Would someone please make recommendations for items that are allowed and that you think my son would really appreciate having to go with him when he reports? Also any guidance on what is allowed to be sent later after reporting would be appreciated. I know they are very strict even regarding the color of envelopes. Oh and on that note, can someone help with an address? Thanks in advance !!!
Katryn: I will have to leave it to more recent OCS mom's to comment. It has now been about 3.5 years since my son left for OCS. I just wanted to make sure you have seen this site/list. It is probably a good starting point. https://www.public.navy.mil/netc/NSTC/otcn/ocs_required_and_recomme...
There are a few changes from the list that was on the site when my son was packing. I see now that they will be fitted for running shoes on their first day. That is probably really good, provided they have good shoes. Many of the injuries my son mentioned that happened to classmates, were due to running. They run SO much that good running shoes are an absolute must. I would suggest that your son go to a running store and get fitted for some good running shoes, if he doesn't already have them. I don't know if they will be running outside at all now, but having a spare pair would probably still be a good idea even if they only run on an indoor track. Running shoes were not part of what they got on their first day at OCS years ago. My son took a good pair and they ran so much during his time there, they were getting close to the end of their "good support" life by the end.
Katryn: I am sorry, I don't. I would say though they they are trying to avoid injuries from the looks of the new list, so they probably would. They do go through they bag when they check in. Anything not allowed, gets stored away until the 9th week or later. So, if your son wanted to take some, it wouldn't hurt. If they don't allow it, he won't get in trouble, it will just get packed away. It may be useful for their boots as well. They do some hiking/jogging in their boots. I am sure until the boots are broken in, they could cause blisters as well.
Since they are working out to be in shape before they attend OCS, good running shoes should already be “broken in.” Running shoes are known to have 500 miles in them for good support. I know by the end of OCS my DS needed new running shoes. They were broken in to avoid blisters so not all of those miles were at OCS.
My son just graduated OCS in August and brought 2 pairs of good running shoes. Both pairs of shoes had to be stored until week 9 and they issued him New Balance that he wore the whole time. Good socks make the biggest difference in how their feet feel after the 9 weeks of being Pushed.
Read back in this comment section and the "Discussion Forum" above as far as you can. We may have already answered many of your questions.
My son graduated from OCS 6 years ago, so I usually must defer to Moms of more recent grads for specific questions, because OCS constantly changes how they do things.
If you do Facebook, search for a family group for your son's class. Usually they are called "Navy OCS Class XX-XX Friends and Family," or similar wording, where XX-XX is his class number. (His recruiter should be able to give him his class number.) These groups are usually set up by a family member close to the time of a class reporting to OCS. They are usually closed groups and you have to ask to join. You can also ask to join the class group or two AHEAD of your LO's (Loved One's) class, so you can see what those classes are doing 3-6 weeks AHEAD of where your son's class is.
Write lots of encouraging letters to him. They can only receive paper mail letters at first. They aren't allowed to use email for several weeks. Do not send ANYTHING but letters at first, or it will be confiscated as contraband, and he will likely be punished with many extra pushups! He will let you know when you can send anything else.
I don't know for sure, but I would think they would have on-base housing for personnel attending a school. Most military bases have, or at least used to have, what they call "Bachelor Officers Quarters" which are furnished apartments for single officers. I suppose they are allowed to live off-base if they want to, but I think it would be cheaper on base, depending on how long their school is.
Does anyone know if there is a weight room at OCS and if they are allowed time to lift? Thank you so much, I appreciate all of you and your support to your children and our service men and women. BZ
I do not know for sure, but I doubt it. They are busy with physical exercises every day, and are kept busy from 5 am to 10 pm at night. After 10 pm lights are out but many of them have things to do to prepare for activities for the next day. No time for extra physical training at all. Trust me, the physical exercises they do daily, will wear them out!
Proudmom, I just confirmed with my son that there is (I remember him mentioning that he went there). But, they really don’t have access to it until the Candio (final stage). My DS said there are some candidates for which OCS is a weight loss experience and it’s gets them in shape, and for others it isn’t as hard as they trained before going to OCS so the workouts aren’t really enough. But like resales commented, they really don’t have a lot of time for it (until the final phase).
One other thing to throw into the puzzle....even when your LO reaches the Candio phase, they can still have "suprise" strength tests that can roll them. I would recommend to stick to the schedule that they have and not add any other PT.
Aloha, Aloha Mom! Congratulations to your daughter for accepting the challenges of OCS. The candidates rarely know exactly when their next school will start after OCS until they get their orders closer to graduation. They may know WHERE they will go , but not exactly WHEN. Sometimes their next school will start the very next week after graduation.
I think the supply school is there in Newport, and I know some have to stay and start school the very next week! Depends on when the school starts a new cycle. They may have quarters for them to stay on the base while attending supply school, so she may not have room for all of her stuff anyway until she gets to her first duty station.
Some are sent home to work in recruiting if their school does not start for several weeks. After OCS, my son went to Intelligence School in Virginia Beach, and he didn't receive his orders until the day before OCS graduation! He was given three weeks to report, so he was able to fly home with us to Indiana, pack what he could into his truck, and drive to VB. After Intel school, the Navy reimbursed him for moving all of his worldly goods to his next duty station. (He rented a trailer and hauled it all himself.)
So, your daughter probably won't know for sure until closer to graduation. They all have to learn early on to deal with the uncertainty, and last-minute changes to assignments, and just roll with it.
What island to you live on? My hubby and I visited the Big Island last July when the lava was flowing, and took a helicopter ride right over the fissure as it was spewing. Got some great photos. Would love to visit HI more often, but it's such a LOOOONG flight from Indiana!!!
Aloha! We have FaceBook support OCS groups going! navy ocs class 14-19 friends & family 5/5 navy ocs class 15-19 friends & family 5/26 navy ocs class 16-19 friends & family 6/16 navy ocs class 17-19 friends & family 7/7 navy ocs class 01-20 friends & family 7/28
Aloha Ginger's Mom! Please join our FaceBook group for her class for updates on her class. Also remember that no news is good news! They have had a busy week, Medical Monday, Wake Up Wednesday, First Friday and Sucky Saturday. Next is Fast Cruise (Tomorrow). If she has not rolled to Holding Class, you will NOT hear from her and THIS is a GOOD thing! https://www.facebook.com/groups/2337082503246319/
Hello.. My daughter started OCS Sept 8th..just got a phone call from her last night that she got rolled to H class. I was up all night learning what I can about roll backs and H class. What happens now? Thanks..
MariaP: Take a deep breath! Being rolled to H (Holding) Class is usually only a three-week setback. Rolling at five days in, it usually means they didn't pass the first physical fitness assessment. She will be given extra help with the physical training or whatever for the next three weeks to get her up to speed, and then she will join the next incoming class in three weeks.
Some of the ones who roll early wind up being the leaders and top candidates in the new class they join, because they have three weeks more experience than the newbies coming in. Just keep writing her lots of encouraging letters and tell her how proud you are!
I'm sure she is stressing out right now. But try to remind her this is not a sign of failure. Many/most people go through rollbacks at one time or another. It's the Navy's way of giving her extra time to meet the requirements. Tell her to hang in there. The Navy needs strong women like your daughter. She's going to be a tremendous asset!!
Good evening! My son just had his swearing in ceremony today so I'm officially a Navy mom!! I have no experience being a military mom or wife. My husband was with the Air Force but we met 2 years after he was honorably discharged.
I have a question about his flight up to Rhode Island. He starts February 9th. I was wondering if he get go up with me on the 7th (this is the 10th anniversary of my husband's death) and my daughter who lives in NYC will meet us up there so we can spend time together and honor his memory.
Do any of you moms know if the Navy allows this? I was told that the Navy will fly him up. I have booked a hotel for us to stay for 2 nights and I'm even willing to pay for his flight.
Any advise is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time.
Tan’s Mom - we live in upstate New York and drive our son out the night before he was to start OCS. I don’t see why you couldn’t arrange a weekend. Have him talk to his recruiter.
My daughter went to OCS in 2012. She arrived a few days early by car, and got a hotel room where some other new candidates were staying. He needs to talk to his recruiter about arranging his airfare a little early but hanging out there a few days early should not be a problem. At least it wasn't several years ago!!!!!
I agree with Matt's mom. He should discuss this with his recruiter, and maybe arrange a flight that is a few days early. (Unless his ticket has already been purchased for Feb 8--might be hard to get that changed.)
Some of the candidates drive their own vehicles to OCS instead of flying, so it's possible to make one's own travel plans if they let their recruiter know.
Seems so long ago now to say that your daughter (and my son) went to OCS in 2012!!!!!!!
Is your daughter still flying? I think you had written before that she was hoping to get an instructor position? Where is she now? Is she a LCDR yet?
My son & wife returned from Japan a year ago, and he is now stationed at Ft Meade, MD with the U.S. Military Cyber Security Command. They have their work cut out for them with cyber security, with a big concern being the security of the upcoming 2020 election!
Son & D-I-L bought their first house near Baltimore and are having fun(?) remodeling it. He earned his master's degree last fall, so he feels that he has all the boxes checked for promotion to Lt Commander this spring. (Hopefully!) It sure is nice to have them closer to our home (Indiana) than they were in Japan!
Are you still living the vagabond life on the road? (I'm jealous!)
My daughter just graduated Jan 24th and will be attending Navy Supply Corps School this April. Feel free to ask if any of you have any questions and I will be more than happy to help. The best advice I can give now is to join your loved ones OCS group on FB. Navy OCS Class ( your LO class no) Family Friends and Support. Very helpful and it felt good knowing that you are not alone.
Yes that sounds like so long ago!!!! Hard to believe Jenn is coming up on 10 years since her initial enlistment!! She didn't get the instructor position she was initially hoping for but she is back in Pensacola teaching Aviation Safety at the school here where she had her Aviation training right out of OCS. She gets in lots of traveling as they teach this program all over. She just came back from a trip to Japan. Biggest problem she's ever had to deal with was the recent shooting in Pensacola. It was at the Aviation School building. Her and her co workers were not able to even go in that building to get their stuff out of their offices until well into January. They are in a temp building now as the Navy will not open that old building up again. What a sad, terrifying time for the entire aviation community here. Hubby and I are still doing our travels across the country. We decided to come to Pensacola to stay with Jenn for the winter months and next month we're getting back on the road to head west!!! Thinking of settling down later this year and doing single travels but having a home base to come back to. We've been to all 48 states and took a cruise to Alaska!! So glad to hear your son is doing well. Jenn is expecting to get her masters and is working on all those boxes as well. Her first look is 2021. Hope they enjoy their time in Baltimore!! So much there to see and do. Have they visited Annapolis yet???
Oh my gosh, I heard about that tragic shooting in Pensacola, but didn't mentally connect the dots that your daughter might be there. So glad that she was not directly involved. We worry about our kids when they are deployed, as I did when my son was on a ship in the Persian Gulf for 10 months, but we assume they will be safe at the stateside bases. Not true anymore. So sad.
Yes, we had several family vacations to the Annapolis/Baltimore area when our son was younger. We took a tour of the Naval Academy when he was in high school. Saw the crypt of John Paul Jones being guarded by midshipmen. Feasted on many blue crabs! Have been to Ft McHenry and all the fun stuff at the harbor.
Son and daughter-in-law now live near Woodlawn/Catonsville on the west side of Baltimore. They are now experiencing the "joys" of home ownership: lawn and landscaping maintenance, leaky faucets, sealing drafty windows, etc. Things YOU no longer have to deal with on the road! haha
Yes luckily she was not at work yet that morning!!! I miss living in Annapolis and getting to visit all the historic places!!! You're funny - we may not have landscaping issues (except ant hills and ants getting in the trailer). leaking windows when it rains and the fact that the slide outs leave good sized openings where walls don't completely seal up!!!! Talk about drafts!!!! But not every one can hitch up their home and go somewhere new so . . . .
It's funny but we have to been to so many places that it is so hard to pick a favorite. But we do love mountains and big bodies of water. Hard to find those places without also dealing with lots of cold, snow, stuff like that. So we are thinking of Asheville, NC. Also kind of central location for all the kids, although the Navy still moves 2 of them around!!! Doesn't get a lot of snow and we found apartments that will give us a great view of the mountains without being too far away from them!!!!!
Asheville IS nice! Make sure you visit Biltmore while there, if you haven't already. I have relatives near Charlotte.
When we were in Newport for son's graduation from OCS, we toured the Vanderbilt's "summer cottage" on the bay! Not at all like what we call cottages here in Indiana, but I suppose compared to Biltmore, it was a shack to them! Way bigger than our humble house, but they were roughing it in Newport!!! haha
Anna - I am so glad your daughter made it through the Pensacola shooting safely. That must have been very emotional for you!! I feel badly for the families who lost their sons. Would your daughter know of any way to send our condolences to them? Maybe a Navy office that would forward a card? I am sure they are struggling and could use some support.The months after a death can be very hard.
Hello Allison! I can ask my daughter, I haven't heard of anything myself but I will ask her. I agree about supporting the families. I cannot imagine their pain and anguish. I think about them every time I see the gate as I drive by.
Hello all, I have a question about the wait time to hear if you've been accepted to OCS. (I'm new to this so sorry if my jargon is not correct.) The officer recruiter told my son that his application was confirmed as received (ready to be reviewed) on Feb 7th so it's been a bit more than 2 weeks. Is there an average wait time until we hear yes or no for OCS or does it depend on the community you are applying to? He is applying for SWO if that matters. Also, some background if it matters...my son is still home, dual processing, so if not picked up for OCS, then he will go enlisted.
Does anyone have a son/daughter headed to class 16-20. (I am an Army mom for 7+ years, I don't know the Navy language yet). I have questions...don't even know where to start! Thanks!
Thanks, offroute.mom! Do I need to create a conversation? I don't want to be hijacking someones thread. I haven't quite figured out how to get to some of the conversations I've seen here.
I have seen several "packing lists" including one from his recruiter, and they all differ a bit. I don't want him to spend $$ and not be able to have the items he brings. Are you able to please confirm/deny (and maybe even add to the list) what he will be allowed?
Running shoes; 1 or 2 pair?
Underwear; any style/color (as long as 1 pair is white)--so are boxer briefs ok?
Socks; I have seen SO many posts that they need Fox River or Thorlos boot socks...but no mention what color(s) and since they are not on any of the packing lists that I've seen, I don't want to spend $15 a pair if they can't have them. Pretty sure he's set with the plain white crew ones, but do you have any insight on this? Also, what about dress socks?
Personal care items; How big of shampoo (his group will be in a 2 week quarantine before starting)? Should it be shampoo/body wash combo? Most packing lists say no "aerosols" but they all mention bringing shaving cream....can this be shaving cream in a can (I kinda label that as an aerosol)? what other items can they take (athletic tape, moleskin, etc.).
He isn't worried about any of this, which is good...I guess!
Ging-83 - My son was at OCS 5 years ago now and things change so I can't offer much advice on the packing list. I can't imagine why whey wouldn't allow moleskin but I am sure stranger things have happened. I believe my son took some but I don't know if he was able to keep it or if it got packed away with items like their cell phones, civilian clothes. So my advice is, if he wants to take some, he should. It won't take up any space in his suitcase and the worst outcome is that it gets packed away until he is done. On the white briefs, that was on the packing list when my son went. I had to run out late the night before he left to buy some because yes, he left it all for the last minute. When he got to RI, he found that he could have brought boxer briefs and he was bummed. That rule may have changed so getting info from someone more recent would be good. White uniform probably does require a least one pair that is white though.
Katryn
Thanks Ladies for the warm welcome ! I really appreciate the support of you Moms...I'll search F
acebook for my son's class. Thank you Andy's Mom !
Oct 8, 2018
Katryn
Would someone please make recommendations for items that are allowed and that you think my son would really appreciate having to go with him when he reports? Also any guidance on what is allowed to be sent later after reporting would be appreciated. I know they are very strict even regarding the color of envelopes. Oh and on that note, can someone help with an address? Thanks in advance !!!
Oct 8, 2018
CindyN
Katryn: I will have to leave it to more recent OCS mom's to comment. It has now been about 3.5 years since my son left for OCS. I just wanted to make sure you have seen this site/list. It is probably a good starting point. https://www.public.navy.mil/netc/NSTC/otcn/ocs_required_and_recomme...
There are a few changes from the list that was on the site when my son was packing. I see now that they will be fitted for running shoes on their first day. That is probably really good, provided they have good shoes. Many of the injuries my son mentioned that happened to classmates, were due to running. They run SO much that good running shoes are an absolute must. I would suggest that your son go to a running store and get fitted for some good running shoes, if he doesn't already have them. I don't know if they will be running outside at all now, but having a spare pair would probably still be a good idea even if they only run on an indoor track. Running shoes were not part of what they got on their first day at OCS years ago. My son took a good pair and they ran so much during his time there, they were getting close to the end of their "good support" life by the end.
Oct 8, 2018
Katryn
Thanks very much Cindy ! Do you know if they are allowed to take moleskin for running blisters?
Oct 8, 2018
CindyN
Katryn: I am sorry, I don't. I would say though they they are trying to avoid injuries from the looks of the new list, so they probably would. They do go through they bag when they check in. Anything not allowed, gets stored away until the 9th week or later. So, if your son wanted to take some, it wouldn't hurt. If they don't allow it, he won't get in trouble, it will just get packed away. It may be useful for their boots as well. They do some hiking/jogging in their boots. I am sure until the boots are broken in, they could cause blisters as well.
Oct 8, 2018
Katryn
Great information and thank you again Cindy !
Oct 8, 2018
jsefamily
Oct 8, 2018
New2blue
My son just graduated OCS in August and brought 2 pairs of good running shoes. Both pairs of shoes had to be stored until week 9 and they issued him New Balance that he wore the whole time. Good socks make the biggest difference in how their feet feel after the 9 weeks of being Pushed.
Oct 8, 2018
M's mom
Welcome Sandi424 !
Read back in this comment section and the "Discussion Forum" above as far as you can. We may have already answered many of your questions.
My son graduated from OCS 6 years ago, so I usually must defer to Moms of more recent grads for specific questions, because OCS constantly changes how they do things.
If you do Facebook, search for a family group for your son's class. Usually they are called "Navy OCS Class XX-XX Friends and Family," or similar wording, where XX-XX is his class number. (His recruiter should be able to give him his class number.) These groups are usually set up by a family member close to the time of a class reporting to OCS. They are usually closed groups and you have to ask to join. You can also ask to join the class group or two AHEAD of your LO's (Loved One's) class, so you can see what those classes are doing 3-6 weeks AHEAD of where your son's class is.
Write lots of encouraging letters to him. They can only receive paper mail letters at first. They aren't allowed to use email for several weeks. Do not send ANYTHING but letters at first, or it will be confiscated as contraband, and he will likely be punished with many extra pushups! He will let you know when you can send anything else.
Good luck to your son! Anchors aweigh!!!!!
Nov 13, 2018
Matt's mom
Good morning!
Does anyone have any recommendations on apartments in Middletown or Newport? My son will be attending supply school. Thank you.
Feb 1, 2019
M's mom
Matt's mom:
I don't know for sure, but I would think they would have on-base housing for personnel attending a school. Most military bases have, or at least used to have, what they call "Bachelor Officers Quarters" which are furnished apartments for single officers. I suppose they are allowed to live off-base if they want to, but I think it would be cheaper on base, depending on how long their school is.
Feb 2, 2019
ProudMom
Does anyone know if there is a weight room at OCS and if they are allowed time to lift? Thank you so much, I appreciate all of you and your support to your children and our service men and women. BZ
Feb 17, 2019
redheadlass
I do not know for sure, but I doubt it. They are busy with physical exercises every day, and are kept busy from 5 am to 10 pm at night. After 10 pm lights are out but many of them have things to do to prepare for activities for the next day. No time for extra physical training at all. Trust me, the physical exercises they do daily, will wear them out!
Feb 17, 2019
jsefamily
Feb 17, 2019
jsefamily
Feb 17, 2019
jsefamily
Feb 17, 2019
applecrispnh
Hi. My son is starting his 8th week (thus not a candio yet). He did mention going to the gym, on weekends, at least.
Feb 17, 2019
redheadlass
Just to let you know, the "Candio phase" is the last 3 weeks of OCS when they have more free time.
Feb 17, 2019
Andy'sMom
Proudmom,
One other thing to throw into the puzzle....even when your LO reaches the Candio phase, they can still have "suprise" strength tests that can roll them. I would recommend to stick to the schedule that they have and not add any other PT.
Feb 19, 2019
M's mom
Aloha, Aloha Mom! Congratulations to your daughter for accepting the challenges of OCS. The candidates rarely know exactly when their next school will start after OCS until they get their orders closer to graduation. They may know WHERE they will go , but not exactly WHEN. Sometimes their next school will start the very next week after graduation.
I think the supply school is there in Newport, and I know some have to stay and start school the very next week! Depends on when the school starts a new cycle. They may have quarters for them to stay on the base while attending supply school, so she may not have room for all of her stuff anyway until she gets to her first duty station.
Some are sent home to work in recruiting if their school does not start for several weeks. After OCS, my son went to Intelligence School in Virginia Beach, and he didn't receive his orders until the day before OCS graduation! He was given three weeks to report, so he was able to fly home with us to Indiana, pack what he could into his truck, and drive to VB. After Intel school, the Navy reimbursed him for moving all of his worldly goods to his next duty station. (He rented a trailer and hauled it all himself.)
So, your daughter probably won't know for sure until closer to graduation. They all have to learn early on to deal with the uncertainty, and last-minute changes to assignments, and just roll with it.
What island to you live on? My hubby and I visited the Big Island last July when the lava was flowing, and took a helicopter ride right over the fissure as it was spewing. Got some great photos. Would love to visit HI more often, but it's such a LOOOONG flight from Indiana!!!
Good luck to your daughter!
Jun 25, 2019
Aloha Mom
Aloha!
We have FaceBook support OCS groups going!
navy ocs class 14-19 friends & family 5/5
navy ocs class 15-19 friends & family 5/26
navy ocs class 16-19 friends & family 6/16
navy ocs class 17-19 friends & family 7/7
navy ocs class 01-20 friends & family 7/28
Jul 22, 2019
Ginger's mom
Hi, my daughter arrived 7/28 and we have not heard from her as of yet. Does anyone know how we find out her group number?
Thank you
Aug 7, 2019
Aloha Mom
Aloha Ginger's Mom!
Please join our FaceBook group for her class for updates on her class. Also remember that no news is good news!
They have had a busy week, Medical Monday, Wake Up Wednesday, First Friday and Sucky Saturday. Next is Fast Cruise (Tomorrow). If she has not rolled to Holding Class, you will NOT hear from her and THIS is a GOOD thing!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2337082503246319/
Aug 7, 2019
MariaP
Hello.. My daughter started OCS Sept 8th..just got a phone call from her last night that she got rolled to H class. I was up all night learning what I can about roll backs and H class. What happens now? Thanks..
Sep 13, 2019
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
MariaP - there is a Roll back discussion up above in the discussion forum - it might answer some of your questions!
Sep 13, 2019
M's mom
MariaP: Take a deep breath! Being rolled to H (Holding) Class is usually only a three-week setback. Rolling at five days in, it usually means they didn't pass the first physical fitness assessment. She will be given extra help with the physical training or whatever for the next three weeks to get her up to speed, and then she will join the next incoming class in three weeks.
Some of the ones who roll early wind up being the leaders and top candidates in the new class they join, because they have three weeks more experience than the newbies coming in. Just keep writing her lots of encouraging letters and tell her how proud you are!
Sep 13, 2019
Allison
I'm sure she is stressing out right now. But try to remind her this is not a sign of failure. Many/most people go through rollbacks at one time or another. It's the Navy's way of giving her extra time to meet the requirements. Tell her to hang in there. The Navy needs strong women like your daughter. She's going to be a tremendous asset!!
Sep 14, 2019
MariaP
Thank you so much! for all the info and support..
Sep 16, 2019
Tan’s mom
Good evening! My son just had his swearing in ceremony today so I'm officially a Navy mom!! I have no experience being a military mom or wife. My husband was with the Air Force but we met 2 years after he was honorably discharged.
I have a question about his flight up to Rhode Island. He starts February 9th. I was wondering if he get go up with me on the 7th (this is the 10th anniversary of my husband's death) and my daughter who lives in NYC will meet us up there so we can spend time together and honor his memory.
Do any of you moms know if the Navy allows this? I was told that the Navy will fly him up. I have booked a hotel for us to stay for 2 nights and I'm even willing to pay for his flight.
Any advise is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time.
Jan 28, 2020
Matt's mom
Jan 29, 2020
Anna
Tan's mom,
My daughter went to OCS in 2012. She arrived a few days early by car, and got a hotel room where some other new candidates were staying. He needs to talk to his recruiter about arranging his airfare a little early but hanging out there a few days early should not be a problem. At least it wasn't several years ago!!!!!
Jan 29, 2020
M's mom
Welcome, Tan's mom!
I agree with Matt's mom. He should discuss this with his recruiter, and maybe arrange a flight that is a few days early. (Unless his ticket has already been purchased for Feb 8--might be hard to get that changed.)
Some of the candidates drive their own vehicles to OCS instead of flying, so it's possible to make one's own travel plans if they let their recruiter know.
Jan 30, 2020
M's mom
Hello Anna,
Seems so long ago now to say that your daughter (and my son) went to OCS in 2012!!!!!!!
Is your daughter still flying? I think you had written before that she was hoping to get an instructor position? Where is she now? Is she a LCDR yet?
My son & wife returned from Japan a year ago, and he is now stationed at Ft Meade, MD with the U.S. Military Cyber Security Command. They have their work cut out for them with cyber security, with a big concern being the security of the upcoming 2020 election!
Son & D-I-L bought their first house near Baltimore and are having fun(?) remodeling it. He earned his master's degree last fall, so he feels that he has all the boxes checked for promotion to Lt Commander this spring. (Hopefully!) It sure is nice to have them closer to our home (Indiana) than they were in Japan!
Are you still living the vagabond life on the road? (I'm jealous!)
Jan 30, 2020
ProudMom
Here is a link to a Pinterest page with Candio Box content ideas if anyone gets stuck on what to send. Congratulations to you and your candidates. BZ
Jan 30, 2020
MariaP
Hello, OCS Moms:
My daughter just graduated Jan 24th and will be attending Navy Supply Corps School this April. Feel free to ask if any of you have any questions and I will be more than happy to help. The best advice I can give now is to join your loved ones OCS group on FB. Navy OCS Class ( your LO class no) Family Friends and Support. Very helpful and it felt good knowing that you are not alone.
Good Luck to all your new Candidates. Go Navy!
Jan 30, 2020
Anna
M's Mom,
Yes that sounds like so long ago!!!! Hard to believe Jenn is coming up on 10 years since her initial enlistment!! She didn't get the instructor position she was initially hoping for but she is back in Pensacola teaching Aviation Safety at the school here where she had her Aviation training right out of OCS. She gets in lots of traveling as they teach this program all over. She just came back from a trip to Japan. Biggest problem she's ever had to deal with was the recent shooting in Pensacola. It was at the Aviation School building. Her and her co workers were not able to even go in that building to get their stuff out of their offices until well into January. They are in a temp building now as the Navy will not open that old building up again. What a sad, terrifying time for the entire aviation community here. Hubby and I are still doing our travels across the country. We decided to come to Pensacola to stay with Jenn for the winter months and next month we're getting back on the road to head west!!! Thinking of settling down later this year and doing single travels but having a home base to come back to. We've been to all 48 states and took a cruise to Alaska!! So glad to hear your son is doing well. Jenn is expecting to get her masters and is working on all those boxes as well. Her first look is 2021. Hope they enjoy their time in Baltimore!! So much there to see and do. Have they visited Annapolis yet???
Feb 3, 2020
M's mom
MariaP: Congratulations to you and your new Ensign! Now the adventure begins for her (and you!)
Anchors Aweigh!
Feb 3, 2020
M's mom
Anna,
Oh my gosh, I heard about that tragic shooting in Pensacola, but didn't mentally connect the dots that your daughter might be there. So glad that she was not directly involved. We worry about our kids when they are deployed, as I did when my son was on a ship in the Persian Gulf for 10 months, but we assume they will be safe at the stateside bases. Not true anymore. So sad.
Yes, we had several family vacations to the Annapolis/Baltimore area when our son was younger. We took a tour of the Naval Academy when he was in high school. Saw the crypt of John Paul Jones being guarded by midshipmen. Feasted on many blue crabs! Have been to Ft McHenry and all the fun stuff at the harbor.
Son and daughter-in-law now live near Woodlawn/Catonsville on the west side of Baltimore. They are now experiencing the "joys" of home ownership: lawn and landscaping maintenance, leaky faucets, sealing drafty windows, etc. Things YOU no longer have to deal with on the road! haha
Feb 3, 2020
Anna
M's Mom,
Yes luckily she was not at work yet that morning!!! I miss living in Annapolis and getting to visit all the historic places!!! You're funny - we may not have landscaping issues (except ant hills and ants getting in the trailer). leaking windows when it rains and the fact that the slide outs leave good sized openings where walls don't completely seal up!!!! Talk about drafts!!!! But not every one can hitch up their home and go somewhere new so . . . .
Feb 3, 2020
M's mom
Anna,
Yes, I suppose there is ALWAYS home maintenance, no matter what kind of home one has!
Where do you think you might settle down and have a "home base?" I imagine since you've been everywhere, you have a good idea of your favorite places!
Feb 4, 2020
Anna
M's Mom,
It's funny but we have to been to so many places that it is so hard to pick a favorite. But we do love mountains and big bodies of water. Hard to find those places without also dealing with lots of cold, snow, stuff like that. So we are thinking of Asheville, NC. Also kind of central location for all the kids, although the Navy still moves 2 of them around!!! Doesn't get a lot of snow and we found apartments that will give us a great view of the mountains without being too far away from them!!!!!
Feb 4, 2020
M's mom
Anna,
Asheville IS nice! Make sure you visit Biltmore while there, if you haven't already. I have relatives near Charlotte.
When we were in Newport for son's graduation from OCS, we toured the Vanderbilt's "summer cottage" on the bay! Not at all like what we call cottages here in Indiana, but I suppose compared to Biltmore, it was a shack to them! Way bigger than our humble house, but they were roughing it in Newport!!! haha
Feb 4, 2020
Allison
Anna - I am so glad your daughter made it through the Pensacola shooting safely. That must have been very emotional for you!! I feel badly for the families who lost their sons. Would your daughter know of any way to send our condolences to them? Maybe a Navy office that would forward a card? I am sure they are struggling and could use some support.The months after a death can be very hard.
Feb 5, 2020
Anna
Hello Allison! I can ask my daughter, I haven't heard of anything myself but I will ask her. I agree about supporting the families. I cannot imagine their pain and anguish. I think about them every time I see the gate as I drive by.
Feb 5, 2020
Allison
Thanks Anna!
Feb 5, 2020
Anna
Allison,
I'm sending you the information in a private message.
Feb 13, 2020
Kim8
Hello all, I have a question about the wait time to hear if you've been accepted to OCS. (I'm new to this so sorry if my jargon is not correct.) The officer recruiter told my son that his application was confirmed as received (ready to be reviewed) on Feb 7th so it's been a bit more than 2 weeks. Is there an average wait time until we hear yes or no for OCS or does it depend on the community you are applying to? He is applying for SWO if that matters. Also, some background if it matters...my son is still home, dual processing, so if not picked up for OCS, then he will go enlisted.
Feb 26, 2020
Ging_83
Does anyone have a son/daughter headed to class 16-20. (I am an Army mom for 7+ years, I don't know the Navy language yet). I have questions...don't even know where to start! Thanks!
Apr 17, 2020
Ging_83
Thanks, offroute.mom! Do I need to create a conversation? I don't want to be hijacking someones thread. I haven't quite figured out how to get to some of the conversations I've seen here.
I have seen several "packing lists" including one from his recruiter, and they all differ a bit. I don't want him to spend $$ and not be able to have the items he brings. Are you able to please confirm/deny (and maybe even add to the list) what he will be allowed?
Running shoes; 1 or 2 pair?
Underwear; any style/color (as long as 1 pair is white)--so are boxer briefs ok?
Socks; I have seen SO many posts that they need Fox River or Thorlos boot socks...but no mention what color(s) and since they are not on any of the packing lists that I've seen, I don't want to spend $15 a pair if they can't have them. Pretty sure he's set with the plain white crew ones, but do you have any insight on this? Also, what about dress socks?
Personal care items; How big of shampoo (his group will be in a 2 week quarantine before starting)? Should it be shampoo/body wash combo? Most packing lists say no "aerosols" but they all mention bringing shaving cream....can this be shaving cream in a can (I kinda label that as an aerosol)? what other items can they take (athletic tape, moleskin, etc.).
He isn't worried about any of this, which is good...I guess!
Thanks!
Apr 17, 2020
CindyN
Ging-83 - My son was at OCS 5 years ago now and things change so I can't offer much advice on the packing list. I can't imagine why whey wouldn't allow moleskin but I am sure stranger things have happened. I believe my son took some but I don't know if he was able to keep it or if it got packed away with items like their cell phones, civilian clothes. So my advice is, if he wants to take some, he should. It won't take up any space in his suitcase and the worst outcome is that it gets packed away until he is done. On the white briefs, that was on the packing list when my son went. I had to run out late the night before he left to buy some because yes, he left it all for the last minute. When he got to RI, he found that he could have brought boxer briefs and he was bummed. That rule may have changed so getting info from someone more recent would be good. White uniform probably does require a least one pair that is white though.
Apr 17, 2020