Heard from my son last night via Facebook that the GW commanders have restored normal work hours and normal liberties, although it sounds like the curfew is still in place.
I was talking with a friend and he put it in a different perspective.....maybe they are not punishing them for the action of the one sailor but protecting them by keeping them on ship in case of retaliation by angry japanese citizens....I hear they are not happy with the americans.....just a thought???? Which kind of makes me feel better that they are protecting our sailors????
I agree they are very dignified and quiet people, however, incident after incident with a few bad people might make them unsettled....I just feel bad for my sailor and all the sailors that have to pay for somebody else's mistake.....but you are right, they are a team.....
My sailor is suppose to be in Japan for 3 years.....before his 3 years is up can he request to move to a different location (back in the states) or is he going to have to fulfill his 3 years and then figure out what is next??
My son does not like it.....I guess he will have to just grin and bear it.....Thanks...Its hard as a mother to be so far away and see your son so unhappy....
navymomfrom CT, When my son was home for Christmas (first time we saw him in two years), he said that being assigned to Yokosuka is kind of a career-killer if it's your first Navy assignment - because they're so far from home, out to sea so much, the culture is so different than what they're used to, and now with the curfew and other stress it's even more difficult for them.
It is hard to see our kids unhappy but maybe if we can acknowledge what they're going through and let them know they're not the only one who feels that way, it can help.
My son doesn't like it either. I think it is very unfair as well. Our kids have to use their vacation days as "travel time". So, the sailors that get to stay here actually get more "bang for their buck". If my son ever gets a vacation, he will be losing days for flight time. That's quality time none of us would have to give up if our children were assigned to California. My son can't wait to come home and can't wait to be done with all of it. The fact that some of the guys steal and treat each other badly is also discouraging. I wish the sailors were more supportive of each other. We will have to continue to pray for them.
{{{{{Hugs}}}} to you ladies....so sad to hear about unhappy Sailors. May I ask what it is that is making them unhappy....is there something more than being so far away from home and living in such an different environment? I'm just trying to get a feel of what to expect for my son. He's only been over there 7 weeks so really hasn't had time to experience much yet. He loves being in the Navy so far...first year was spent in school though and now he's in Japan. He got to pick orders and he chose to be on the GW so I pray his enthusiasm keeps upbeat and the dreaded "career killer" doesn't get him.
God bless you all and your Sailors! You're always in my prayers!
katlanta, I really appreciate your experience and your advice. My son is not the most communicative kid out there and I always tease him that I don't "speak Navy" so hearing from someone who knows about other duty stations and has been to Japan is great. Thank you!
My son went in the Navy wanting to make a career of it and now he wants out after his first 3 years. I've tried to encourage him to take advantage of the great things going on on Base and the community service opportunities we see on the GW Facebook page after their port visits. My husband is so jealous that our son is in Japan and can't believe that he is not taking advantage of lots of opportunities for martial arts training, etc.
All we can do is stay connected, encourage and support them and most of all, PRAY for them and their commanders.
katlanta - thank you...you said it all so well. My son joined the Navy to see the world and he too says where else can he get the opportunity while getting paid too! He says he hasn't been going off base because of the curfew. He says he really doesn't have enough time to get out and go anywhere. He mentioned that to go anywhere he has to take a train because the only thing right outside the base is bars/taverns. I chuckled to myself when he said that...at least that tells me he's not hanging out in the bars! Makes this momma happy!!!! Him and his buddies have been spending alot of time at the bowling alley....he's been bragging about his much improved game!
Thanks for the pics too....wow your son is buffed!
Joshmom and katlanta, thanks for the word of sailors that oppose DB. My son does not do bars and I think was looking for a place where people do what is right. I pray he finds those that share with his convictions, so disheartening to hear of the way some of our sailors behave. My son too hopes to make it a career, he doesn't mind Japan. But haven't heard from him since he returned after Christmas. So sure glad you ladies are here.
Morning Ladies!
Just got off the phone with my Sailor. He was telling me about new restrictions placed on them....cannot have more than 3 - 8oz alcoholic drinks per day and anyone E4 or lower must now get a chit to leave Yokosuka. He said the chit thing will be an inconvenience because now they can't decide at the last moment to go do something. They'll have to plan ahead. I suggested he take advantage of the MWR to do activities. I did like his overall attitude though "Mom I don't like being sad so I'm not going to let something I have no control over bother me". Has anyone else heard anything?
Hi guys.....got a call and he sounded more upbeat....he got a locker to keep his stuff in....he has been waiting in line every day that he has off to get a locker for months and he finally got one....so he was happy.....
My sailor just turned 19 so he cannot drink.....he never drank at home so its not a big deal for him.....he is a big Xbox/PS3 gamer and is very content just sitting in the liberty center playing games or watching movies....or working out.....he is more of a loner and doesnt' have very many friends.....and tends to get bullied....with the curfew it is hard for him to go anywhere because he is usually alone.....
With the new schedule in the galley - 12 days on/2 days off - 15 hour days there is not much time to do anything....he wanted to do some snowboarding but he is never off on the weekends.....I think he wishes he was in his job that he went to A school for.....they keep telling him he will be done in the galley at the end of the month but then they add another month....so he was suppose to be done Jan. 29 and now they are telling him Feb. 29.....
He says that if he had to do it over again he would have waited to go to Japan until he was a hire rank....He is an E2 and they are at the bottom of the barrell....
hi ladies, i haven't posted for quite a long time but i have been reading all your posts. i don't know if you have liked USO Yokosuka fb page because i did and they post cool stuffs I'm sure our sailors would love especially being in that far flung place. My son enjoys their saturday movies with free popcorn and the free food they serve to single and unaccompanied sailors in Yokosuka on friday nights. So if you're on fb, here's the link. https://www.facebook.com/USOYokosuka?ref=ts&fref=ts
My son an E2 has been cranking too for quite some time yet he's taking it one day at a time. He spends his free time watching movies at the USO and working out at the gym alone most of the time. Overall he still loves being stationed in Japan.
ABF mom: I wonder if your son and my son know each other.....if they are both cranking and watch movies and work out..they are bound to have run into each other....
Your son and mine sound a lot alike. Mine was 19 when he got to Japan. He's now 21. He got stuck on crank duty in the galley for like 6 months and thought it would never end. He made PO3 the round before last and he and another sailor have a small apartment just off the base.
My kiddo is not much of a drinker either, but be aware that they can drink at 19 in Japan (or at least that is what my son said.......??)
My son is a gamer and loves movies and reading and doesn't have a lot of friends either. If you want, I will send you a private message with my sailor's name and we can suggest they try to connect.
So Moms its been a year since this wonderful Navy journey started. My Sailor has also been cranking but heseems to enjoy he says he does in the Officers mess hall. Oh yeah did i mentioned he called while i was at work today. I'm 1 happy Navy Mom.
Hi everyone, it's been a while since I've been around. I've been busy getting my web site up and running and now just launched my first ebook. I'm tired! But now feel stress free and want to play. I've been learning to crochet a little too, relieving some stress before I go to bed. It's helped a lot to get a better night sleep.
Today my sailor wrote and said he is serving his TAD with the MA. I think it's very exciting because this is the rate he wanted but scored 6 points to low to get in. He sent me a picture of his firing score. He's a marksman with shots to the head... eeeeshshhh. So something does come good out of all those stupid video games, LOL.
He's doing well and settling in over there. Has a group he goes and bowls with on the weekends. Hasn't met his wife yet... I'm not crying over that, LOL. I think he tells me that to tease me.
Anyway, hope to keep up better here now that everything is running smoothly. Fingers crossed for me.
My son has been there 14 months and just got assigned to crank when they came back to port this last time. So not cranking at first doesn't mean they won't crank later on.
Hi there, Maybe one of the moms will know the answer to this....I have a Verizon international phone card from RiteAid which I've used before to call my son with good results, but lately I haven't been able to get through to my sailor. Does anyone know if the calling codes have changed recently? I keep getting a message that says, "your call cannot be completed as dialed." Getting up at 4:00 a.m. to call at a time when he isn't working, sleeping or otherwise busy, then not being able to reach him is getting to be a drag. The automated assistance hasn't been helpful in this case.
Hope you and your sailors are doing fine. I have a question about W-2s. My sailor has been in the Navy for a little over 6 months, and he is in Japan. I most likely will be doing his taxes for him but wondered if his W-2 will be sent to his home address (in the U.S.) or will he have to get it off MyPay I'm hoping it will be sent to his home address because that kid will not be as proactive as I would like him to be getting anything off MyPay (since I don't have access to that document) Any help on this would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Moms!
I realize now why my son has been so bummed (my earlier messages)....he is sick...fever, cough, cold, etc......that is why he was so negative about everything.....first time sick away from home.....he went to medical and they have him an antibiodic and cough syrup...and he just finished an 18 hour shift because somebody messed up....ugh...worry worry worry.....
He did sound upbeat yesterday - he got a locker......so he has room for some of his stuff.....the little things in life that make a sailor happy!!! LOL
Hope you son feels better soon, navymomfromCT. That was the hardest for me, not being there with my homemade soups and such :) when my son got his first bout of sickness. Yep, this is definitely a journey for us all!
When i asked my son about his w-2 this was his response to it "From what i know my chain is having us file for our taxes here." I will have to bring it up again when I talk to him.We were told we can still claim him on ours since he was still living here till June but I really don't want to do that.
Depending on what time he left as to whether you can claim him. It is my understanding that the child had to live with you 6 months or more in order for you to claim him. My ex wanted to claim my son and wanted me to redo my sons tax return so that he can claim him and I refused. My son lived with his dad 4 months plus 26 days. Then he left for boot camp. So you can imagine what I told my ex he could do. You could figure out both ways with him filing himself and then you filing using him and see if it makes a difference to what he gets back. Just a thought.
I do both my sons taxes every year. I go onto their mypay and print out their W-2's and then have there refunds direct deposited into their Navy Federal accounts. And everything has always worked out fine.
My son said that H&R Block will help with all the tax filings and investment advice. Kind of a relief that he's handling it on his own and building his own credit. My profession is in finance but apparently, Moms aren't too smart as kids get older. That's OK, I remember thinking the same thing about my father.
Tax Question, my son had to pay taxes for NYS last year, as the Navy didn't take any out. He has not lived here since he left for bootcamp Dec 2010. Are we missing something, is there something he should do.
Katlanta, makes a mother proud doesn't it. My son plans all his affairs too. Sure nice to just pick him up and return him to the airport, well it might not be nice to return him to the airport LOL>
My son is at Atsugi, so I'm not on here much right now. But I like to check back in periodically to see how you are all doing.
Steph's surgery should be over and CreativeVi, glad to hear your son is adjusted well.
My daughter is coming home! CS1 Torrez got her leave chit approved. It's been almost 1.5 years since she was home, and I can't wait to give her a big hug! I gotta go do a happy dance now!!! I hope you all get great news soon.
You son should go to the personnel department who handles their pay and have them start taking NYS tax out of his check. Otherwise he will have to pay again every year.
Katlanta,
It is great watching our Sailors come up or down the escalator. But you should be able to get a pass to go thru security to meet your Sailor at the gate when they get off the plane. Both my Sailors when they have come home from Japan I have gone back to the gate every time. You just go to the airline and tell them you have a Active Duty Military person coming home and they will give you a pass to go thru security. But also make sure that if you or your Sailor makes the travel plans that you call the airline and make sure they put in the record that they are in fact Military. Speeds the process up.
I skyped with my son Sunday morning, Sunday night his time. He was going to a Superbowl Party at Atsugi and I saw the pictures on Facebook. They have been working long hours. No emails in a very long time.
My sailor called me yesterday. I don't know if he was more upset or if I was. He was scheduled to go to New Jersey for training. We are in New York so he could come home on weekends. My nephew (also Navy) is due to come home for leave for a month starting March. My family thought it was going to be the first time all of us would be home together. The last chance for at least another year. My sailor said that due to budget constraints his tdy has been canceled. I really tried hard to not let him hear my sadness. I know that we are here to be strong for them. I'm glad he didn't call back. I've been crying now for 24 hours. My heart aches for him. He's been away for a year, and that's a long time to a 19 year old. Please keep him in your prayers. Pray that he makes the best of his time in Japan.
Hi All. My son has been at "in doc" and just moved onto the ship within the past couple weeks. I make him call me every other weekend. He is enjoying his time being on his own in Japan. He just got there on Dec 30th so I won't be seeing him for a while. I'm hoping to make a trip there in about a year. Glad to be in touch with you all!
I was texting with my Sailor this morning. All is going good for him. He gets to get off the ship and into a barracks room late this week or next. I'm surprised it is happening so quick (been there since first part of Dec) and so is he but he says they have room openings and they had him fill out the paperwork. Having a room will be so much nicer than just a bunk! He didn't say anything about the weather just asked about family. I don't know if I'll ever get use to saying "good night" to him when it's morning here.
stephsmom - WooHoo all your kids on same continent! Non-military moms just don't understand. Have a great time at Mardi-Gras.
peetreesmama - {{{{{HUGS}}}} Prayers being said for you and your Sailor. Stay strong!
katlanta & navymomfromCT - fingers crossed your Sailors get their leave. Hope you hear something soon.
I got to skype with my daughter both Sunday and Yesterday! She's doing well, working lots of hours as usual. She booked her flights to come home next month. I can hardly wait! It's been over a year and a half since she left. Too bad she'll miss her brother. He doesn't get leave from the Air Force until April. At least both my kids will be in the same country for awhile!
I'm surprised to hear they are giving out dorm rooms. My daughter has been on the ship since last November and she still doesn't have a room on base. I'll have to ask her about it next time we chat. Good that some are getting rooms. My daughter spends a fortune on hotels whenever she gets a day or two off.
Wow! Sure is quiet here when the ship is at shore. I hope everyone is enjoying some emotional down time, leaves with their sailors, or ready to gear upward towards the next deployment. I just hopped on to say that my son and DIL will be home in a few weeks for a short leave so I am getting excited. He also found out that some of his papers had not been turned in with his advancement exam and those gave him more than enough points to make the advancement. A couple of months late, but at least he knows why he missed the advancement in the fall. He is hoping it becomes official and he is frocked before he comes home, but he may have to wait until they report back to the ship or later, to get his next crow.
Still no word on his leave......he is feeling better, not sick anymore.....they moved him from the galley to painting so he has weekends off....so that is good.....still praying for his leave in April......Gearing up for a winter blizzard in Connecticut...we are suppose to get three feet of snow!!!!
My son posted in Guam a few days ago, beautiful beaches. Here I am enjoying about 8" of beautiful fluffy snow. I have a bluebird at the edge of our sidewalk, happened to see 6 bluebirds fly in one after another. Now I know how they stay warm, it must be snug in there. They fly out everyday shortly after sunrise and return before sunset. They look so pretty sitting in the snow covered tree, as they await their turn to return to the nest.
navymomfromCT hope you are doing well in CT with this snow storm.
Mary(Chris'mom) my son's scoring was wrong too on his advancement, he returned from Christmas leave to get the confirmation he had made Petty Officer 2nd class. In less than two years, he was a happy man.
katlanta, congrats to John. Hopefully it will put him closer to where he wants to be careerwise.
Imnadelady, this is the second time (once while he was in Korea) that his paperwork was not turned in with his packet. The first time it only got him a couple of points over passing which still was not enough for his rating. This time he knew he was going to get it and couldn't figure out how he missed by less than a point. He feels a little better about his job now. Congrats to your son on his advancement.
Amazonmom
Heard from my son last night via Facebook that the GW commanders have restored normal work hours and normal liberties, although it sounds like the curfew is still in place.
Jan 23, 2013
navymomfromCT (Ship 11, Div.037)
I was talking with a friend and he put it in a different perspective.....maybe they are not punishing them for the action of the one sailor but protecting them by keeping them on ship in case of retaliation by angry japanese citizens....I hear they are not happy with the americans.....just a thought???? Which kind of makes me feel better that they are protecting our sailors????
Jan 23, 2013
StrayMom
Jan 23, 2013
navymomfromCT (Ship 11, Div.037)
I agree they are very dignified and quiet people, however, incident after incident with a few bad people might make them unsettled....I just feel bad for my sailor and all the sailors that have to pay for somebody else's mistake.....but you are right, they are a team.....
My sailor is suppose to be in Japan for 3 years.....before his 3 years is up can he request to move to a different location (back in the states) or is he going to have to fulfill his 3 years and then figure out what is next??
Jan 23, 2013
navymomfromCT (Ship 11, Div.037)
My son does not like it.....I guess he will have to just grin and bear it.....Thanks...Its hard as a mother to be so far away and see your son so unhappy....
Jan 23, 2013
Amazonmom
navymomfrom CT, When my son was home for Christmas (first time we saw him in two years), he said that being assigned to Yokosuka is kind of a career-killer if it's your first Navy assignment - because they're so far from home, out to sea so much, the culture is so different than what they're used to, and now with the curfew and other stress it's even more difficult for them.
It is hard to see our kids unhappy but maybe if we can acknowledge what they're going through and let them know they're not the only one who feels that way, it can help.
Jan 23, 2013
navymomfromCT (Ship 11, Div.037)
He has been there since September of 2012....he was ready to make a career out of the Navy but as of right now he is rethinking that decision.....
Jan 23, 2013
Kimberly214
My son doesn't like it either. I think it is very unfair as well. Our kids have to use their vacation days as "travel time". So, the sailors that get to stay here actually get more "bang for their buck". If my son ever gets a vacation, he will be losing days for flight time. That's quality time none of us would have to give up if our children were assigned to California. My son can't wait to come home and can't wait to be done with all of it. The fact that some of the guys steal and treat each other badly is also discouraging. I wish the sailors were more supportive of each other. We will have to continue to pray for them.
Jan 23, 2013
MaggieMay
{{{{{Hugs}}}} to you ladies....so sad to hear about unhappy Sailors. May I ask what it is that is making them unhappy....is there something more than being so far away from home and living in such an different environment? I'm just trying to get a feel of what to expect for my son. He's only been over there 7 weeks so really hasn't had time to experience much yet. He loves being in the Navy so far...first year was spent in school though and now he's in Japan. He got to pick orders and he chose to be on the GW so I pray his enthusiasm keeps upbeat and the dreaded "career killer" doesn't get him.
God bless you all and your Sailors! You're always in my prayers!
Jan 23, 2013
Amazonmom
katlanta, I really appreciate your experience and your advice. My son is not the most communicative kid out there and I always tease him that I don't "speak Navy" so hearing from someone who knows about other duty stations and has been to Japan is great. Thank you!
My son went in the Navy wanting to make a career of it and now he wants out after his first 3 years. I've tried to encourage him to take advantage of the great things going on on Base and the community service opportunities we see on the GW Facebook page after their port visits. My husband is so jealous that our son is in Japan and can't believe that he is not taking advantage of lots of opportunities for martial arts training, etc.
All we can do is stay connected, encourage and support them and most of all, PRAY for them and their commanders.
Blessings to you all!
Jan 23, 2013
MaggieMay
katlanta - thank you...you said it all so well. My son joined the Navy to see the world and he too says where else can he get the opportunity while getting paid too! He says he hasn't been going off base because of the curfew. He says he really doesn't have enough time to get out and go anywhere. He mentioned that to go anywhere he has to take a train because the only thing right outside the base is bars/taverns. I chuckled to myself when he said that...at least that tells me he's not hanging out in the bars! Makes this momma happy!!!! Him and his buddies have been spending alot of time at the bowling alley....he's been bragging about his much improved game!
Thanks for the pics too....wow your son is buffed!
Jan 23, 2013
lmnadelady
Joshmom and katlanta, thanks for the word of sailors that oppose DB. My son does not do bars and I think was looking for a place where people do what is right. I pray he finds those that share with his convictions, so disheartening to hear of the way some of our sailors behave. My son too hopes to make it a career, he doesn't mind Japan. But haven't heard from him since he returned after Christmas. So sure glad you ladies are here.
Jan 23, 2013
lmnadelady
oops CSADD, was using that and thought the end was DB for Destructive Behavior.
Jan 23, 2013
lmnadelady
any moms here that have airmen in the VAQ 141 or at Atusgi base. Haven't heard from my son since he went back after Christmas.
It is 7 degrees and sunny here where I am, ahh but the days are getting longer :)
Jan 24, 2013
MaggieMay
Just got off the phone with my Sailor. He was telling me about new restrictions placed on them....cannot have more than 3 - 8oz alcoholic drinks per day and anyone E4 or lower must now get a chit to leave Yokosuka. He said the chit thing will be an inconvenience because now they can't decide at the last moment to go do something. They'll have to plan ahead. I suggested he take advantage of the MWR to do activities. I did like his overall attitude though "Mom I don't like being sad so I'm not going to let something I have no control over bother me". Has anyone else heard anything?
Jan 24, 2013
momof2sailors
My son is there at Atsugi VFA 102.
Jan 24, 2013
navymomfromCT (Ship 11, Div.037)
Hi guys.....got a call and he sounded more upbeat....he got a locker to keep his stuff in....he has been waiting in line every day that he has off to get a locker for months and he finally got one....so he was happy.....
My sailor just turned 19 so he cannot drink.....he never drank at home so its not a big deal for him.....he is a big Xbox/PS3 gamer and is very content just sitting in the liberty center playing games or watching movies....or working out.....he is more of a loner and doesnt' have very many friends.....and tends to get bullied....with the curfew it is hard for him to go anywhere because he is usually alone.....
With the new schedule in the galley - 12 days on/2 days off - 15 hour days there is not much time to do anything....he wanted to do some snowboarding but he is never off on the weekends.....I think he wishes he was in his job that he went to A school for.....they keep telling him he will be done in the galley at the end of the month but then they add another month....so he was suppose to be done Jan. 29 and now they are telling him Feb. 29.....
He says that if he had to do it over again he would have waited to go to Japan until he was a hire rank....He is an E2 and they are at the bottom of the barrell....
One day at a time....for both my sailor and me!!
Jan 24, 2013
ABF mom
hi ladies, i haven't posted for quite a long time but i have been reading all your posts. i don't know if you have liked USO Yokosuka fb page because i did and they post cool stuffs I'm sure our sailors would love especially being in that far flung place. My son enjoys their saturday movies with free popcorn and the free food they serve to single and unaccompanied sailors in Yokosuka on friday nights. So if you're on fb, here's the link. https://www.facebook.com/USOYokosuka?ref=ts&fref=ts
My son an E2 has been cranking too for quite some time yet he's taking it one day at a time. He spends his free time watching movies at the USO and working out at the gym alone most of the time. Overall he still loves being stationed in Japan.
Jan 24, 2013
navymomfromCT (Ship 11, Div.037)
ABF mom: I wonder if your son and my son know each other.....if they are both cranking and watch movies and work out..they are bound to have run into each other....
Jan 24, 2013
Amazonmom
navymomfromCT,
Your son and mine sound a lot alike. Mine was 19 when he got to Japan. He's now 21. He got stuck on crank duty in the galley for like 6 months and thought it would never end. He made PO3 the round before last and he and another sailor have a small apartment just off the base.
My kiddo is not much of a drinker either, but be aware that they can drink at 19 in Japan (or at least that is what my son said.......??)
My son is a gamer and loves movies and reading and doesn't have a lot of friends either. If you want, I will send you a private message with my sailor's name and we can suggest they try to connect.
Jan 24, 2013
dawny64
So Moms its been a year since this wonderful Navy journey started. My Sailor has also been cranking but heseems to enjoy he says he does in the Officers mess hall. Oh yeah did i mentioned he called while i was at work today. I'm 1 happy Navy Mom.
Jan 24, 2013
ABF mom
navymomfromCT, will you please pm me your son's info so i can ask my son if by any chance they know each other? thanks.
Jan 24, 2013
CreativeVi
Hi everyone, it's been a while since I've been around. I've been busy getting my web site up and running and now just launched my first ebook. I'm tired! But now feel stress free and want to play. I've been learning to crochet a little too, relieving some stress before I go to bed. It's helped a lot to get a better night sleep.
Today my sailor wrote and said he is serving his TAD with the MA. I think it's very exciting because this is the rate he wanted but scored 6 points to low to get in. He sent me a picture of his firing score. He's a marksman with shots to the head... eeeeshshhh. So something does come good out of all those stupid video games, LOL.
He's doing well and settling in over there. Has a group he goes and bowls with on the weekends. Hasn't met his wife yet... I'm not crying over that, LOL. I think he tells me that to tease me.
Anyway, hope to keep up better here now that everything is running smoothly. Fingers crossed for me.
Jan 24, 2013
TexasSailorMom
My son has been there 14 months and just got assigned to crank when they came back to port this last time. So not cranking at first doesn't mean they won't crank later on.
Jan 24, 2013
TexasSailorMom
dawny64- my son is cranking in the Officers mess hall too! He seems to work the early morning shift.
Jan 24, 2013
yamamom
Hi there, Maybe one of the moms will know the answer to this....I have a Verizon international phone card from RiteAid which I've used before to call my son with good results, but lately I haven't been able to get through to my sailor. Does anyone know if the calling codes have changed recently? I keep getting a message that says, "your call cannot be completed as dialed." Getting up at 4:00 a.m. to call at a time when he isn't working, sleeping or otherwise busy, then not being able to reach him is getting to be a drag. The automated assistance hasn't been helpful in this case.
Jan 25, 2013
JGMOM
Hi Everyone,
Hope you and your sailors are doing fine. I have a question about W-2s. My sailor has been in the Navy for a little over 6 months, and he is in Japan. I most likely will be doing his taxes for him but wondered if his W-2 will be sent to his home address (in the U.S.) or will he have to get it off MyPay I'm hoping it will be sent to his home address because that kid will not be as proactive as I would like him to be getting anything off MyPay (since I don't have access to that document) Any help on this would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Moms!
Jan 26, 2013
navymomfromCT (Ship 11, Div.037)
I just pulled my son's W-2 off of the MyPay account.......it is there now.....I don't recall one coming home last year....
Jan 26, 2013
navymomfromCT (Ship 11, Div.037)
I realize now why my son has been so bummed (my earlier messages)....he is sick...fever, cough, cold, etc......that is why he was so negative about everything.....first time sick away from home.....he went to medical and they have him an antibiodic and cough syrup...and he just finished an 18 hour shift because somebody messed up....ugh...worry worry worry.....
He did sound upbeat yesterday - he got a locker......so he has room for some of his stuff.....the little things in life that make a sailor happy!!! LOL
Jan 26, 2013
JGMOM
Thanks 'stephsmom' and 'navymomfromCT' for the W-2 info. I guess I'll figure something out with my sailor :) Have a good week guys!
Jan 27, 2013
JGMOM
Hope you son feels better soon, navymomfromCT. That was the hardest for me, not being there with my homemade soups and such :) when my son got his first bout of sickness. Yep, this is definitely a journey for us all!
Jan 27, 2013
navymomfromCT (Ship 11, Div.037)
Keep your fingers crossed...he just handed in the sheet for approval for April.....
Jan 30, 2013
Angelwings
When i asked my son about his w-2 this was his response to it "From what i know my chain is having us file for our taxes here." I will have to bring it up again when I talk to him.We were told we can still claim him on ours since he was still living here till June but I really don't want to do that.
Jan 30, 2013
momof2sailors
Depending on what time he left as to whether you can claim him. It is my understanding that the child had to live with you 6 months or more in order for you to claim him. My ex wanted to claim my son and wanted me to redo my sons tax return so that he can claim him and I refused. My son lived with his dad 4 months plus 26 days. Then he left for boot camp. So you can imagine what I told my ex he could do. You could figure out both ways with him filing himself and then you filing using him and see if it makes a difference to what he gets back. Just a thought.
I do both my sons taxes every year. I go onto their mypay and print out their W-2's and then have there refunds direct deposited into their Navy Federal accounts. And everything has always worked out fine.
Jan 30, 2013
Navy Mom
My son said that H&R Block will help with all the tax filings and investment advice. Kind of a relief that he's handling it on his own and building his own credit. My profession is in finance but apparently, Moms aren't too smart as kids get older. That's OK, I remember thinking the same thing about my father.
Jan 30, 2013
lmnadelady
Tax Question, my son had to pay taxes for NYS last year, as the Navy didn't take any out. He has not lived here since he left for bootcamp Dec 2010. Are we missing something, is there something he should do.
Katlanta, makes a mother proud doesn't it. My son plans all his affairs too. Sure nice to just pick him up and return him to the airport, well it might not be nice to return him to the airport LOL>
My son is at Atsugi, so I'm not on here much right now. But I like to check back in periodically to see how you are all doing.
Steph's surgery should be over and CreativeVi, glad to hear your son is adjusted well.
Feb 1, 2013
Cheryl
My daughter is coming home! CS1 Torrez got her leave chit approved. It's been almost 1.5 years since she was home, and I can't wait to give her a big hug! I gotta go do a happy dance now!!! I hope you all get great news soon.
Feb 1, 2013
momof2sailors
lmnadelady,
You son should go to the personnel department who handles their pay and have them start taking NYS tax out of his check. Otherwise he will have to pay again every year.
Katlanta,
It is great watching our Sailors come up or down the escalator. But you should be able to get a pass to go thru security to meet your Sailor at the gate when they get off the plane. Both my Sailors when they have come home from Japan I have gone back to the gate every time. You just go to the airline and tell them you have a Active Duty Military person coming home and they will give you a pass to go thru security. But also make sure that if you or your Sailor makes the travel plans that you call the airline and make sure they put in the record that they are in fact Military. Speeds the process up.
Feb 1, 2013
MaggieMay
Cheryl - Doin the Happy Dance for ya ~~~~~~Happy Dance~~~~~~~Happy Dance!!!!! So excited for ya!
Hope you all have a great weekend and enjoy Superbowl!
Feb 1, 2013
lmnadelady
my sailor is in Guam, but he is stationed at Atsugi
Feb 4, 2013
Navy Mom
I skyped with my son Sunday morning, Sunday night his time. He was going to a Superbowl Party at Atsugi and I saw the pictures on Facebook. They have been working long hours. No emails in a very long time.
Feb 5, 2013
peetreesmama(USS Harry S Truman)
My sailor called me yesterday. I don't know if he was more upset or if I was. He was scheduled to go to New Jersey for training. We are in New York so he could come home on weekends. My nephew (also Navy) is due to come home for leave for a month starting March. My family thought it was going to be the first time all of us would be home together. The last chance for at least another year. My sailor said that due to budget constraints his tdy has been canceled. I really tried hard to not let him hear my sadness. I know that we are here to be strong for them. I'm glad he didn't call back. I've been crying now for 24 hours. My heart aches for him. He's been away for a year, and that's a long time to a 19 year old. Please keep him in your prayers. Pray that he makes the best of his time in Japan.
Feb 5, 2013
navymomfromCT (Ship 11, Div.037)
I haven't heard anything from my sailor....no word on leave in April....they must be busy.....
Feb 5, 2013
jay3jay
Hi All. My son has been at "in doc" and just moved onto the ship within the past couple weeks. I make him call me every other weekend. He is enjoying his time being on his own in Japan. He just got there on Dec 30th so I won't be seeing him for a while. I'm hoping to make a trip there in about a year. Glad to be in touch with you all!
Feb 5, 2013
MaggieMay
I was texting with my Sailor this morning. All is going good for him. He gets to get off the ship and into a barracks room late this week or next. I'm surprised it is happening so quick (been there since first part of Dec) and so is he but he says they have room openings and they had him fill out the paperwork. Having a room will be so much nicer than just a bunk! He didn't say anything about the weather just asked about family. I don't know if I'll ever get use to saying "good night" to him when it's morning here.
stephsmom - WooHoo all your kids on same continent! Non-military moms just don't understand. Have a great time at Mardi-Gras.
peetreesmama - {{{{{HUGS}}}} Prayers being said for you and your Sailor. Stay strong!
katlanta & navymomfromCT - fingers crossed your Sailors get their leave. Hope you hear something soon.
Feb 5, 2013
Cheryl
I got to skype with my daughter both Sunday and Yesterday! She's doing well, working lots of hours as usual. She booked her flights to come home next month. I can hardly wait! It's been over a year and a half since she left. Too bad she'll miss her brother. He doesn't get leave from the Air Force until April. At least both my kids will be in the same country for awhile!
I'm surprised to hear they are giving out dorm rooms. My daughter has been on the ship since last November and she still doesn't have a room on base. I'll have to ask her about it next time we chat. Good that some are getting rooms. My daughter spends a fortune on hotels whenever she gets a day or two off.
Feb 5, 2013
Mary (Chris' mom)
Wow! Sure is quiet here when the ship is at shore. I hope everyone is enjoying some emotional down time, leaves with their sailors, or ready to gear upward towards the next deployment. I just hopped on to say that my son and DIL will be home in a few weeks for a short leave so I am getting excited. He also found out that some of his papers had not been turned in with his advancement exam and those gave him more than enough points to make the advancement. A couple of months late, but at least he knows why he missed the advancement in the fall. He is hoping it becomes official and he is frocked before he comes home, but he may have to wait until they report back to the ship or later, to get his next crow.
Feb 7, 2013
navymomfromCT (Ship 11, Div.037)
Still no word on his leave......he is feeling better, not sick anymore.....they moved him from the galley to painting so he has weekends off....so that is good.....still praying for his leave in April......Gearing up for a winter blizzard in Connecticut...we are suppose to get three feet of snow!!!!
Feb 8, 2013
lmnadelady
My son posted in Guam a few days ago, beautiful beaches. Here I am enjoying about 8" of beautiful fluffy snow. I have a bluebird at the edge of our sidewalk, happened to see 6 bluebirds fly in one after another. Now I know how they stay warm, it must be snug in there. They fly out everyday shortly after sunrise and return before sunset. They look so pretty sitting in the snow covered tree, as they await their turn to return to the nest.
navymomfromCT hope you are doing well in CT with this snow storm.
Mary(Chris'mom) my son's scoring was wrong too on his advancement, he returned from Christmas leave to get the confirmation he had made Petty Officer 2nd class. In less than two years, he was a happy man.
Feb 8, 2013
Mary (Chris' mom)
katlanta, congrats to John. Hopefully it will put him closer to where he wants to be careerwise.
Imnadelady, this is the second time (once while he was in Korea) that his paperwork was not turned in with his packet. The first time it only got him a couple of points over passing which still was not enough for his rating. This time he knew he was going to get it and couldn't figure out how he missed by less than a point. He feels a little better about his job now. Congrats to your son on his advancement.
Feb 9, 2013