Boot Camp Moms (and loved ones)

To everyone with a loved one at RTC or soon to be there, we say, "Welcome!"  To those who are sticking around after PIR to help those who are just beginning this awesome journey, we say, "Thank you!"

**BEGINNING OCTOBER 5, 2023, RECRUIT GRADUATIONS WILL BE CONDUCTED EVERY THURSDAY (NO LONGER ON FRIDAY), EXCEPT FOR THE WEEK OF THANKSGIVING, WHEN GRADUATION IS ON WEDNESDAY.

This is a place to talk, ask questions, and share stories. It is our desire that this Group will provide the information, encouragement, and support you need while your loved one is at RTC in Great Lakes. Enjoy your time here and feel free to Comment and join in the Discussions. Be sure to check out the "Pages" to the right, located under the pictures of the Members, especially OPSEC and PERSEC (Making Changes to Your Profile), (Click "View All" to see all of them.)

Please, if you no longer want to be a part of N4M's consider NOT deleting your profile as everything you have ever posted will disappear when you delete it .  You can leave a group but don't permanently delete your profile!

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  • JNMnavymomOH

    Good Afternoon,

    My son called on Friday and was being moved again, his 5th div. He wrote a letter that said if he had a choice between being moved again (not a cardio unit) and SEPS, he might choose SEPS.  His plan if that were to happen is to workout/train to be better than the satisfactory time, study as he wants the same rate, get his DL/car and learn some Japanese and try again in 6 months.  If he gets into a cardio unit, he would stay and we would have PIR.  It has been 4 months.  I am so proud of my son for running this race and enduring all of this.  I know that he is going to do great things with the Navy and in his life.  He gets moved so fast since he can only go to a div that has already completed BS21 and has not had their final run test.  My head and heart hurts just thinking about it.  He paid for pictures and had them sent home.  They are amazing.  I cried when I saw them.  He even ordered frames for them and quite a bit of his divisional things.  So now I just wait for his new information.  Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers.  It really means the world to me. 

  • Northwoodsmom

    JNMnavymom, I cried when I read this because I can feel the ache in your words. You got one tough boy and a inspiration to all of us. The Navy knows how determined he is and they are sticking with him, you got to be so proud. You will be a incredible encouragement to others that will find themselves in this same circumstance. Continued prayers for you and your remarkable son. God Bless 

  • Tootie

    JNMnavymom - Oh if only you could scoop him up and hug him right now...my heart aches for you and for him. You are so right when you say he will do great things...in fact he already has!  He is such an inspiration.  I am continuing to keep you both in my prayers.  Sending you big virtual hugs!

  • Rosanne

    Lapdja - Yay for the phone call!  I'm sure he loved it as much as you did.

    JNMnavymomOH - I give your son so much credit for sticking with it.  I pray that all works out and he gets into the type of unit he is hoping for.  But it seems like he has things all planned out either way. Wishing him much success not matter which road he goes! Hugs!

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    JNMnavymom - he has a plan and that is the important thing!  Hopefully he gets into a good unit and can pass this final test.  He is proving how strong he is!  Proud of him for not giving up and hugs to you mama <3

  • AgnesB

    JNMnavymom - I just read an article about if you want your child to be successful give them the gift of persistence. I immediately thought of your sailor.  My sailor had many hoops to jump thru to get into the Navy. It took nearly 2 years. Every time he got a no or a here's another hoop he got more determined. That ability to persist and pivot has served him well in life and the Navy and it will serve your son as well. It is so hard as a mom to see our children struggle. We are all behind you and will celebrate with you whatever happens as you have an amazing kid!

  • Chipmunk

    B'sNukeMom - Thanks for clarifying the PIR date in Dec. 

    JNMnavymom - Hugs and more Hugs for you, and strength, speed, and endurance, I pray for your son!!

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    See the source image

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Be sure to join your PIR group.  Here are the links:

    PIR DECEMBER 2022

    PIR NOVEMBER 2022

    PIR OCTOBER 2022

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    2022 THANKSGIVING ADOPT-A-SAILOR Recruit Training Command will resume our annual Thanksgiving Christmas Adopt-A-Sailor program.

    Recruits graduating Dec. 2 and 9, 2022, (Divisions 423-435, 437-439, 951 & 952) have the opportunity to spend Thanksgiving Day in the local area with their immediate families, or be adopted by local civic organizations such as VFWs, American Legions, and churches.
    Recruits can only be picked up by immediate family, including spouse, father, mother, sibling, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or cousin. Boyfriends, girlfriends, fiancés, and friends are not eligible to pick up a recruit. However, they may visit with the recruit off base, but only after an authorized family member picks up the recruit.
    Recruits will send home ONE application form with instructions that must be adhered to should you want to participate. This form is not available digitally and only the original yellow form your recruit sends will be accepted; no photocopies.
    You MUST be fully immunized to gain base access and there are NO exceptions.
    If your recruit qualifies due to their graduation date but later gets set back in training with a graduation date of Dec. 16 or later, they are no longer eligible to participate. If your recruit gets set back in training to an eligible division, they will be adopted by an organization only.
    Full details and instructions are included in the application form. Questions may be directed to RTC Public Affairs at rtc.pao@navy.mil or 847-688-5582, ext. 2.
  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    USPS Informed Delivery - Sign up and receive an email from the US Postal Service showing what mail you will be getting each day (if available in your area).  

    Informed Delivery®

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Here's a video posted online (6/13/22) that shows the 10 weeks of boot camp:

    What US Navy Recruits Go Through

    And if you are interested in seeing what happens during the "Confidence Chamber" aka gas chamber here is a video link:

    Boot Camp Gas Chamber

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Be sure to RSVP for Sarge's Meet N Greet.  It's held on the Thursday night before PIR.  Here's the link:  

    Sarge's Meet N Greet

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    January 2023 PIR group is posted.  Here's the link:

    PIR JANUARY 2023

  • belovedbyHim

    JNMnavymom -- Praying for good news!  Either Choice is an acceptable one.  He has worked so hard and come so far!! No matter what the end result is he has not quit but has overcome much adversity!! You should all be proud of him and his efforts.

  • belovedbyHim

    lapdja -- Yea for the phone call! That last Dec PIR and any not being a Friday really tend to throw folks off.

  • tammybikerunfaithlove

    Been away on vacation and just popping in for a quick hello before I get back to the grind of trying to catch up. 

    JNMNavymom - your son has an amazing attitude about all this. Such grit and determination. It's definitely something to be proud of. Most people would have quit long ago - but he just continues to perservere! So impressive. I know this journey is hard on him and of course on you. Big hugs and continued prayers!! 

    Amouse & Cindi - Congrats to your sailors!!!! So exciting! (Sorry if I missed anyone). 

    Welcome to the new members! I hope you are doing well, staying strong, and leaning on this amazing group for support! (My son's PIR was a month ago - it's quite the journey for sure - but this group will carry you through!)

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    See the source image

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Be sure to join your PIR group.  Here are the links:

    PIR JANUARY 2023

    PIR DECEMBER 2022

    PIR NOVEMBER 2022

    PIR OCTOBER 2022

  • Tootie

    So I just got a call from my son.  He has a stress fracture in his heel and they are moving him to medical Ship 2.  He could only talk for a minute to let me know and said he would call me back once he gets moved.  He said they gave him a choice to separate or stay there and heal for 8 weeks and then move to another division.  My heart is breaking for him but he's determined to stay and finish.  He sounded so discouraged.  I guess he'll know more when he calls me back but does anyone know what he'll be doing for 8 weeks until his foot heals and he's able to finish?  Do they give them some sort of other job/routine during that time? I imagine the time will go by so slow if not.  If anyone else has had this experience with their SR I would love to hear it.  Prayers are appreciated!

  • Chipmunk

    Hi Tootie - My apologies, I had a busy day and did not check my email feed much today. I don't know if Ummi will see your message, but there have been several that have had SRs in Ship 2. 

    Check with him, I think you are able to send things like crossword puzzles, religious materials, or things for them to read, and focus on. He will need to double check. 

  • belovedbyHim

    Tootie -- My understanding from others over the years is that they give them duties based on their medical needs and abilities.  So an injured foot may be sorting paperwork or doing other desk type duties until cleared for lite PT then rehab work takes over till they are fit for Duty and returned to training.  They try and put them in a Div that is as close to where they were when the injury occurred. Hopefully one of the moms who had a SR go through this will answer soon.

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    See the source image

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Tootie - well the good thing is if he stays he'll continue to get paid, he will get medical treatment for the healing and he should have some work to do which will help the time pass.

    The 8 weeks healing time might seem like a long time but it's actually quicker than coming home (which he will still have to heal) and waiting 6 months to re-enlist. 

    Although either option is ok!

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Be sure to join your PIR group.  Here are the links:

    PIR JANUARY 2023

    PIR DECEMBER 2022

    PIR NOVEMBER 2022

    PIR OCTOBER 2022

  • Tootie

    Thanks everyone!  B'sNukeMom - yes he definitely does not want to come home.  He's probably not feeling nearly as stressed out as me about it lol!  I'll just add a few more weeks to my countdown!  I know that something good will come of it even though we won't know what that is until later down the road.  Things always have a way of turning out for the best and we don't know why until later.

  • Northwoodsmom

    Tootsie, great additude. Prayers for quick healing!

  • Cindi@FrostyAcres

    To the Mom asking about Ship 2. My SR just got back into a division last week after being in rehab. I was allowed to send him magazines, a drawing set and books (He had access to some sort of library so he didn't ask for any books) But I would wait until he asks for it. At the end of my son's time his command said no more packages. He was their for about 6 weeks, but we were told it could have been 8-9 weeks at the beginning. Just tell him to do everything medical is telling him to do, not to push it (we do not want another injury). My son never mentioned that he was doing any desk duties....so I  don't know about that part. But he was able to get back into a division that was in week 7 of training, right before BS, which was where my son had left his division.  He passed the final medical with flying colors one week after leaving RCU. I sent lots of encouraging words. On a good note, I received alot of phone calls while he was in RCU.

  • Tootie

    Cindi - thank you!  This is very encouraging.  My son just finished week 4 so he'll have a bit more to go once he's cleared for training. Looking forward to the extra phone calls!

  • JNMnavymomOH

    Do you want the news or the good news?

    News - he was given the alternate cardio/fitness test

    Good News - He passed with flying colors!!!

    He did it!  We did it!!  He called tonight to say that we have PIR on 11/4.  I went outside of work and screamed a very loud "hooyah" or however it is spelled. I am still very emotional about it. 

    I honestly don't believe that I could have handled this without you ladies and your encouragement.  I am truly thankful for ALL of you that have commented or messaged me.  I hope to stay and be a light of hope for others, as you were for me.  

    I am looking forward to seeing my Sailor and giving him the absolute biggest hug.  It will just be me, so I am not sure how we are going to get a picture of our reunion, but I can't wait to post a picture of him.  He still doesn't know his rate, but he does know that he will be flying out military so I will not be able to hang out with him at the airport. And then its off to Nuke A school.  Let this adventure begin!!

  • Trey

    OMG  BZs to you and your sailor jnmnavymom... whew.. there will be plenty of nice people who would probably take your picture for you..  Wheee...  come join on us the beyond group if you can.. 

  • Northwoodsmom

    JNMnavymom, oh my gosh I just saw this. I am so excited for you, congratulations to you both. He is so amazing and will do great. Have a wonderful safe and Blessed time at PIR. I am just so happy for you both. 

  • Chipmunk

    JNMnavymom - BravoZulu!!! Congratulations to your sailor!!! 

    I am so happy for both of you!! 

    If it makes you feel better, even if you don't get a picture of your hug, since it is just you, you don't have to wait for that hug like I had to. Little brother took my hug and I got his picture!

    We look forward to keeping up with your sailor's journey!

  • Rosanne

    JNMnavymomOH - WOO HOO!!! I teared up reading your message.  So happy for you and your sailor.  Congratulations!!! Enjoy every single minute!!

  • Tootie

    JNMnavymomOH - WooHoo!!!  I am so happy for your sailor and for you...crying happy tears right now just thinking about your reunion with your son at PIR! Enjoy every minute of it!

  • tammybikerunfaithlove

    JNMNavymom! BRAVO ZULO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  I'm so beyond happy for you and your sailor! His determination, perservernce and grit paid off!!! He's got an amazing character! So glad you dont' have to wait much longer for that hug! And I'm certain if you ask another person - someone will gladly take the picture of your hug! 

    Tootie prayers for quick healing.  Your son can also do some studying if he has more tests coming up - I have heard some SRs do that when in Ship 2 and it really helps them be ready when they return. 

  • Chipmunk

    Good Morning Everyone!!

    I have to scoot off for the day but congratulations to anyone that has PIR today!! I have my RED on! How about You?

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    See the source image

    Happy Friday!  And an even happier Friday for you JNMNavymom!  Great news on your son!!!!!

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Here's the link to today's PIR:

    LIVE PIR 10.28.2022

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Be sure to join your PIR group.  Here are the links:

    PIR JANUARY 2023

    PIR DECEMBER 2022

    PIR NOVEMBER 2022

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Looks a little chilly at PIR!

  • MomofJoseph

    JNMnavymomOH - I am weeping for you because I am so HAPPY for you and your Sailor!  Congratulations!!!!  Nov 4th can't come soon enough!

  • 0914mel

    JNMnavymomOH- Praise God!!!! I'm so happy for you both!!! Congratulations!!!!

  • belovedbyHim

    JNMnavymomOH- HOO YAH!!!!!BZ!!!!!!! YES!!!! HOORAY!!!!AWESOME!!!!CONGRATULATIONS!!!!
    I was spending the day yesterday traveling and enjoying my last day with my Sailor so I just saw your news and I'll admit I teared up just a bit. Enjoy your time together.
  • Melissa

    We have another SAILOR!! Just got the call!! WOOO!!!

  • Melissa

    I'll get to see his face in 13 days! I can't wait!

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    BZ Melissa!

  • Tootie

    Congratulations Melissa!!! BZ!

  • Melissa

    Thank you!! And he'll have 2 nights on liberty with us in the hotel!

  • Chipmunk

    Melissa - Congratulations!!! WooHoo!

    Enjoy that little extra time. 

    Be sure to come join us in the Beyond BC group. We are there to help you through the transition from BC to A school and on beyond, plus we just have good time in community with each other.