My son just arrived in Chicago, he will be in the 800 division soon. He was so happy and proud today. A few concerns, but those will work there way out.
My son left yesterday for basic, he is suppose to be in the 800 division per his contract, the recruiter told me today he was in the 105 division????? I know what the 800 division is, but do the other divisions have a particular meaning?
Proudnavymom03 If your son left yesterday the recruiter could very well be wrong. If your son has a spec-op contract he should be in a 800 division. When our son went in ( July of 2011 ) his recruiter told us he wouldn't know anything for 3 or 4 days, your sons recruiter probably just doesn't want to be bothered. You should get a letter from your son in the next week or so that will give you his division # and address, so start writing now so you have letters to send him, our son loved getting letters from home someone in our family sent him a letter every day. Hope all goes well for your son.
When my son went to MEPS on Tuesday, the doc told him that tecnically his eyes did not qualify for EOD, he has had this contract since Aug, might you think someone would have picked up on his vision before now?? His first thoughts were SEALS and his vision disqualified him for that, you would think the vision requirements would be the same. His recruiter is suppose to be looking into it. I may just have to wait for my letter.
Hi to all! I am brand new with all of this. My son left this past Tuesday and is at bc now. He left with an EOD contract. I'm trying to understand what he will be doing when. Some of you have mentioned dive prep school but I thought they stayed in GL to go through EOD prep school as soon as bc was over and then to 8 weeks dive school. Can anyone help me?
Braelen'smom After bootcamp you son will stay in GL a few weeks for dive prep ( there is no EOD prep) from there he will go dive school in Panama City Fl. about 9weeks, then to EOD school in Fort Walton which takes place at Fort Eglin Air Force Base this is long about 42 weeks. Then to jump school at Fort Benning Ga. 3weeks. Then to gulfport Ms. for 3 or 4 weeks for weapon training ( I think, this is where my son is now. His training starts today ) Then to San Diego Ca.also 3 weeks Then it's off to their duty station. Hope this helps. As you can see this is a very long process.
Regina Thank you so much for that information! Similar to what I had thought but different terms for the same thing is confusing. The paperwork that came with my son's contract said EOD Prep Course but then I never heard anyone refer to it again. The description it gives is in water proficiency skills and physical conditioning. Has to be the same thing. It is so nice to hear from people who actually know because they have been there! Thanks again!!
Just wanted to say that EOD school is one of the hardest courses your sailor will go through. I don't want to rain on anyone's parade but it is a very tough course. My son was "rolled back" twice so his graduation date changed. If they fail a test they get a chance to redo and if they fail the 2nd time they have to retake that section. They can only fail a few times and then have to in front of the board to see if they have what it takes to be an EOD tech. I am not trying to scare any of you, I just know that with my son it was a long journey but well worth it. We are very proud of him and all that he has done. He is now stationed in the Mediterranean,still doing training and loving every minute of it.
Karenlee. I am a realist and appreciate your honesty! I have heard the term rolled back a couple of times now. So what that means is the opportunity to go back and retake a test or when they have to retake a section? I have also heard that dive prep is the hardest? True or is it the long EOD training or just all of it?
Dive prep is not the hardest part. in fact its the easiest. If your sailor struggles in dive prep, they probably wont make it thru dive school. My son was one of the strongest, being a scuba diver and very comfortable in the water, was rolled twice in dive school. The instructors will hone in on who they feel is weak and make it hard on them. Its how they see who can handle the pressure of the next year of training. The farther they get the more respect they get, and the instructors feel theyve earned the right to be there. By the time there a month in EOD they feel that pressure lift, but thats replaced with the stress of passing every class. Its a long difficult trip.
To Braelen's mom, if they are rolled back it is usually because they failed a test. They retake the test in a day or two. If they pass they continue on if not they start the section over. The middle part of EOD is the hardest, I know nukes is in the middle just can't remember what's before nukes and what is after but I do know that there are a couple of really tough sections back to back. Once they are through that the rest seems pretty easy considering what they have all ready done. My son never said to much about dive prep but I know that is where they start to weed guys out. My son was in the fleet for 2 1/2 years before he went EOD. The EOD guys on the ship helped prepare him for dive prep but he nevered talked about it much. Some things he would tell his Dad but not me because I worried to much. All of it is hard and your heart just breaks when things are not going so well for them. Just keep them in prayer and when graduation day comes, the pride and love you will feel makes the whole thing so worth it.
Wow! I love this site! Everyone has so much great information and I really appreciate it! Karenlee thank you for the explanation of "rolled back". It all seems so difficult but really we want it to be so that they are prepared for what is to come. Nothing great ever came easy!! And congratulations to your son and his hard work! You should be, and I'm sure you are, a proud mama! I, too, am a proud mama just that he wants to do this! We are praying and believing that he will become all he was created to be. QMGsmom thanks for your insight, as well! Congratulations and thanks to you and your son for the hard work and dedication to accomplish what he has. It is very sobering to realize all Braelen has before him, especially when it was difficult for someone as experienced as your son.
Donna No my son didn't think dive prep was hard as he very comfortable in the water, he was a competitive swimmer from the age of 7 and he was actually the honor grad at dive prep. However once the books came out he was just in the middle of the pack.
QMGsmom, Karenlee, and Regina We received our "letter" from our son today. I had understood there would be three lines of a personal note from him, but there was not. I guess I was wrong. The one thing that really surprised me was the division he is in. I thought if they were to be EOD they would be placed in division 800. His division is a 100 #. Is that unusual?
To Braelen'smom if I remember correctly our letter just gave of his address, he didn't write anything. Not sure what division they are in at bc because my son did not go in with an EOD contract.
Braelen'smom If your son went in with an EOD contract he should be in an 800 division. Do you have a copy of his contract ? Writing on the letter is up to the recruit, our son didn't write to us either. Our son was 18 when he went in, how old is your son?
Karenlee thank you, as always! I at least feel better about that! Maybe I'll understand better when I get his first letter. How long did it take for you to receive that first letter?
Baelens'mom, he wrote every Sunday so we received a letter every Wednesday. We live in St Louis so the mail from GL only took a couple days. I think he was in almost 3 weeks before we got the first letter. I wrote every day so he would have mail.
Your not going like my answer but it was about 2 1/2 to 3 weeks it seemed like forever, but once they came someone in the family got one every week sometime two and before you know you will be there for PIR. But you should keep writing him everyday, our son said he really enjoyed getting his letters.
Regina it really is seeming like forever but I know it will come. We got the letter today that told us his graduation date and seeing his handwriting on the envelope thrilled me! I am so looking forward to PIR! Thanks for the encouragement!!
Braelen'smom Once bootcamp is over the communication is better, our son calls often. We were fortunate enough to have him home for 3 1/2 weeks over the holidays.
For the new Navy Mom's-there is book your sailor will receive at bc. It's called The Bluejacket's Manual by Thomas J Cutler. It has all the info you want to know about the Navy. They do not cover Spec Ops but still a nice book to have.
Karenlee thank you for the heads up about the book. Proudnavy03 that was the same explanation my son gave. He said they are pulling them for their training but they are in other divisions.
Former SEAL and author of American Sniper, Chris Kyle, was shot and killed along with a friend at a Texas gun range yesterday. So sad! Great American!!!
Braelen'smom, Congratulations to your son, I can remember how exciting it was to get the I'am sailor call. I hope you able to go to PIR and spend the weekend with him. Our son is doing great, he's done with training March 15th in San Diego then he's off to his duty station. Good luck to your son.
Alright my GL A school (Dive prep) experts, what can he have as far as clothes go? Can he have any regular clothes, shoes, etc. I think they can have their boxers now (know he is ready to be rid of tighty whities!) but what about other clothes. Shorts to lounge around in? T-shirts? As always, thanks!!
Braelan'smom, After PIR, we took our sailor to Gurnee Mills and got socks, boxers and running shoes. We took him some T's, sweatpants and hoodies with us to PIR and he did take those and then when we got home, I had to mail him some more. He also wanted his swim trunks. :) So ya, they can wear comfy clothes when not in unfiform. He got a overnight liberty (DH picked him up last night and will return him tonight) and he was wearing a tee shirt and jeans.
Braelen'smom, yes he can have his boxers, phone and computer. They can have regular clothes but can't wear until they phase up that take a couple of weeks. When my son got to Panama City we took him his car.
As always, you all come to the rescue! How do others do it without this site? I feel lost as it is, but always get the answers I need. Thanks so much!!!
Regina, I am new to the group. My son's PIR was 3/8. He is waiting to start dive prep. They had an indoc (?spelling) last week and he said that dive prep doesn't start until 4/15. He said they will be working out and preparing until then. Any insight would be greatly appreciated!
Karenlee
To DJsmom- how are things going in FL? Hope all is well. Do you have a date for graduation? Take care Karenlee
Jan 7, 2013
proudnavymom03
My son just arrived in Chicago, he will be in the 800 division soon. He was so happy and proud today. A few concerns, but those will work there way out.
Special K how is you son doing in the dive-prep?
Jan 8, 2013
proudnavymom03
I've been watching dive prep videos on you tube, that stuff is insane!!
Jan 8, 2013
proudnavymom03
Donna, how is your son doing?
Jan 8, 2013
proudnavymom03
My son left yesterday for basic, he is suppose to be in the 800 division per his contract, the recruiter told me today he was in the 105 division????? I know what the 800 division is, but do the other divisions have a particular meaning?
Jan 9, 2013
Regina
Proudnavymom03 If your son left yesterday the recruiter could very well be wrong. If your son has a spec-op contract he should be in a 800 division. When our son went in ( July of 2011 ) his recruiter told us he wouldn't know anything for 3 or 4 days, your sons recruiter probably just doesn't want to be bothered. You should get a letter from your son in the next week or so that will give you his division # and address, so start writing now so you have letters to send him, our son loved getting letters from home someone in our family sent him a letter every day. Hope all goes well for your son.
Jan 9, 2013
proudnavymom03
When my son went to MEPS on Tuesday, the doc told him that tecnically his eyes did not qualify for EOD, he has had this contract since Aug, might you think someone would have picked up on his vision before now?? His first thoughts were SEALS and his vision disqualified him for that, you would think the vision requirements would be the same. His recruiter is suppose to be looking into it. I may just have to wait for my letter.
Jan 10, 2013
Braelen'smom
Hi to all! I am brand new with all of this. My son left this past Tuesday and is at bc now. He left with an EOD contract. I'm trying to understand what he will be doing when. Some of you have mentioned dive prep school but I thought they stayed in GL to go through EOD prep school as soon as bc was over and then to 8 weeks dive school. Can anyone help me?
Jan 13, 2013
Regina
Braelen'smom After bootcamp you son will stay in GL a few weeks for dive prep ( there is no EOD prep) from there he will go dive school in Panama City Fl. about 9weeks, then to EOD school in Fort Walton which takes place at Fort Eglin Air Force Base this is long about 42 weeks. Then to jump school at Fort Benning Ga. 3weeks. Then to gulfport Ms. for 3 or 4 weeks for weapon training ( I think, this is where my son is now. His training starts today ) Then to San Diego Ca.also 3 weeks Then it's off to their duty station. Hope this helps. As you can see this is a very long process.
Jan 14, 2013
Braelen'smom
Regina Thank you so much for that information! Similar to what I had thought but different terms for the same thing is confusing. The paperwork that came with my son's contract said EOD Prep Course but then I never heard anyone refer to it again. The description it gives is in water proficiency skills and physical conditioning. Has to be the same thing. It is so nice to hear from people who actually know because they have been there! Thanks again!!
Jan 14, 2013
Karenlee
Jan 14, 2013
Braelen'smom
Jan 14, 2013
QMGsmom
Jan 14, 2013
Karenlee
Jan 14, 2013
Braelen'smom
Wow! I love this site! Everyone has so much great information and I really appreciate it! Karenlee thank you for the explanation of "rolled back". It all seems so difficult but really we want it to be so that they are prepared for what is to come. Nothing great ever came easy!! And congratulations to your son and his hard work! You should be, and I'm sure you are, a proud mama! I, too, am a proud mama just that he wants to do this! We are praying and believing that he will become all he was created to be. QMGsmom thanks for your insight, as well! Congratulations and thanks to you and your son for the hard work and dedication to accomplish what he has. It is very sobering to realize all Braelen has before him, especially when it was difficult for someone as experienced as your son.
Jan 15, 2013
Regina
Donna I do know where my son will be stationed, but not sure I am allowed to say. Friend me and I can send you a private message.
Jan 16, 2013
Regina
Donna No my son didn't think dive prep was hard as he very comfortable in the water, he was a competitive swimmer from the age of 7 and he was actually the honor grad at dive prep. However once the books came out he was just in the middle of the pack.
Jan 16, 2013
Braelen'smom
QMGsmom, Karenlee, and Regina We received our "letter" from our son today. I had understood there would be three lines of a personal note from him, but there was not. I guess I was wrong. The one thing that really surprised me was the division he is in. I thought if they were to be EOD they would be placed in division 800. His division is a 100 #. Is that unusual?
Jan 17, 2013
proudnavymom03
My son had as EOD contract too and I was told by the recruiter he is in the 105 division. I
Jan 17, 2013
Karenlee
Jan 17, 2013
Regina
Braelen'smom If your son went in with an EOD contract he should be in an 800 division. Do you have a copy of his contract ? Writing on the letter is up to the recruit, our son didn't write to us either. Our son was 18 when he went in, how old is your son?
Jan 17, 2013
Braelen'smom
Karenlee thank you, as always! I at least feel better about that! Maybe I'll understand better when I get his first letter. How long did it take for you to receive that first letter?
Jan 17, 2013
Karenlee
Jan 17, 2013
Regina
Your not going like my answer but it was about 2 1/2 to 3 weeks it seemed like forever, but once they came someone in the family got one every week sometime two and before you know you will be there for PIR. But you should keep writing him everyday, our son said he really enjoyed getting his letters.
Jan 17, 2013
Braelen'smom
Karenlee Thank you yet again! It really helps!!
Jan 17, 2013
Braelen'smom
Regina it really is seeming like forever but I know it will come. We got the letter today that told us his graduation date and seeing his handwriting on the envelope thrilled me! I am so looking forward to PIR! Thanks for the encouragement!!
Jan 17, 2013
Regina
Braelen'smom Once bootcamp is over the communication is better, our son calls often. We were fortunate enough to have him home for 3 1/2 weeks over the holidays.
Jan 17, 2013
Braelen'smom
Regina sorry just saw your other message. He did go with an EOD contract and we do have a copy. he is 22
Jan 17, 2013
Braelen'smom
Got to talk to my son Sat. So excited! He explained his division status and sounded good! Prayer works!
Jan 21, 2013
Karenlee
For the new Navy Mom's-there is book your sailor will receive at bc. It's called The Bluejacket's Manual by Thomas J Cutler. It has all the info you want to know about the Navy. They do not cover Spec Ops but still a nice book to have.
Jan 26, 2013
Braelen'smom
Karenlee thank you for the heads up about the book. Proudnavy03 that was the same explanation my son gave. He said they are pulling them for their training but they are in other divisions.
Jan 27, 2013
MikeysMom2
Less than a week, YaY!!!!!!!
Feb 2, 2013
Karenlee
Prayers go out to the family of Chris Kyle.
Feb 3, 2013
Braelen'smom
Just read about that. So sad!!
Feb 3, 2013
three4me
Oh no!! What happened??
Feb 3, 2013
Braelen'smom
Former SEAL and author of American Sniper, Chris Kyle, was shot and killed along with a friend at a Texas gun range yesterday. So sad! Great American!!!
Feb 3, 2013
three4me
How terrible!
Feb 3, 2013
Karenlee
Feb 27, 2013
Karenlee
Feb 27, 2013
Regina
Braelen'smom,
How is your son doing must be getting close to PIR for him are you going?
Mar 1, 2013
Braelen'smom
Hi Regina! Got the call today!!! Still on cloud 9! He will graduate next Friday. Thanks for asking!! How is yours?
Mar 1, 2013
Regina
Braelen'smom, Congratulations to your son, I can remember how exciting it was to get the I'am sailor call. I hope you able to go to PIR and spend the weekend with him. Our son is doing great, he's done with training March 15th in San Diego then he's off to his duty station. Good luck to your son.
Mar 2, 2013
Karenlee
Mar 2, 2013
Braelen'smom
How my goodness, yes! I was running through the halls at school screaming - fortunately all the kids had gone home for the day!
Wow! The end is so close for him. What an accomplishment! Best of luck to him and your family!!
Mar 2, 2013
Braelen'smom
Alright my GL A school (Dive prep) experts, what can he have as far as clothes go? Can he have any regular clothes, shoes, etc. I think they can have their boxers now (know he is ready to be rid of tighty whities!) but what about other clothes. Shorts to lounge around in? T-shirts? As always, thanks!!
Mar 2, 2013
three4me
Braelan'smom, After PIR, we took our sailor to Gurnee Mills and got socks, boxers and running shoes. We took him some T's, sweatpants and hoodies with us to PIR and he did take those and then when we got home, I had to mail him some more. He also wanted his swim trunks. :) So ya, they can wear comfy clothes when not in unfiform. He got a overnight liberty (DH picked him up last night and will return him tonight) and he was wearing a tee shirt and jeans.
Mar 2, 2013
Regina
karenlee, My son will be stationed in Guam.
Braelen'smom, yes he can have his boxers, phone and computer. They can have regular clothes but can't wear until they phase up that take a couple of weeks. When my son got to Panama City we took him his car.
Mar 2, 2013
Braelen'smom
As always, you all come to the rescue! How do others do it without this site? I feel lost as it is, but always get the answers I need. Thanks so much!!!
Mar 2, 2013
Regina
How are the new guys doing in dive prep ?
Mar 16, 2013
SandraB
Regina, I am new to the group. My son's PIR was 3/8. He is waiting to start dive prep. They had an indoc (?spelling) last week and he said that dive prep doesn't start until 4/15. He said they will be working out and preparing until then. Any insight would be greatly appreciated!
Mar 18, 2013