Skyped with my son today. Showed me a map where they can go in Manila which wasn't too far out from the hotel. Apparently for their own protection since there are terrorist considerations. That is fine with him and me. I want him home safely for the holidays and eventually for good. There are navy touring trips they can go on to see the sites with security and he is doing that. They are seeing the sites of the world which will do them well and bring back an important perspective.When I saw him today, I thought WOW, I am so proud of the son we raised.
ABFmom that was great that he got to do that. What a way to spend his birthday.
Katlanta, yes the best part is seeing the wonderful people our sailors are becoming and knowing that the experiences they are having are playing such a vital part of it.
ABF what a blessing this visit is for all your family!
Katlanta yeh they make us proud. Gerad says his hotel room is 2700 + sq ft, breathing room :-):-)
On just a fun note I've boarded Amtrak for a trip to NYC. I've never been there. FB Girlfriend I've never met getting on in Albany. 3 days of adventures. Testing my travel skills LOL
WOW! CArol, that's awesome. Hope you could copy that pic to your desktop for scrap booking. I've been doing that a lot for my sons book. This is stuff he will enjoy years from now.
StepMom, that's great about her coming home. Have fun! AND big hugs for all of us.
ABF mom, that's so awesome. It made me tear up. Grandparents blessed for sure.
I'm carrying my phone around today and praying for that call! I got an email yesterday saying he has duty and then will call on the 27th. Not sure if that's today or tomorrow, LOL. That date line/time zone stuff REALLY confuses me. Here's hoping!
QUESTION: I'm needing a cut off date to send out my holiday packages for the Legion. Last year it was Army troops and so not sure it you all think there would be a different date? Any help would be appreciated.
Got to skype with my sailor last night.....he slept in a hotel room for the first time since he got on the GW......slept for 13 hours.....he is having a blast....he sounds really good..... I'm so happy!!
Glad the story of my sailor giving a surprise visit to his grandparents also warmed your heart just like it did to mine.
What makes it more amazing, the joy he brought to his grandparents' hearts begets good deed. He was at a 5 star hotel lobby, weighing things if he really would like to stay in that expensive hotel, a stranger who sat next to him started a conversation like what's he doing in my parents' hometown despite of the stormy weather and etc, etc.. then the stranger left. The storm was getting stronger and that was the nearest hotel he could find from the airport, he finally decided and walked up to the check-in counter, to his surprise the stranger was standing right next to him and told him, 'Sir, your stay will be on us.' The stranger happens to be the manager of that hotel.He stayed in the hotel for 4 days and 3 nights for free.
Good deeds do get good results. Have a great day everyone.
ABF mom, that's so great to hear our sailors are treated so nicely.
I'm texting with my sailor right now since neither of us seem to know how to get that stupid skype working. Those little keys are hard and lots of misspelled words, LOL
OK, this has just been a funny weekend. My sailor and I never did figure out how to use skype and we are both very computer savvy people... laugh number one. For one thing we are using our phones and not computers and I think it's a little different. So we texted, which laugh number two cause of all the miss spelled words and not keeping up with the each other stories, just funny. He sounds more adjusted now and enjoying the life and WOW what a life. I also got to brag and show pictures of the ship stolen off the internet to my galpals at a party last night. We've been friends for over 25 years and all very vested in each others kids. It was fun to be the spot light for once and have something different than the regular collage or work stories these young kids have. I will admit it was fun to say "OH,___, he's is in the Philippines this weekend. I also shared ABFmom story to roar of a big "ahhhhhhhh". Happy Mom here....finally.
CreativeVi - So glad you finally got to communicate with your son! Even though I don't know either of you, I was very worried for you 'cause i know what not knowing feels like. Glad things are going all right! :-))
No word from my sailor. This is the second port call with no call. I wonder how he would feel if I stopped writing and sending packages. Would he be as hurt as I am right now? How do I keep this from making me angry, while I am missing him?
Kate, Alicia, Kimberly P, Imnadelady - thanks so happy to know that the story of my sailor has warmed your hearts.
CreativeVi - exactly, hearing/knowing our sailors are treated so nicely, it is very comforting especially to us, moms. I can relate to those misspelled words when texting. Lol Thank you also for sharing my sailor's story to your friends. Oh my, you just make my heart overflowed with so much joy and pride. So glad you get to hear from your sailor too. Never mind those misspelled words, it makes communication so much fun.
Stephsmom- thank you for sharing the story to your family. Yes, it took him an hour by plane and another 30 min by cab to see his grandparents. I didn't even know he bought a plane ticket until he was on his way to the airport. He just kept on telling me in his emails, 'Sorry, Mom, no details here'. He knows sometimes I can't help not to spill the beans.. I think he presented himself very well because I don't think a manager will just let go of at least $300 to anyone they could meet/talk at the hotel lobby and even send a room service (my sailor said, 'how did he know I was starving?').
Peetreesmama - sending positive thoughts to you and to your sailor. Please know the long lines to make a phone call and in the library to be able to use the computer, perhaps he has reasons why he wasn't able to make a call which is beyond his control. I'm sure he is thinking of you and missing you as much as you do. Hang in there. Hugs to you.
Navyma - correct me if I'm wrong, your sailor's gf lives in the Philippines? So thrilled to know, I came from the Philippines and my sailor was born there too.
Hi everyone, I have enjoyed following the discussions but have never posted. My son joined the GW in July. When I talked to him this weekend he said he would love a decent pillow and blanket. I was wondering if this is something I can send? Would he be allowed to use them? How about sheets? What size are the mattresses? thanks so much
Peetreesmama - sending good vibes your way. I don't know if it helps but what stephsmom said is true - I think what finally clicked for me was when he talked about the long lines to make phone calls on the ship and I thought to myself that they only have so long off duty after their 12 - 16 hour days and did I want him in line to call me or sleeping and eating? I picked the later and then when they finally hit port I really want him to see the sights and be able to experience life without feeling like he needed to call me because I will always be here and he has a limited time to see a new place. I hope that after he gets settled and has been there longer that he will call me more, but until then I will keep sending him care packages and be there when and if he calls because that's what us moms do.
peetreesmama I understand how you feel. Even though I got to text with my sailor this time, its the first since he's been gone. Trust me, it hurt hearing about everyones calls, emails, ect and waiting for my turn that never came.
Now I'm just trying to keep in mind they are working lots of hours, new people, new way of life and so much to learn. Be patient and don't stop writing. I was in my late 30's before I apologized to my mom for all the heart ache I caused.
Actually emailing him is what I've been doing more regularly than not, writing him as if I didn't need an answer, just blabbing about what's going on here with a picture of the dogs attached, LOL and all the fun I'm having with them. Now I'm even going to text him every morning. When he gets to his next port or when ever phone connects... he will be bombarded. I'll at least get a text telling me to knock it off, LOL.
It does hurt, but I'm mom and he doesn't need to know that part. Kimberly is right, with those long lines to the phones and long hours he's just put in... I'll let it go and hope he gets off the ship and plays for a while. He'll get to me when he can.
In the mean time we are here for you. I've had a couple ladies from her email me privately and really help with just chit chat. Knowing someone out there cares helps a little. :)
Hello Peetreesmama - Please know that some have easy of access to phones and computers and others do not. Hoping your son calls or emails you soon. We'll get a banner up in Yokosuka as they leave the ship " CALL YOUR MOTHER TODAY!!"
My son is leaving today to start his journey to Japan. I've been in tears all day. I'm gonna miss him so much.....and I know it's so hard for him to leave his new wife. I'm so proud of how strong he is!!
AaronsMom - we all understand the heartache. My son left for the GW back in July and I still tear up regularly AND have my occasional 'good cry' when it sneaks up on me. It takes some getting used to but I leave all sailors and soldiers in God's hands and know that we truly cherish the moments we get to see and hold them. Military life is for the strong at heart and we are all the better for the great men and women out there. Be proud of him, be strong for him...he's got our backs out there and we've got his here, at home :)
AaronsMom - My heart goes out to you and your daughter-in-law. It was a tearful day when my son left for Japan over a year ago. Hope you are able to visit your son while he is in Japan, it will help ease your mind.
great support for the new moms out there. It takes practice and I like the "strong of heart" statement. As moms we are attached so differently and it's harder for us to let go, they just want to live their lives. Occupy your time girls and stay strong. If Japan is next on their list, maybe things will relax for a while. This is my first deployment and really not sure how long they are in, out or in-between.
I am toying with the idea of going but will need to find out more about my son's schedule. Last spring he was sent various places while the ship was in port and he isn't sure if this is happening again. When I visited him last spring, I booked my ticket at the last minute when I knew for sure he would be in Japan.
My son got his laptop stolen when they were in Manila. It was in his backpack. I believe he was on a bus, and the backpack was on the floor between his feet. He is upset because all the pictures from when they were in port were on there to show the family when he comes home in December. Please tell your Sailors to be diligent with their belongings when off the ship.
So true Nancy W. Yes, that is what I told his G/F, lesson learned! I can't imagine having someone unzip a backpack when it's between your feet and my son didn't know it!!
So excited that we got a phone call from our son who just arrived in Japan. He sounded tired, as it's such a long journey, but happy to finally be there. He misses his new wife terribly, though, as was expected. I know they regret not getting married before boot camp.
I count our blessings that he made it there safely!
randy'smom - sorry to see that your son's laptop was taken...Lately some movie theaters have begun posting signs warning women against putting their handbags on the floor, so this kind of thing may not be limited to places outside the US. Does he have insurance? Maybe he can get reimbursed - or maybe the Navy has provisions for this. Hope so. All the best to you both.
Police are investigating the death as either an accident or a crime
It comes after the U.S. military imposed a curfew on troops in Japan
Tokyo (CNN) -- A U.S. Navy sailor has been found dead with a head injury at a Japanese train station, local police said Monday.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Samuel Lewis Stiles was discovered surrounded by seven or eight alcoholic drink cans on the platform in Haiki Station in Nagasaki Prefecture at 5 a.m. Sunday, Haiki police said.
That case provoked an angry reaction from Japanese officials, and the U.S. military responded by imposing a curfew on its troops in Japan. The curfew restricted military personnel to bases, personal homes or hotels between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
The time at which Stiles's body was found suggests he may have been out in breach of this curfew.
He was wearing civilian clothes, not uniform, and didn't have any personal belonging around him, police said. Stiles was stationed at the U.S. base in Sasebo, the city in Nagasaki where Haiki Station is situated.
Navy Ma - Regarding the possibility of canceling leaves: Is your son taking leave and staying in Japan or is he leaving Japan? Perhaps the navy is concerned about those who are staying in Japan being out past curfew but canceling leave for those who are coming back to the states or traveling abroad makes no sense unless there is some other reason that they will be needed. No word from my son about his leave being in jeopardy. Anything can change but I'm still expecting him for Christmas.
NavyMa and Momof2Sailors, Thanks for the information and article on that sailor - what a tragedy. I mourn for his family. It sounds almost as if he was suicidal.
Kwassaimee, I stayed at Weekly Mansion Chateau Blanc briefly. It was inexpensive compared to the high rise hotels, and on a small side street. The room was large and like an efficiency apt, with older fixtures and furniture - nothing like the photo online. Next door was a laundromat which was handy, and there is a small restaurant called The Breakfast Club a few doors down. The lady at the desk when I arrived spoke perfect English, although when checking out there was another woman who spoke perfect Japanese. :-)) I knew how to say 'arigato' (thank you) and that was really all i said to her. I tried to call ahead for directions before going there, but it was all in Japanese so I had to apologize (gomenasai - wakari masen - sorry - i don't understand) and hung up. for this reason i ended up taking a cab to the hotel which was expensive, but was able to walk back when i checked out.
I'm just real confused, everytime I go to book the Navy Lodge it says, "There are no rooms available at NAVY LODGE YOKOSUKA. If traveling on PCS orders please call the DoD Reservation Center at 800-628-9466 for further assistance.", and sometimes when he was in Pensacola, it would just say there were no rooms available on those dates. But with the Yokosuka one, it says that no matter what dates I try. Do you know how close or far away the Weekly Mansion one is?
Katlanta, Thanks for adding phone #'s for Navy Lodge/Gateway - I wasn't able to get a reservation there when I visited my son.
Kwassaimee, Weekly Mansion is not far from the base in Yokosuka - maybe 5-6 blocks away. It's near Yokosuka Chuo Train Station a few blocks off of Blue St.
Do call the Navy Lodge - we were able to get reservations further out than the 30 days. I called in September and they were taking reservations through the end of the year at that time.
Heard from my sailor last night that he gets to come home for Christmas! YEAH!!!!! First time taking leave even though he's been in Yokosuka for almost 2 years and this is his first duty station. Anyone familiar with logistics for getting your sailor home? What airport do they fly out of? Any advice for those who have been there, done that, would be appreciated.
I get my sons airline tickets thru American Airlines. And I always let the airline know that they are Active Duty. Also they fly out of NARITI airport.
One thing to remember too i, keep in mind when they have to report back for duty. My sons tell me when they have to check in and I have to add a couple days to the return trip. Meaning they leave like 2-3 days earlier. They are 14-15 hours ahead of us on the West Coast. And my boys like a day to recoup from the jet lag.
@Amazonmom So excited for you planning for your son's return this Christmas! Narita Airport is the airport that most of the navy personnel use, it has the most international flights. There is a bus that goes from the bases to that airport and back but the timing has to be just right returning back to base. The bus trip from the airport to the base is at least 2 hours. It is possible to take the train as well but the bus is more convenient as long as the return to Japan is late afternoon. Maybe the navy will have extra buses with so many traveling for the holidays. My son is taking Delta back home for Christmas and that's the airline I took to Japan as well. Delta goes into Haneda and Narita Airports. Haneda is closer to the bases but doesn't have bus service.I shopped around on line and $1460 round trip was the cheapest flight I could find with only 1 stop to the east coast. I called Delta and inquired about military fares and was told there wasn't a discount unless he was traveling on orders but they will waive any change fees.
Thanks for all the feedback guys, just looking at a hotel to book online, again... and there's one that's cheap for a single room, but are you allowed to book a single room with two people sleeping in it?
Alicia(12/053 - AO)♥
Oct 25, 2012
Navy Mom
Skyped with my son today. Showed me a map where they can go in Manila which wasn't too far out from the hotel. Apparently for their own protection since there are terrorist considerations. That is fine with him and me. I want him home safely for the holidays and eventually for good. There are navy touring trips they can go on to see the sites with security and he is doing that. They are seeing the sites of the world which will do them well and bring back an important perspective.When I saw him today, I thought WOW, I am so proud of the son we raised.
Oct 25, 2012
Kimberly P
Katlanta, yes the best part is seeing the wonderful people our sailors are becoming and knowing that the experiences they are having are playing such a vital part of it.
Oct 25, 2012
lmnadelady
ABF what a blessing this visit is for all your family!
Katlanta yeh they make us proud. Gerad says his hotel room is 2700 + sq ft, breathing room :-):-)
On just a fun note I've boarded Amtrak for a trip to NYC. I've never been there. FB Girlfriend I've never met getting on in Albany. 3 days of adventures. Testing my travel skills LOL
Oct 26, 2012
CreativeVi
WOW! CArol, that's awesome. Hope you could copy that pic to your desktop for scrap booking. I've been doing that a lot for my sons book. This is stuff he will enjoy years from now.
StepMom, that's great about her coming home. Have fun! AND big hugs for all of us.
ABF mom, that's so awesome. It made me tear up. Grandparents blessed for sure.
I'm carrying my phone around today and praying for that call! I got an email yesterday saying he has duty and then will call on the 27th. Not sure if that's today or tomorrow, LOL. That date line/time zone stuff REALLY confuses me. Here's hoping!
QUESTION: I'm needing a cut off date to send out my holiday packages for the Legion. Last year it was Army troops and so not sure it you all think there would be a different date? Any help would be appreciated.
Oct 26, 2012
navymomfromCT (Ship 11, Div.037)
Got to skype with my sailor last night.....he slept in a hotel room for the first time since he got on the GW......slept for 13 hours.....he is having a blast....he sounds really good..... I'm so happy!!
Oct 26, 2012
ABF mom
Glad the story of my sailor giving a surprise visit to his grandparents also warmed your heart just like it did to mine.
What makes it more amazing, the joy he brought to his grandparents' hearts begets good deed. He was at a 5 star hotel lobby, weighing things if he really would like to stay in that expensive hotel, a stranger who sat next to him started a conversation like what's he doing in my parents' hometown despite of the stormy weather and etc, etc.. then the stranger left. The storm was getting stronger and that was the nearest hotel he could find from the airport, he finally decided and walked up to the check-in counter, to his surprise the stranger was standing right next to him and told him, 'Sir, your stay will be on us.' The stranger happens to be the manager of that hotel.He stayed in the hotel for 4 days and 3 nights for free.
Good deeds do get good results. Have a great day everyone.
Oct 26, 2012
CreativeVi
ABF mom, that's so great to hear our sailors are treated so nicely.
I'm texting with my sailor right now since neither of us seem to know how to get that stupid skype working. Those little keys are hard and lots of misspelled words, LOL
Oct 26, 2012
CreativeVi
OK, this has just been a funny weekend. My sailor and I never did figure out how to use skype and we are both very computer savvy people... laugh number one. For one thing we are using our phones and not computers and I think it's a little different. So we texted, which laugh number two cause of all the miss spelled words and not keeping up with the each other stories, just funny. He sounds more adjusted now and enjoying the life and WOW what a life. I also got to brag and show pictures of the ship stolen off the internet to my galpals at a party last night. We've been friends for over 25 years and all very vested in each others kids. It was fun to be the spot light for once and have something different than the regular collage or work stories these young kids have. I will admit it was fun to say "OH,___, he's is in the Philippines this weekend. I also shared ABFmom story to roar of a big "ahhhhhhhh". Happy Mom here....finally.
Oct 28, 2012
yamamom
CreativeVi - So glad you finally got to communicate with your son! Even though I don't know either of you, I was very worried for you 'cause i know what not knowing feels like. Glad things are going all right! :-))
Oct 28, 2012
peetreesmama(USS Harry S Truman)
Oct 28, 2012
ABF mom
Comment by ABF mom just nowDelete Comment
Kate, Alicia, Kimberly P, Imnadelady - thanks so happy to know that the story of my sailor has warmed your hearts.
CreativeVi - exactly, hearing/knowing our sailors are treated so nicely, it is very comforting especially to us, moms. I can relate to those misspelled words when texting. Lol Thank you also for sharing my sailor's story to your friends. Oh my, you just make my heart overflowed with so much joy and pride. So glad you get to hear from your sailor too. Never mind those misspelled words, it makes communication so much fun.
Stephsmom- thank you for sharing the story to your family. Yes, it took him an hour by plane and another 30 min by cab to see his grandparents. I didn't even know he bought a plane ticket until he was on his way to the airport. He just kept on telling me in his emails, 'Sorry, Mom, no details here'. He knows sometimes I can't help not to spill the beans.. I think he presented himself very well because I don't think a manager will just let go of at least $300 to anyone they could meet/talk at the hotel lobby and even send a room service (my sailor said, 'how did he know I was starving?').
Peetreesmama - sending positive thoughts to you and to your sailor. Please know the long lines to make a phone call and in the library to be able to use the computer, perhaps he has reasons why he wasn't able to make a call which is beyond his control. I'm sure he is thinking of you and missing you as much as you do. Hang in there. Hugs to you.
Navyma - correct me if I'm wrong, your sailor's gf lives in the Philippines? So thrilled to know, I came from the Philippines and my sailor was born there too.
Oct 28, 2012
ryansmom
Hi everyone, I have enjoyed following the discussions but have never posted. My son joined the GW in July. When I talked to him this weekend he said he would love a decent pillow and blanket. I was wondering if this is something I can send? Would he be allowed to use them? How about sheets? What size are the mattresses? thanks so much
Oct 28, 2012
Kimberly P
Peetreesmama - sending good vibes your way. I don't know if it helps but what stephsmom said is true - I think what finally clicked for me was when he talked about the long lines to make phone calls on the ship and I thought to myself that they only have so long off duty after their 12 - 16 hour days and did I want him in line to call me or sleeping and eating? I picked the later and then when they finally hit port I really want him to see the sights and be able to experience life without feeling like he needed to call me because I will always be here and he has a limited time to see a new place. I hope that after he gets settled and has been there longer that he will call me more, but until then I will keep sending him care packages and be there when and if he calls because that's what us moms do.
Oct 28, 2012
CreativeVi
peetreesmama I understand how you feel. Even though I got to text with my sailor this time, its the first since he's been gone. Trust me, it hurt hearing about everyones calls, emails, ect and waiting for my turn that never came.
Now I'm just trying to keep in mind they are working lots of hours, new people, new way of life and so much to learn. Be patient and don't stop writing. I was in my late 30's before I apologized to my mom for all the heart ache I caused.
Actually emailing him is what I've been doing more regularly than not, writing him as if I didn't need an answer, just blabbing about what's going on here with a picture of the dogs attached, LOL and all the fun I'm having with them. Now I'm even going to text him every morning. When he gets to his next port or when ever phone connects... he will be bombarded. I'll at least get a text telling me to knock it off, LOL.
It does hurt, but I'm mom and he doesn't need to know that part. Kimberly is right, with those long lines to the phones and long hours he's just put in... I'll let it go and hope he gets off the ship and plays for a while. He'll get to me when he can.
In the mean time we are here for you. I've had a couple ladies from her email me privately and really help with just chit chat. Knowing someone out there cares helps a little. :)
Oct 28, 2012
Navy Mom
Hello Peetreesmama - Please know that some have easy of access to phones and computers and others do not. Hoping your son calls or emails you soon. We'll get a banner up in Yokosuka as they leave the ship " CALL YOUR MOTHER TODAY!!"
Oct 29, 2012
AaronsMom
My son is leaving today to start his journey to Japan. I've been in tears all day. I'm gonna miss him so much.....and I know it's so hard for him to leave his new wife. I'm so proud of how strong he is!!
Oct 29, 2012
JGMOM
AaronsMom - we all understand the heartache. My son left for the GW back in July and I still tear up regularly AND have my occasional 'good cry' when it sneaks up on me. It takes some getting used to but I leave all sailors and soldiers in God's hands and know that we truly cherish the moments we get to see and hold them. Military life is for the strong at heart and we are all the better for the great men and women out there. Be proud of him, be strong for him...he's got our backs out there and we've got his here, at home :)
Oct 29, 2012
Navy Mom
AaronsMom - My heart goes out to you and your daughter-in-law. It was a tearful day when my son left for Japan over a year ago. Hope you are able to visit your son while he is in Japan, it will help ease your mind.
Oct 29, 2012
JDMK-NavyMom
AaronsMom - Everyone here understands how you are feeling and we are here for you. Prayers for you, your sailor and his new wife.
Oct 29, 2012
ABF mom
I hear you AaronsMom, hang in there. You are not alone in this journey. Hugs to you and your daughter in law.
Oct 29, 2012
AaronsMom
Thanks for all your support!
Oct 29, 2012
CreativeVi
great support for the new moms out there. It takes practice and I like the "strong of heart" statement. As moms we are attached so differently and it's harder for us to let go, they just want to live their lives. Occupy your time girls and stay strong. If Japan is next on their list, maybe things will relax for a while. This is my first deployment and really not sure how long they are in, out or in-between.
Oct 29, 2012
Navy Mom
Let's all plan on a trip to Japan for the early spring. First Class, Group Rate, Who's in?
Oct 30, 2012
CreativeVi
I would LOVE to go!!! If you are serious I'm willing to see what I can do. Early Spring... like what month?
Oct 30, 2012
Navy Mom
I am toying with the idea of going but will need to find out more about my son's schedule. Last spring he was sent various places while the ship was in port and he isn't sure if this is happening again. When I visited him last spring, I booked my ticket at the last minute when I knew for sure he would be in Japan.
Oct 31, 2012
lmnadelady
I might consider this too. Let me know when. I was planning on early spring, then my sailor just told me he was looking to come home for Christmas.
Oct 31, 2012
randy'smom
My son got his laptop stolen when they were in Manila. It was in his backpack. I believe he was on a bus, and the backpack was on the floor between his feet. He is upset because all the pictures from when they were in port were on there to show the family when he comes home in December. Please tell your Sailors to be diligent with their belongings when off the ship.
Oct 31, 2012
randy'smom
So true Nancy W. Yes, that is what I told his G/F, lesson learned! I can't imagine having someone unzip a backpack when it's between your feet and my son didn't know it!!
Oct 31, 2012
AaronsMom
So excited that we got a phone call from our son who just arrived in Japan. He sounded tired, as it's such a long journey, but happy to finally be there. He misses his new wife terribly, though, as was expected. I know they regret not getting married before boot camp.
I count our blessings that he made it there safely!
Nov 2, 2012
CreativeVi
AaronsMom, happy you got a call and know he's arrived safe.
Nov 3, 2012
yamamom
randy'smom - sorry to see that your son's laptop was taken...Lately some movie theaters have begun posting signs warning women against putting their handbags on the floor, so this kind of thing may not be limited to places outside the US. Does he have insurance? Maybe he can get reimbursed - or maybe the Navy has provisions for this. Hope so. All the best to you both.
Nov 3, 2012
kwassaimee
Nov 4, 2012
yamamom
NavyMa, How awful! Do you know how long ago that incident happened?
I'd like to go to JP in March, but would be leaving from East Coast and I guess most moms are in South and West (?)
Nov 4, 2012
momof2sailors
U.S. sailor found dead at train station in Japan
Tokyo (CNN) -- A U.S. Navy sailor has been found dead with a head injury at a Japanese train station, local police said Monday.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Samuel Lewis Stiles was discovered surrounded by seven or eight alcoholic drink cans on the platform in Haiki Station in Nagasaki Prefecture at 5 a.m. Sunday, Haiki police said.
The death, which police say they are investigating as either an accident or a crime, comes at a delicate time for the U.S. military in Japan after two U.S. sailors were arrested earlier this month on accusati....
That case provoked an angry reaction from Japanese officials, and the U.S. military responded by imposing a curfew on its troops in Japan. The curfew restricted military personnel to bases, personal homes or hotels between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
The time at which Stiles's body was found suggests he may have been out in breach of this curfew.
He was wearing civilian clothes, not uniform, and didn't have any personal belonging around him, police said. Stiles was stationed at the U.S. base in Sasebo, the city in Nagasaki where Haiki Station is situated.
Nov 4, 2012
kwassaimee
Does anyone that's ever visited know anything about the Weekly Mansion Chateau hotel?
Nov 5, 2012
Navy Mom
Navy Ma - Regarding the possibility of canceling leaves: Is your son taking leave and staying in Japan or is he leaving Japan? Perhaps the navy is concerned about those who are staying in Japan being out past curfew but canceling leave for those who are coming back to the states or traveling abroad makes no sense unless there is some other reason that they will be needed. No word from my son about his leave being in jeopardy. Anything can change but I'm still expecting him for Christmas.
Nov 5, 2012
yamamom
NavyMa and Momof2Sailors, Thanks for the information and article on that sailor - what a tragedy. I mourn for his family. It sounds almost as if he was suicidal.
Kwassaimee, I stayed at Weekly Mansion Chateau Blanc briefly. It was inexpensive compared to the high rise hotels, and on a small side street. The room was large and like an efficiency apt, with older fixtures and furniture - nothing like the photo online. Next door was a laundromat which was handy, and there is a small restaurant called The Breakfast Club a few doors down. The lady at the desk when I arrived spoke perfect English, although when checking out there was another woman who spoke perfect Japanese. :-)) I knew how to say 'arigato' (thank you) and that was really all i said to her. I tried to call ahead for directions before going there, but it was all in Japanese so I had to apologize (gomenasai - wakari masen - sorry - i don't understand) and hung up. for this reason i ended up taking a cab to the hotel which was expensive, but was able to walk back when i checked out.
Nov 5, 2012
kwassaimee
I'm just real confused, everytime I go to book the Navy Lodge it says, "There are no rooms available at NAVY LODGE YOKOSUKA. If traveling on PCS orders please call the DoD Reservation Center at 800-628-9466 for further assistance.", and sometimes when he was in Pensacola, it would just say there were no rooms available on those dates. But with the Yokosuka one, it says that no matter what dates I try. Do you know how close or far away the Weekly Mansion one is?
Nov 5, 2012
kwassaimee
Far away or close to the Naval base is what I'm referring to.
Nov 5, 2012
AaronsMom
Hello, mom of a sailor! My son got to Japan just a few days ago. It was great to hear his voice when he called. Have you heard from your daughter yet?
Nov 5, 2012
Navy Mom
Thanks Navy Ma for commenting about your son's leave. My son's leave starts well after they are back to Japan.
Nov 5, 2012
yamamom
Katlanta, Thanks for adding phone #'s for Navy Lodge/Gateway - I wasn't able to get a reservation there when I visited my son.
Kwassaimee, Weekly Mansion is not far from the base in Yokosuka - maybe 5-6 blocks away. It's near Yokosuka Chuo Train Station a few blocks off of Blue St.
Nov 5, 2012
CArol
Do call the Navy Lodge - we were able to get reservations further out than the 30 days. I called in September and they were taking reservations through the end of the year at that time.
Nov 5, 2012
CreativeVi
I love traveling and so hope to do some next year. Not holding my breath however. Husband says we need a new roof first... party pooper.
Nov 6, 2012
Amazonmom
Hello everyone!
Heard from my sailor last night that he gets to come home for Christmas! YEAH!!!!! First time taking leave even though he's been in Yokosuka for almost 2 years and this is his first duty station. Anyone familiar with logistics for getting your sailor home? What airport do they fly out of? Any advice for those who have been there, done that, would be appreciated.
Nov 6, 2012
momof2sailors
I get my sons airline tickets thru American Airlines. And I always let the airline know that they are Active Duty. Also they fly out of NARITI airport.
Nov 6, 2012
momof2sailors
Amazonmom,
One thing to remember too i, keep in mind when they have to report back for duty. My sons tell me when they have to check in and I have to add a couple days to the return trip. Meaning they leave like 2-3 days earlier. They are 14-15 hours ahead of us on the West Coast. And my boys like a day to recoup from the jet lag.
Nov 6, 2012
Navy Mom
@Amazonmom So excited for you planning for your son's return this Christmas! Narita Airport is the airport that most of the navy personnel use, it has the most international flights. There is a bus that goes from the bases to that airport and back but the timing has to be just right returning back to base. The bus trip from the airport to the base is at least 2 hours. It is possible to take the train as well but the bus is more convenient as long as the return to Japan is late afternoon. Maybe the navy will have extra buses with so many traveling for the holidays. My son is taking Delta back home for Christmas and that's the airline I took to Japan as well. Delta goes into Haneda and Narita Airports. Haneda is closer to the bases but doesn't have bus service.I shopped around on line and $1460 round trip was the cheapest flight I could find with only 1 stop to the east coast. I called Delta and inquired about military fares and was told there wasn't a discount unless he was traveling on orders but they will waive any change fees.
Nov 6, 2012
kwassaimee
Thanks for all the feedback guys, just looking at a hotel to book online, again... and there's one that's cheap for a single room, but are you allowed to book a single room with two people sleeping in it?
Nov 6, 2012