I'm feeling really sad today. That inspection is finally over and still haven't heard from my sailor. He is finally having some free time, as I see post on facebook. Just needed to vent. :( I sure miss him!
Imnadelady, Just because the inspection is over and they are home does not mean your sailor has had free time. Sometimes they must help with reports once they are back in or must stand watches while others go for liberties etc. Don't be hard on your sailor. Also, the inspections are a big deal and it is straining...could be enjoying a little extra sleep, down-time and preparation for next cruise (haircuts, stock up on snacks, laundry, etc) That our sailors are back safe must always be our big concern. Yes, I don't hear from mine now he is married, like I used to but I must remember that when things get tough, he still calls mom.
Mary thanks I just needed an ear. Mine is single and 30. He is out on the town, one of the friends he is with posted on fb. The friend got taken by a Japanese monk, lesson learned for the 4 sailors to be aware. I haven't heard from him since he left Hong Kong, except for a very brief chat on fb. Decided not to add to his prepay phone as he would only be in Japan for short period. He already owns an iphone, so he decided not to buy another one there. So I will wait patiently. Thanks for listening. :)
By taken , I meant took advantage. Some Monk or so it appeared asked him for a donation, he opened his wallet had 2 (5,000 yen bills), gave him one and the monk took his arm and pulled him back, told him he wanted10,000 yen and something the sailor didn't understand. So he gave him the rest. Equivalent to $130. Glad to hear your comment lil Japanese crime. This is my sons first foreign assignment and his first deploy, he has been there since March.
Good morning everyone. Sorry to hear about the scandalous monk, weird!
I have a question maybe y'all can help me with... My son has been undesignated airman since Sept., he was hoping to strike for a new rate this Sept. But he is being told it hasn't been a full year and he cannot. I thought they could strike in March or Sept., does anyone know how this works?
Lia CCmom- wish I could help, but not familiar with the striking process anymore. I heard my son will be able to take his advancement test and praying for the best.
I've been enjoying some communication with my son while he is in indoc. I guess he stood the COC the other day. He said it was 3 hours! He will join the ship finally on Friday and I'm happy for him to start living his normal routine. I think he will too. I'm sure my communication will start dwindling, but I know it's all for the best. He's already grown so much and making some friends.
I've been trying to keep myself busy and occupied. I got the husband involved with the familiar "OH JOY" what do I have to do now attitiude, LOL. I had him install a flag pole in the front yard last weekend, now it's curd and we put up the flags yesterday, American and Navy! This weekend we are landscaping around and I will post pics when it's done. The pole is over 20 ft to hold both flags and it's looking NICE! I have the sgt at arms from my Legion living across the street and he's been poking his head out the door giving the thumbs up.
Next week I celebrate my 13th wedding anniversary to this guy, LOL. I figure he needs a medal for sticking it out with me... then I rethink it and say he's been a lucky man! to have me as his wife, LOL. Not sure if we are doing anything.
Anyway, hope everyone has had a great weekend so far... Vi
I don't know why I can't download the picture of the finished flag pole and front yard. So frustrating, but I'm so tired and my back is in pain so I'll try again tomorrow. Off to take some meds and relax... bye for now.
Yesterday I got my first clear phone call in awhile. We talked for 45 minutes. It was so good to hear his voice, and to tell him I love him. He is still loving Japan. He said the language barrier is difficult, but if you yell, they understand you better. I think at 6'5 he's probably just scaring them into saying what he wants to hear. He looks forward to departing again soon. He enjoys what he is doing, even if he works 18 hour days. My last baby is leaving for college(12 hours drive)Wednesday. My sailor made fun of me saying how I cry when they leave. I think that it makes him feel extra loved to know that it upsets me to see them go. I'm proud of all three of my children and the lives they choose to lead. What I would give to have all of them home together again.
Thanks for the help......He leaves for Japan two weeks from Thursday....he sounds a little less anxious this week.....it looks like he will fly from jacksonville to Norfolk....will he stay there for a bit and then head to Japan? He was told to have at least $500 on him for the flight...that seems like a lot??
$300 - $500 will not get you far. Everything is very expensive in Japan, incredibly expensive. Navy Federal is great on the base and if they stay on the base, they can use credit cards, American money - they can proceed as if they were in the states. There is a Walmart-like store on the bases where almost anything can be purchased from food to clothing, simple furniture, household products - every necessity. The quality is decent. Outside the bases in Japan, you need yen for everything - cash. Credit cards are rarely accepted. ATM machines are rare. My son lives off base and he had to come up with a huge amount of cash to rent his apartment between the first month, last month and security. Because he lives off base, our family has been able to visit him and stay with him when he returns to shore. It has been an eye opener for us into our son's life for our extended family.
When my son went last month his papers said he had to have $300 in yen. He took cash and got his yen at the airport in Japan. There are several places in the Tokyo airport to exchange money.
Help! My son missed his connecting flight last night out of Atlanta due to weather. He is getting a flight out to Seattle this morning but obviously won't make his flight to Japan. I see that there is a flight (commercial) to Japan that he could get, but do they fly commercial to Japan or is it a military flight? Who can I call to get this all figured out?? Of course I am in panic mode as I am new to all of this and this is his FIRST duty station. Any help given will be much appreciated!!!
My son left in Oct. and the airline he took was a commercial airline but is contracted with the Navy. I am sure someone in Seattle will help him, does he have a sponser who he can call frome the Ship he will be on? Hope this helps you.
His sponsor never made contact with him. They switched his sponsor because the first one never made contact nor did the second one. I am trying to make contact thru the numbers he has, but have not been able to connect with anyone.
YOU ARE THE BOMB MOM! Thank you so much! I am running on little sleep and lots of coffee. He is on his flight to Seattle now. It appears that they contract with commercial flights and there seems to be one that he could catch to make it to Japan by his required date. Thank you again for the comforting words and information!
The flight that they take from Seattle to Japan is a Military Flight (AMC). It is called the Patriot Express. It flies from Seattle to Japan to SKorea, Then turns around and goes backward. The only way he would flying on a commercial flight is if he was on leave and bought a ticket.
The AMC office is right down from the USO on the mezzanine level of the airport. And there are plenty of people there that are willing to help him.
What is you email address? PM it to me and I will forward you the Newsletter I got from the GDUB to you. It has info regarding contact info for the Ombudsman. They can get info to the command for the Sailor and help him make contact with his shop or department.
Just as a future reference....all the sponsors seem to fall short. My son had to make many calls to Korea to his sponsor before he went. His sponsor was busy doing her job. If the communication is kept going though there usually is no real problems. If nothing else the USO should be able to get the number for the Quartermaster at his base so he can call from the USO to report the situation. The Quartermaster in return should report it to whoever it needs to be notified. One concern is to make sure there is transportation available upon arival to Japan (or any other destination). Often there are shuttles between the base and airport throughout the day but early morning and late night they often are less frequent or non existant. That can also throw off their report-in time. My son has had to spend a few nights in USO offices and airline gates waiting for his flight or waiting for a shuttle or sponsor. It does become more routine for them with each new command.
Hmmm...Katlanta~not sure that at a site such as N4M you would want to be known as the BOMB MOM, huh? lol WE all know what gamagnolia meant so cool....you is da bomb!
I appreciate all the help that everyone has given today. Oops about the bomb mom, little Freudian slip. I am new to the game, but hope to catch on quickly! :)
I am so glad to hear that I am not alone with these feelings. He finally got on a plane earlier today and will be there soon. I have been able to track his flight, which has been a comfort to "see" where the plane is at. I was able to finally get a response from the ombudsman and they forwarded my message to his command. Thank you to all of you for your support, advise and comforting words. Seems a little easier when you know you are not on the boat alone. (Attempt at a Navy joke) :)
winavymom$ I'm with you. He is glad to get home, but as the leave nears an end, he spends time getting packed up. It seems too soon to be packing, but I know he is going home. He is happy and I have to smile and saw good bye with a cheer, so he will look forward to visiting again. It can be hard! But I'm so glad he is happy with his life.
Sqidsmom, sorry for the family loss. Congratulations to your daughter.
Winavymom, have to agree...letting go is the hardest cause we have to do it over and over with a smile.
Navyma, congratulations to your family as well.
My son is aboard the GW now. Sounds like the pre - training is good though. From what I understand things will be getting quiet again this next week? I'm bracing myself and ready to hear from a different man in a couple months.
Are our sailors able to call and/or skype when they are out to sea or must they wait to be in port? Can they use their own equipment, i.e. IPad, laptop, etc. to skype?
@katlanta-thanks for the info. He got there safe and sound, Just trying to put ducks in a row to be prepared for a deployment. Glad to hear that he will not have enough down time to do too much thinking about home. :)
@katlanta--I am not sure that you have convinced me yet that you are ok with the GF situation and him not coming home. It is hard to play second base some times. But, your will always be in the game. Chin up! :)
@katlanta-glad to hear that you are really ok with it and understand that he has to do what he feels is the right thing. Hopefully you will get to seem him soon. When they come back in from this deployment near the holiday season will they be back in port until after the holidays?
Got an email and he's feeling ...not sure the right word. He's made a couple silly mistakes like saluting an officer below deck and facing the wrong way for morning salute, he's very hard on himself and nervous I guess. I wish he would get a sense of humor about himself or he's going to become grumpy. Still no information so only have a gmail email. Guess I won't be able to write now and just wait. Uugghhhhh...fricken kids! How they can keep their mothers dangling. I off to watch a chick flick so I can cry.
CreativeVi-I have always said that children can always bring you the most pleasure & the most pain. Being a mom is one of the toughest jobs there is to do. I am sure you are extremely proud of him. It is hard to let go and let them grow. I struggle doing the same. But when you see him again, you will realize, hey, my baby is growing up. Your relationship at that moment will change. :) Mom hugs to you!
Good afternoon Ladies! As I previously stated, my son arrived in Japan on Thursday afternoon and as you well know, they deployed yesterday. He did not get to "in doc" and therefore upon his leaving, didn't have an address. Can anyone help me with how I would be able to get one for him? I would like to send some goody boxes & pics to him while he is gone. Thanks
My son leaves for Japan a week from tomorrow.....if the GW just deployed how long will it be gone for....will my son have wait 3-4 months before he can go on the ship? He hasn't heard from his sponsor either......Thanks guys!
To Navy Mom from CT - Not unusual to arrive on the GW by plane or at a port of call. The GW will be stopping at a few places in the next few months.Many opportunities to hitch a ride.
Sounds so exciting being flown out to your ship!! I feel like he should be preparing more for Japan.....but I guess there is really nothing he can do....just pack his bag....he already has a Navy Federal account and his passport.....he will have to get a phone once he gets there.....How long does the GW usually go out for?? Thanks ladies!
CreativeVi
He was there for one second... AHHhhhhhh
Aug 9, 2012
Lisa FLNavyMom
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151088351252398&set=a....
It's new sailors boarding the ship :)
Aug 10, 2012
Kimberly P
Aug 10, 2012
lmnadelady
I'm feeling really sad today. That inspection is finally over and still haven't heard from my sailor. He is finally having some free time, as I see post on facebook. Just needed to vent. :( I sure miss him!
Aug 11, 2012
lmnadelady
one of my sailors friends just got vambozzled by a Japanese monk!
Aug 11, 2012
Mary (Chris' mom)
Imnadelady, Just because the inspection is over and they are home does not mean your sailor has had free time. Sometimes they must help with reports once they are back in or must stand watches while others go for liberties etc. Don't be hard on your sailor. Also, the inspections are a big deal and it is straining...could be enjoying a little extra sleep, down-time and preparation for next cruise (haircuts, stock up on snacks, laundry, etc) That our sailors are back safe must always be our big concern. Yes, I don't hear from mine now he is married, like I used to but I must remember that when things get tough, he still calls mom.
Aug 11, 2012
lmnadelady
Mary thanks I just needed an ear. Mine is single and 30. He is out on the town, one of the friends he is with posted on fb. The friend got taken by a Japanese monk, lesson learned for the 4 sailors to be aware. I haven't heard from him since he left Hong Kong, except for a very brief chat on fb. Decided not to add to his prepay phone as he would only be in Japan for short period. He already owns an iphone, so he decided not to buy another one there. So I will wait patiently. Thanks for listening. :)
Aug 11, 2012
lmnadelady
By taken , I meant took advantage. Some Monk or so it appeared asked him for a donation, he opened his wallet had 2 (5,000 yen bills), gave him one and the monk took his arm and pulled him back, told him he wanted10,000 yen and something the sailor didn't understand. So he gave him the rest. Equivalent to $130. Glad to hear your comment lil Japanese crime. This is my sons first foreign assignment and his first deploy, he has been there since March.
Aug 11, 2012
Lisa FLNavyMom
I have a question maybe y'all can help me with... My son has been undesignated airman since Sept., he was hoping to strike for a new rate this Sept. But he is being told it hasn't been a full year and he cannot. I thought they could strike in March or Sept., does anyone know how this works?
Aug 12, 2012
CreativeVi
I've been enjoying some communication with my son while he is in indoc. I guess he stood the COC the other day. He said it was 3 hours! He will join the ship finally on Friday and I'm happy for him to start living his normal routine. I think he will too. I'm sure my communication will start dwindling, but I know it's all for the best. He's already grown so much and making some friends.
I've been trying to keep myself busy and occupied. I got the husband involved with the familiar "OH JOY" what do I have to do now attitiude, LOL. I had him install a flag pole in the front yard last weekend, now it's curd and we put up the flags yesterday, American and Navy! This weekend we are landscaping around and I will post pics when it's done. The pole is over 20 ft to hold both flags and it's looking NICE! I have the sgt at arms from my Legion living across the street and he's been poking his head out the door giving the thumbs up.
Next week I celebrate my 13th wedding anniversary to this guy, LOL. I figure he needs a medal for sticking it out with me... then I rethink it and say he's been a lucky man! to have me as his wife, LOL. Not sure if we are doing anything.
Anyway, hope everyone has had a great weekend so far... Vi
Aug 12, 2012
lmnadelady
I like that flagpole idea too. Great Christmas gift idea!
Aug 12, 2012
CreativeVi
Aug 12, 2012
peetreesmama(USS Harry S Truman)
Aug 13, 2012
navymomfromCT (Ship 11, Div.037)
Thanks for the help......He leaves for Japan two weeks from Thursday....he sounds a little less anxious this week.....it looks like he will fly from jacksonville to Norfolk....will he stay there for a bit and then head to Japan? He was told to have at least $500 on him for the flight...that seems like a lot??
Aug 13, 2012
navymomfromCT (Ship 11, Div.037)
I will double check with him on the yen...thanks.....he doesn't need $500 on him just in his bank....???
Aug 13, 2012
Navy Mom
$300 - $500 will not get you far. Everything is very expensive in Japan, incredibly expensive. Navy Federal is great on the base and if they stay on the base, they can use credit cards, American money - they can proceed as if they were in the states. There is a Walmart-like store on the bases where almost anything can be purchased from food to clothing, simple furniture, household products - every necessity. The quality is decent. Outside the bases in Japan, you need yen for everything - cash. Credit cards are rarely accepted. ATM machines are rare. My son lives off base and he had to come up with a huge amount of cash to rent his apartment between the first month, last month and security. Because he lives off base, our family has been able to visit him and stay with him when he returns to shore. It has been an eye opener for us into our son's life for our extended family.
Aug 13, 2012
Kimberly P
Aug 13, 2012
gamagnolia
Help! My son missed his connecting flight last night out of Atlanta due to weather. He is getting a flight out to Seattle this morning but obviously won't make his flight to Japan. I see that there is a flight (commercial) to Japan that he could get, but do they fly commercial to Japan or is it a military flight? Who can I call to get this all figured out?? Of course I am in panic mode as I am new to all of this and this is his FIRST duty station. Any help given will be much appreciated!!!
Aug 14, 2012
sharma.penix
Aug 14, 2012
gamagnolia
His sponsor never made contact with him. They switched his sponsor because the first one never made contact nor did the second one. I am trying to make contact thru the numbers he has, but have not been able to connect with anyone.
Aug 14, 2012
gamagnolia
YOU ARE THE BOMB MOM! Thank you so much! I am running on little sleep and lots of coffee. He is on his flight to Seattle now. It appears that they contract with commercial flights and there seems to be one that he could catch to make it to Japan by his required date. Thank you again for the comforting words and information!
Aug 14, 2012
gamagnolia
P.S. Glad your son looked great! :)
Aug 14, 2012
momof2sailors
gamagnolia,
The flight that they take from Seattle to Japan is a Military Flight (AMC). It is called the Patriot Express. It flies from Seattle to Japan to SKorea, Then turns around and goes backward. The only way he would flying on a commercial flight is if he was on leave and bought a ticket.
The AMC office is right down from the USO on the mezzanine level of the airport. And there are plenty of people there that are willing to help him.
What is you email address? PM it to me and I will forward you the Newsletter I got from the GDUB to you. It has info regarding contact info for the Ombudsman. They can get info to the command for the Sailor and help him make contact with his shop or department.
Aug 14, 2012
momof2sailors
Also the GDUB just went thru a Change of Command this past Friday.
Aug 14, 2012
Mary (Chris' mom)
Just as a future reference....all the sponsors seem to fall short. My son had to make many calls to Korea to his sponsor before he went. His sponsor was busy doing her job. If the communication is kept going though there usually is no real problems. If nothing else the USO should be able to get the number for the Quartermaster at his base so he can call from the USO to report the situation. The Quartermaster in return should report it to whoever it needs to be notified. One concern is to make sure there is transportation available upon arival to Japan (or any other destination). Often there are shuttles between the base and airport throughout the day but early morning and late night they often are less frequent or non existant. That can also throw off their report-in time. My son has had to spend a few nights in USO offices and airline gates waiting for his flight or waiting for a shuttle or sponsor. It does become more routine for them with each new command.
Hmmm...Katlanta~not sure that at a site such as N4M you would want to be known as the BOMB MOM, huh? lol WE all know what gamagnolia meant so cool....you is da bomb!
Aug 14, 2012
gamagnolia
I appreciate all the help that everyone has given today. Oops about the bomb mom, little Freudian slip. I am new to the game, but hope to catch on quickly! :)
Aug 14, 2012
Mary (Chris' mom)
no problem gamagnolia...was just joking. :-)
Aug 14, 2012
CreativeVi
gamagnolia
Hope all turned out well for your sailor. This is the best place to be, so full of good info.
Aug 14, 2012
Mary (Chris' mom)
hahhaaaaa katlanta, so if the name fits.....
Aug 15, 2012
TexasSailorMom
When my son went to Japan he was flown non stop from Houston, where he was home on leave. Saw him in a pic on the Gdub's facebook page today!
Aug 15, 2012
gamagnolia
I am so glad to hear that I am not alone with these feelings. He finally got on a plane earlier today and will be there soon. I have been able to track his flight, which has been a comfort to "see" where the plane is at. I was able to finally get a response from the ombudsman and they forwarded my message to his command. Thank you to all of you for your support, advise and comforting words. Seems a little easier when you know you are not on the boat alone. (Attempt at a Navy joke) :)
Aug 15, 2012
lmnadelady
winavymom$ I'm with you. He is glad to get home, but as the leave nears an end, he spends time getting packed up. It seems too soon to be packing, but I know he is going home. He is happy and I have to smile and saw good bye with a cheer, so he will look forward to visiting again. It can be hard! But I'm so glad he is happy with his life.
Aug 16, 2012
CreativeVi
Winavymom, have to agree...letting go is the hardest cause we have to do it over and over with a smile.
Navyma, congratulations to your family as well.
My son is aboard the GW now. Sounds like the pre - training is good though. From what I understand things will be getting quiet again this next week? I'm bracing myself and ready to hear from a different man in a couple months.
Hope everyone has a good weekend.
Aug 17, 2012
gamagnolia
Are our sailors able to call and/or skype when they are out to sea or must they wait to be in port? Can they use their own equipment, i.e. IPad, laptop, etc. to skype?
Aug 17, 2012
gamagnolia
@katlanta-thanks for the info. He got there safe and sound, Just trying to put ducks in a row to be prepared for a deployment. Glad to hear that he will not have enough down time to do too much thinking about home. :)
Aug 17, 2012
Navy Mom
Getting ready for a long dry spell.Looking forward to the holidays and having my son home.
Aug 17, 2012
gamagnolia
It is absolutely beautiful! You should be proud!!!!
Aug 18, 2012
gamagnolia
@Kate-Prayers going your way! It is hard when your child is so close, but yet so far. Hope he comes home soon!
Aug 18, 2012
gamagnolia
@squidsman-I hope he get the chance. He has a calling card so I hope the opportunity arises at some point for him to call home.
Aug 18, 2012
gamagnolia
@katlanta--I am not sure that you have convinced me yet that you are ok with the GF situation and him not coming home. It is hard to play second base some times. But, your will always be in the game. Chin up! :)
Aug 18, 2012
gamagnolia
@katlanta-glad to hear that you are really ok with it and understand that he has to do what he feels is the right thing. Hopefully you will get to seem him soon. When they come back in from this deployment near the holiday season will they be back in port until after the holidays?
Aug 18, 2012
CreativeVi
Aug 19, 2012
gamagnolia
CreativeVi-I have always said that children can always bring you the most pleasure & the most pain. Being a mom is one of the toughest jobs there is to do. I am sure you are extremely proud of him. It is hard to let go and let them grow. I struggle doing the same. But when you see him again, you will realize, hey, my baby is growing up. Your relationship at that moment will change. :) Mom hugs to you!
Aug 19, 2012
gamagnolia
Good afternoon Ladies! As I previously stated, my son arrived in Japan on Thursday afternoon and as you well know, they deployed yesterday. He did not get to "in doc" and therefore upon his leaving, didn't have an address. Can anyone help me with how I would be able to get one for him? I would like to send some goody boxes & pics to him while he is gone. Thanks
Aug 20, 2012
gamagnolia
Awesome! I knew this was the place to get the answers! Thank you all so much!!!!
Aug 20, 2012
yamamom
for email...
first.last@cvn73.navy.mil
Aug 20, 2012
Mary (Chris' mom)
I'm thinking that it's ok to put the addy out here. I have seen it posted in pics put up by the Navy at FB.
Aug 20, 2012
navymomfromCT (Ship 11, Div.037)
My son leaves for Japan a week from tomorrow.....if the GW just deployed how long will it be gone for....will my son have wait 3-4 months before he can go on the ship? He hasn't heard from his sponsor either......Thanks guys!
Aug 21, 2012
Navy Mom
To Navy Mom from CT - Not unusual to arrive on the GW by plane or at a port of call. The GW will be stopping at a few places in the next few months.Many opportunities to hitch a ride.
Aug 21, 2012
navymomfromCT (Ship 11, Div.037)
Sounds so exciting being flown out to your ship!! I feel like he should be preparing more for Japan.....but I guess there is really nothing he can do....just pack his bag....he already has a Navy Federal account and his passport.....he will have to get a phone once he gets there.....How long does the GW usually go out for?? Thanks ladies!
Aug 21, 2012