Thank you as well Dad for your strong encouraging words. Just got a call from my sailor, things are picking up and they are watching CNN to track as best as they can what is going on. As far as my son knows they will still have full communication with us but with the increase in business may be hard to find time. What is important that they know we are here at home supporting them and praying for them. Tears and great pride in what they are doing. And I love even trained they remain our babies.
Heard from my son last night, he called to say happy fathers day, and he said they are all doing fine but really busy. He said "CNN is making a much bigger deal of it than it is out here".
I've been informed on the rumors and the news. All I have to say about
that is don't play into anything until you hear it directly from me. So
for now, disregard the news. I'm always safe though, and always working
hard.
We heard from our daughter today. She sounds good. Quieted my nerves. Lived through her father fighting in Iraq with U.S. Army. Now this. Our hearts and prayers are with her and
all the sailors on the USS Bush. God Bless all of you! You make us Proud!Keep Calm and Carry On!
Their next port visit has been canceled. Here is a note from the Strike Group Commander, Rear Adm. Miller.
Message to friends and family members of George H.W. Bush Strike Group (GHWB CSG) from the Commander:
I’d like to start this message by thanking all of the friends and family members of Sailors attached to the GHWB CSG for their love and loyal support throughout this combat deployment. This deployment has already demonstrated the value of Naval Forces to our country and has reinforced the fact that your Navy and Marine Corps team is deployed globally where it matters, when it matters.
“Where it matters, when it matters” was demonstrated as we operated in the Mediterranean and Black Sea at the start of tensions in Ukraine and again was on display as we led the operation that returned a hijacked tanker to Libya. After we transited the Suez Canal and entered the Central Command’s Area of Responsibility, we immediately flexed to provide support to security teams in Afghanistan during their election which helped ensure that the citizens of Afghanistan could safely leave their homes and travel to polling stations in order to vote for their next president. Afghanistan just conducted a run-off election and once again, your Navy combat team was where it mattered, when it mattered as our support from the air resulted in record turn outs at the polls which marked a milestone in Afghanistan’s progress toward democracy and a peaceful transfer of executive leadership.
As soon as it became apparent that the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) were marching toward Baghdad, the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group was ordered to reposition to be “where it matters” and 30 hours later, USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) and USS Truxtun (DDG 103) joined USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) and USS Okane (DDG 77) in the Arabian Gulf, “where it matters, when it matters.” In times of crisis, Naval Forces operating forward are responsive and provide the decision space and options for the President. That’s why we’re here and that’s what we do. Carrier strike groups bring a physical and political presence that act as a deterrent, and when deterrence fails, we possess credible combat power that provides the assured joint access to fight and win.
The support you show your Sailor is felt out here and makes a significant difference. I couldn’t be more proud of our Navy family and our Sailors. I suspect that the decision to postpone George H.W. Bush’s next port visit may cause some concerns at home, especially with the friends and family members who were traveling to visit but I also trust that you fully understand.
Naval Forces demonstrate the Chief of Naval Operations’ tenets of Warfighting First, Operate Forward and Be Ready daily around the globe, and for us, the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group, we embody our Flagship’s motto “Freedom at Work.” That’s why we’re here and that’s what we do.
Sincerely and God Bless, Rear Adm. DeWolfe H. Miller III Commander, George H.W. Bush Strike Group
More than likely they will just skip it and carry on with the next visit. Port visits take a lot of planning and with things up in the air now it is kind of hard to plan for the next one. Tough news for the crew I'm sure.
dad.....thank you.....and I am not sure how they are feeling about it I emailed my husband this morning because i sure know he loves texting me while he is in port
frandnavymom, yes they will still get mail. However, depending on their mission the mail may become less of a priority for them. Supplies, ordinance, parts, etc. will become a bigger priority so mail can be pushed if space isn't available to get it to the ship due to other priorities. Keep sending your packages and letters, they will arrive at some point and your Sailor will be very happy to get them.
My son was assigned to join this ship this week but then his orders changed three weeks ago. I never left this group because there is so much activity. I like reading the comments and hope that some of them will help me as my son is now in Norfolk assigned to the USS Eisenhower. I just want you all to know that your families will be in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that your sailors will return to you safe and sound and that you will have lots of communication with them while they are away! God Bless!
JackieD, that is great service by the ships dental department if you can get a cavity filled and order SF Giants tickets all in one stop. ;)
ThackersMom, great to have you here even if your Sailor isn't on the Bush. We wish him well during his tour aboard the Ike.
Tonya, that is the way to look at it. They are obviously wanting to send a message to the militants in Iraq that the US Navy is coming. The threat of the US Navy is often more of a deterrence than actually dropping bombs. Hopefully, for all involved, the threat is enough this time. As you said, if we didn't know about it that would be the serious stuff.
annieNC, calm is the best approach for sure. No use getting yourself worked up over something you can't change anyway. This is business as usual for them.
I need to ship a mattress topper to my son. Is it ok to ship it in the box it comes in from the store or do I need to repackage it? Just want to make sure it gets to him.
We got a call from him on Father's Day, said he is fine and doing what they are trained to do. No worries Mom... Easier said than done.
Selms, it can be shipped in the box it came. No special packaging required. There are some size/weight restrictions which I've cut and pasted from the Mail Call document above.
“The maximum weight limit for a package is 70 pounds,” said Fahlgren. “A package can be up to 130 inches in length and girth combined, and 108 inches for priority mail.”
I'm not watching the news anymore. Yesterday, I as I walked in the house, Fox News was on, just as they were showing our sailor's ship. Of course, I had to watch that, then I turned it off.
I watch the news and half of the stuff they broadcast - is already yesterday's news by the time we see it.
This is what makes them "seasoned", "ready to go" and what they spend countless hours of training for. One can't become the best of the best just by reading a book or watching a video on training. This will help their time go faster and give them a sense of pride that THEY are the reason we have the world's greatest Navy.
Am I worried? No, but concerned a little. But I also know mine is one of over 5,000 on that aircraft carrier that is motivated to do what is best for our country. They joined to serve their country, not to be served as idol sailors on a ship.
Glad to hear some have heard from theirs. I have not in over 5 weeks but I also know the shift they work is not during the day. Mine needs all the rest they can get to be on the mark for their duties. God Bless them all and Lord ~ give those here back in the states the support and courage to be strong.
I Am in a state of De'ja'vu. Watching the news about my daughter's ship ,the USS Bush ,takes me back to watching my husbands brigade, the first one in Baghdad, during the Iraq War. It's just ironic for me that it's Iraq again. But I need to watch the news to know what is happening. We are very Proud of our daughter and all the sailors. Go Navy! God keep all our Sailors safe.
They used to give them 6-9 months notice of their next duty station. That has changed in the last four or five years. Some poor Sailors are not finding out until the month before they are scheduled to depart. It really varies and his Career Counselor would be able to tell him what the average time frame is for Sailors these days.
I'm pretty new to this customs form thing and had a question: What do you do if the plastic form envelope is bigger than the top of the box? Just bend it over the side a little? And then where do you put the postage label you've printed offline? Does anyone know?
Annie & Tonya I'll probably do that if I can, and I know what you mean about different people having different requirements!
We sent the Large Flat Rate box last time, but while looking online I realized that-as long as I was paying online-the Regional Rate Boxes A, B, & C (due to our location) were as cheap or cheaper per square inch, so am considering sending small boxes twice as often, thought he might like getting mail more often!
We also heard from our Sailor on father's day via phone. He had no clue what was going on as he had 3 wisdom teeth pulled Thursday. I'm kinda shocked that the news reported the name of the carrier and it's placement. All I want is a email letting me know he is okay.
NavyMomDPL
Thank you as well Dad for your strong encouraging words. Just got a call from my sailor, things are picking up and they are watching CNN to track as best as they can what is going on. As far as my son knows they will still have full communication with us but with the increase in business may be hard to find time. What is important that they know we are here at home supporting them and praying for them. Tears and great pride in what they are doing. And I love even trained they remain our babies.
Jun 14, 2014
nurse drae
Jun 14, 2014
Laura
For my sailor this current situation is now same stuff different carrier. Here is the email I received from him.
"I love you very much and I'm sorry in advance if I'm out of touch for a while here and there. I love you mom!"
They will probably be in and out of River City for safety and security so there's no need to panic if your emails go unanswered.
Dad - You always have very meaningful and heartfelt posts. Much appreciated!
Jun 14, 2014
Dad of Sailor
USS George H.W. Bush to Move into Arabian Gulf
Jun 14, 2014
betsy
Jun 15, 2014
Dad of Sailor
Thanks SuzyQ.
Heard from my son last night, he called to say happy fathers day, and he said they are all doing fine but really busy. He said "CNN is making a much bigger deal of it than it is out here".
Hope you all are having a good day.
Jun 15, 2014
Villafane
Jun 15, 2014
KWats Momma
I've been informed on the rumors and the news. All I have to say about
that is don't play into anything until you hear it directly from me. So
for now, disregard the news. I'm always safe though, and always working
hard.
Jun 15, 2014
Cjteeze
all the sailors on the USS Bush. God Bless all of you! You make us Proud!Keep Calm and Carry On!
Jun 15, 2014
Dad of Sailor
Their next port visit has been canceled. Here is a note from the Strike Group Commander, Rear Adm. Miller.
Message to friends and family members of George H.W. Bush Strike Group (GHWB CSG) from the Commander:
I’d like to start this message by thanking all of the friends and family members of Sailors attached to the GHWB CSG for their love and loyal support throughout this combat deployment. This deployment has already demonstrated the value of Naval Forces to our country and has reinforced the fact that your Navy and Marine Corps team is deployed globally where it matters, when it matters.
“Where it matters, when it matters” was demonstrated as we operated in the Mediterranean and Black Sea at the start of tensions in Ukraine and again was on display as we led the operation that returned a hijacked tanker to Libya. After we transited the Suez Canal and entered the Central Command’s Area of Responsibility, we immediately flexed to provide support to security teams in Afghanistan during their election which helped ensure that the citizens of Afghanistan could safely leave their homes and travel to polling stations in order to vote for their next president. Afghanistan just conducted a run-off election and once again, your Navy combat team was where it mattered, when it mattered as our support from the air resulted in record turn outs at the polls which marked a milestone in Afghanistan’s progress toward democracy and a peaceful transfer of executive leadership.
As soon as it became apparent that the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) were marching toward Baghdad, the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group was ordered to reposition to be “where it matters” and 30 hours later, USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) and USS Truxtun (DDG 103) joined USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) and USS Okane (DDG 77) in the Arabian Gulf, “where it matters, when it matters.” In times of crisis, Naval Forces operating forward are responsive and provide the decision space and options for the President. That’s why we’re here and that’s what we do. Carrier strike groups bring a physical and political presence that act as a deterrent, and when deterrence fails, we possess credible combat power that provides the assured joint access to fight and win.
The support you show your Sailor is felt out here and makes a significant difference. I couldn’t be more proud of our Navy family and our Sailors. I suspect that the decision to postpone George H.W. Bush’s next port visit may cause some concerns at home, especially with the friends and family members who were traveling to visit but I also trust that you fully understand.
Naval Forces demonstrate the Chief of Naval Operations’ tenets of Warfighting First, Operate Forward and Be Ready daily around the globe, and for us, the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group, we embody our Flagship’s motto “Freedom at Work.” That’s why we’re here and that’s what we do.
Sincerely and God Bless,
Rear Adm. DeWolfe H. Miller III
Commander, George H.W. Bush Strike Group
Jun 16, 2014
rikki_100113
dad.....will they push it back to some other time or will they just continue with the scheduled visits?
Jun 16, 2014
Dad of Sailor
More than likely they will just skip it and carry on with the next visit. Port visits take a lot of planning and with things up in the air now it is kind of hard to plan for the next one. Tough news for the crew I'm sure.
Jun 16, 2014
frandnavymom
Will they still be getting mail, I sent 2 already which my son hasn't received yet and I'm getting another ready to send....I assume they would
Jun 16, 2014
rikki_100113
dad.....thank you.....and I am not sure how they are feeling about it I emailed my husband this morning because i sure know he loves texting me while he is in port
Jun 16, 2014
Dad of Sailor
frandnavymom, yes they will still get mail. However, depending on their mission the mail may become less of a priority for them. Supplies, ordinance, parts, etc. will become a bigger priority so mail can be pushed if space isn't available to get it to the ship due to other priorities. Keep sending your packages and letters, they will arrive at some point and your Sailor will be very happy to get them.
Jun 16, 2014
JackieD
My son just sent me an email. All is going well. He had dental today, had a cavity filled and ordered SF Giants tickets for his sister's birthday :-)
Jun 16, 2014
Michelle
My son was assigned to join this ship this week but then his orders changed three weeks ago. I never left this group because there is so much activity. I like reading the comments and hope that some of them will help me as my son is now in Norfolk assigned to the USS Eisenhower. I just want you all to know that your families will be in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that your sailors will return to you safe and sound and that you will have lots of communication with them while they are away! God Bless!
Jun 16, 2014
Dad of Sailor
JackieD, that is great service by the ships dental department if you can get a cavity filled and order SF Giants tickets all in one stop. ;)
ThackersMom, great to have you here even if your Sailor isn't on the Bush. We wish him well during his tour aboard the Ike.
Tonya, that is the way to look at it. They are obviously wanting to send a message to the militants in Iraq that the US Navy is coming. The threat of the US Navy is often more of a deterrence than actually dropping bombs. Hopefully, for all involved, the threat is enough this time. As you said, if we didn't know about it that would be the serious stuff.
annieNC, calm is the best approach for sure. No use getting yourself worked up over something you can't change anyway. This is business as usual for them.
Jun 16, 2014
Dad of Sailor
Lol, sorry I noticed it after I posted. Fixed now. :)
Jun 16, 2014
nurse drae
heard from Ben today it does relieve you
Jun 16, 2014
Selms
We got a call from him on Father's Day, said he is fine and doing what they are trained to do. No worries Mom... Easier said than done.
Jun 16, 2014
Dad of Sailor
Selms, it can be shipped in the box it came. No special packaging required. There are some size/weight restrictions which I've cut and pasted from the Mail Call document above.
“The maximum weight limit for a package is 70 pounds,” said Fahlgren. “A package can
be up to 130 inches in length and girth combined, and 108 inches for priority mail.”
Jun 16, 2014
Selms
Jun 16, 2014
pattyb
Have not had an email form my son since the weekend, I am thinking all is ok adn they are just super busy. Hate watching the news
Jun 17, 2014
JackieD
I'm not watching the news anymore. Yesterday, I as I walked in the house, Fox News was on, just as they were showing our sailor's ship. Of course, I had to watch that, then I turned it off.
Jun 17, 2014
lavendergrl8
i know, it's very hard to watch the news. surreal in fact :-(
Jun 17, 2014
morgantracy
I refuse to watch the news too. I'm so tired of hearing about all this. It just makes me sad and worry.
Jun 17, 2014
5339kim
This Too Shall Pass:)
Jun 17, 2014
Anita n Ohio
I watch the news and half of the stuff they broadcast - is already yesterday's news by the time we see it.
This is what makes them "seasoned", "ready to go" and what they spend countless hours of training for. One can't become the best of the best just by reading a book or watching a video on training. This will help their time go faster and give them a sense of pride that THEY are the reason we have the world's greatest Navy.
Am I worried? No, but concerned a little. But I also know mine is one of over 5,000 on that aircraft carrier that is motivated to do what is best for our country. They joined to serve their country, not to be served as idol sailors on a ship.
Glad to hear some have heard from theirs. I have not in over 5 weeks but I also know the shift they work is not during the day. Mine needs all the rest they can get to be on the mark for their duties. God Bless them all and Lord ~ give those here back in the states the support and courage to be strong.
GO NAVY!!!!!
Jun 17, 2014
Cjteeze
Jun 17, 2014
Cjteeze
Jun 17, 2014
Dad of Sailor
Jun 18, 2014
Dad of Sailor
If those militants in Iraq had any sense they would be headed back the way they came. They are no match for what is headed their way.
Jun 18, 2014
lavendergrl8
very cool suzy Q :0)
Jun 18, 2014
lavendergrl8
thats an awesome picture dad of a sailor !!!
Jun 18, 2014
pattyb
Loved the video Suzy Q!!! My sonis on ship but if we want to send items to the females how would we address it??
Jun 18, 2014
stuntsmom
Jun 18, 2014
Dad of Sailor
They used to give them 6-9 months notice of their next duty station. That has changed in the last four or five years. Some poor Sailors are not finding out until the month before they are scheduled to depart. It really varies and his Career Counselor would be able to tell him what the average time frame is for Sailors these days.
Jun 18, 2014
stuntsmom
Jun 18, 2014
CousinSarah
I'm pretty new to this customs form thing and had a question: What do you do if the plastic form envelope is bigger than the top of the box? Just bend it over the side a little? And then where do you put the postage label you've printed offline? Does anyone know?
Jun 18, 2014
Dad of Sailor
stunts, yes he should have that all in by now.
Cousin, yeah just fold it and get it to fit. Put the label at the top or side of the box.
Jun 18, 2014
Anita n Ohio
http://www.navy.com/inside/life-as-a-sailor/living-quarters.html
No, it's not an aircraft carrier - but it gives you an idea of somethings on a ship.
Jun 18, 2014
CousinSarah
Thank you everyone for your help!
Dad, okay that's what I assumed...
Annie & Tonya I'll probably do that if I can, and I know what you mean about different people having different requirements!
We sent the Large Flat Rate box last time, but while looking online I realized that-as long as I was paying online-the Regional Rate Boxes A, B, & C (due to our location) were as cheap or cheaper per square inch, so am considering sending small boxes twice as often, thought he might like getting mail more often!
Jun 18, 2014
stuntsmom
Jun 18, 2014
SMom808
Eye on the Fleet - U.S. Navy Photo of The Day
-- http://www.navy.mil/list_single.asp?id=177748
Jun 18, 2014
frandnavymom
I just heard on my local news about 2 carriers in the Persian Gulf, anybody else hear that or know anything about that?
Jun 18, 2014
SailorMom94
Jun 19, 2014
Anita n Ohio
Remember that old military motto:
"NO NEWS IS GOOD NEWS!!"
Trust me, you'd rather not hear a thing then get bad news.
Jun 19, 2014
Anita n Ohio
Jun 19, 2014
SailorMom94
Jun 19, 2014