Checking in - My son is still in the Pipeline (Is that what we call it? LOL) Anyway, he is one month into Prototype, and is planning on extending his contract for two more years in September. (This will be a contract extension without having ever been deployed! Let's hope he loves it as much as he thinks he will love it!)
I'm guessing he'll graduate late Sept or early Oct and then wants to be on a sub.
I, too, am grateful for this group. I have learned so many things from all the amazing women here, and I am thankful for those of you who take the time to give your input!
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet) - he hasn't yet gotten into the craziness of Prototype yet. I guess the first two months are long days, but weekends off, so he is loving that. The crazy schedule will start next month (and prayerfully he'll adjust well).
OK. I am so glad I found y'all! I need help. I believe my son goes to Great Lakes on June 26 for BC. If I am doing my math right, that makes it Labor Day weekend for his PIR. He is enlisted as a Nuc. So, is that "A" school? or what? and where? and when? I need to book my travel now as it being a holiday weekend. However, how much time should I allow? Will I see him after PIR? Saturday? I tried calling RTC. Nobody answers. I have so far left 2 messages in 2 days and have received zero responses. Any insight would be much appreciated. Thanks!
newkmomma - I agree with Q’s Momma. There is no way to know for certain when PIR will take place as there may be unforeseen delays. I would wait until you receive that date. I encourage you to write many letters (I wrote one every day!) while he is in boot camp to encourage him. For us, we had PIR and then were able take our sailor home for the day (we live in southern WI) but had to drive him back before curfew. The next morning he took a bus at 4am to O’Hare airport and I met him there at 5:00am. We spend the entire day together at the airport before his flight left at 6:30pm. Expect a very tired, but happy kid. Great memories… (it’s been five years for me). My sailor is also a Nuke (EM or Electrician’s Mate)… so if you have questions about the pipeline… I’m happy to help!
newkmomma - Good Morning and welcome Aboard!! I have to leave for an appointment so I am not reading the other ladies replies, but I know they will steer you well.
I know there are a couple of extra weeks, added on now from when my son left for BC at the end of June. His PIR was actually the weekend before Labor Day, so yours could be Labor Day weekend or the next one, depending on how they actually put him into a Training Group and Division at BC.
DO NOT buy a ticket yet. They will even tell you that from RTC. And no, you will likely not get much of a response from them either, unfortunately. They have too many calls and that is partially why we are here, to help you along this journey.
Welcome to the Nuke mom page, this group focuses more on once your sailor arrives at Goose Creek for A school, then he will have Power School and then Prototype. All 3 of those are considered part of the Nuke Pipeline as you might hear it referred to. Over in the BC group, there are members there who currently have SR (seaman recruits) at BC, those of us who sent ours years ago and all in between. There are many groups on this site, each with different focuses. You can be in as many groups as you would like.
There is a discussion in the BC group that might be helpful to you. I posted it after my son's PIR. What PIR weekend may be like for those flying out of GL - Even if it is Labor Day weekend, there is no guarantee that he would have extra time at GL, and then again he might. It just all depends on the Navy and none of us knows for certain.
Welcome to Navy Life - Semper Gumby - Always flexible. If you do book tickets ahead of time, be sure that you are able to either change them or get insurance. There is currently one lady in our BC group whose son has been set back several times due to medical issues. He is pressing forward, but there is no guarantee that your son will graduate the weekend that you think he will.
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.
newkmomma - as hard as it is you are just gonna have to hold off on things for now. The Navy does things their way and you will learn to be flexible or it will drive your crazy lol! Until your son gets to boot camp - and then gets about half way through you won't know anything about his PIR date. And even then it could change. It's hard to let go but you don't really have a choice.
I left the link to the boot camp group on your page in the welcome message. That is the best place to start to get info about what happens. belovedbyHim has a good post about the timeline of boot camp and once you get the letter (at about 4-5 weeks) you can then join his specific PIR group.
It's a lot of "hurry up and wait" and "no news is good news". We've all "been there, done that" and the best advice is just try not to worry.....
I also don't recommend you to continue calling RTC....they should only be called in case of an emergency (and even then you would actually reach out to the Red Cross for assistance). You don't want to do anything to draw attention to your son while he's in boot camp. He'll have enough going on without mom calling - I mean this in the nicest way ;-D
Come here (or to the boot camp group) for help. We'll get you answers. Hang in there!
17 days until the due date for our grandson! I can hardly contain myself! Doctor thinks he's already over 8 lbs and says if he continues growing at the rate he is they may have to schedule a c-section. Of course this worries B&C a bit but I remind them that we just want to make sure she has a safe delivery. Everything has been going so great in her pregnancy thus far and this is just sort of throwing a wrench in their plans. I know everything will work out in the end. Flights are booked for MI in June!
Thanks y'all! I appreciate all the info and the especially warm, helpful welcome. I have ONE more topic of questions, and then...I will go dormant, becoming mostly a creeper until Septemberish. So, BC for approximately 10 weeks if all goes well, then Goose Creek for A school, then Power School and then Prototype. Are all 3 parts in GC? Approximately 1 year for A school? then how long for the next two in the pipeline? Is there more Nuc schooling after that? His recruiter said he would get about 3 years of college credit toward an Engineering (Nuclear or even a Computer Science degree?). Is this correct? Where do these classes count as college credits? Will he need to take an equivalency test or will he have something from the Navy that is similar to a college transcript? Is there any English writing, Biology and such or is it 100% math and such solely to prepare him for his Navy job? Did your Nucs go on to finish a Bachelor degree immediately following? Take time away from school to work and practice what they were taught? My son makes great, informed decisions; however, I have a lot of questions and don't want to call or rely only on his recruiter to verify the answers I think I understood. Thank you ladies!
newkmomma - Hi! And welcome to the group! You have come to the right place for all the support and answers you need! (And remember - there are no dumb questions!)
My son is currently in Prototype, so I hope to answer some of your questions about the pipeline, but first I want to share my son's experience with BC. He went to the recruiter's office on his 18th birthday (December) and signed up. He was given a leave-for-bootcamp date of August 3rd. He spent the summer at a camp in Georgia and got chigger bites. His documentation said that he had to report any medical issues (including rashes). He reported that. They pushed his leave date to Sept 19th. A few days before the 19th, his recruiter told him that he couldn't go on the 19th because he needed documentation regarding the anaphylactic reaction to bug bites. (Do you know how difficult it is to prove that you have overcome an anaphylactic reaction when you NEVER HAD ONE!?) They told him if he got a medical release, he would leave in 3 days or in 7 weeks! His doctor wrote a letter stating that he never has had any anaphylactic reaction to anything, and the Navy accepted that. My son left for BC on Sept 26, 2021. (Neither 3 days nor 7 weeks later.)
At that time, BC was 8 weeks, but if you were unvaccinated, you had to quarantine for 2 weeks. The "I'm here" call script said that everyone might have to quarantine for 2 weeks, even if they brought their vaccination card. I was distraught because that's not what we were told before he left.
Thankfully, he did not have to quarantine, and he had no setbacks, so he graduated 57 days after he arrived at BC. He graduated the day before Thanksgiving, and everyone in his class was able to spend Thanksgiving with family during the day, but they had to get back for curfew. Some of his buddies shipped out on Friday, but all of the Nukes shipped out on Tuesday. We were able to stay in town until Sunday and spend those days with him. (Thankfully, the hotels in the area know the routine and they are willing to work with Navy families.) Like the other moms said, I would encourage you to wait because the leave date could change, or there could be setbacks. But if you do make reservations (hotel and/or airfare), make sure it's refundable or changeable.
newkmomma - (Apparently, there's a limit to how long a post can be and I exceeded that! Here is part two - about the Nuke pipeline.)
As for the Nuke pipeline, each school (A school, Power, and Prototype) are 6 months long. The first two are in Charleston. The second is either in Charleston or NY. My son says that they tell every A school class, "You will be the first class to do your prototype in NY," but so far, it's still happening in Charleston.
The first couple of weeks are called INDOC and they are introducing them to Nuke life. Then they "class up" and start A School. When they finish A school, there is an intimate graduation ceremony (which we really enjoyed), and then the sailors usually get 10 days leave. After that, they wait to class up for Power School. (My son's class graduated in July, but they needed to do watch duty immediately, so they didn't get their 10 days leave until mid-September. Then they classed up at the end of September.) The time between A school graduation and the start of Power school is called "T-track". They stand watch and clean, and although they are still working, it's a nice break from the rigor of school.
When they graduate Power School, it's a massive graduation ceremony (over 300 graduates) and is really special. My son got 10 days leave and then immediately started Prototype. The first few weeks of prototype is a normal M-F schedule (although the days are long), but soon they will start the crazy 12-hour shift schedule!
My son said that they put in their requests for where they want to be stationed at the beginning of Prototype, and then they will get their orders near the end of Prototype.
MomofJoseph - LOL - Yes, the system can only handle so much of our chatter at once!! - You aren't the first one to have to continue with a post. Thanks for sharing!
newkmomma - I was posting in a great hurry yesterday. Forgive me if I sounded like you could not post any questions or pop over here during your son's time at BC. We like to have chatter and we are here to help you, so you don't have to be silent. One thing you will learn about this entire process, no one sailor's or parent's experience is exactly the same. Whether it is at BC, in the Nuke pipeline, or at their duty station. We all share similar situations, but each of us has our own scenario.
As for schooling after your sailor is out, my son is only just getting ready to start that process. Maybe B'sNukeMom or some others can offer information. There is also the STA-21 option and we have a few members on here whose sailor has gone that route.
I will say this, if your son's recruiter was not a Nuke, then they are not likely to know as much about Nuke life on a ship or sub, or the options after school. They are going off of a script that may or may not pan out for your son. Right now, what your son needs to be focused on is doing his run and exercises, swimming and floating to pass his Physical Fitness tests at BC. My son had to go to DEP meetings at least once a month prior to shipping out and he talked to his recruiters, and they put him in touch with a Nuke recruiter elsewhere in the area so that he could ask more specific questions. That might be an option.
MomofJoseph - Thanks for your wonderful description of your experience with the Nuke pipeline. My son is still in T-Track (hopefully classing up to Power School in May), and I still have so much to learn about this process. Very informative!
newkmomma - Welcome to the Navy and to this wonderful group! I agree with Chipmunk - it might be helpful for your son to talk with sailors who've been through the Nuke pipeline. My son talked with several Nukes at MEPS who had been on submarines (which he wants to do), so he received some good perspective from those conversations.
B'sNukeMom - So excited for you! Hope these last couple of weeks go well and that you will have a healthy grandson very soon.
My son did prototype in Ballston Spa - not too many are now. When B went they were sending more of the single guys. Cheaper for the Navy to move 1 person to NY than a family.
And it's fairly safe to say it's close to 2 years from start of boot camp to finish of prototype (give or take).
Your son will get some college credit for being a nuke but I don't think it's 3 years worth. That's always been a little questionable. Seems I've seen/heard many different things over the years. They can use their GI Bill after to get/finish their degrees. That's what B&C did. B got his undergrad degree and C is now finishing up her Master's - both thanks you US Navy!
newkmomma - I just wanted to say HI! and help with what I can. My son is MMN, so not sure what your son's rate will be. My son didn't find out his rate until just before PIR. My son spent 4 months in BC as he couldn't pass the run. We have been on our Navy journey since June 2022. It has just been me and him since 2017, so his leaving was constant gut punches. I had a panic attack the night before he left and cried for 3 days straight. Cried every phone call, even when I was trying not to. Wrote lots of letters with encouraging words, poems, phrases and photos. When he had PIR, we were only supposed to be together Friday and leave Saturday. However, he ended up having Saturday as well and he left Sunday from Milwaukee on a military flight. I know that that was not the norm, but I was thankful for that extra day. INDOC was about 10 days, give or take until the class up for A school. MM is only 13 weeks. When holiday stand down arrived, my son put in for leave and was able to come home for about 2 weeks at Christmas. Graduation was March and I was hoping for wonderful warm weather, it was raining. My son has been in T-track waiting to class up in May for Power school. My advice on a couple things: get him good running shoes now (brooks seems to be the best). Teach him about money (saving, spending, investments, credit) if you can, to help them out, and talk about the different retirements and education programs. My son had a booklet from DEP that talked about these options. My son had all the knowledge, and yet still managed to spend about $6500 on junk within 4 weeks of getting to GC. I was livid, as some may remember. If they can get a mailbox at the NEX, it is worth it. I had my son make his will and get his healthcare POA, but getting his financial POA next. At the time that we did this, I was on all of his accounts, but now that has changed. Lastly, make sure your SR has his DL. My son chose not to get his before he left, nor when he came home for the holidays. Or at least he has his temps. SC has some restrictions and he will be struggling to get his before Prototype. My son is an introvert, so lots of talking has never been a thing between us. But it is nice to get the random text messages and the weekly calls (during school). I don't consider myself a helicopter mom, but I want to help him in whatever capacity that I can. I am learning that they will figure it out on their own and all I can do is listen, encourage and ask questions. I live 12 hours away and so the next time I see my Sailor will be for Power school graduation or Thanksgiving, whichever comes first. I find this page and these ladies to be a wonderful resource and it probably would have been worse for me if I did not have them to cry to, vent to, question and share.
newkmomma - I was looking at the college thing a few weeks ago. They earn the equivalent of a 4 year degree (credit wise like 62) in 15-18 months. They don't actually earn a degree, but should be able to transfer some of this when they do decide to go after a degree. You can actually see online some of what they will be learning. It is old information but it does help in trying to understand what they are studying. The information they are learning is classified and can not leave the school building. When they are done after each section of the pipeline and have passed comps, their notes are destroyed. I learned this from my son because I asked him if he was going to be able to study his notes while in T-track, to help keep the information fresh.
I read the posts, but don't always post myself. Guess that makes me kind of a creeper. Have a great day!
JNMnavymomOH - HI!! It is good to hear from you and to hear how your sailor is doing. You brought up something that I forgot about and that was Driver's License.
YES, it is definitely best for them to have their DL before they head to BC. What a lot of recruiters may not realize is that our sailors will live off base for their Prototype training and they need to be able to provide their own transportation. Some have managed without having a DL, but that can make things really difficult for their roommates. Also, they will need to make sure they have money saved up to handle things like first month's worth of rent, utilities and such, as well as being able to get credit for renting an apartment or utilities. They will not receive their BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) until a month or two after they have finished Power School and moved from NNPTC to an apartment for Prototype.
My son helped me write that when he was at GC (Goose Creek), SC where NNPTC (Naval Nuclear Power Training Command) is located at. I updated it as he progressed in the Nuke Pipeline. I think I have another discussion on Prototype that I need to bump forward. Some things changed with COVID so be sure to read all the way through.
Members - if anyone has updated information to add to my discussion, please feel free to post it at the end of the comments on the last page. Thanks
Newkmomma and others who are just beginning this ride...welcome!
I concur with the other comments made.
First, I would advise you not to get too far ahead especially with your planning. I know this is difficult when you want to get the best deals, etc. But you are now on the Navy's schedule which is subject to lots of changes, twists and delays. Think Semper Gumby, always flexible.
I too am so grateful for this site and the wonderful support & information. I was often way ahead of my nuke but he didn't want to know what was coming up. Still doesn't.
I believe that is important to have a driver's license before leaving for BC. As stated before, they move off base for prototype. My son indicated that sometimes prototype will assign roommates of the same rating to the same work shifts (so they can carpool) but it is definitely not a sure thing.
My nuke is currently in the fleet. He reported to his ship almost 2 years to the day that he left for boot camp.But everyone's journey is different.
Timing is everything... when they class up, how long the gaps are between phases and when they can take leave. Despite a 7 week T track, he could not take leave because A school grad was too soon after the Christmas stand down.
One of the other limiting factors is classroom space. Each class needs a separate classroom so even if there are enough, they can't start a class.
We visited him twice in GC, to deliver his car and 3 months later for A school grad. When I asked how he was enjoying the car he replied that he was too busy to use it. But being a California boy, I'm sure it was comforting to know it was there if needed. He did use it a lot during Ttrack. Then came the Covid lockdown just as Power School started. That cancelled our return visits at the end of PS and Prototype. We saw him 3 times in 3 months then not again for 15 months.
If you plan to visit, be aware that Nukes study alot!!! Including Sunday afternoons, so make sure he is even available before you go.
Lastly, underage drinking is a huge issue. The nuke school is dry. Even those that are of age (21) who are phased up can get in trouble if they anywhere around a younger person, even off base (i.e. can't order a beer if anyone in the group is under 21).
Happy Sunday, Moms! I loved Canuka's and Chipmunk's posts and wanted to add a couple of thoughts. As far as a car, my son was allowed to take his after 3 months, and he uses it OFTEN.
Also, my son was pleasantly surprised that within 24 hours of graduating Power School, he received 1/3 of his Nuke bonus. (That really helped with rent and the other expenses involved in starting a new household.)
I would add that, while it is a bit down the line for nukes, some commands (definitely Pearl Harbor) require that Sailors have a passport, and they should have one in any event. It might be easier or cheaper for them to apply after BC. My experience with passports is that you can get one in 3 weeks if you need it in 3 months, but it will take 3 months if you need it in 3 weeks.
MomofJoseph - That's good to know about receiving the bonus so quickly. I was wondering about that, because I'm sure my son will need the extra $$!
WearsLargeHats - You are so right about passports. We learned this the hard way years ago when my husband applied for one in what we thought was plenty of time. Turns out his form sat on someone's desk in Chicago for a couple of weeks before they realized it needed to be processed. Fortunately, he called to check on it early enough that we could have it in time for our trip. You just never know what might happen.
Joe-mom --- my understanding is that the 1/3 of the bonus received after Power School must be returned if they don't complete Prototype (when they get the rest). Also the bonus payments are not automatic, depending on advisors, etc. They have to request it. My son got his final payment fairly easily but only because the person doing his transition paperwork helped with the bonus paperwork before he detached from GC. Once on his ship he encountered other nukes who were being told "what bonus?". The burden was on them to prove that they were owed something at all and how much and when. The details are in the enlistment contract.
Re: passports--- apply or renew well before hand, even now because they are valid for 10 years. The processing time gets really long in the spring and summer.
My son thought his "military passport" would be enough but as I learned here, it has its limits...allows them off the ship/boat but not much else (overnight, distance, etc.). It is up to the ship policy and each individual foreign country. It has to be valid for at least 6 months after entering a country.
Baby is coming on Tuesday and this is what B&C are doing this weekend! C wanted her dirt for her garden boxes delivered on Monday. Well the MI weather didn't cooperate so it got pushed to Tuesday and then finally delivered yesterday! They spent part of the day moving it to the back yard and her plan is to get it finished up this weekend - and all her veggies planted! They'll finish moving it today and then let the planting begin. I told her this might put her in to labor lol!
So excited for you B'sNukeMoM. 4 days before I had my Sailor I was cutting a Christmas tree down and dragging it through the woods, with my daughter I was piling lumber at work when I went into labor.. ended up with 2 very healthy babies.
They had their final ultra sound today - technician told them that Oliver is weighing in at 9lbs 11 oz +/- 8oz! Boy I hope they are incorrect lol!
Northwoodsmom - that's awesome! Yes, C has been very active her whole pregnancy. They work out every morning and she is constantly on the go....I just hope all this equates to an easy labor for her.
I was at my 10 year high school reunion - on the dance floor having a great time - B was born 2 days later!
Hi all - Happy Wednesday! Well induction was moved from 9am this morning to 9:30pm tonight, after being moved from Tuesday to Wednesday. At this rate she might just go in to labor on her own lol.
Well they just got a call from the hospital telling them they have nurses there now and to head over! So they are on their way! Gah this is crazy.......
Stephanie - It is good to see you over here asking questions!
To my understanding, almost all Nukes will be sent out for sea duty after they graduate from Prototype. There are exceptions to this, but most will be sent to serve on a ship or a sub after they graduate from the Nuke Pipeline, as their course of study is referred to.
For my son, he was sent to his ship after Prototype with a month-long leave break, between graduation and reporting to the ship. In total by the time his enlistment is up soon, he will have spent almost exactly 4 years with his ship. When he first went to the ship, it had gone back to the shipyards, so he was working on the ship but it was not out to sea. Then it went on many missions (underways) back and forth out to sea. When the ship was in port, he slept at various places, when out to sea, he slept on the ship.
In most cases, when you go off of sea duty, you moved to shore duty for about 3 years. For my son though, because he got married and his wife was already transferred to shore duty, he would have to stay assigned to a ship and serve on sea duty, but when they were in dock, assuming he was not assigned to a command away from his wife, he would go home to his wife and apartment when his ship was in port.
In other words, it may just depend on the ship and the circumstances surrounding the ship, and it would not be any different for Nukes than any other sailor. When my DIL was first assigned to the ship, she had some billeting (housing) on the base that she lived in, until she had a high enough rate to earn BAH (Basic Housing Allowance) and could afford to living in an apartment.
B'sNukeMom: I remember that rollercoaster. Child #3 was induced. They told me to start calling labor and delivery at 8:00 in the morning. They were swamped and kept telling me to call back every 1-2 hours. Finally in the late afternoon they said, quick, come in before more arrive. In total 23 babies were born that day and night. They had to borrow nurses from another department because there were so many new moms and babies the following day.
Stephanie - As Chipmunk said, it really depends on what the status of the ship/boat is. My son's ship was in a work up stage for deployment. He moved on to the ship as soon as he arrived. He could have moved off when he married, but stayed to save money (his wife lives in a different state) until the ship went back to the shipyard for maintenance. At that point, everyone moves off the ship. Nukes have a little different berthing situation than other rates on the ship.
Hi all - still no baby yet! Crazy, right?!? After a long night her water finally broke early this morning. And she did finally consent to the epidural. B said the pain was so bad he finally helped convince her that there was nothing wrong with having it. So she's at 7cm, finally able to rest a little and we are hoping it isn't much longer. They've been at the hospital almost 48 hours now.....I just hope he doesn't decide to wait until his due date tomorrow lol!
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Tulip - thanks for the update! How exciting, a wedding! And BZ on passing the chief exam.
Apr 25, 2023
MomofJoseph
Checking in - My son is still in the Pipeline (Is that what we call it? LOL) Anyway, he is one month into Prototype, and is planning on extending his contract for two more years in September. (This will be a contract extension without having ever been deployed! Let's hope he loves it as much as he thinks he will love it!)
I'm guessing he'll graduate late Sept or early Oct and then wants to be on a sub.
I, too, am grateful for this group. I have learned so many things from all the amazing women here, and I am thankful for those of you who take the time to give your input!
Apr 25, 2023
Chipmunk
Happy Tuesday - We are getting some much needed gentle rain!! A blessing.
I have enjoyed catching up on everyone and their sailors. Keep posting!!
Apr 25, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
MomofJoseph - hopefully he's adjusting well enough to the crazy schedule of prototype!
Apr 25, 2023
MomofJoseph
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet) - he hasn't yet gotten into the craziness of Prototype yet. I guess the first two months are long days, but weekends off, so he is loving that. The crazy schedule will start next month (and prayerfully he'll adjust well).
Apr 25, 2023
newkmomma
OK. I am so glad I found y'all! I need help. I believe my son goes to Great Lakes on June 26 for BC. If I am doing my math right, that makes it Labor Day weekend for his PIR. He is enlisted as a Nuc. So, is that "A" school? or what? and where? and when? I need to book my travel now as it being a holiday weekend. However, how much time should I allow? Will I see him after PIR? Saturday? I tried calling RTC. Nobody answers. I have so far left 2 messages in 2 days and have received zero responses. Any insight would be much appreciated. Thanks!
Apr 26, 2023
The Hammer
newkmomma - I agree with Q’s Momma. There is no way to know for certain when PIR will take place as there may be unforeseen delays. I would wait until you receive that date. I encourage you to write many letters (I wrote one every day!) while he is in boot camp to encourage him. For us, we had PIR and then were able take our sailor home for the day (we live in southern WI) but had to drive him back before curfew. The next morning he took a bus at 4am to O’Hare airport and I met him there at 5:00am. We spend the entire day together at the airport before his flight left at 6:30pm. Expect a very tired, but happy kid. Great memories… (it’s been five years for me). My sailor is also a Nuke (EM or Electrician’s Mate)… so if you have questions about the pipeline… I’m happy to help!
Apr 26, 2023
Chipmunk
newkmomma - Good Morning and welcome Aboard!! I have to leave for an appointment so I am not reading the other ladies replies, but I know they will steer you well.
First of all, welcome! Second, I encourage you to come join our Boot Camp Moms (and loved ones) - Navy For Moms (ning.com) group on this site. B'sNukemom also likely left the link in her welcome to you on your profile page.
I know there are a couple of extra weeks, added on now from when my son left for BC at the end of June. His PIR was actually the weekend before Labor Day, so yours could be Labor Day weekend or the next one, depending on how they actually put him into a Training Group and Division at BC.
DO NOT buy a ticket yet. They will even tell you that from RTC. And no, you will likely not get much of a response from them either, unfortunately. They have too many calls and that is partially why we are here, to help you along this journey.
Welcome to the Nuke mom page, this group focuses more on once your sailor arrives at Goose Creek for A school, then he will have Power School and then Prototype. All 3 of those are considered part of the Nuke Pipeline as you might hear it referred to. Over in the BC group, there are members there who currently have SR (seaman recruits) at BC, those of us who sent ours years ago and all in between. There are many groups on this site, each with different focuses. You can be in as many groups as you would like.
There is a discussion in the BC group that might be helpful to you. I posted it after my son's PIR. What PIR weekend may be like for those flying out of GL - Even if it is Labor Day weekend, there is no guarantee that he would have extra time at GL, and then again he might. It just all depends on the Navy and none of us knows for certain.
Welcome to Navy Life - Semper Gumby - Always flexible. If you do book tickets ahead of time, be sure that you are able to either change them or get insurance. There is currently one lady in our BC group whose son has been set back several times due to medical issues. He is pressing forward, but there is no guarantee that your son will graduate the weekend that you think he will.
Apr 26, 2023
Chipmunk
The Hammer & Q'sMomma - Thanks for replying so quickly!!
Apr 26, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Apr 26, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Welcome to our newest member ~ newkmomma!
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.
Apr 26, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
newkmomma - as hard as it is you are just gonna have to hold off on things for now. The Navy does things their way and you will learn to be flexible or it will drive your crazy lol! Until your son gets to boot camp - and then gets about half way through you won't know anything about his PIR date. And even then it could change. It's hard to let go but you don't really have a choice.
I left the link to the boot camp group on your page in the welcome message. That is the best place to start to get info about what happens. belovedbyHim has a good post about the timeline of boot camp and once you get the letter (at about 4-5 weeks) you can then join his specific PIR group.
It's a lot of "hurry up and wait" and "no news is good news". We've all "been there, done that" and the best advice is just try not to worry.....
I also don't recommend you to continue calling RTC....they should only be called in case of an emergency (and even then you would actually reach out to the Red Cross for assistance). You don't want to do anything to draw attention to your son while he's in boot camp. He'll have enough going on without mom calling - I mean this in the nicest way ;-D
Come here (or to the boot camp group) for help. We'll get you answers. Hang in there!
Apr 26, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
17 days until the due date for our grandson! I can hardly contain myself! Doctor thinks he's already over 8 lbs and says if he continues growing at the rate he is they may have to schedule a c-section. Of course this worries B&C a bit but I remind them that we just want to make sure she has a safe delivery. Everything has been going so great in her pregnancy thus far and this is just sort of throwing a wrench in their plans. I know everything will work out in the end. Flights are booked for MI in June!
Prayers are appreciated.....
Apr 26, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Look how cute this is! A fellow Navy mom crocheted this for baby Oliver!!! I love it ;-D Go Pack Go!
Apr 26, 2023
newkmomma
Thanks y'all! I appreciate all the info and the especially warm, helpful welcome. I have ONE more topic of questions, and then...I will go dormant, becoming mostly a creeper until Septemberish. So, BC for approximately 10 weeks if all goes well, then Goose Creek for A school, then Power School and then Prototype. Are all 3 parts in GC? Approximately 1 year for A school? then how long for the next two in the pipeline? Is there more Nuc schooling after that? His recruiter said he would get about 3 years of college credit toward an Engineering (Nuclear or even a Computer Science degree?). Is this correct? Where do these classes count as college credits? Will he need to take an equivalency test or will he have something from the Navy that is similar to a college transcript? Is there any English writing, Biology and such or is it 100% math and such solely to prepare him for his Navy job? Did your Nucs go on to finish a Bachelor degree immediately following? Take time away from school to work and practice what they were taught? My son makes great, informed decisions; however, I have a lot of questions and don't want to call or rely only on his recruiter to verify the answers I think I understood. Thank you ladies!
Apr 27, 2023
MomofJoseph
newkmomma - Hi! And welcome to the group! You have come to the right place for all the support and answers you need! (And remember - there are no dumb questions!)
My son is currently in Prototype, so I hope to answer some of your questions about the pipeline, but first I want to share my son's experience with BC. He went to the recruiter's office on his 18th birthday (December) and signed up. He was given a leave-for-bootcamp date of August 3rd. He spent the summer at a camp in Georgia and got chigger bites. His documentation said that he had to report any medical issues (including rashes). He reported that. They pushed his leave date to Sept 19th. A few days before the 19th, his recruiter told him that he couldn't go on the 19th because he needed documentation regarding the anaphylactic reaction to bug bites. (Do you know how difficult it is to prove that you have overcome an anaphylactic reaction when you NEVER HAD ONE!?) They told him if he got a medical release, he would leave in 3 days or in 7 weeks! His doctor wrote a letter stating that he never has had any anaphylactic reaction to anything, and the Navy accepted that. My son left for BC on Sept 26, 2021. (Neither 3 days nor 7 weeks later.)
At that time, BC was 8 weeks, but if you were unvaccinated, you had to quarantine for 2 weeks. The "I'm here" call script said that everyone might have to quarantine for 2 weeks, even if they brought their vaccination card. I was distraught because that's not what we were told before he left.
Thankfully, he did not have to quarantine, and he had no setbacks, so he graduated 57 days after he arrived at BC. He graduated the day before Thanksgiving, and everyone in his class was able to spend Thanksgiving with family during the day, but they had to get back for curfew. Some of his buddies shipped out on Friday, but all of the Nukes shipped out on Tuesday. We were able to stay in town until Sunday and spend those days with him. (Thankfully, the hotels in the area know the routine and they are willing to work with Navy families.) Like the other moms said, I would encourage you to wait because the leave date could change, or there could be setbacks. But if you do make reservations (hotel and/or airfare), make sure it's refundable or changeable.
Apr 27, 2023
MomofJoseph
newkmomma - (Apparently, there's a limit to how long a post can be and I exceeded that! Here is part two - about the Nuke pipeline.)
As for the Nuke pipeline, each school (A school, Power, and Prototype) are 6 months long. The first two are in Charleston. The second is either in Charleston or NY. My son says that they tell every A school class, "You will be the first class to do your prototype in NY," but so far, it's still happening in Charleston.
The first couple of weeks are called INDOC and they are introducing them to Nuke life. Then they "class up" and start A School. When they finish A school, there is an intimate graduation ceremony (which we really enjoyed), and then the sailors usually get 10 days leave. After that, they wait to class up for Power School. (My son's class graduated in July, but they needed to do watch duty immediately, so they didn't get their 10 days leave until mid-September. Then they classed up at the end of September.) The time between A school graduation and the start of Power school is called "T-track". They stand watch and clean, and although they are still working, it's a nice break from the rigor of school.
When they graduate Power School, it's a massive graduation ceremony (over 300 graduates) and is really special. My son got 10 days leave and then immediately started Prototype. The first few weeks of prototype is a normal M-F schedule (although the days are long), but soon they will start the crazy 12-hour shift schedule!
My son said that they put in their requests for where they want to be stationed at the beginning of Prototype, and then they will get their orders near the end of Prototype.
Hope this helps.
Apr 27, 2023
Chipmunk
MomofJoseph - LOL - Yes, the system can only handle so much of our chatter at once!! - You aren't the first one to have to continue with a post. Thanks for sharing!
newkmomma - I was posting in a great hurry yesterday. Forgive me if I sounded like you could not post any questions or pop over here during your son's time at BC. We like to have chatter and we are here to help you, so you don't have to be silent. One thing you will learn about this entire process, no one sailor's or parent's experience is exactly the same. Whether it is at BC, in the Nuke pipeline, or at their duty station. We all share similar situations, but each of us has our own scenario.
As for schooling after your sailor is out, my son is only just getting ready to start that process. Maybe B'sNukeMom or some others can offer information. There is also the STA-21 option and we have a few members on here whose sailor has gone that route.
I will say this, if your son's recruiter was not a Nuke, then they are not likely to know as much about Nuke life on a ship or sub, or the options after school. They are going off of a script that may or may not pan out for your son. Right now, what your son needs to be focused on is doing his run and exercises, swimming and floating to pass his Physical Fitness tests at BC. My son had to go to DEP meetings at least once a month prior to shipping out and he talked to his recruiters, and they put him in touch with a Nuke recruiter elsewhere in the area so that he could ask more specific questions. That might be an option.
Apr 27, 2023
joe-mom
MomofJoseph - Thanks for your wonderful description of your experience with the Nuke pipeline. My son is still in T-Track (hopefully classing up to Power School in May), and I still have so much to learn about this process. Very informative!
newkmomma - Welcome to the Navy and to this wonderful group! I agree with Chipmunk - it might be helpful for your son to talk with sailors who've been through the Nuke pipeline. My son talked with several Nukes at MEPS who had been on submarines (which he wants to do), so he received some good perspective from those conversations.
B'sNukeMom - So excited for you! Hope these last couple of weeks go well and that you will have a healthy grandson very soon.
Apr 27, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Apr 27, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
My son did prototype in Ballston Spa - not too many are now. When B went they were sending more of the single guys. Cheaper for the Navy to move 1 person to NY than a family.
And it's fairly safe to say it's close to 2 years from start of boot camp to finish of prototype (give or take).
Your son will get some college credit for being a nuke but I don't think it's 3 years worth. That's always been a little questionable. Seems I've seen/heard many different things over the years. They can use their GI Bill after to get/finish their degrees. That's what B&C did. B got his undergrad degree and C is now finishing up her Master's - both thanks you US Navy!
Apr 27, 2023
JNMnavymomOH
newkmomma - I just wanted to say HI! and help with what I can. My son is MMN, so not sure what your son's rate will be. My son didn't find out his rate until just before PIR. My son spent 4 months in BC as he couldn't pass the run. We have been on our Navy journey since June 2022. It has just been me and him since 2017, so his leaving was constant gut punches. I had a panic attack the night before he left and cried for 3 days straight. Cried every phone call, even when I was trying not to. Wrote lots of letters with encouraging words, poems, phrases and photos. When he had PIR, we were only supposed to be together Friday and leave Saturday. However, he ended up having Saturday as well and he left Sunday from Milwaukee on a military flight. I know that that was not the norm, but I was thankful for that extra day. INDOC was about 10 days, give or take until the class up for A school. MM is only 13 weeks. When holiday stand down arrived, my son put in for leave and was able to come home for about 2 weeks at Christmas. Graduation was March and I was hoping for wonderful warm weather, it was raining. My son has been in T-track waiting to class up in May for Power school. My advice on a couple things: get him good running shoes now (brooks seems to be the best). Teach him about money (saving, spending, investments, credit) if you can, to help them out, and talk about the different retirements and education programs. My son had a booklet from DEP that talked about these options. My son had all the knowledge, and yet still managed to spend about $6500 on junk within 4 weeks of getting to GC. I was livid, as some may remember. If they can get a mailbox at the NEX, it is worth it. I had my son make his will and get his healthcare POA, but getting his financial POA next. At the time that we did this, I was on all of his accounts, but now that has changed. Lastly, make sure your SR has his DL. My son chose not to get his before he left, nor when he came home for the holidays. Or at least he has his temps. SC has some restrictions and he will be struggling to get his before Prototype. My son is an introvert, so lots of talking has never been a thing between us. But it is nice to get the random text messages and the weekly calls (during school). I don't consider myself a helicopter mom, but I want to help him in whatever capacity that I can. I am learning that they will figure it out on their own and all I can do is listen, encourage and ask questions. I live 12 hours away and so the next time I see my Sailor will be for Power school graduation or Thanksgiving, whichever comes first. I find this page and these ladies to be a wonderful resource and it probably would have been worse for me if I did not have them to cry to, vent to, question and share.
Apr 27, 2023
JNMnavymomOH
newkmomma - I was looking at the college thing a few weeks ago. They earn the equivalent of a 4 year degree (credit wise like 62) in 15-18 months. They don't actually earn a degree, but should be able to transfer some of this when they do decide to go after a degree. You can actually see online some of what they will be learning. It is old information but it does help in trying to understand what they are studying. The information they are learning is classified and can not leave the school building. When they are done after each section of the pipeline and have passed comps, their notes are destroyed. I learned this from my son because I asked him if he was going to be able to study his notes while in T-track, to help keep the information fresh.
I read the posts, but don't always post myself. Guess that makes me kind of a creeper. Have a great day!
Apr 27, 2023
Chipmunk
JNMnavymomOH - HI!! It is good to hear from you and to hear how your sailor is doing. You brought up something that I forgot about and that was Driver's License.
YES, it is definitely best for them to have their DL before they head to BC. What a lot of recruiters may not realize is that our sailors will live off base for their Prototype training and they need to be able to provide their own transportation. Some have managed without having a DL, but that can make things really difficult for their roommates. Also, they will need to make sure they have money saved up to handle things like first month's worth of rent, utilities and such, as well as being able to get credit for renting an apartment or utilities. They will not receive their BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) until a month or two after they have finished Power School and moved from NNPTC to an apartment for Prototype.
Apr 27, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Apr 28, 2023
Chipmunk
Good Morning Everyone!! Have a wonderful weekend!
Please join me in welcoming Rebecca to our group!
Rebecca - if your loved one is still at home you might want to share my discussion above with him. Nuke A school daily schedule - sailor's perspective - Navy For Moms...
My son helped me write that when he was at GC (Goose Creek), SC where NNPTC (Naval Nuclear Power Training Command) is located at. I updated it as he progressed in the Nuke Pipeline. I think I have another discussion on Prototype that I need to bump forward. Some things changed with COVID so be sure to read all the way through.
Members - if anyone has updated information to add to my discussion, please feel free to post it at the end of the comments on the last page. Thanks
Apr 29, 2023
CanukaVet
Newkmomma and others who are just beginning this ride...welcome!
I concur with the other comments made.
First, I would advise you not to get too far ahead especially with your planning. I know this is difficult when you want to get the best deals, etc. But you are now on the Navy's schedule which is subject to lots of changes, twists and delays. Think Semper Gumby, always flexible.
I too am so grateful for this site and the wonderful support & information. I was often way ahead of my nuke but he didn't want to know what was coming up. Still doesn't.
I believe that is important to have a driver's license before leaving for BC. As stated before, they move off base for prototype. My son indicated that sometimes prototype will assign roommates of the same rating to the same work shifts (so they can carpool) but it is definitely not a sure thing.
My nuke is currently in the fleet. He reported to his ship almost 2 years to the day that he left for boot camp.But everyone's journey is different.
Timing is everything... when they class up, how long the gaps are between phases and when they can take leave. Despite a 7 week T track, he could not take leave because A school grad was too soon after the Christmas stand down.
One of the other limiting factors is classroom space. Each class needs a separate classroom so even if there are enough, they can't start a class.
We visited him twice in GC, to deliver his car and 3 months later for A school grad. When I asked how he was enjoying the car he replied that he was too busy to use it. But being a California boy, I'm sure it was comforting to know it was there if needed. He did use it a lot during Ttrack. Then came the Covid lockdown just as Power School started. That cancelled our return visits at the end of PS and Prototype. We saw him 3 times in 3 months then not again for 15 months.
If you plan to visit, be aware that Nukes study alot!!! Including Sunday afternoons, so make sure he is even available before you go.
Lastly, underage drinking is a huge issue. The nuke school is dry. Even those that are of age (21) who are phased up can get in trouble if they anywhere around a younger person, even off base (i.e. can't order a beer if anyone in the group is under 21).
That's enough for now.
Take deep breaths and stay tuned here.
Apr 29, 2023
MomofJoseph
Happy Sunday, Moms! I loved Canuka's and Chipmunk's posts and wanted to add a couple of thoughts. As far as a car, my son was allowed to take his after 3 months, and he uses it OFTEN.
Also, my son was pleasantly surprised that within 24 hours of graduating Power School, he received 1/3 of his Nuke bonus. (That really helped with rent and the other expenses involved in starting a new household.)
Apr 30, 2023
WearsLargeHats
I would add that, while it is a bit down the line for nukes, some commands (definitely Pearl Harbor) require that Sailors have a passport, and they should have one in any event. It might be easier or cheaper for them to apply after BC. My experience with passports is that you can get one in 3 weeks if you need it in 3 months, but it will take 3 months if you need it in 3 weeks.
May 1, 2023
joe-mom
MomofJoseph - That's good to know about receiving the bonus so quickly. I was wondering about that, because I'm sure my son will need the extra $$!
WearsLargeHats - You are so right about passports. We learned this the hard way years ago when my husband applied for one in what we thought was plenty of time. Turns out his form sat on someone's desk in Chicago for a couple of weeks before they realized it needed to be processed. Fortunately, he called to check on it early enough that we could have it in time for our trip. You just never know what might happen.
May 1, 2023
CanukaVet
Joe-mom --- my understanding is that the 1/3 of the bonus received after Power School must be returned if they don't complete Prototype (when they get the rest). Also the bonus payments are not automatic, depending on advisors, etc. They have to request it. My son got his final payment fairly easily but only because the person doing his transition paperwork helped with the bonus paperwork before he detached from GC. Once on his ship he encountered other nukes who were being told "what bonus?". The burden was on them to prove that they were owed something at all and how much and when. The details are in the enlistment contract.
Re: passports--- apply or renew well before hand, even now because they are valid for 10 years. The processing time gets really long in the spring and summer.
My son thought his "military passport" would be enough but as I learned here, it has its limits...allows them off the ship/boat but not much else (overnight, distance, etc.). It is up to the ship policy and each individual foreign country. It has to be valid for at least 6 months after entering a country.
May 1, 2023
joe-mom
Canuka - Great info, thanks for clarifying. I'll pass this on to my son.
May 1, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
May 2, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
May 3, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
May 4, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Just got the call from C - they are to be at the hospital at 9am on Tuesday! I'm gonna be a Lollie soon ;-D
May 4, 2023
joe-mom
That's awesome, B's! Praying that all goes well.
May 4, 2023
Chipmunk
Ohh so exciting for you all!!
May 4, 2023
3B'smom
Sending good vibes prayers for a safe delivery.
May 4, 2023
Pizanche
Congrats Bnukes
May 4, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Baby is coming on Tuesday and this is what B&C are doing this weekend! C wanted her dirt for her garden boxes delivered on Monday. Well the MI weather didn't cooperate so it got pushed to Tuesday and then finally delivered yesterday! They spent part of the day moving it to the back yard and her plan is to get it finished up this weekend - and all her veggies planted! They'll finish moving it today and then let the planting begin. I told her this might put her in to labor lol!
May 5, 2023
Northwoodsmom
So excited for you B'sNukeMoM. 4 days before I had my Sailor I was cutting a Christmas tree down and dragging it through the woods, with my daughter I was piling lumber at work when I went into labor.. ended up with 2 very healthy babies.
May 5, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
They had their final ultra sound today - technician told them that Oliver is weighing in at 9lbs 11 oz +/- 8oz! Boy I hope they are incorrect lol!
Northwoodsmom - that's awesome! Yes, C has been very active her whole pregnancy. They work out every morning and she is constantly on the go....I just hope all this equates to an easy labor for her.
I was at my 10 year high school reunion - on the dance floor having a great time - B was born 2 days later!
May 5, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Hi all - Happy Wednesday! Well induction was moved from 9am this morning to 9:30pm tonight, after being moved from Tuesday to Wednesday. At this rate she might just go in to labor on her own lol.
May 10, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Well they just got a call from the hospital telling them they have nurses there now and to head over! So they are on their way! Gah this is crazy.......
May 10, 2023
Happynurse
May 11, 2023
Chipmunk
Stephanie - It is good to see you over here asking questions!
To my understanding, almost all Nukes will be sent out for sea duty after they graduate from Prototype. There are exceptions to this, but most will be sent to serve on a ship or a sub after they graduate from the Nuke Pipeline, as their course of study is referred to.
For my son, he was sent to his ship after Prototype with a month-long leave break, between graduation and reporting to the ship. In total by the time his enlistment is up soon, he will have spent almost exactly 4 years with his ship. When he first went to the ship, it had gone back to the shipyards, so he was working on the ship but it was not out to sea. Then it went on many missions (underways) back and forth out to sea. When the ship was in port, he slept at various places, when out to sea, he slept on the ship.
In most cases, when you go off of sea duty, you moved to shore duty for about 3 years. For my son though, because he got married and his wife was already transferred to shore duty, he would have to stay assigned to a ship and serve on sea duty, but when they were in dock, assuming he was not assigned to a command away from his wife, he would go home to his wife and apartment when his ship was in port.
In other words, it may just depend on the ship and the circumstances surrounding the ship, and it would not be any different for Nukes than any other sailor. When my DIL was first assigned to the ship, she had some billeting (housing) on the base that she lived in, until she had a high enough rate to earn BAH (Basic Housing Allowance) and could afford to living in an apartment.
May 11, 2023
3B'smom
B'sNukeMom: I remember that rollercoaster. Child #3 was induced. They told me to start calling labor and delivery at 8:00 in the morning. They were swamped and kept telling me to call back every 1-2 hours. Finally in the late afternoon they said, quick, come in before more arrive. In total 23 babies were born that day and night. They had to borrow nurses from another department because there were so many new moms and babies the following day.
May 11, 2023
3B'smom
Stephanie - As Chipmunk said, it really depends on what the status of the ship/boat is. My son's ship was in a work up stage for deployment. He moved on to the ship as soon as he arrived. He could have moved off when he married, but stayed to save money (his wife lives in a different state) until the ship went back to the shipyard for maintenance. At that point, everyone moves off the ship. Nukes have a little different berthing situation than other rates on the ship.
May 11, 2023
B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)
Hi all - still no baby yet! Crazy, right?!? After a long night her water finally broke early this morning. And she did finally consent to the epidural. B said the pain was so bad he finally helped convince her that there was nothing wrong with having it. So she's at 7cm, finally able to rest a little and we are hoping it isn't much longer. They've been at the hospital almost 48 hours now.....I just hope he doesn't decide to wait until his due date tomorrow lol!
May 12, 2023