J's/S'smom, do you know those are the rules for interaction, or is that just what you have been told? Can you cite the relevant regulations or instructions? Do you know for a fact that female sailors are being given preferential treatment or is that just scuttlebutt, perhaps sour grapes from some guy who thought he should have gotten that chevron? We've heard this sort of thing before, with the integration of women into the surface fleet, gays serving openly, or for that matter, the integration of races. Each time it has been wrong, so have a little faith. In the long run, women will do as well as men in submarines. It does take something extra to be a pioneer, and some problems are to be expected in these early years, but the Navy will benefit in the end.
J's/S'smom, the examples you listed cannot be classified as sexual assault under a plain reading of the statute. Sexual assault requires a "sexual act" which involves touching certain body parts not listed in your examples. On the other hand, the examples you listed could constitute sexual contact, but only if the contact was made with the intent to gratify a sexual desire. You can do a web search to get to the statute.
Not sure what specific hardships apply to women differently than men on a sub? Seems vague.
My son still has a little over a year left on his boat. He always has said that it would be a very bad idea to put women on subs. His sub is small and the woman would be on board with 135 young, hardy, young men in very compact space under water.
Also another thought. My son's twin, also thinks it a bad idea. He was on a ship and when things went wrong, the guilty parties were removed from the ship, on a sub that in on mission there is no removing the parties until they would safely surface. That could be weeks.
I am very hesitantly weighing in on the females on subs issue, and I am sorry if anyone takes offense at my remarks, because it is not my intention to be mean or hateful. However, if you have raised your children to respect others and they have pledged to uphold the values the Navy expects of them, all fellow sailors, regardless of gender, will be treated in a manner becoming of a member of the US Navy. If any sailor cannot follow the Navy creed, then that person should not be a sailor. Period.
I second NonnaB's comment, and the rest of this is my own view. To not allow women sailors to serve on subs, or in any position that they are trained for and capable at, because of fears of harassment OR fears of "inappropriate" accusations of harassment, would be analogous to not allowing sailors of different ethnicities to serve because of possible allegations of "racism" that might break out. What about things that "go wrong" between any two members of a ship's crew? Rules and procedures are in place to resolve conflicts minor and major without having to surface. I'd hate for our daughter to decide against serving on a sub out of fear that some of her fellow sailors would think her presence is a "bad idea."
CSW: Don't miss the Power School graduation, it's wonderful. Prototype graduation date is a moving target and difficult to make travel plans ahead of time, so you might miss it, as I did. Regarding care packages, I found anything square shipped best. As in square chocolate chip cookies or brownies. Or my latest find from Pinterest: Carmelitas. Gosh they are good.
Regarding women sailors on subs, I have no opinion yet as I have no Naval expertise. However, 30 years ago, I was hired by a govt agency that was almost all male. After allot of hard work by women with a calling for public service, day in and day out, developing trust one on one between employees, and with customers, the agency is better able to serve the public.
I appreciate J's/S'smom for bring up a topic that may cause some of us to ruffle our feathers, others of us to want to hide in our shell, and others to engage their husbands in a conversation around the matter. For over an hour tonight I have been discussing with my husband the harassment /sub /women comments and wish I could easily share his statements and our discussion, but that just doesn't work very well. Thanks for sharing the links and articles with us, J's/S'smom.
It is good for us to have healthy conversations, even over issues that most people would just "brush under the carpet."
J's/S's mom thank you for the kind words about my daughter. She would says that she's just doing her job and getting it done.
I have to say that when I took the Tiger Cruise I saw both sides. There were the wonderful men and women who she serves with who watch out for each other, do their jobs with integrity and have each other's backs. I saw this first hand when we'd pass another Nuke on water heater and she would stop to see if they needed anything, food a trip to the head. It was great to see them help each other out.
Then there was the sailor who went to pick up their dress whites onky to find that part of their uniform had been taken by someone else. How sad.
YES. Thank you J's/S'smom I raised two young men who are respectful of women. I think this is the reason for their comments to me. Anyway I agree with your whole post 100%
Got to hear from my Nuke is A school and he is adjusting well and is just starting classes. Hope he can keep his enthusiasm and drive to complete his classes successfully. So glad he is there and in a regular routine. He was able to navigate some around the area and do a little shopping. Glad for good news.
Thanks for all your posts - love reading all the post here - I learn a lot.
A school grad was wonderful - a little bigger than sometimes because it included classes that got pushed back a week due to the hurricane evacuation and then the classes from Oct 20th were the first classes that did not get pushed. But in a lot of ways I enjoyed it more than PIR - I'm kind of more of a small town few people kind of person.
And it is just wonderful having my son in the house - sometimes I think I need to pinch myself to make sure it is real. And I'm just so proud of him - so far he just seems to be fitting what he's doing so well.
To all you moms with sailors in boot camp or just starting A school - it seems like a long time at the time but in hindsight time really does fly fast and it is so worth it. And I so appreciate the moms in this groups with sailors way ahead of mine in the pipeline or out in the fleet because it helps to understand whats coming.
But for this week my boy is mine and I'm going to cherish every moment.
workingatit - Glad you got a call from your son. Some of the sailors start classes almost immediately others are in Indoc waiting for another class to form. It is good he was able to get some shopping done and figure the area out. If you look in the discussion above I posted my son's A school daily schedule. It will give you a little perspective on their routine once they have started classes. I found out yesterday that mine had done a six hour study hall time on Sunday in order to fit in all of his required study time for the week. He had only been doing his minimal work through the week, in order to get extra sleep to fight off feeling under the weather. I asked about sick call and he said if they miss a test day then they are pushed back to another class. So, I didn't hear from him until later last night and he was trying to get his laundry done!
He did tell me that they had all done a PFA on Friday, which I thought they had done earlier in the week. Evidently a couple of their classmates had not passed, and so they were not able to phase up for other privileges. The class as a whole volunteered to do PFA again to help their classmates, one of which I gathered from our conversation was a female, pass their PFA. I just was impressed that they were all working together to help each other out.
My son also said to share with all of your Moms and Grandma's to encourage their sailors to be sure to get help or go ask for help with their school work or issues with their roommates, etc. This is evidently stressed in their life skills sessions and over and over.
Have a great day - enjoyed Gen. Kelly's remarks, thanks J's/S's Mom.
Thank you all so much, NavyMoms, for this complex discussion that has shown me so much about women in subs, and in the Navy overall. You are all so kind and thoughtful! We weren't a Navy family until our daughter, now in A school, joined in April. Her grandfather, deceased before she was born, and her uncle, both served in WW2, but that was long ago, esp from the perspective of a 20-something. I'd hate to think that the men she'll serve with would be uncomfortable having women aboard, but at the same time, I know that young people today are flexible and tolerant in ways that their parents maybe were not. I’m confident, hearing from y’all, that our sailor kids all will honor the Navy’s code of conduct as well as the good teachings they grew up with. Thanks again!
SailorsLIMom - In a short visit with my son this weekend, I asked him about the 5K run. It appears that he is enjoying the camaraderie of a fellow female sailor as they pace themselves. She is evidently the fastest female and they spur one another on, encouraging each other. My son participated in an integrated PE class from elementary through high school so this isn't anything new for him. I believe he greatly appreciates the female sailors who are out there giving it there all compared to some of the females he was in class with who were more into socializing instead of playing or competing.
Great to hear, Chipmunk! Very encouraging. That fastest female sailor is surely not our daughter, who's been challenged by that run BUT who is definitely "giving it her all." We are so glad to hear her accounts of the coursework--sounds hard!--the food, and life in general at GC. Such a privilege to be in contact after Basic. To the new moms: contact with your Sailor WILL come!
As usual my nuke moms do not disappoint. J's/S'smom, I can always count on you. Thanks for all you contribute. I wish we lived closer together because I would love to meet you someday. I consider you a "Nuke Mom Friend". <3<3<3
My son is not much of a communicator but has never expressed difficulty with working with women. He was raised with only sisters and from the way he treats them, me, and his wife, I surmise he treats women with respect. In a perfect world everybody would treat everybody with respect. Men and women both have the capacity to act otherwise, unfortunately. I'm glad we as a group have aired this issue civilly. Information is a good thing. Thanks, Everybody, for your input.
Meanwhile, my son is home again. He will be glad when all his sea duty is over and done. He is over the "see the world" bit. He'd rather see the wife and babies than another koala bear. It tugs my heartstrings.
Chipmunk - that's awesome that you were able to visit your son in GC! I'm sure it was nice for both of you ;D
ProudOfK - glad you had a nice time at A school grad! Did you get to do any sightseeing or did you all just head straight home? Enjoy your time with your sailor!
J's/S'smom - no offense taken by your post - I for one appreciate the info. Thank you.
Welcome to our newest members ~ cd121, Michaelsgrandma and mjnavynukemom.
Please be sure to read the pages to the right (10) under the member profiles, especially "Your Sailors Schedule Upon Arrival to GC" and be sure to familiarize yourself with OPSEC. Also, look through the discussion forum above (hit "view all") where you will find lots of good info. And of course, feel free to ask any questions you may have!
J's/S'sMom, I also appreciated the information - no offense taken!! I have learned so much from being on this site - I don't post a lot, since I am usually supposed to be working when I am reading these lol, but I love reading all the updates from everyone. I'm also member on a couple of FB groups which I enjoy being part of, however the FB groups sometimes bother me with how freely they post information - not much OPSEC adherence sometimes :( The day my son left for BC I took all of his recent photos off my FB page and I never post his name or any personal info...I know, maybe a little overkill, but I'd rather be safe than sorry, and the people who need to know get private messages from me.
My son is still waiting to class up - when I talked to him last night he said it wouldn't be this week, probably next week - he is 1807. He said he's been moving a lot of chairs and tvs from one building to another - I said wow, what a great workout you're getting while you're waiting for classes to start! :) Sending him his first care package today - he wanted his razor from home and I made cookies :) Can't wait until I can drive up and see him in person!!
This was the weekend hubby and son went to the Packer game. They had a blast (even though they lost)! Seats were great - Row 16. They tailgated with some fans that had this bus. On Saturday they toured the stadium and the Packer Hall of Fame. Waiting for son to get back to VA and hubby to get home to CA so I can hear more of their stories.
This was my weekend. Daughter and ex-nuke SIL celebrated 10 yrs of wedded bliss so I babysat in order for them to get an overnight getaway. Impossible to get a photo where they all just smiled so this is the best I could do. Proof that being a nuke does nothing to fertility. No. 6 is on the way.
B'sNukeMom - to clarify, I spoke (visited) with my son on the phone. I wish I had been able to see him in GC!! My apologies, I will be more specific next time. When my life has lived away from family more than near, I often "visit" on the phone lots compared to traveling!! LOL
Neat pictures, great father / son time. Sad day in our house also, as the Chiefs lost this week.
bigsky21 - Encourage you son to get is UI's (under instructions done) before he classes up. It will be one less thing to be focusing on once he classes up. - I understand about FB. My son called after their session about it in life skills to make sure there weren't any pictures of him in uniform posted anywhere.
NancyJo - Cute pictures!! So great that you are able to enjoy them and let mom and dad enjoy themselves! - My husband worked at Hanford getting his MS over 20 years ago, we still get postcards regarding radiation exposure that he just poo poos and I throw in the trash.
Welcome to all our new members. - Be sure to chime in let us know about you and your recruit/ sailor.
BlancheMarie - My son is on a sub. I'm excited to hope that he'll work with smart and exceptional female Navy sailors.
Maybe "more medical concerns" could have been stated as "different medical concerns". I don't think she meant anything about taking more sick leave. As I've gone through life with my share of medical concerns that are unique to being female, if I had been in the Navy in the beginning stages of bringing women to serve on submarines, would the Navy have been prepared? They better be prepared for these young ladies.
And "recipe for disaster" - I'm now married to my boss (though he's no longer my boss at work). I'm not proud of it but we spent so much time working together towards the same goal and became best friends without even trying. The Navy needs to be prepared for the inevitable. I'm not talking about physical. I'm talking about the emotional relationships.
2 decades ago, I was a young female in the FAA and was put in a program where they wanted more female engineers in the FAA. They sent us to college. College classes where the course material was male-dominated and the films were old with a lot of sexist jokes in it. The FAA had good intentions but they didn't have a good plan. None of the Supervisors involved were on the same page. It didn't work out for me. I'm not sure that any of the 3 girls in the program made it.
I'm not taking sides. We are all on the same side. If anything I said was offensive, it wasn't my intention. I've deleted and rewritten this a dozen times trying to get it right.
Just a note to allay the fears of all the moms concerned with their “babies”. Please don’t take offense but they are in a new phase. They proved their worth when the made the decision to enter the Navy. They confirmed that decision when the graduated boot camp. The Navy, in its wisdom, carefully evaluated each and every Sailor. Now they have a chance to prove the Navy,s choice. These sailors have been specifically chosen to be a part of a select few. The Navy will NOT let them fail, to much invested. When I attended A school graduation this Friday, the 20th. I looked across the auditorium and saw, and felt, young brave professional educated Sailors (No race, color, sex was noted. They arose as one, sounded off as one, mature dedicated force. When I asked my grandson what was the most memorable moment from the beginning, his decision to join, he quickly replied, “When I was addressed as Petty Officer!”
Hey Moms, you are special but so are these Sailors. Give them all the support and encouragement to succeed - The Navy does
To all Mom's with daughter's going on these sub's, my experience mentioned below with the FAA was 20 years ago and I have seen or heard nothing to indicate that the Navy is or was not fully prepared for integration. Happy Monday to everyone.
NancyJo, what a beautiful group of grandbabies! I am sure it is never dull when they are around! Congratulations on grandbaby #6; I will be welcoming #3 in the spring.
The "chaste" question arises in any workforce that employs both men and women who have to work together. I work for a school system and have stopped being amazed at the instances of improper and inappropriate behaviors. Happily there are many good, hardworking folks with exemplary values across the board in all occupations. I still believe that most people are good.
Meanwhile, I share the admiration I have read about here for our military. General Kelly's speech touched me deeply. Our children are part of the few who are dedicating a portion of their time on this earth to the service of others. What an awesome thing that is. I am so proud of all of them. I'm proud of us, too. We are moms of sailors! How great is that?!?
J''s/S'smom, I am bummed about your sailor's orders getting changed like they did. How many times have we heard "needs of the navy..."? Right now my son is told he will get teaching duty. But that's so far away I don't carve anything in stone yet. ps Thanks for admiring my beauties. I never imagined how wonderful being a grandparent would be. On the other hand when I got home after babysitting I went straight to bed. The old gray mare just ain't what she used to be!
NancyJo - I am envious of the grandbabies! I have step-kids and my own son ranging from 19 to 29 and I don't have a single grandbaby! Beautiful family & prayers for the 1 on the way.
Thanks, Everybody. These aren't counting the 3 babies my sailor has in CA. I am so blessed! Congrats, NonnaB! Best wishes on your coming gbaby. TxMom, I'm sure your day is coming. With all the possibilities it sounds like you have, one of them is bound to get into production eventually! ;^D
NancyJo - yes, love the pic of your grandbabies! And congrats to your daughter & SIL on #6. Nice that you watched them so they could have a nice anniversary celebration. I'm sure everyone had fun!
Tx Mom of Far Away Nuke - don't feel bad - I have 2 sons, 23 & 28 and no grand babies either :( some day ~ sigh.
J's/S'smom - I didn't realize that happened to your son with his shore duty - boy that's a bummer :(
Oh I hope you enjoy your Instant Pot - I really enjoy using mine. We might just have to make a separate discussion where we can post recipes lol! I still haven't made a cheesecake though! I did make some applesauce and it was easy and delicious! Also made some pearsauce the other day and it was just as good.
We even saw Charlie when we we went to A school graduation! We were driving by the pond with our sailor in the car and I was trying to take a picture. He said "Mom, no pictures! We aren't supposed to bother Charlie." I wasn't bothering him, I just wanted a picture ;D
Off the airport to pick up my hubby. Have a good evening all!
J's/S's Mom - I sent my son the link to your article about Charlie the alligator. This was his quick reply - "haven't seen him, but i know someone who has, we run by his pond at the start of every 5k" - Thanks for sharing the article. It gives us newbie moms one more thing to open up a conversation with our sailors and maybe we will get to see Charlie when we go to A school graduation.
Buzzbeck & J's/S'smom - my mom told us more than once that you never stop being Mom. We just have to learn how to keep some comments to ourselves more, how to close our eyes and still hug them, while also praying for them, when sometimes they do things or go places we aren't sure about - because they have to make their own choices. And then most of all help remind them to just send a short text or phone call - Home Safe!!! Because then Mom is a happy camper. I honestly currently hear from my sailor more than I do my oldest who is married and also out of state. Her job requires her to keep her phone off during the week and she forgets to turn the ringer on over the weekend!! I also try to let my kids know we are home safe after traveling so they don't have to wonder as well. - But I don't think it ever gets much easier.
I enjoy hearing all of the comments and stories from you moms, dads, & grandparents that have sailors in various stages of service.
J's/S's, we know for sure not BS now. Only 1 reactor and still staff there for 2 so that's a definite. After an initial disappointment they're OK now. I think they are all so pumped about shore duty they would be OK with the Arctic Circle. LOL Keep us posted on how your Marine fares with job hunting. I know my son is concerned even though I don't think there will be a problem.
I still don't get a lot of use with the Instant Pot. I just need to cook more cuz when I use it it's great. Good luck w/ yours, J's/S's. B'sNuke might be on to something with a separate discussion group!
My sailor never saw Charlie. Maybe he never tried. I don't think he likes them. ;D
I don't think we ever stop being moms but the good thing about this group is sharing the worry with each other and not w/ our sailors so much. Those apron strings are never entirely cut. They just fray a bit.
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Hi all - Happy Friday!
J's/S'smom - thank you for sharing the link - I look forward to watching it in it's entirety too. And thanks for the info on sub life.
ProudOfK - enjoy your time in GC!
BZ to all the Sailors graduating today ;D
Oct 20, 2017
WearsLargeHats
J's/S'smom, do you know those are the rules for interaction, or is that just what you have been told? Can you cite the relevant regulations or instructions? Do you know for a fact that female sailors are being given preferential treatment or is that just scuttlebutt, perhaps sour grapes from some guy who thought he should have gotten that chevron? We've heard this sort of thing before, with the integration of women into the surface fleet, gays serving openly, or for that matter, the integration of races. Each time it has been wrong, so have a little faith. In the long run, women will do as well as men in submarines.
It does take something extra to be a pioneer, and some problems are to be expected in these early years, but the Navy will benefit in the end.
Oct 20, 2017
bigsky21
I've had several people tell me today that General Kelly's speech was not to be missed....looking forward to hearing it later!
Oct 20, 2017
jurisprude
J's/S'smom, the examples you listed cannot be classified as sexual assault under a plain reading of the statute. Sexual assault requires a "sexual act" which involves touching certain body parts not listed in your examples. On the other hand, the examples you listed could constitute sexual contact, but only if the contact was made with the intent to gratify a sexual desire. You can do a web search to get to the statute.
Not sure what specific hardships apply to women differently than men on a sub? Seems vague.
Oct 20, 2017
CSW
Hope some of you PowerSchool moms are getting the good news I received last night. He's coming home for Christmas!
YEAH!
Oct 20, 2017
samsmom
Oct 20, 2017
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Oct 20, 2017
CO-TwinSalorsMom
My son still has a little over a year left on his boat. He always has said that it would be a very bad idea to put women on subs. His sub is small and the woman would be on board with 135 young, hardy, young men in very compact space under water.
Oct 20, 2017
CO-TwinSalorsMom
Also another thought. My son's twin, also thinks it a bad idea. He was on a ship and when things went wrong, the guilty parties were removed from the ship, on a sub that in on mission there is no removing the parties until they would safely surface. That could be weeks.
Oct 20, 2017
NonnaB
Oct 20, 2017
SailorsLIMom
I second NonnaB's comment, and the rest of this is my own view. To not allow women sailors to serve on subs, or in any position that they are trained for and capable at, because of fears of harassment OR fears of "inappropriate" accusations of harassment, would be analogous to not allowing sailors of different ethnicities to serve because of possible allegations of "racism" that might break out. What about things that "go wrong" between any two members of a ship's crew? Rules and procedures are in place to resolve conflicts minor and major without having to surface. I'd hate for our daughter to decide against serving on a sub out of fear that some of her fellow sailors would think her presence is a "bad idea."
Oct 20, 2017
Buzzbeck
Regarding women sailors on subs, I have no opinion yet as I have no Naval expertise. However, 30 years ago, I was hired by a govt agency that was almost all male. After allot of hard work by women with a calling for public service, day in and day out, developing trust one on one between employees, and with customers, the agency is better able to serve the public.
Oct 21, 2017
Chipmunk
I appreciate J's/S'smom for bring up a topic that may cause some of us to ruffle our feathers, others of us to want to hide in our shell, and others to engage their husbands in a conversation around the matter. For over an hour tonight I have been discussing with my husband the harassment /sub /women comments and wish I could easily share his statements and our discussion, but that just doesn't work very well. Thanks for sharing the links and articles with us, J's/S'smom.
It is good for us to have healthy conversations, even over issues that most people would just "brush under the carpet."
Oct 21, 2017
ProudOfK
J's/S'sMom - Thank you so much for shareing all this very good information. Much appreciated!
A schlol grad was great. On our way home.
Oct 21, 2017
Chipmunk
ProudOfK - Safe travels!!
Oct 21, 2017
JayDee659
Oct 21, 2017
JayDee659
I have to say that when I took the Tiger Cruise I saw both sides. There were the wonderful men and women who she serves with who watch out for each other, do their jobs with integrity and have each other's backs. I saw this first hand when we'd pass another Nuke on water heater and she would stop to see if they needed anything, food a trip to the head. It was great to see them help each other out.
Then there was the sailor who went to pick up their dress whites onky to find that part of their uniform had been taken by someone else. How sad.
Oct 22, 2017
JayDee659
Oct 22, 2017
CO-TwinSalorsMom
YES. Thank you J's/S'smom I raised two young men who are respectful of women. I think this is the reason for their comments to me. Anyway I agree with your whole post 100%
I guess I would say "Yea, What she said"
I apologize if my post stepped on anyones toes.
Oct 22, 2017
workingatit
Got to hear from my Nuke is A school and he is adjusting well and is just starting classes. Hope he can keep his enthusiasm and drive to complete his classes successfully. So glad he is there and in a regular routine. He was able to navigate some around the area and do a little shopping. Glad for good news.
Oct 22, 2017
ProudOfK
Thanks for all your posts - love reading all the post here - I learn a lot.
A school grad was wonderful - a little bigger than sometimes because it included classes that got pushed back a week due to the hurricane evacuation and then the classes from Oct 20th were the first classes that did not get pushed. But in a lot of ways I enjoyed it more than PIR - I'm kind of more of a small town few people kind of person.
And it is just wonderful having my son in the house - sometimes I think I need to pinch myself to make sure it is real. And I'm just so proud of him - so far he just seems to be fitting what he's doing so well.
To all you moms with sailors in boot camp or just starting A school - it seems like a long time at the time but in hindsight time really does fly fast and it is so worth it. And I so appreciate the moms in this groups with sailors way ahead of mine in the pipeline or out in the fleet because it helps to understand whats coming.
But for this week my boy is mine and I'm going to cherish every moment.
Oct 23, 2017
Chipmunk
workingatit - Glad you got a call from your son. Some of the sailors start classes almost immediately others are in Indoc waiting for another class to form. It is good he was able to get some shopping done and figure the area out. If you look in the discussion above I posted my son's A school daily schedule. It will give you a little perspective on their routine once they have started classes. I found out yesterday that mine had done a six hour study hall time on Sunday in order to fit in all of his required study time for the week. He had only been doing his minimal work through the week, in order to get extra sleep to fight off feeling under the weather. I asked about sick call and he said if they miss a test day then they are pushed back to another class. So, I didn't hear from him until later last night and he was trying to get his laundry done!
He did tell me that they had all done a PFA on Friday, which I thought they had done earlier in the week. Evidently a couple of their classmates had not passed, and so they were not able to phase up for other privileges. The class as a whole volunteered to do PFA again to help their classmates, one of which I gathered from our conversation was a female, pass their PFA. I just was impressed that they were all working together to help each other out.
My son also said to share with all of your Moms and Grandma's to encourage their sailors to be sure to get help or go ask for help with their school work or issues with their roommates, etc. This is evidently stressed in their life skills sessions and over and over.
Have a great day - enjoyed Gen. Kelly's remarks, thanks J's/S's Mom.
Oct 23, 2017
SailorsLIMom
Thank you all so much, NavyMoms, for this complex discussion that has shown me so much about women in subs, and in the Navy overall. You are all so kind and thoughtful! We weren't a Navy family until our daughter, now in A school, joined in April. Her grandfather, deceased before she was born, and her uncle, both served in WW2, but that was long ago, esp from the perspective of a 20-something. I'd hate to think that the men she'll serve with would be uncomfortable having women aboard, but at the same time, I know that young people today are flexible and tolerant in ways that their parents maybe were not. I’m confident, hearing from y’all, that our sailor kids all will honor the Navy’s code of conduct as well as the good teachings they grew up with. Thanks again!
Oct 23, 2017
Chipmunk
SailorsLIMom - In a short visit with my son this weekend, I asked him about the 5K run. It appears that he is enjoying the camaraderie of a fellow female sailor as they pace themselves. She is evidently the fastest female and they spur one another on, encouraging each other. My son participated in an integrated PE class from elementary through high school so this isn't anything new for him. I believe he greatly appreciates the female sailors who are out there giving it there all compared to some of the females he was in class with who were more into socializing instead of playing or competing.
ProudOfK - Enjoy your time with your sailor!!!
Oct 23, 2017
SailorsLIMom
Great to hear, Chipmunk! Very encouraging. That fastest female sailor is surely not our daughter, who's been challenged by that run BUT who is definitely "giving it her all." We are so glad to hear her accounts of the coursework--sounds hard!--the food, and life in general at GC. Such a privilege to be in contact after Basic. To the new moms: contact with your Sailor WILL come!
Oct 23, 2017
NancyJo (NNPTC)
As usual my nuke moms do not disappoint. J's/S'smom, I can always count on you. Thanks for all you contribute. I wish we lived closer together because I would love to meet you someday. I consider you a "Nuke Mom Friend". <3<3<3
My son is not much of a communicator but has never expressed difficulty with working with women. He was raised with only sisters and from the way he treats them, me, and his wife, I surmise he treats women with respect. In a perfect world everybody would treat everybody with respect. Men and women both have the capacity to act otherwise, unfortunately. I'm glad we as a group have aired this issue civilly. Information is a good thing. Thanks, Everybody, for your input.
Meanwhile, my son is home again. He will be glad when all his sea duty is over and done. He is over the "see the world" bit. He'd rather see the wife and babies than another koala bear. It tugs my heartstrings.
Oct 23, 2017
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Hi all - Happy Monday!
Chipmunk - that's awesome that you were able to visit your son in GC! I'm sure it was nice for both of you ;D
ProudOfK - glad you had a nice time at A school grad! Did you get to do any sightseeing or did you all just head straight home? Enjoy your time with your sailor!
J's/S'smom - no offense taken by your post - I for one appreciate the info. Thank you.
Oct 23, 2017
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Welcome to our newest members ~ cd121, Michaelsgrandma and mjnavynukemom.
Please be sure to read the pages to the right (10) under the member profiles, especially "Your Sailors Schedule Upon Arrival to GC" and be sure to familiarize yourself with OPSEC. Also, look through the discussion forum above (hit "view all") where you will find lots of good info. And of course, feel free to ask any questions you may have!
Oct 23, 2017
bigsky21
J's/S'sMom, I also appreciated the information - no offense taken!! I have learned so much from being on this site - I don't post a lot, since I am usually supposed to be working when I am reading these lol, but I love reading all the updates from everyone. I'm also member on a couple of FB groups which I enjoy being part of, however the FB groups sometimes bother me with how freely they post information - not much OPSEC adherence sometimes :( The day my son left for BC I took all of his recent photos off my FB page and I never post his name or any personal info...I know, maybe a little overkill, but I'd rather be safe than sorry, and the people who need to know get private messages from me.
My son is still waiting to class up - when I talked to him last night he said it wouldn't be this week, probably next week - he is 1807. He said he's been moving a lot of chairs and tvs from one building to another - I said wow, what a great workout you're getting while you're waiting for classes to start! :) Sending him his first care package today - he wanted his razor from home and I made cookies :) Can't wait until I can drive up and see him in person!!
Oct 23, 2017
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
This was the weekend hubby and son went to the Packer game. They had a blast (even though they lost)! Seats were great - Row 16. They tailgated with some fans that had this bus. On Saturday they toured the stadium and the Packer Hall of Fame. Waiting for son to get back to VA and hubby to get home to CA so I can hear more of their stories.
Oct 23, 2017
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
This was them after the game lol!
Oct 23, 2017
NancyJo (NNPTC)
LOL Hilarious! Sad their team lost but looks like they had the time of their lives. That's awesome.
Oct 23, 2017
NancyJo (NNPTC)
This was my weekend. Daughter and ex-nuke SIL celebrated 10 yrs of wedded bliss so I babysat in order for them to get an overnight getaway. Impossible to get a photo where they all just smiled so this is the best I could do. Proof that being a nuke does nothing to fertility. No. 6 is on the way.
Oct 23, 2017
Chipmunk
B'sNukeMom - to clarify, I spoke (visited) with my son on the phone. I wish I had been able to see him in GC!! My apologies, I will be more specific next time. When my life has lived away from family more than near, I often "visit" on the phone lots compared to traveling!! LOL
Neat pictures, great father / son time. Sad day in our house also, as the Chiefs lost this week.
bigsky21 - Encourage you son to get is UI's (under instructions done) before he classes up. It will be one less thing to be focusing on once he classes up. - I understand about FB. My son called after their session about it in life skills to make sure there weren't any pictures of him in uniform posted anywhere.
NancyJo - Cute pictures!! So great that you are able to enjoy them and let mom and dad enjoy themselves! - My husband worked at Hanford getting his MS over 20 years ago, we still get postcards regarding radiation exposure that he just poo poos and I throw in the trash.
Welcome to all our new members. - Be sure to chime in let us know about you and your recruit/ sailor.
Oct 23, 2017
Tx Mom of Far Away Nuke
BlancheMarie - My son is on a sub. I'm excited to hope that he'll work with smart and exceptional female Navy sailors.
Maybe "more medical concerns" could have been stated as "different medical concerns". I don't think she meant anything about taking more sick leave. As I've gone through life with my share of medical concerns that are unique to being female, if I had been in the Navy in the beginning stages of bringing women to serve on submarines, would the Navy have been prepared? They better be prepared for these young ladies.
And "recipe for disaster" - I'm now married to my boss (though he's no longer my boss at work). I'm not proud of it but we spent so much time working together towards the same goal and became best friends without even trying. The Navy needs to be prepared for the inevitable. I'm not talking about physical. I'm talking about the emotional relationships.
2 decades ago, I was a young female in the FAA and was put in a program where they wanted more female engineers in the FAA. They sent us to college. College classes where the course material was male-dominated and the films were old with a lot of sexist jokes in it. The FAA had good intentions but they didn't have a good plan. None of the Supervisors involved were on the same page. It didn't work out for me. I'm not sure that any of the 3 girls in the program made it.
I'm not taking sides. We are all on the same side. If anything I said was offensive, it wasn't my intention. I've deleted and rewritten this a dozen times trying to get it right.
Oct 23, 2017
JayDee659
NancyJo, those sure are some cute kids!
Oct 23, 2017
Sgtsixpack
Hey Moms, you are special but so are these Sailors. Give them all the support and encouragement to succeed - The Navy does
Oct 23, 2017
Tx Mom of Far Away Nuke
To all Mom's with daughter's going on these sub's, my experience mentioned below with the FAA was 20 years ago and I have seen or heard nothing to indicate that the Navy is or was not fully prepared for integration. Happy Monday to everyone.
Oct 23, 2017
NonnaB
Oct 23, 2017
NancyJo (NNPTC)
The "chaste" question arises in any workforce that employs both men and women who have to work together. I work for a school system and have stopped being amazed at the instances of improper and inappropriate behaviors. Happily there are many good, hardworking folks with exemplary values across the board in all occupations. I still believe that most people are good.
Meanwhile, I share the admiration I have read about here for our military. General Kelly's speech touched me deeply. Our children are part of the few who are dedicating a portion of their time on this earth to the service of others. What an awesome thing that is. I am so proud of all of them. I'm proud of us, too. We are moms of sailors! How great is that?!?
J''s/S'smom, I am bummed about your sailor's orders getting changed like they did. How many times have we heard "needs of the navy..."? Right now my son is told he will get teaching duty. But that's so far away I don't carve anything in stone yet. ps Thanks for admiring my beauties. I never imagined how wonderful being a grandparent would be. On the other hand when I got home after babysitting I went straight to bed. The old gray mare just ain't what she used to be!
Oct 23, 2017
Tx Mom of Far Away Nuke
NancyJo - I am envious of the grandbabies! I have step-kids and my own son ranging from 19 to 29 and I don't have a single grandbaby! Beautiful family & prayers for the 1 on the way.
Oct 23, 2017
NancyJo (NNPTC)
Thanks, Everybody. These aren't counting the 3 babies my sailor has in CA. I am so blessed! Congrats, NonnaB! Best wishes on your coming gbaby. TxMom, I'm sure your day is coming. With all the possibilities it sounds like you have, one of them is bound to get into production eventually! ;^D
Oct 23, 2017
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
NancyJo - yes, love the pic of your grandbabies! And congrats to your daughter & SIL on #6. Nice that you watched them so they could have a nice anniversary celebration. I'm sure everyone had fun!
Tx Mom of Far Away Nuke - don't feel bad - I have 2 sons, 23 & 28 and no grand babies either :( some day ~ sigh.
J's/S'smom - I didn't realize that happened to your son with his shore duty - boy that's a bummer :(
Oct 23, 2017
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Oh I hope you enjoy your Instant Pot - I really enjoy using mine. We might just have to make a separate discussion where we can post recipes lol! I still haven't made a cheesecake though! I did make some applesauce and it was easy and delicious! Also made some pearsauce the other day and it was just as good.
We even saw Charlie when we we went to A school graduation! We were driving by the pond with our sailor in the car and I was trying to take a picture. He said "Mom, no pictures! We aren't supposed to bother Charlie." I wasn't bothering him, I just wanted a picture ;D
Off the airport to pick up my hubby. Have a good evening all!
Oct 23, 2017
Chipmunk
Sgtsixpack - thanks for sharing your comments! I appreciated them. Glad you were able to get to A school graduation.
Oct 23, 2017
Chipmunk
J's/S's Mom - I sent my son the link to your article about Charlie the alligator. This was his quick reply - "haven't seen him, but i know someone who has, we run by his pond at the start of every 5k" - Thanks for sharing the article. It gives us newbie moms one more thing to open up a conversation with our sailors and maybe we will get to see Charlie when we go to A school graduation.
Oct 24, 2017
Buzzbeck
Sgt: thanks for the reminder. After 18 years it's hard to stop being a mom. It was at Power School graduation when I realized I had to change.
Oct 24, 2017
Chipmunk
Buzzbeck & J's/S'smom - my mom told us more than once that you never stop being Mom. We just have to learn how to keep some comments to ourselves more, how to close our eyes and still hug them, while also praying for them, when sometimes they do things or go places we aren't sure about - because they have to make their own choices. And then most of all help remind them to just send a short text or phone call - Home Safe!!! Because then Mom is a happy camper. I honestly currently hear from my sailor more than I do my oldest who is married and also out of state. Her job requires her to keep her phone off during the week and she forgets to turn the ringer on over the weekend!! I also try to let my kids know we are home safe after traveling so they don't have to wonder as well. - But I don't think it ever gets much easier.
I enjoy hearing all of the comments and stories from you moms, dads, & grandparents that have sailors in various stages of service.
Oct 24, 2017
NancyJo (NNPTC)
J's/S's, we know for sure not BS now. Only 1 reactor and still staff there for 2 so that's a definite. After an initial disappointment they're OK now. I think they are all so pumped about shore duty they would be OK with the Arctic Circle. LOL Keep us posted on how your Marine fares with job hunting. I know my son is concerned even though I don't think there will be a problem.
I still don't get a lot of use with the Instant Pot. I just need to cook more cuz when I use it it's great. Good luck w/ yours, J's/S's. B'sNuke might be on to something with a separate discussion group!
My sailor never saw Charlie. Maybe he never tried. I don't think he likes them. ;D
I don't think we ever stop being moms but the good thing about this group is sharing the worry with each other and not w/ our sailors so much. Those apron strings are never entirely cut. They just fray a bit.
Oct 24, 2017
NancyJo (NNPTC)
B'sNuke, the hubby get home ok?
Oct 24, 2017