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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  • Chipmunk

    TravlinMom - It is a good thing that you have all of your records together, you never know! I would never have been able to recreate all of that, even with a filled out calendar!

    Eds Mom Danielle, Trey - Over the years on this site, there have been many times when someone has commented on grieving the loss of their SR and likening it to death. Something that I have realized is that each season in our life seems to have its own kind of grief or mourning that goes along with it, even as we are in the midst of embracing the new season. 

  • patti

    Edsmom-It's tough when they go off to boot camp, A School...whaerever...I'm dealing with my sailor deciding on where he wants to be stationed. *sigh* He wants to go to another country and I have to accept his decison for now. Hang in there...we are here for you!

  • Chipmunk

    Good Evening everyone!  Please join me in welcoming Xzmum to our group!

    Xzmum - this is the comment wall and the best place to ask your questions or say hello. 

  • Eds Mom Danielle

    Patti thank you. I know he joined to see the world and I as and am so excited for him... I just hadn't thought it through enough to really realize he would be doing it all e without me lol 

  • Eds Mom Danielle

    Good morning Navy Family!  I spoke to Ed Saturday,in the rain, while on crossing guard duty!  So everyone going to Temple Saturday got a little clip of my conversation because there was NO way on God's green earth I was Not taking his call!  Between this group and that call I know he is going to be fine and so will I haha. He sounded....different, some of you know what I mean.  His questions were more specific, his responses more ... I don't know...I guess Adult is the word. It was a change I have seen happen before with him. Ed worked in NYC as a Welder for years, he is 24, right out of high school and that made him grown-up quickly..  taking the subway at 4:30 a.m. with just the rats , other blue collar people and the subway dwellers makes you grow up. ...but This, This was different 💙 It was so comforting to hear it.  He has grown and I now cannot wait to meet the new version of my baby in a few weeks!

    Thank you all for helping over the hump!

  • patti

    Edsmom, When Sailor came home last Thursday and left last friday evening, I suddenly got so very sad at the realization that he is now 21 and his own man. Our kids joined to see the world, have security, etc., but it still doesn't make it easier when they visit and have to go back to their own lives. *sigh* They still love us, all the same.

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Happy Monday Pictures, Photos, and Images for Facebook, Tumblr, Pinterest, and Twitter

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

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

    PIR DECEMBER 2023

    PIR NOVEMBER 2023

    PIR OCTOBER 2023

    **REMINDER** 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.

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    pray for the world. – livebyletters

  • Chipmunk

    EdsMomDanielle - Hugs!! I am so glad that you had a phone call which lifted your spirits. Our children chart their own course, but that doesn't mean we stop being Momma. The hugs don't change, but the conversations do. They we no longer converse with them as children but adults who still need our wisdom and listening ear. 

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    happy tuesday Good morning wishes on tuesday pictures images jpg - Cliparting.com

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

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

    PIR DECEMBER 2023

    PIR NOVEMBER 2023

    PIR OCTOBER 2023

    **REMINDER** 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.

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    NO PIR DECEMBER 21ST OR DECEMBER 28TH, 2023.

  • belovedbyHim

    Because we can all use a bit of fun... Enjoy this "Sea Shanty" from one of my favorite musicians... https://www.facebook.com/reel/2064660287200442

  • Eds Mom Danielle

    Chipmunk Thankyou

    belovedbyHim LOL

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Wednesday Memes - Funny Happy Wednesday Images

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

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

    PIR DECEMBER 2023

    PIR NOVEMBER 2023

    PIR OCTOBER 2023

    **REMINDER** 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.

  • Eds Mom Danielle

    Hi!  My son's PIR is coming up fast and I have a (probably silly ) question:  immediately after PIR when they go back to their ship for their belongings....what are they getting?  what do they need from back at their barracks?  I understand he is going to want to Eat, take a shower by himself LOL and Nap.  We booked a hotel specifically with a hottub for a soak LOL, so I know he will need his navy issued swimsuit and shirt.  

    I know THIS is most likely a pipe dream but will they get their phones back on PIR day?

    Thank you for all your information!

  • Trey

    I know there are links with more updated info somewhere around here. but I do remember that no matter if they stay and GL or leave, they do return to their ships after PIR to change/get their stuff, including phone, paperwork signed, etc. it can take a few hours but you will get contacted by them and can go from there.. We just hung around at the Sailor museum because we didn't want to miss out anything and being near the base..

  • joe-mom

    Eds Mom - My son's PIR was last November, and he was able to have his phone right after. Had to go back to his ship to get phone and pictures, but he remained in uniform the entire time he was with us on liberty. Phone had to be turned in when we dropped him off on base that evening. Not sure how much has changed in the past year.

  • Eds Mom Danielle

    Trey and joe-mom Thank you!!

  • belovedbyHim

    Eds Mom Danielle--  You are going to have to tell us!!!  I KNOW that 10 years ago only those sailors staying at GL had to go back to their Barracks (Or those who had the duty that day.... Ours had watch so it was a lot of back and forth), Yes, if they want to swim or Hot Tub, they need to go back to get their gear.  This was back in the Days of KIB (Kid-in-a-box) when they mailed their stuff home and you had to bring it with you!! So many kids who didn't have their Cell phones would be waiting to use the payphones!!! Now...???? It was surprising to hear that they could take stuff back with them to pack in their bags when that came up a couple of weeks ago.  SO, It sounds like YES they are getting their box back sooner!! Please keep in mind that this policy can change at any time if they are caught abusing it (along with all the trouble they get in.) so have them follow the rules laid out by their RDC's!!! If they say "no" it's a No, no matter what we may have said on here!!! We know a lot but things change and your Sailor knows best!!

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Today's PIR live:

    LIVE PIR 10.12.23

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

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

    PIR DECEMBER 2023

    PIR NOVEMBER 2023

    PIR OCTOBER 2023

    **REMINDER** 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.

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Pin by Jennifer on Days of the Week | Snoopy funny, Happy thursday, Snoopy

  • belovedbyHim

    Happy PIR day!
  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Happy 248th birthday Navy!


  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

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

    PIR DECEMBER 2023

    PIR NOVEMBER 2023

    PIR OCTOBER 2023

    **REMINDER** 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.

  • Lara

    Thinking of all our troops this evening and especially those in the fleet and all the recruits working so hard in BC right now. Thank you so much to all the Navy moms for your support and wisdom and willingness to help those of us new to Navy life. Thank you ~

  • Chipmunk

    Welcome to all of our new members who joined this past week!!  

    This is the best place to come post your questions, say Hi, and just share your ups and downs regarding Pre-BC (DEP) or BC. We are here to encourage and support you. If you are viewing this site on a mobile device, I recommend you put your screen into desktop mode. You can better see the computer layout and scroll around the screen to find more information easily. 

    I am still mostly out-of-pocket, but I wanted to say hi, especially since I know we have some new members that I have not had a chance to personally welcome. 

  • Chipmunk

    Lara - Thank you!! 

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Monday Meme Positive

  • Marshannon

    Hi I have a sailor all glory to God 

  • Angie

    Thank u
  • Trey

    congrats Marshannon..  when is your PIR,, later this week?

  • Marshannon

    Thank you 11-02 

  • joe-mom

    Marshannon - Congratulations to your sailor!

  • Chipmunk

    Marshannon - Congratulations to your son!!! - I left a message for you on your profile page. 

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    The 25+ best Tuesday quotes funny ideas on Pinterest | Funny work quotes, Work day humor and ...

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

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

    PIR DECEMBER 2023

    PIR NOVEMBER 2023

    PIR OCTOBER 2023

    **REMINDER** 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.

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    S.O. Contract:

    Moms whose sons have an S.O. Contract headed to BUD/S there is a group for you.

    It is called, BUD/S and SQT (Stages of a S.E.A.L.)

    Interested:

    Send a friend request to NavyMom(J) for more information.

    (Click on the highlighted links.)

  • belovedbyHim

    WHOOP!
    WHOOP!
    WHOOP!
    ATTENTION ON DECK!

    WE HAVE A NEW SAILOR!
    BZ TO Marshannon and Her Sailor!

  • Marshannon

    Hey thank you 

  • Lara

    This is a rather silly question, perhaps, but does anyone know how the sailors, once Boot Camp is over, receive winter weather gear? I’m trying to understand does my son arrange for that himself in accordance to with what’s supposed to be worn with the Navy uniform in the moment, or when he gets to A school, does he then get granted all of the winter wear he needs?  

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Wednesday Wisdom | Funny wednesday quotes, Happy wednesday quotes, Wednesday quotes

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

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

    PIR DECEMBER 2023

    PIR NOVEMBER 2023

    PIR OCTOBER 2023

    **REMINDER** 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.

  • B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)

    Hi Lara - my son had PIR in December (2012) and he was given all his winter gear before he left boot camp.  But of course it was needed in Chicago....

    I'm guessing there's a specific time the Navy passes everything out - depending on weather/location.  Either way, they'll get him what he needs!

  • Chipmunk

    Lara - Sorry, I had a meeting last night and forgot to reply when I got home. My DIL sent me this reply whan I asked her - "I got all my winter gear at boot camp except one of my coats cause they didn't have my size. The coat was then sent to my PO box at A school.  I hope that helps."

    As I recall, my son was missing something with winter gear, or had to buy a new one because of the change in uniform. So, for the most part, they should be issued everything, but remind him, he should probably make sure he is budgeting for a clothing allowance to cover things they are not issued or have to be replaced. The NWUs were changed during my son's time in and he had to pay out of pocket for the new ones. I don't recall if they were given an allowance towards it or not, I just recall him being frustrated that they were issued the old ones in BC even though the new ones were going into effect. 

  • Trey

    my sailor was issued some winter gear, he kept losing one of his gloves somehow.. their clothing budget is never enough.. he bought personal stuff too because he was at GL for A school which is referred to as the 'frozen hellscape'.. he's a Texan lol

  • patti

    Congratuations to Marshmom and Sailor!