We just got home from our drive from the PNW to the southwest/northern Mexico and back with a side trip to Coronado to visit our son and his family. We caravaned with my sister and her husband on the trip. It was their first opportunity to visit a squadron and get an idea of what our son has been doing for the last 18 years. With the new budget his squadron will be defunded as of the 2016-17 fiscal year. They have decided to extend his command tour until the turn over of the building to another squadron and then he will be off to DC for his last two tours. It will be nice to have him here on the west coast for one more year. They have already started the process of looking for something in the DC area. As always things are subject to change but it currently looks like he will be sliding into something in policy and planning which was his main focus at the War College. We are looking forward to lots of sightseeing around our nation's Capital.
And he's off! Got a phone call the night before to say good-bye (I was a crying mess) and a text from the airport saying he was boarding. 5 Flights and something like 36 hours of travel to get on the boat. He's in VFA-14; the Tophatters. I'll be holding my breath til I get that first email.
I'm sure that was hard!! My LO is only at the beginning stages. The T6 is where he's at in flying. I have been watching and reading everyone's post to help me prepare for whats next! I guess the worrying never ends..... I just pray and wait to hear from my LO often!! Best of Luck to your LO and I will keep them all in my prayers!!
CheriH, wishing your DS a safe trip. My DS called to say good-bye too. I just hate the good-byes. He was so busy getting ready planning the flights we couldn't talk very long. This is his first deployment and they are leaving this morning to start their journey halfway around the world.
Quilter, best wishes to your LO also. Following my DS's adventures has been a very exciting, sometimes nail biting experience. Hope you enjoy the ride.
Thank you NYNancy!! It is indeed a Ride! I just got word about SERE, I think that's what my LO was telling my husband, but I understand that's not for awhile!! I told my husband to stop telling me about it!! I really don't want to know when or where, just let me know when it's over!! Prayers for you and your LO as well!!
Thank you for the prayers Quilter. Yes, you're smart, the less you know about SERE the better. One bit of advise: be sure there is nothing on you Facebook page (if you have one) about your LO at least till SERE is over. I'll keep you and your LO in my prayers too :)
Oh Yes NYNancy, nothing on FB, I actually gave up FB for Lent, it's been a very nice break!! With both on my LO's in service, I keep it very quiet. Take care and Thank you for your prayers!
Hello ladies, all I can say is GULP! My son is just graduating and being Commissioned next month. Then off to flight school. May I ask a stupid question? What do all of your abbreviations mean: DS, DD, LO...?
cherih, sending heartfelt hugs to you with tears in my eyes too. I can't believe he's already going! Kingsville was just a minute ago, wasn't it? Sending you all warm wishes. Remember, he is one of the best trained pilots in the world and heading off to do what he loves.
He made it! Twas quite the saga of travel, but it was wonderful to get the email saying he made it and did his first trap within the required time period. He is settling into squadron life aboard the Stennis. I have talked to his wife several times and she is handling it well. The poor puppy dog has quite a road ahead of her for healing.
Thanks for all your prayers and kind words. Barb-it does seem like a whirlwind. It seemed like training would go on forever, but he's finally there. (I do realize that training is never over...)
Welcome to all our new members...please read and ask questions. It's therapy to help those on the path behind us.
I hope all of you have a blessed day and Happy Easter!
I am one happy Mom! Last week, my DS invited my hubs to join him on the Tiger Cruise this summer. He is sooo excited and I'm thrilled that he gets to go. And today, my sweet DIL asked me if I would like to come visit her and go with her to meet the boat when it comes home! I am so excited to see a homecoming; wondered if I would ever get to see one; and I'm even more thrilled that she invited me!!!!
CheriH, this is really nice news for your husband. My DS is on his last leg in primary, I actually saw him 2 weeks ago in Pensacola and told him if he ever get the chance to do the Tiger cruise I want to go, I do not care about nobody else. Who knows maybe one day...
CheriH - That will be awesome! We were able to be dock side on Coronado when the USS Carl Vinson came in to North Island last June. Seeing all the families gathered to see their loved one return after so long was something I will never forget. Our son had flown in with the helo squadron the previous day after he had assumed command of the squadron. We were there with his family when they all flew in. <3 The next day we all went to see the ship come in and greet the rest of his people. Did I say it was amazing! Have a great time! Cherish the moment!
Congrats CheriH, those are all wonderful things! I hope there's a Tiger Cruise in my future at some point!
Suzie, sending prayers for your Dad and huzzahs for your retirement! I'm sure there are lots of emotions in your household right now.
Our DS is in a training at Pearl Harbor for a couple of weeks...he's making the most of it, but we all know these things are not as glamorous as they sound. Mostly it's 12 hours a day in a room with no windows! They've been down to Waikiki though and he did some snorkeling, etc. etc. He called me yesterday but I was on a conference call at work, bummer!
Have a wonderful weekend everyone...hoping spring has sprung wherever you are!
Suzie -- i'm so sorry to hear about your father. It can be very difficult. My bro-in-law has that type of tumor &, honestly, it's been a difficult road. My prayers are with you & your family. Enjoy every day w/ your dad. ((((HUGS))))
A fun DS "sighting". Our family has always watched the Indy 500 together. We'[ve been to the race several times with dear friends. We have a list of 20 "bets" to see who gets to have the coveted "sip of milk". The last several years we have watched spread around the country and texted or talked throughout the race. This year, DS watched it live (midnite his time) from the carrier. He managed to get Instant Messenger working and so we were able to "chat" as we watched. Hubby and me in Atlanta, dear friends in Houston, DIL in California and daughter and family in Seattle. DS in the South China Sea. The wonders of technology! This will be a race we remember.
One more fun moment: DS's comment after the race began; "did everybody see the most beautiful jets fly over the race?" They were F18s.
And now, today, thinking about the many families who have lost loved ones serving our country. Grateful to all those who put their lives on the line each day and especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
I posted this in NFO group too. My DS had a real quick turnaround getting from Norfolk to his ship already out at sea. He gave his fiancé and me his afloat address but it seems to be missing a box number. Is there a way to confirm his afloat address somehow?
My DS also just left on a ship and the address he provided (snapshot from a letter) did not contain a box number. I rushed to get a care package out to him since his birthday is at the end of the month. The post office questioned there not being a box number, but accepted the package anyway when I showed them the photo on my phone. I hope he gets it! Is your son by chance on the Wasp?
If you know what squadron they will be in, check to see if there is a facebook page or an ombudsman page. There could also be web sites for their squadrons and you might find the mailing addresses there as well. Good luck!!
First deployment done! Hubby had a marvelous time on the Tiger Cruise and DIL and I had such fun sharing Homecoming together. I even got a brief tour of the carrier after they came in. Then the 4 of us spent 2 days enjoying San Diego together. Such fun to listen to him tell stories of flying and life on the carrier. :)
CheriH, congrats!! Wow, that felt fast...probably not to any of you though. So cool that all of you were able to be a part of the homecoming celebration.
It's been pretty quiet here...Suzie, how are things in your neck of the woods? Our DS is working away in his squadron, just getting little bits of flying time. Almost got to fly home on a cross country a few weeks ago, but one of the jets broke down at their first fuel stop on the way. They met up with Gene Simmons from KISS out on the tarmac though!! Have a great day everyone...
Congrats CheriH!!! I'm glad all is well and you were able to spend some time on the carrier too!! That's awesome!!! My LO finished primary last week and I understand the Board meets today, so soon very soon my LO will know what aircraft he will be assigned too!!! He was at the top of his class so we hope he gets his 1st choice!! Congrats again !!
CheriH - Homecoming sounds fun and nurturing for all. Happy for you.
My DS had his winging in June at Corpus Christi. We made it a true family celebration, including a fun beach party. There were 19 of us! He just moved to Jacksonville to train on the P3. But first - SERE. He leaves for SERE Labor Day weekend. He's trying to gain weight because all of his friends said they lost at least 10 lbs. during SERE.
So good to hear from everybody...Suzie, so sorry about DS's dog. I know how much we love our furry friends. Can't believe he fixed the jet by Facetime.
Helenp..congrats on winging. Sounds like a fun party! SERE isn't much fun...for them or us moms. But he will make it. Remind us when he leaves and we will be praying.
Quilter...good luck to your DS. Those nail biting times are challenging.
Barb...it's that strange combination of time dragging, but looking back seems like it flashed by. Don't know how that works. What a hoot that your DS met Gene Simmons!
Amazing to hear what all are doing. It has been quite a while.
SERE, yes a good idea to put on some weight beforehand. My DS list 10. An experience they do not want to go through again, but thankful for the experience and what they learn.
Quilter, keep us informed about what platform your DS gets.
Hard to believe mine is on his second deployment. Hopefully home October 1 in time for his brothers wedding. Where does the time go. . .
Congratulations, Suzie! You deserve that wonderful breakfast! Jn/Jf, SERE scares me but my DS is about a year away. I told him, everyone says to put on 10 pounds so start eating now. (He's on the thinner side.)
I've been watching and reading all the comments with not too much to add lately. This is such a supportive group and I'm so thankful we have it. DS just keeps plugging away--VT-21 in Kingsville.
Jn/Jf mom..praying! I didn't get much sleep that last week. Just remember, they don't want to hurt him. Just train him! DS did say that the ham and american cheese between two pieces of white bread he got at the end was the best sandwich he ever ate!
jsefamily..our DS was in VT-21. He was there 11 months. How long has your DS been there?
Suzie..congrats on being done with school! Hope you enjoyed your first day!
TennMom: We are fortunate for certain. Our DS said that he had learned the Friday before (two days) that VT-21 was "without incident" for four years and everyone was very proud of that. Then Sunday....
Our DS really likes all of his instructors so I'm sure your DS is among them. He said it's a great environment. It's very supportive.
Thanks everyone for the prayers & well wishes RE: SERE. I'm not really worried cuz i know thousands have gone before him, and it's great training to have. That being said, i'll be happy to receive a Snap at the end of next week :)
Jn/Jf Mom your DS should be finished with SERE by now. Mine is two weeks behind him. He left for SERE this past weekend. Just before he left he had a sore toe that the Dr. said looked like it was infected. He soaked it, but said he can't take antibiotics during SERE. He soaked it and it improved. My thoughts are constantly with him, but I am thankful that they do this and prepare them.
After SERE he will begin his training in Jacksonville on the P3 Orion. Although there was some initial disappointment that he didn't get the fancy new P8, he's now actually excited that he will need to use all of his pilot skills to fly the old turboprop. Anyone else in Jacksonville? So far he and his GF love it there so far. That will make it more difficult to leave and go to Whidby next year.
We are hanging out with the grandkids this weekend. The grown ups are at Tailhook. Their house is on the final approach to the airfield. Jets and helos, low and loud. They make the window blinds rattle. My husband is in heaven.
Ladies, we just returned from Tailhook in Reno. You can be so proud of our community of Naval aviators. It is so amazing to see all ages and levels greet each other and interact. It was truly a heartwarming experience. Although my DS is deployed, so many of his friends came by to see my husband and myself. They are amazing individuals who take care of each other and look out for the families of those deployed.
We were able to attend as we an exhibitor working with a friend who has been a great mentor for our DS and a wonderful friend.
Marianne
helenp- Same here. "Our" winging was in August so husband and #2 son wore sports jackets and khakis; daughter and I wore simple "church dresses".
That was for the ceremony & reception at the OC. In the morning when we were touring the sims, etc., everyone was in jeans or shorts!
We went out to dinner together, but the after party was only for military.
Mar 14, 2016
Helomom
Mar 14, 2016
CheriH
And he's off! Got a phone call the night before to say good-bye (I was a crying mess) and a text from the airport saying he was boarding. 5 Flights and something like 36 hours of travel to get on the boat. He's in VFA-14; the Tophatters. I'll be holding my breath til I get that first email.
Mar 18, 2016
Quilter
Dear CheriH,
I'm sure that was hard!! My LO is only at the beginning stages. The T6 is where he's at in flying. I have been watching and reading everyone's post to help me prepare for whats next! I guess the worrying never ends..... I just pray and wait to hear from my LO often!! Best of Luck to your LO and I will keep them all in my prayers!!
Mar 18, 2016
NYNancy
Quilter, best wishes to your LO also. Following my DS's adventures has been a very exciting, sometimes nail biting experience. Hope you enjoy the ride.
Mar 18, 2016
Quilter
Thank you NYNancy!! It is indeed a Ride! I just got word about SERE, I think that's what my LO was telling my husband, but I understand that's not for awhile!! I told my husband to stop telling me about it!! I really don't want to know when or where, just let me know when it's over!! Prayers for you and your LO as well!!
Mar 18, 2016
NYNancy
Mar 18, 2016
Quilter
Oh Yes NYNancy, nothing on FB, I actually gave up FB for Lent, it's been a very nice break!! With both on my LO's in service, I keep it very quiet. Take care and Thank you for your prayers!
Mar 18, 2016
So proud Sal
Hello ladies, all I can say is GULP! My son is just graduating and being Commissioned next month. Then off to flight school. May I ask a stupid question? What do all of your abbreviations mean: DS, DD, LO...?
I have soooo much to learn!
Thanks,
Sally
Mar 18, 2016
Barb
cherih, sending heartfelt hugs to you with tears in my eyes too. I can't believe he's already going! Kingsville was just a minute ago, wasn't it? Sending you all warm wishes. Remember, he is one of the best trained pilots in the world and heading off to do what he loves.
Mar 18, 2016
NYNancy
Best wishes to you and your DS!
Mar 18, 2016
Barb
Check out this interview:
http://www.npr.org/2016/03/19/471077856/retired-boeing-employee-sta...
She's the voice our LO's hear in the cockpit of their jets when they need help...
Mar 21, 2016
JudyM
Mar 25, 2016
CheriH
He made it! Twas quite the saga of travel, but it was wonderful to get the email saying he made it and did his first trap within the required time period. He is settling into squadron life aboard the Stennis. I have talked to his wife several times and she is handling it well. The poor puppy dog has quite a road ahead of her for healing.
Thanks for all your prayers and kind words. Barb-it does seem like a whirlwind. It seemed like training would go on forever, but he's finally there. (I do realize that training is never over...)
Welcome to all our new members...please read and ask questions. It's therapy to help those on the path behind us.
I hope all of you have a blessed day and Happy Easter!
Mar 25, 2016
CheriH
I am one happy Mom! Last week, my DS invited my hubs to join him on the Tiger Cruise this summer. He is sooo excited and I'm thrilled that he gets to go. And today, my sweet DIL asked me if I would like to come visit her and go with her to meet the boat when it comes home! I am so excited to see a homecoming; wondered if I would ever get to see one; and I'm even more thrilled that she invited me!!!!
Apr 27, 2016
Beata
Apr 27, 2016
Helomom
Apr 27, 2016
Barb
Hi there,
Congrats CheriH, those are all wonderful things! I hope there's a Tiger Cruise in my future at some point!
Suzie, sending prayers for your Dad and huzzahs for your retirement! I'm sure there are lots of emotions in your household right now.
Our DS is in a training at Pearl Harbor for a couple of weeks...he's making the most of it, but we all know these things are not as glamorous as they sound. Mostly it's 12 hours a day in a room with no windows! They've been down to Waikiki though and he did some snorkeling, etc. etc. He called me yesterday but I was on a conference call at work, bummer!
Have a wonderful weekend everyone...hoping spring has sprung wherever you are!
Apr 29, 2016
Barb
Suzie, I'm so sorry about the diagnosis. That will be a hard call, I know. Sending hugs.
Apr 29, 2016
J/J Mom
Suzie -- i'm so sorry to hear about your father. It can be very difficult. My bro-in-law has that type of tumor &, honestly, it's been a difficult road. My prayers are with you & your family. Enjoy every day w/ your dad. ((((HUGS))))
May 1, 2016
JudyM
Anyone hear about the jet crash off the North Carolina coast?
May 26, 2016
JudyM
Thanks James for the response. Here is another version.
F-18 crash
May 26, 2016
ulua
May 26, 2016
CheriH
Thank goodness they are safe. I'm with you ulua about the filming, but it is comforting to see them looking ok.
May 26, 2016
Barb
So scary. Very glad to hear all four were rescued and are alert. Prayers for all our kids as they serve...
May 26, 2016
JudyM
May 27, 2016
CheriH
A fun DS "sighting". Our family has always watched the Indy 500 together. We'[ve been to the race several times with dear friends. We have a list of 20 "bets" to see who gets to have the coveted "sip of milk". The last several years we have watched spread around the country and texted or talked throughout the race. This year, DS watched it live (midnite his time) from the carrier. He managed to get Instant Messenger working and so we were able to "chat" as we watched. Hubby and me in Atlanta, dear friends in Houston, DIL in California and daughter and family in Seattle. DS in the South China Sea. The wonders of technology! This will be a race we remember.
May 30, 2016
CheriH
One more fun moment: DS's comment after the race began; "did everybody see the most beautiful jets fly over the race?" They were F18s.
And now, today, thinking about the many families who have lost loved ones serving our country. Grateful to all those who put their lives on the line each day and especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
May 30, 2016
Marmie
I posted this in NFO group too. My DS had a real quick turnaround getting from Norfolk to his ship already out at sea. He gave his fiancé and me his afloat address but it seems to be missing a box number. Is there a way to confirm his afloat address somehow?
Thanks
Jul 4, 2016
Kabar
My DS also just left on a ship and the address he provided (snapshot from a letter) did not contain a box number. I rushed to get a care package out to him since his birthday is at the end of the month. The post office questioned there not being a box number, but accepted the package anyway when I showed them the photo on my phone. I hope he gets it! Is your son by chance on the Wasp?
Jul 4, 2016
TennMom
If you know what squadron they will be in, check to see if there is a facebook page or an ombudsman page. There could also be web sites for their squadrons and you might find the mailing addresses there as well. Good luck!!
Jul 4, 2016
CheriH
First deployment done! Hubby had a marvelous time on the Tiger Cruise and DIL and I had such fun sharing Homecoming together. I even got a brief tour of the carrier after they came in. Then the 4 of us spent 2 days enjoying San Diego together. Such fun to listen to him tell stories of flying and life on the carrier. :)
Aug 16, 2016
Barb
CheriH, congrats!! Wow, that felt fast...probably not to any of you though. So cool that all of you were able to be a part of the homecoming celebration.
It's been pretty quiet here...Suzie, how are things in your neck of the woods? Our DS is working away in his squadron, just getting little bits of flying time. Almost got to fly home on a cross country a few weeks ago, but one of the jets broke down at their first fuel stop on the way. They met up with Gene Simmons from KISS out on the tarmac though!! Have a great day everyone...
Aug 16, 2016
Quilter
Aug 16, 2016
helenp
CheriH - Homecoming sounds fun and nurturing for all. Happy for you.
My DS had his winging in June at Corpus Christi. We made it a true family celebration, including a fun beach party. There were 19 of us! He just moved to Jacksonville to train on the P3. But first - SERE. He leaves for SERE Labor Day weekend. He's trying to gain weight because all of his friends said they lost at least 10 lbs. during SERE.
Aug 16, 2016
CheriH
So good to hear from everybody...Suzie, so sorry about DS's dog. I know how much we love our furry friends. Can't believe he fixed the jet by Facetime.
Helenp..congrats on winging. Sounds like a fun party! SERE isn't much fun...for them or us moms. But he will make it. Remind us when he leaves and we will be praying.
Quilter...good luck to your DS. Those nail biting times are challenging.
Barb...it's that strange combination of time dragging, but looking back seems like it flashed by. Don't know how that works. What a hoot that your DS met Gene Simmons!
Aug 16, 2016
JudyM
SERE, yes a good idea to put on some weight beforehand. My DS list 10. An experience they do not want to go through again, but thankful for the experience and what they learn.
Quilter, keep us informed about what platform your DS gets.
Hard to believe mine is on his second deployment. Hopefully home October 1 in time for his brothers wedding. Where does the time go. . .
Aug 16, 2016
J/J Mom
DS left for SERE this past weekend. On the bright side, the winging in July was fabulous. It was so good to spend the week with him in Corpus.
Aug 22, 2016
jsefamily
I've been watching and reading all the comments with not too much to add lately. This is such a supportive group and I'm so thankful we have it. DS just keeps plugging away--VT-21 in Kingsville.
Aug 23, 2016
CheriH
Jn/Jf mom..praying! I didn't get much sleep that last week. Just remember, they don't want to hurt him. Just train him! DS did say that the ham and american cheese between two pieces of white bread he got at the end was the best sandwich he ever ate!
jsefamily..our DS was in VT-21. He was there 11 months. How long has your DS been there?
Suzie..congrats on being done with school! Hope you enjoyed your first day!
Aug 23, 2016
TennMom
jsefamily, my DS is one of the instructors for VT-21. Glad that neither of our DS was involved in the incident last week!
Aug 23, 2016
jsefamily
Our DS really likes all of his instructors so I'm sure your DS is among them. He said it's a great environment. It's very supportive.
Aug 23, 2016
jsefamily
Aug 23, 2016
jsefamily
Aug 23, 2016
J/J Mom
Suzie -- woo hoo!!
Thanks everyone for the prayers & well wishes RE: SERE. I'm not really worried cuz i know thousands have gone before him, and it's great training to have. That being said, i'll be happy to receive a Snap at the end of next week :)
Aug 25, 2016
Helomom
Aug 29, 2016
td309
Is anyone a mom of a VP-45 Pelican?
Aug 30, 2016
helenp
Jn/Jf Mom your DS should be finished with SERE by now. Mine is two weeks behind him. He left for SERE this past weekend. Just before he left he had a sore toe that the Dr. said looked like it was infected. He soaked it, but said he can't take antibiotics during SERE. He soaked it and it improved. My thoughts are constantly with him, but I am thankful that they do this and prepare them.
After SERE he will begin his training in Jacksonville on the P3 Orion. Although there was some initial disappointment that he didn't get the fancy new P8, he's now actually excited that he will need to use all of his pilot skills to fly the old turboprop. Anyone else in Jacksonville? So far he and his GF love it there so far. That will make it more difficult to leave and go to Whidby next year.
Sep 8, 2016
Helomom
Sep 9, 2016
JudyM
Ladies, we just returned from Tailhook in Reno. You can be so proud of our community of Naval aviators. It is so amazing to see all ages and levels greet each other and interact. It was truly a heartwarming experience. Although my DS is deployed, so many of his friends came by to see my husband and myself. They are amazing individuals who take care of each other and look out for the families of those deployed.
We were able to attend as we an exhibitor working with a friend who has been a great mentor for our DS and a wonderful friend.
Sep 10, 2016