GiGi - Glad to hear that your sailor is doing well and that you were able to enjoy a visit with him!!!
CSW - It is good that this is actually bringing you and your brother together. Estate settlements, no matter how they are dealt with can actually cause strife and division within families. I am still dealing with things from my parents and other elderly family members. Trying to store stuff or go through things and figure out what to keep and what to get rid of. It did not help that in Spring of 2020 I was ready to just start donating and then everything shut down!!
Hi NWM
My son just texted me last night and said he needs the ID cards and Social Security numbers by end of day Thursday for the December graduation. As far as I know it’s still limited to two people. I’m not sure if another sailor does not any guest if they could list your son’s grandpa as their guest? But even that would have to be done probably by tomorrow. Good luck. I hope his grandpa can attend.
NWM and DS we went to a powerschool graduation in August. At the last minute they told them only 2 guests but it was on "the honor system". My son's class worked out who was and wasn't going so they found spots for my parents and daughter to go qhere other sailors families couldn't come. They heard other classes talking about having theor families go early as it is first come basis getting in the gate. I think some did do that as there was a family of nine sitting near us. When we got to the gate we gave the guy our lisences and he checked us all off. No questions although we knew which other sailors we were there for in addition to our son. The lists do not say who the approved guests are linked to. Literally a big stack of papers they look through then send you on your way.
It did seem like everyone that showed up was let in. Sadly some did not have classes that worked it out to make it fair so they left family members at hotels. They were a bit upset after leaving dad or grandma or whoever behind to see huge family groups that just came anyway.
Hope this helps and makes sense! I am happy to answer any questions.
Hi, all! It's been quite some time since I posted. What a crazy ride it's been for the past few months!
I managed to see my sailor in late April. I stayed at Home 2 Suites by Hilton on Blue House Rd, N Charleston. My cat came with me! I drove my sailor's truck down from PA.
And I was able to continue my work since I work remotely. It was wonderful to spend time with him! He finished Power School at that time, so I helped him with the move into his apartment.
Now he's nearing the end of NPTU. Struggling a bit, but maybe that's his MO. Not sure what that's all about.
And I have a new job working as a Covid-19 Contact Tracer. It's an interesting job. :)
Hi Marianne - It is good to hear from you!! I am glad that you were able to visit with your sailor in April and help him with his move. Prototype can be a challenge, some prefer it to more of the book work of A school and PS and for some it is more challenging. Keeping up with all of their check offs and the different subjects of study, plus their shift changes are just a part of it.
4Kidsforfun - thank you for all the Info in PS graduation!! Can you tell me a few more details….you may need to pm me - my questions may be too detailed for OPSEC.
What time does it start?
What time is check in?
How long does it take to park and check in?
Once it starts, how long before they start presenting/announcing…?
I assume they go by class number in order, like at PIR.
I ask because my neice really wants to attend but can’t get the day before off for travel. She would take a red eye and found a flight that lands at 8:45am. I’m afraid she’ll miss it as it must take (at best) at least 45 min to deplane, and get to airport even if she has someone waiting to transport her.
I’ll friend request you so you can answer privately if you choose to.
DsMom - I will let 4Kidsforfun answer your questions privately but just FYI - I doubt that your niece would make it for the graduation and if there is rain they might move it indoors and then have two separate ceremonies - hard to tell but that is what happened with my sailor. Her name and information has to be on the list of approved guests also.
Military Crisis Line – 24/7confidential and toll-free support for service members and veterans in crisis. Call 1-800-273- TALK (option 1), text 838255 or visitwww.militarycrisisline.net
Navy Chaplain Care– Communications with Navy chaplains are always 100% confidential unless the service member decides otherwise. Sailors and family members can speak with their nearest command chaplain, call 1-855-NAVY-311 to request chaplain support or https://www.navy311.navy.mil/home
Military OneSource– Confidential non-medical counseling available to service members and families. Call 1-800-342- 9647 or visitwww.militaryonesource.mil.
I agree Chipmunk - there would not be time to get there before the ceremony started. It is at least a 20 minute drive from the airport, then get through the gate, drive to parking, walk to ceremony...
If your sailor's section is one of the later ones it will be a while before they get to them. My son was in section 2 so was up on stage fairly quickly but there were 12 enlisted sections and then three officer sections. I believe they were lined up by height in each section (shortest to tallest). Before they call any of them they have speakers. Here is the order of events from the program:
4kidsforfun, do they get any liberty after graduation. Just wondering if it's like BC. My son did day we can help him to move. Did you get to do anything with your Sailor?
My son and his friends rented a house (with a pool) and had already moved in before we got there. They move out of the barracks the day before graduation. We spent the weekend celebrating as it was also my dad's birthday but then he came home with us. He got 10 days or so off I think? He didn't stay home for much of it though as he was anxious to get the house together before prototype started and be back with his friends.
Oh I forgot to mention about graduation - masks were required and they passed them out if you didn't have one. You too can have your very own "tighty-whitey" mask! We always joked those white ones they wear look like they were made out of men's briefs...
I haven't posted in awhile, but just wanted to share that I'm so happy to be celebrating my 25th anniversary with hubby today. We did most of our celebrating over the weekend since he had to work today. Unfortunately he had to use up his vacation time while recovering from Covid this summer. So thankful that we didn't end up seriously ill and that we had it at the same time.
helena2000 - I read your post earlier but just now able to reply!! Happy late evening anniversary!! I am so glad that you were able to enjoy some special time together and that you are both healthy and well now!
B'sNukeMom - That hot mocha looks yummy!! We have cloudy skies today and that is always hard for me to motivate for my tasks at hand. I wish I could just drink up your picture!
Do we have any graduations this week? I think we should at least have A school. Anyone have sailors getting close to graduation from one of their schools?
Hi ladies! Looking for where I can get my sailor a sleeping bag that is rated for a submarine. They're getting ready for sea trials and I understand these must be flame retardant? My sailor wants a sleeping bag to sleep on top of his rack. This is his first real underway since they've been in dry dock so it's new to all of us and I'm trying to run some interference so this at least is handled.
CSW - Hopefully some of our sub moms can give you some ideas. Have you checked into places like Cabella's, Bass Pro or other sporting goods chains? Google is my go to with something like this.
Also welcome to any new members that we might have!! I have a busy day so I wanted to say hi and we are glad you are here to join us. My son's ship is back in the shipyards, haven't caught up on all that he is doing but he stays busy regardless.
Good morning everyone! Just a quick question for the seasoned Moms, what do the Nukes do when their ships or boats aren't out to sea? Do the keep the reactors running even when the ships aren't moving? I watch things on you tube but there is nothing about what they are doing when they aren't deployed. Just wondering, it isn't important just something I was interested in knowing. Thanks
Northwoodsmom- so my sailor has been in drydock most of the time he's been with the fleet. Basically they go to work every day Monday-Friday where they go through cleaning, operations training, etc, and then on a rotation they fill a duty station for 24-36 hours which includes staying on the boat/barge. His first responsibility once he got to his boat was to get qualified so he could stand his watch/duty station by himself, and then work to complete his fish card or in other words earn his dolphins. During dry dock they had some special, unique operations for which they needed to train/execute, but they are continuously practicing/training, testing.
HI All - My son just started A school, even though he has been n GC for 3+weeks. - So this is the new chapter from him and I. He's been calling and letting me know what he's been doing. He's excited about school and tired and all sorts of other stuff. I told him - dont worry about calling, but just me know he's ok every know and again. I think he appreciated that. I still miss him terribly, but excited for him. Anyhoots - work is busy so am not on much - but do read everything - so thanks!
Northwoodsmom, my son has been in for 11.5 years. He's had a couple underways and a 6 month deployment in that time. He is now on sea duty but has yet to leave port. Nucs always have reactor tests and, if they are in drydock, they must guarantee safe return to and from land power. There are lots of quals and watches because the power plant must always be guarded. So, they are always busy but, if in port, usually have a bit more free time.
NonnaB - wow, my son has been in just at 4 years now. As soon as he joined his command after leaving GC, he started right away doing underways. He has already been on a deployment that lasted longer than 6 months, and is now on underways again - preparing for another upcoming deployment. Just goes to show how different things can be for our sailors.
Thank you so much Ladies. It seems even with the end of school they will continue with their education and training. No time for boredom then.
I was really surprised at how little of time they are actually deployed. Is that the same for boats as well as ships. I am sure there is some difference.
I really appreciate all of you getting back to me so quickly. I want to assure the newcomers that even though this site isn't as active , if you have a question they are definitely reading the post and will get to you and answer your questions.
Welcome to our newest members ~ Olive U217 and Flying Gramma!
Please be sure to read the ***NEW MEMBERS*** info at the top of the page. Lots of good info there. Also take a look at the Pages (20) to the right under the member profiles - be sure to hit "view all". And the discussion forum above has some good info too - be sure to read Chipmunks "Nuke A School Daily Schedule". And of course, feel free to ask any questions you may have.
Hello, everyone! It’s been a really long time since I posted. I’ve still been keeping up with you all, though! I can say that my son’s experience on the boat has kept him out a lot. He has done 4 or 5 (shorter than 3 months) underways in the past year. He has been out with both crews, so pretty busy with that. They returned a couple of weeks ago, and he’s finished with them for a while. Turning the boat over to the other crew next month. His last underway, he got his dolphins. They were surfaced at the time. He got pinned topside, and they followed with a steel beach and a swim call.
MoMom - Bravo Zulu to your son on earning his dolphins!!! Tell him I said congratulations! It is good to hear from you. I think about you all often and don't get PMs sent, my apologies. Steel Beach and swim call how fun!! Mine was suppose to get another one but not sure if that happened, I need to remember to ask. He got his Surface Warfare just before they came back into dock.
Northwoodsmom - mine was on the ship when they moved it by tugboat from the base to the shipyard. There was a specific term he used for what that watch was but I don't recall. But yes, just standing watch and doing security is another requirement for them while they are in the shipyards.
And as you read, it all depends on the ship or boat (sub) what their experience will actually be.
KayCee, Nonna B, CSW - Good to hear from you, I hope you had a wonderful day!
Pizanche - Glad your sailor is finally getting his feet wet. The studying can be long and hard. I asked my son what his PT schedule was like and sometimes I could catch him after that on the way to the Galley. Otherwise, we generally caught up somehow on Saturday morning if we could.
No worries, Chipmunk! I have neglected to keep in contact, as well. Such a crazy time! But I always read the comments so I can keep up with you all. BZ to your son, too!
NonnaB, my sailor has also been in about 11.5 yrs. I guess I forgot that we were roughly the same time frame. Is your sailor sticking it out for the 20 yrs? My sailor has been on 3 long deployments and I don't even know how many underways. Things are different on carriers than subs. Mine will be out in a couple months.
Congrats on the dolphins, MoMom! Those milestone are important. Well done!
MoMom - Glad to know you are still reading and following the comments. Yes, life just stays busy even in the midst of everything. I hope things are going well with your work also.
NancyJo (NNPTC) - Good Morning!! I have been wondering how your sailors prospects have been? I wasn't sure if they had anything set in stone yet or as my youngest would say, "at least carved in wood".
NancyJo, at this time, my son says he is planning to stay in for 20. He's waiting to hear if he made chief. He's now on an SSGN, so they rotate but have been in port for maintenance. I don't know if they've had sea trials yet but maybe by is next crew rotation. He is now a lead ELT and seems to like it. And yes, weare the old timers of the group.
NonnaB & NancyJo - I appreciate you two sticking around and sharing your information. I miss some of the others that were on when I first joined but I know people's lives are busy. Mine is.
the superm72 - My son's ship is in VA also. Currently it is back in the shipyards but from Oct 2019 - mid Aug 2021 they were out to sea for about 2/3 that time from a comment one of his friends made. It was sort of a weird feeling. Part of me was glad to know they were out and about doing what they were suppose to be doing and I was okay with him being on the ship. But also part of me knew that even though they weren't on a deployment, I needed to act like they were. Watch what I said, how I shared things with other family but also praying for them more and just knowing I didn't have the same options for communicating. However, I also had to remember that I could send emails and I am a lot less likely to do that diligently, mostly because I have other children and things going on in life. Sometimes I would forget that being out to sea was sort of like them being in BC, they are cut off from a lot and when there was a lot going on with his ship, I know my son appreciated my words of encouragements and emails. So if you are able to do that, I am sure your daughter would like that also.
I also wanted to fly the flag the entire time he was out to sea, then we had to be gone in the middle of one of those times and I decided maybe that wasn't such a good idea, as people might notice and realize we were not home if the flag wasn't out. Now I will put it out just at random times when I want to while they are gone.
Staying busy is just my life, so I don't have much time to dwell on which child is where. I also moved away from my parents when I got married, so just knowing my parents were, or my kids are within calling range has always been easy for me. But when they are out to sea, it did seem more like BC for me, at least.
Be sure to stay connected with the Ombudsman page as well for the ship. Even if you don't connect with most of what is going on, since it is usually the wives posting, you will still get a sense of what the attitude and issues are with things in the command.
Chipmunk
GiGi - Glad to hear that your sailor is doing well and that you were able to enjoy a visit with him!!!
CSW - It is good that this is actually bringing you and your brother together. Estate settlements, no matter how they are dealt with can actually cause strife and division within families. I am still dealing with things from my parents and other elderly family members. Trying to store stuff or go through things and figure out what to keep and what to get rid of. It did not help that in Spring of 2020 I was ready to just start donating and then everything shut down!!
One elephant bite at a time!!
Sep 8, 2021
DsMom2020
My son just texted me last night and said he needs the ID cards and Social Security numbers by end of day Thursday for the December graduation. As far as I know it’s still limited to two people. I’m not sure if another sailor does not any guest if they could list your son’s grandpa as their guest? But even that would have to be done probably by tomorrow. Good luck. I hope his grandpa can attend.
Sep 8, 2021
4kidsforfun
NWM and DS we went to a powerschool graduation in August. At the last minute they told them only 2 guests but it was on "the honor system". My son's class worked out who was and wasn't going so they found spots for my parents and daughter to go qhere other sailors families couldn't come. They heard other classes talking about having theor families go early as it is first come basis getting in the gate. I think some did do that as there was a family of nine sitting near us. When we got to the gate we gave the guy our lisences and he checked us all off. No questions although we knew which other sailors we were there for in addition to our son. The lists do not say who the approved guests are linked to. Literally a big stack of papers they look through then send you on your way.
It did seem like everyone that showed up was let in. Sadly some did not have classes that worked it out to make it fair so they left family members at hotels. They were a bit upset after leaving dad or grandma or whoever behind to see huge family groups that just came anyway.
Hope this helps and makes sense! I am happy to answer any questions.
Sep 8, 2021
Marianne
Hi, all! It's been quite some time since I posted. What a crazy ride it's been for the past few months!
I managed to see my sailor in late April. I stayed at Home 2 Suites by Hilton on Blue House Rd, N Charleston. My cat came with me! I drove my sailor's truck down from PA.
And I was able to continue my work since I work remotely. It was wonderful to spend time with him! He finished Power School at that time, so I helped him with the move into his apartment.
Now he's nearing the end of NPTU. Struggling a bit, but maybe that's his MO. Not sure what that's all about.
And I have a new job working as a Covid-19 Contact Tracer. It's an interesting job. :)
Sep 9, 2021
Chipmunk
Hi Marianne - It is good to hear from you!! I am glad that you were able to visit with your sailor in April and help him with his move. Prototype can be a challenge, some prefer it to more of the book work of A school and PS and for some it is more challenging. Keeping up with all of their check offs and the different subjects of study, plus their shift changes are just a part of it.
I am glad that you are enjoying your new job.
Sep 9, 2021
DsMom2020
What time does it start?
What time is check in?
How long does it take to park and check in?
Once it starts, how long before they start presenting/announcing…?
I assume they go by class number in order, like at PIR.
I ask because my neice really wants to attend but can’t get the day before off for travel. She would take a red eye and found a flight that lands at 8:45am. I’m afraid she’ll miss it as it must take (at best) at least 45 min to deplane, and get to airport even if she has someone waiting to transport her.
I’ll friend request you so you can answer privately if you choose to.
Thanks.
Sep 10, 2021
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Sep 10, 2021
Chipmunk
DsMom - I will let 4Kidsforfun answer your questions privately but just FYI - I doubt that your niece would make it for the graduation and if there is rain they might move it indoors and then have two separate ceremonies - hard to tell but that is what happened with my sailor. Her name and information has to be on the list of approved guests also.
Sep 10, 2021
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Today is World Suicide Prevention Day.
Military Crisis Line – 24/7 confidential and toll-free support for service members and veterans in crisis. Call 1-800-273- TALK (option 1), text 838255 or visit www.militarycrisisline.net
Navy Chaplain Care – Communications with Navy chaplains are always 100% confidential unless the service member decides otherwise. Sailors and family members can speak with their nearest command chaplain, call 1-855-NAVY-311 to request chaplain support or https://www.navy311.navy.mil/home
Military OneSource – Confidential non-medical counseling available to service members and families. Call 1-800-342- 9647 or visit www.militaryonesource.mil.
Sep 10, 2021
4kidsforfun
I agree Chipmunk - there would not be time to get there before the ceremony started. It is at least a 20 minute drive from the airport, then get through the gate, drive to parking, walk to ceremony...
If your sailor's section is one of the later ones it will be a while before they get to them. My son was in section 2 so was up on stage fairly quickly but there were 12 enlisted sections and then three officer sections. I believe they were lined up by height in each section (shortest to tallest). Before they call any of them they have speakers. Here is the order of events from the program:
Arrival of Official Party
Parading of Colors
Invocation
Commanding Officer, NNPTC
Guest Speaker
Presentation of certificates
Awards
Closing Remarks/Benediction
Departure of Official Party
Sep 10, 2021
Northwoodsmom
4kidsforfun, do they get any liberty after graduation. Just wondering if it's like BC. My son did day we can help him to move. Did you get to do anything with your Sailor?
Sep 10, 2021
4kidsforfun
My son and his friends rented a house (with a pool) and had already moved in before we got there. They move out of the barracks the day before graduation. We spent the weekend celebrating as it was also my dad's birthday but then he came home with us. He got 10 days or so off I think? He didn't stay home for much of it though as he was anxious to get the house together before prototype started and be back with his friends.
Sep 10, 2021
4kidsforfun
Oh I forgot to mention about graduation - masks were required and they passed them out if you didn't have one. You too can have your very own "tighty-whitey" mask! We always joked those white ones they wear look like they were made out of men's briefs...
Sep 10, 2021
DsMom2020
Sep 11, 2021
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Happy Monday!
Sep 13, 2021
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Good Morning and Happy Tuesday!
Sep 14, 2021
CSW
Nice! Just what I needed to share with a good friend today.
Sep 14, 2021
helena2000
I haven't posted in awhile, but just wanted to share that I'm so happy to be celebrating my 25th anniversary with hubby today. We did most of our celebrating over the weekend since he had to work today. Unfortunately he had to use up his vacation time while recovering from Covid this summer. So thankful that we didn't end up seriously ill and that we had it at the same time.
Sep 14, 2021
Northwoodsmom
helena 2000 Happy 25th anniversary. So happy your both over covid as well. Hope you had a great time!
Sep 14, 2021
Pizanche
helena2000 - Happy Anniversary!!!! Silver!!! Whoop Whoop!!!
Sep 14, 2021
Chipmunk
B'sNukeMom - Thanks for sharing!!
helena2000 - I read your post earlier but just now able to reply!! Happy late evening anniversary!! I am so glad that you were able to enjoy some special time together and that you are both healthy and well now!
Sep 14, 2021
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Sep 15, 2021
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Happy Anniversary helena2000!
Sep 15, 2021
Chipmunk
B'sNukeMom - That hot mocha looks yummy!! We have cloudy skies today and that is always hard for me to motivate for my tasks at hand. I wish I could just drink up your picture!
Sep 15, 2021
Chipmunk
May everyone have a wonderful RED Friday!!
Do we have any graduations this week? I think we should at least have A school. Anyone have sailors getting close to graduation from one of their schools?
Sep 17, 2021
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Sep 17, 2021
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Happy Monday!
Sep 20, 2021
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Sep 21, 2021
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Good Morning and Happy Wednesday!
Sep 22, 2021
CSW
Hi ladies! Looking for where I can get my sailor a sleeping bag that is rated for a submarine. They're getting ready for sea trials and I understand these must be flame retardant? My sailor wants a sleeping bag to sleep on top of his rack. This is his first real underway since they've been in dry dock so it's new to all of us and I'm trying to run some interference so this at least is handled.
Sep 22, 2021
Chipmunk
CSW - Hopefully some of our sub moms can give you some ideas. Have you checked into places like Cabella's, Bass Pro or other sporting goods chains? Google is my go to with something like this.
Sep 22, 2021
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Sep 23, 2021
Chipmunk
B - I love it!!
Also welcome to any new members that we might have!! I have a busy day so I wanted to say hi and we are glad you are here to join us. My son's ship is back in the shipyards, haven't caught up on all that he is doing but he stays busy regardless.
Sep 23, 2021
Northwoodsmom
Good morning everyone! Just a quick question for the seasoned Moms, what do the Nukes do when their ships or boats aren't out to sea? Do the keep the reactors running even when the ships aren't moving? I watch things on you tube but there is nothing about what they are doing when they aren't deployed. Just wondering, it isn't important just something I was interested in knowing. Thanks
Sep 23, 2021
CSW
Northwoodsmom- so my sailor has been in drydock most of the time he's been with the fleet. Basically they go to work every day Monday-Friday where they go through cleaning, operations training, etc, and then on a rotation they fill a duty station for 24-36 hours which includes staying on the boat/barge. His first responsibility once he got to his boat was to get qualified so he could stand his watch/duty station by himself, and then work to complete his fish card or in other words earn his dolphins. During dry dock they had some special, unique operations for which they needed to train/execute, but they are continuously practicing/training, testing.
Sep 23, 2021
Pizanche
HI All - My son just started A school, even though he has been n GC for 3+weeks. - So this is the new chapter from him and I. He's been calling and letting me know what he's been doing. He's excited about school and tired and all sorts of other stuff. I told him - dont worry about calling, but just me know he's ok every know and again. I think he appreciated that. I still miss him terribly, but excited for him. Anyhoots - work is busy so am not on much - but do read everything - so thanks!
Sep 23, 2021
Pizanche
And BTW - thank you Northwoodsmom - everything worked out great!!!
Sep 23, 2021
NonnaB
Northwoodsmom, my son has been in for 11.5 years. He's had a couple underways and a 6 month deployment in that time. He is now on sea duty but has yet to leave port. Nucs always have reactor tests and, if they are in drydock, they must guarantee safe return to and from land power. There are lots of quals and watches because the power plant must always be guarded. So, they are always busy but, if in port, usually have a bit more free time.
Sep 23, 2021
KayCee
NonnaB - wow, my son has been in just at 4 years now. As soon as he joined his command after leaving GC, he started right away doing underways. He has already been on a deployment that lasted longer than 6 months, and is now on underways again - preparing for another upcoming deployment. Just goes to show how different things can be for our sailors.
Sep 23, 2021
Northwoodsmom
Thank you so much Ladies. It seems even with the end of school they will continue with their education and training. No time for boredom then.
I was really surprised at how little of time they are actually deployed. Is that the same for boats as well as ships. I am sure there is some difference.
I really appreciate all of you getting back to me so quickly. I want to assure the newcomers that even though this site isn't as active , if you have a question they are definitely reading the post and will get to you and answer your questions.
Sep 23, 2021
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Welcome to our newest members ~ Olive U217 and Flying Gramma!
Please be sure to read the ***NEW MEMBERS*** info at the top of the page. Lots of good info there. Also take a look at the Pages (20) to the right under the member profiles - be sure to hit "view all". And the discussion forum above has some good info too - be sure to read Chipmunks "Nuke A School Daily Schedule". And of course, feel free to ask any questions you may have.
Sep 23, 2021
MoMom
Hello, everyone!
It’s been a really long time since I posted. I’ve still been keeping up with you all, though!
I can say that my son’s experience on the boat has kept him out a lot. He has done 4 or 5 (shorter than 3 months) underways in the past year. He has been out with both crews, so pretty busy with that. They returned a couple of weeks ago, and he’s finished with them for a while. Turning the boat over to the other crew next month.
His last underway, he got his dolphins. They were surfaced at the time. He got pinned topside, and they followed with a steel beach and a swim call.
Sep 23, 2021
Chipmunk
MoMom - Bravo Zulu to your son on earning his dolphins!!! Tell him I said congratulations! It is good to hear from you. I think about you all often and don't get PMs sent, my apologies. Steel Beach and swim call how fun!! Mine was suppose to get another one but not sure if that happened, I need to remember to ask. He got his Surface Warfare just before they came back into dock.
Northwoodsmom - mine was on the ship when they moved it by tugboat from the base to the shipyard. There was a specific term he used for what that watch was but I don't recall. But yes, just standing watch and doing security is another requirement for them while they are in the shipyards.
And as you read, it all depends on the ship or boat (sub) what their experience will actually be.
KayCee, Nonna B, CSW - Good to hear from you, I hope you had a wonderful day!
Sep 23, 2021
Chipmunk
Pizanche - Glad your sailor is finally getting his feet wet. The studying can be long and hard. I asked my son what his PT schedule was like and sometimes I could catch him after that on the way to the Galley. Otherwise, we generally caught up somehow on Saturday morning if we could.
Olive U217 and Flying Gramma! - Welcome Aboard!!
Sep 23, 2021
MoMom
No worries, Chipmunk! I have neglected to keep in contact, as well. Such a crazy time! But I always read the comments so I can keep up with you all. BZ to your son, too!
Sep 23, 2021
NancyJo (NNPTC)
NonnaB, my sailor has also been in about 11.5 yrs. I guess I forgot that we were roughly the same time frame. Is your sailor sticking it out for the 20 yrs? My sailor has been on 3 long deployments and I don't even know how many underways. Things are different on carriers than subs. Mine will be out in a couple months.
Congrats on the dolphins, MoMom! Those milestone are important. Well done!
TGIF Everybody!
Sep 24, 2021
Chipmunk
MoMom - Glad to know you are still reading and following the comments. Yes, life just stays busy even in the midst of everything. I hope things are going well with your work also.
NancyJo (NNPTC) - Good Morning!! I have been wondering how your sailors prospects have been? I wasn't sure if they had anything set in stone yet or as my youngest would say, "at least carved in wood".
Sep 24, 2021
NancyJo (NNPTC)
Lots of interviews but he hasn't settled yet. I hope soon!
Sep 24, 2021
NonnaB
NancyJo, at this time, my son says he is planning to stay in for 20. He's waiting to hear if he made chief. He's now on an SSGN, so they rotate but have been in port for maintenance. I don't know if they've had sea trials yet but maybe by is next crew rotation. He is now a lead ELT and seems to like it. And yes, weare the old timers of the group.
Sep 24, 2021
Chipmunk
NonnaB & NancyJo - I appreciate you two sticking around and sharing your information. I miss some of the others that were on when I first joined but I know people's lives are busy. Mine is.
the superm72 - My son's ship is in VA also. Currently it is back in the shipyards but from Oct 2019 - mid Aug 2021 they were out to sea for about 2/3 that time from a comment one of his friends made. It was sort of a weird feeling. Part of me was glad to know they were out and about doing what they were suppose to be doing and I was okay with him being on the ship. But also part of me knew that even though they weren't on a deployment, I needed to act like they were. Watch what I said, how I shared things with other family but also praying for them more and just knowing I didn't have the same options for communicating. However, I also had to remember that I could send emails and I am a lot less likely to do that diligently, mostly because I have other children and things going on in life. Sometimes I would forget that being out to sea was sort of like them being in BC, they are cut off from a lot and when there was a lot going on with his ship, I know my son appreciated my words of encouragements and emails. So if you are able to do that, I am sure your daughter would like that also.
I also wanted to fly the flag the entire time he was out to sea, then we had to be gone in the middle of one of those times and I decided maybe that wasn't such a good idea, as people might notice and realize we were not home if the flag wasn't out. Now I will put it out just at random times when I want to while they are gone.
Staying busy is just my life, so I don't have much time to dwell on which child is where. I also moved away from my parents when I got married, so just knowing my parents were, or my kids are within calling range has always been easy for me. But when they are out to sea, it did seem more like BC for me, at least.
Be sure to stay connected with the Ombudsman page as well for the ship. Even if you don't connect with most of what is going on, since it is usually the wives posting, you will still get a sense of what the attitude and issues are with things in the command.
Sep 27, 2021