: alcohol, tobacco, and anything that looks like a weapon. So, no squirt guns, rubber band shooters, etc. I sent my son his personal laptop computer which he requested. They can receive more than one box, but don't go nuts. They are only at OSC for three more weeks, and my son said they couldn't possibly eat everything they were sent, even sharing it with those who didn't get any, so lots of it just gets thrown away. Magazines might be welcome, but I doubt they have any time to finish a book during those last three hectic weeks!!!
Mar 18, 2016
M's mom
Quilter: Good to hear from you again! Has it been a year since your Ensign was at OCS? How's he doing?
Mar 18, 2016
Quilter
Hi M's mom!! Can you believe it!!
The end of February last year we started this Journey!!! Our LO is doing great!! Study Study Study is all that happens these days!! It's nice to facetime every once in awhile, but the best news is, my husband and I just purchased a new RV and we will be traveling very soon to visit our LO!!! I'm so excited!! Phone calls and facetime is great....but being there and holding our LO will be the icing on the cake!!
I've been keeping up with Navy Moms and helping out every once in awhile, but I'm still learning everyday myself!! You and many others are very supportive and very helpful!!
Mar 18, 2016
Anna
Quilter,
I can't believe it's been a year already!!! Love the news about the RV. My hubby and I are full-time Rvrs, spent all last year traveling the western US and then the last 6 months we've been wintering over in Jacksonville. We'll be leaving here in about 3 weeks and starting our travels all over the eastern US this year. Will end up heading for WA (where our son is getting transferred to) for a visit and then heading to southern CA for this coming winter. I highly recommend it if you get to travel often!!! Seeing our LOs is always the cherry on top!!!!
Mar 18, 2016
PaulaH
Wow thanks everyone. I'll get started by purchasing the box and slowly decorate and fill it up. It will be hard waiting to send though till week 9 , but I understand why!!!!! This really is motivating:)
Mar 18, 2016
topdog1p
Quilter i can not wait til my hubby retires and we start RVing. we are now starting to look at toyhaulers so we can bring our harley where ever we go.
Anna I hope you enjoy my home state of Washington there is so much to see and enjoy the time you will get to send with your LO
Mar 18, 2016
Anna
topdog,
I agree about your home state. Got to visit twice when my enlisted daughter was stationed threre. There are still several places I want to see so I'm hoping I get more time this time around!!!!!
Mar 18, 2016
Quilter
Anna,
That's awesome! Full time RVer's!! This is all new to us, and we are very excited!! I'm having a lot of fun buying new things and making it very comfy!! It's very hard to believe OCS for us was a year ago, I will NEVER forget that time in our lives ever!! I pray for the new Classes all the time!!!
Topdog, you will love traveling and spending time in your RV!! Just having our outside in our driveway is so much fun!! Our 1st trip will be to see our LO next month!! I can hardly wait!!!!
Now to convince my husband to take the RV to a quilt show east of here!!! Lot's of room for MORE FABRIC!! LOL!!
Mar 18, 2016
M's mom
To all you RV'ers: I am jealous! I'm going to be working full-time for another 8 years or so before retirement, so not hitting the road any time soon. Hubby and I do travel several times per year, usually flying there and renting a car, but how cool that would be to just drive your home with you! Next big trip for us will be to go to Japan next year to see son & D-I-L at Yokota Base! May be forced to spend a few days in Hawaii on the way there and back, just to break up the long flight time into shorter legs.
Anna: I'm curious. I know we all can pay most bills online now, and do online banking, but how do you get mail if you are a full-time vagabond? Do you have a Post Office box somewhere? What address would one use for tax returns and such? I've always wondered what full-time travelers use for a mailing address!
Quilter: Good luck getting your hubby to go to the quilt show! I would have zero success at that with mine-- unless there was also a fishing expo nearby!!! haha
Mar 19, 2016
topdog1p
GalleyMom my son was in class 16-15 your must have been 1 or 2 class ahead of your LO. One other thing i would add about the candio box mine was flying out after graduation with limited spacce so i did not put a lots of $$ in decorating the box as i knew it would be hitting the recycle. bin. My kid is not a big sweet eater so it was filled with local beef jerky and peanuts and his favorite and cookies. Their class had a delay in receiving their boxes so much of the homemade goodiies were no longer any good by the time they got them. now off to go look at toy hauler.
Mar 19, 2016
Mammaboom
My son graduates in 3 weeks from OCS. I'm just wondering what are some good graduation gifts? Is a garment bag or a box to hold his medals good gifts? How do they pack all their dress uniforms? Also, if he has to report somewhere right after he graduates, how many days do the typically give them? Does he have to pay for a plane ticket home to pack or is that payed for as moving expenses? Sorry, for all the questions! Thank you for any advice you have!
Mar 19, 2016
topdog1p
Mammaboom first congrats on your son's graduation from OCS. My son got a nice garment bag and a duffle bag from the navy exchange to load all his stuff in so buying one there might be an idea too maybe have him pick it out. We were fortunate to have our son fly home with us after OCS. We moved it a family vacation in Boston since being from the west coast none of us had been there.That was our present as he really did not what anything except for all of us to be together.(mom, dad and sister). My LO is a nuke so he reported to charlerston SC after spending 3 months in OHARP.( working at the recruiting at home area) he paid for his transportation home and back to charleston. He moved his belonging and was reimbursed by the navy for lodging and mileage and fuel. He had a choice to move it himself or havethe navy move it since he bought a new truck he choose to move it himself. Enjoy OCS and Hi Mom's and do forget to get up early and go watch their last PT.
Mar 19, 2016
JediGrey
Mar 19, 2016
M's mom
Mammaboom: I will echo the others that luggage would be a good gift for an OCS grad. They will have several sets of uniforms, and boots, and hats, and there is no way they can fit all of that into the sea bag they are issued. We bought our son a nice, large, folding garment bag, and took that with us to graduation along with two other empty duffle bags that we stuffed in our suitcases. Many of the families hit the local Walmart for cheap luggage after graduation when they see how much stuff the new Ensign has to pack!
My son told us not to bother to get him a sword as it would just hang on the wall gathering dust. We did give him a wooden "Ensign Box" to hold his pins, insignias, medals, etc. I ordered it online from The Good Wood Store, and had it engraved with his name and OCS graduation date. He seemed to really like it, and still uses it today. They only wear the ribbons of the medals unless they're in full dress, so a box gives them a safe place to store the actual medals and other pins when they strip a uniform to take it to the cleaners.
After graduation, my son had 7 days travel time to report to NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach for Intel School. He was able to get a ticket on the same flight home as ours the day after graduation. (He had to pay for it--not the Navy.) Once home, he figured out what he needed to take with him for six months of school, loaded his pickup truck, and drove from Indiana to Virginia Beach. He may have been reimbursed for that mileage but I don't know.
Once your son gets his orders, he will know how much time he has to report to his next duty station, but some of them don't get their orders until graduation day or after, in which case, they have to stay in Newport until they do. Some of them get sent home to work in recruiting for a few months if it's going to be awhile before their class starts. I know it's hard to plan, but hopefully your son's orders will come in the next week or so, so he knows before graduation how much home time he will have! I know some of them in my son's class didn't get to go home, but had to leave the next day for their next assignment!
Mar 19, 2016
Anna
Wow, I've been away from my computer for a couple days and all kinds of sharing going on here!!! So happy to get caught up with all you wonderful moms.
Congratulations Mammaboom on your LO's upcoming graduation. I hope you enjoy your visit to Newport and all the graduation activities.
One comment I wanted to make on the candio box. We decorated and sent two to our daughter. One box was mostly a diorama of Florida where she was going for flight training. We glued in a large map of FL, shark, fish, flipflop stickers and even glued sand around the state map!! We went to Hallmark and got a small recordable music box and recorded Anchors Away on it. We didn't put much in that box because it would mess up the decorations. We even had little plastic palm trees that would pop up when she opened it!! She still has that box and gets a chuckle everytime she sees it!!! Our other box had some goodies and some of those microwavable cups that she would end up having for dinner on some of those crazy days when she couldn't get to the galley for any meals. Wouldn't even bother using a microwave just opened and wolfed it down. Not so much on the sweets either, granola bars, crackers, and individual drink mixes to make in her water bottle!!
Also, I wanted to mention, my enlisted daughter worked with personnel records when she was in, and would process pay records for both officer and enlisted. She recommends that your LOs save all receipts when traveling from one place to another, even if stopping off at home to pick up items they want with them, and submitting everything for reimbursement. The personnel department will go through it and determine what gets reimbursed. Some things you think wouldn't count would!!!
Mar 23, 2016
Anna
Now, about the RV questions!
Quilter,
I hope you get that stop at the quilt show!! Tell hubby - compromise!!! I actually have my sewing machine with me!! It's amazing how much stuff you can store in the "basement" of a 5th wheel!!!!
M's mom,
Our sailor son is in Hawaii right now but will be transferring to WA after his upcoming deployment. He leaves in a few days for Scicily and will be gone for 6 months!!
As for the mail, we use our oldest son's address as our home of record. We have PA licenses, and our vehicles are registered there. He collects our mail, which isn't much because even our bills we have as online statements. But when we do get something important like tax papers and such, we just pick a place where we're going to, call ahead and ask if we can receive mail there and get the mailing address to use. Very important to call ahead because we've encountered a few places that won't accept mail if you aren't there yet!!! We usually pick 3 to 4 days out and son sends mail Priority and we usually meet up with our mail when we get there!!! One time, in West Yellowstone, our mail didn't come in before the morning we were packing up to leave. I called the local post office and they checked and our mail was there so we drove to the PO and picked it up rather than having the carrier take it out on the route. We would have had to wait till mid afternoon until he would show up with it!!! The hubby also recently found a place in Lake City, Florida that will establish an address for you, collect all your mail and send it out to you wherever you request. It costs about $200. a year, plus you pay for the postage. We are going to try that this coming year as son is temporarily moving for his job. We will get Florida licenses and registrations, etc. Will let you ladies know how this works out if you want!!!
Other than that, for those of you starting out with RVs, we love it, but we learned to really secure everything inside when traveling. We even had to add childproof locks on our kitchen cabinets cause with all the bouncing our trailer does, the doors kept popping open. Drawers too. We've heard, that when traveling down the road, the trailer bouncing is equivalent to a 4 or 5 point earthquake!!! Even check the refrigerator to make sure jars or bottles won't bounce around and make a mess. Once you park and set up, always open each and every door slowly to catch stuff that is poised and ready to fall out!!!!
And I'm always up for visiting Navy Moms across the country when we travel. I met up with 7 Mom Friends during last spring and summer travels!!!
Sorry for the book - - - - - -
Mar 23, 2016
NuclearOPSMom
Is there a site where you can get details and schedules for OCS graduation in Newport - my son is in Class 11-16?
Mar 30, 2016
bkat3
I found the Facebook groups for each OCS class to be a wealth of information. I think there is a friends and family group you can ask to join. Search for 'Family & Friends Of Navy OCS 11-16'
Mar 30, 2016
PaulaH
My daughter is in 11-16 as well. I've estimated a friday graduation 5/27. Is that correct? I'd like to start making reservations since Memorial day weekend, but would like to confirm dates like NucelarOPSMom as well? I can't find anything officially.
Mar 31, 2016
LoniJ
Mar 31, 2016
bkat3
PaulaH - I would encourage making hotel reservations since they can be changed or cancelled. Newport, RI is a big summer tourist destination and hotels are likely to fill up. The Navy Lodge on base, on the other hand, sometimes frees up rooms 30 days out for personal travel. So, they may be full now and have availability later. If you want to stay there, it pays to keep calling.
I would hesitate to make air travel until later unless you find something you can change without too big of penalty (Southwest I hear is not bad for changes if you are military).
Mar 31, 2016
LizMcD
For those looking at upcoming graduation dates, especially Class 11-16...the only info I ever got about the Hi-Moms and graduation schedule came from my LO, and shared information on the Friends and Family facebook page for the class. Lean on your LO to find out from the OCS staff; they should have email/phone access by now. This was especially important because the graduation schedule for the class was changed (and always fluid) due to the Thanksgiving holiday. Our ceremony was moved up to Wednesday afternoon before Thanksgiving, which made travel an issue both ways. Fortunately we were driving, but many had flights to schedule.
Mar 31, 2016
Anna
I would just caution those wanting to make purchase airline tickets too early, unless you can find some that can be changed if needed, without large penalties. Until your loved one passes the big room, locker, personal inspection, they do stand a chance of being rolled back into another class.
Mar 31, 2016
Patty Sue
Graduation for class 10-16 .. is May 6 and we have our airline tickets bought. There is some reference to buying tickets too early. I hope having already bought tickets now is not too early. This is my first experience in Newport, RI and will there be time to take our graduate out after graduation? I would also like to learn about first salute, "Hi Mom's"; dress attire for both and I heard rumbles of graduation gifts. Thank you in advance for your advice.
Mar 31, 2016
bkat3
I think once your LO is through the first 6-7 weeks, you are safe to get airline tickets. There are not many rollable events after that. Just my opinion.
Hi Moms is different for each class. Mine was at the officers club and was dressy. Most men wore ties. I wore a dress but, I would not have felt out of place in dress slacks.
We were able to take our LO out after Hi Moms for dinner at a restaurant and to stay with us at our hotel (until 5am). They are free to leave after graduation once they have paperwork done, etc.
First salute is no longer done as far as I know...our class did not do this.
Many people did give gifts, I did not. Spending the money to bring everyone to Newport was our gift.
Apr 1, 2016
CindyN
PaulaH and Patty Sue: You will find the best information about graduation activities from the Friends and Family Facebook group for your LO's class. While the Hi Moms reception varies from class, it seems that many are a late afternoon reception. People wore a wide range of attire at my son's event. Everything from cocktail dresses/suits to nice jeans. The attire is much less important than just being there for your LO. We were able to take my son out for dinner after the event. That may change depending on your LO’s Class Officers orders.
Gifts –
If you decide to give a gift and bring it to Graduation. I would suggest luggage or something small. They get so more uniform items than fit in the navy duffle. My son bought a garment bag at the NEX. He did ask us to bring a couple of large duffle bags in our carry-on out to Newport. And he used them both when packing up to leave OCS! So any large gift may add to packing issues if your LO will not be driving home to to their next duty station.
I gave my son two “challenge” coins after the ceremony as a gift. One which I had made through Things Remembered: http://www.thingsremembered.com/product/Military-Coins/168289.uts that I had OCS and his graduation date engraved on. I also found a challenge coin (on EBay) for the first ship he was assigned to. While he may have received one when he later arrived at the ship that will mean more to him, he seemed to appreciate receiving a small gift in person after the ceremony.
Apr 1, 2016
Mammaboom
I want to thank all of you so much for taking time out of your busy day to write! It has filled my heart with such joy reading your responses, suggestions & words of advice! I've been reading and trying to learn as much as I can about being a Navy Mom, this site has taught me the most! May you & your LO be blessed with peace, health & happiness!
Apr 1, 2016
Patty Sue
CL and Bkell32, thank you so much for your information in regards to my questions. I will be able to ask our LO what he needs us to bring and make plans for dinner. Any suggestions for a nice place for dinner? I also wondered if it is normal to have the erratic deposits during the OCS time. My LO is not sure what is being taken out and its' purpose. Thank you again
Apr 1, 2016
CindyN
Patty Sue: Until they can log on and see the LES statements, the amounts seem very random. If there are any Navy spouses on here they can likely provide a better answer but I will give you my understanding from what I heard on the F&F Facebook group and my son. There is one monthly LES that details the month's pay and deductions. They are paid on the 1st and the 15th of each month, other than maybe that first month. The first month or two may be strange and appear erratic due to when they started in the month and when their uniform allowance shows up. When my son was in in 2015, the uniform allowance was about $1800. That showed up in his first paycheck because he started at the beginning of a month. That might not always be the case. Also they get a food allowance which is then pretty much deducted to cover food at OCS. Hope that helps. Sorry I don't have more details.
Apr 1, 2016
bkat3
Regarding restaurants in Newport....there are MANY to choose from for any style, taste, or budget. I know some families went to The Mooring, which is quite nice and on the water. We went to Brick Alley Pub which is more casual and there were several OCS families there.
Apr 2, 2016
CindyN
Here are a few restaurant suggestions I collected ahead of our trip out for graduation:
Brick Alley pub on Thames street: “Awesome place and they do take reservations. We made ours for 14 folks 2 weeks early.” “ We went to Brick Alley last night for dinner. It was good!”
Red Parrot: Wonderful lobster
Flo's Clam Shack “It is a shack but the freshest seafood. Nine of us were saying our meal was the best. We all ate different things. Flo's does have 2 different menus, one upstairs at the bar and the other one on the first floor.”
Corner Cafe on Broadway in Newport, “delicious food and so adorable.” (Breakfast/Lunch)
22 Bowens: Their website is 22bowens.com Also you can make reservations online thru opentable.
Providence Suggestions for things to do:
Providence (Renaissance city) is a small city so easily walk-able. Top 3 'day things' are as follows:
1. Definitely lunch on Federal Hill - Providence's Italian spot - outstanding (real) italian restaurants. No kidding - you will see mafia folks there!
2. Providence River Boat tour - great way to see Providence from the river (Address: The Hot Club Docks, 575 South Water Street, Providence, RI 02903 Phone Number: +1 401-580-2628).
3. If you are an intellectual; Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Museum is awesome - Best school of design in the world.
4. Finally, if you have just one thing to do - Sailboat cruise in Newport. Very cool sailing in a bark and seeing the Newport mansions from the ocean. You will be in the same sailing track as the old American Cup races. Address: Bannister's Wharf, Newport, RI 02840 Phone Number: 401 847-0298. Hope this helps.
Apr 2, 2016