LauraR no we did not go to boot camp graduation. We plan to visit our son in the spring in South Carolina while he is in A school when we can spend the entire weekend together. I was thinking of driving his car down there, drop it off and fly back. Then we can bring him much more stuff, load his car trunk with his gear.
You cannot give them anything at PIR, they are not allowed to bring anything with them back to the ship even if you do go. So even if you gave them stuff they are not allowed to bring it back to their ship. It is possible to meet them at the airport and hand it over but that might conflict with your flight home. It can be chaotic after PIR as they are still on duty (have watch over the weekend) so liberty hours are changeable. For example my son had security watch. Also, my son did not get final orders and airline tickets until yesterday so even if we had gone to PIR we would have flown back on Sunday.
We sent him a Verizon calling card with 700 minutes on it and he can use that until he gets settled and gets his phone.
What I did was just fill a medium sized Priority Mail carton with his phone, charger, wristwatch, alarm clock and a few other things and I mailed it directly to his address at A school. It arrived at the mail room yesterday which means it will take a couple days to find its way to him; he arrives in Charleston this afternoon.
Another thing I did was create a Google Voice account and got a phone number in the Chareston, SC calling area. That way he can call home even from a pay phone and it is always a local call. He dials a local South Carolina number and it rings on our home phone. You can PM me if you want more info on how to do it.
Fishmom, that was my brother's job in the Navy years ago. When my brother got out of the Navy, he was consistently being recruited for Air Traffic Controller jobs. He was discharged directly after an air traffic controller strike and apparently with being an OS, he had all the qualifications for the job.
Good Morning Fishmom, my son will also be an OS but he leaves next month. Have you joined the OS group, they have been able to answer a few questions for me. Also I think if you go to the discussions above there are subgroups for the months everyone is leaving. If you are the first one in October 2011 jump right in that is what I did in June when my son first joined. I have become friends with some wonderful women, at first there were only small comments but now that March is almost here we seem to be chatting all day long.
William - I had assumed my daughter would be grad and go and so could take the stuff right away, but you're right, I might just be better off taking her important stuff already boxed and then if I can't give it to her at the airport, I can mail it from the airport.
I'll get additional information from you off line on the phone number thing. Sounds like a great idea!
Jessica - the Navy does have a contract with the Y. When my son was a DEPper, his recruiter encouraged him to join up with a bunch of guys that were also DEPpers of his to train and swim. It was wonderful for him to have accountability and a group that encouraged him. Kept him motivated over those long months of waiting to go.
Just a quick note, I have not posted here in a while, My sons PIR was 2/11 and the one thing asked him was what was the best thing that you did before you left, He said have my "wisdom teeth pulled" he was very glad that he did this from home and was able to have meds and rest. He says the guys that had them done there were not happy SR's, they got minimal meds and only one day to rest. This is not to say that they were not well taken care of or that the procedure was bad in anyway, just his thoughts.
one thing that my son wants now and did not think that he would is some good vitimens, emergen C, airborne, anything like that, they can't have it in BC but he can''t wait to get it now, bring some to PIR!!!
We were contacted by the recruiter back on February 10 and advised that there was an opening this month for an LS if Charlotte wanted it (her original ship date was in August). She said "yes" and we were told by the chief that she did have the slot, but they had to wait for the people in Millington to get the new contract. They were apparently shut down because of snow. We waited and were put off all last week with vague information, then finally on Friday my husband called the recruiter directly and was told that they weren't shipping anyone early now. Has anyone had a similar experience? Its been a real emotional rollercoaster and I'm not sure we are getting the whole truth.
I am getting very frustrated with my son. He's supposed to be exercising and losing weight (there is no way he can make weight now), but he isn't doing anything about it. Yes, he does exercises when he feels like it, but once a week for ten minutes isn't going to do him any good.
He SAYS he really wants to do this, but he's completely distracted with his computer and watching animes all day long. He's sitting around doing NOTHING, and enjoying every minute of it. He seems to think he has "plenty of time," - just like he did in high school and ended up having to return for an additional semester to finsh the FIVE classes he failed in his senior year.
He's so smart, it drives me nuts. He got a 93 on his ASVAB without studying, but he has absolutely NO self-motivation.
My older son was much the same way, and the Navy turned him around. I'm worried my younger son will not get to the point where he will get the chance to do so.
Arwen--- you got to tell him its either sink or swim. Sometimes they need to be driven out of this funk. I have had to motivate so many people in DEP to loose weight and i myself am in DEP. what needs to happen is you or someone he knows needs to motive him. Work out with him everyday 2x a day morning and evening. I am currently wrking out 3 times a day with 3 different people... why?? because if i dont work out with them they figure well then i dont have to. they dont get motived but if you are hurting just as badly as they are and you are making the sacrafice to then they will see that, I have to get these DEP/ers to loose 10 lbs each in a week. so far they each have lost 5 pounds. me... i have become stronger.
So you need to sit him down and say look this is what is going to happen if you dont get motivated. maybe box up all his games and anime. I mean something has to give.
My son shaved more than two minutes off his 1.5 mile run times, during boot camp. His weight was never a problem though. He was more than 30 pounds under the weight limit when he went in, and neither gained nor lost weight during boot camp. His PFA average was Good (Medium) range mostly because his score on the exercises was much higher than that and it all gets averaged in with the run.
OMG! I'm sitting here balling like a baby! My oldest son 22 just graduated boot camp on 2/4. He is now in Goose Creek, SC nuclear power school. He's doing great! On the other hand my 18 year old just did early graduation on Jan. 25th. He knew he was joining the Navy also. He went down to MPES 3 weeks ago and took the ASVAB. Made an 84. But, they had no job for him in the field he wanted. He wants something in the computer field. Well, last week his recruiter called him and told him that there was a CTR opening and he had to go back down to MPES on Thurs. to get that job. He swore in Thurs. night. I was on my way down to Goose Creek to see my other son. Called my 18 year old to find out what happened and when he was going. I was shocked when he told me he was leaving for boot camp on April 14th!!! Less than 2 months away. Here is my baby that really isn't quite ready to go yet. He's so nervous about the whole thing happening so fast. His brother was in DEP for 9 months!! This poor kid doesn't have time to wrap his head around it and poof, he's off! I thought my 22 year old was hard leaving me. But, this one!! If I'm already crying about it now, what's it gonna be like when he leaves? I feel like he's being thrown to the wolves. I know he'll be okay, because Derek made it just fine. But, Cody just turned 18 in Oct. and is such a quiet, shy young man. It's just breaking my heart.
Thank you so much Peggy! I'm sure that he'll be fine. I really want him to go down to Goose Creek to see his brother before he leaves. My husband has a 3 day weekend coming up in a couple of weeks. They haven't seen each other since my oldest left on Dec. 7th. If he doesn't go to see him before he leaves for boot camp, it's no telling when they'll see each other again. You would think it would be easier for me since I just had one go through it. I guess it's harder because he is my baby. It's just scary for him. He's such a great kid and never gives us any trouble what-so-ever! I'll miss him terribly! He'll be going to Pensacola for his A-school. To far to travel to see him as often as I'll be able to for my oldest in Goose Creek. Plus, my sister lives in Charleston so we can stay with her when we visit. We're only 4 hours away from there. He'll also be there for just about 2 years versus my youngest whose A-school is only 3 or 4 months long. Huge difference. Just gonig to take some getting used to I guess. Even my husband is worried for him. He wasn't like this with my oldest. I'm very proud of them both and know that they have to spread their wings and fly.
The reason why he's going so quickly is that someone who had that particular job was kicked out of DEP. So therefore, my son got that job and the date that that kid was going to leave. My oldest would of loved that scenario for himself way back when. Not my youngest though. He's quite content sitting on his computer and playing his x-box. He'll be going through withdrawals. LOL!!
Pamela, my son was in DEP for 7 months, after signing in his senior year of high school. He is my baby of our 5 children. I can totally understand how you are feeling now. My son graduated from BC on 12/17 at the ripe old age of 18 and is now in Pensacola for his A school. I miss his so much, but he is doing just awesome. Just about the time I started getting used to him leaving, my daughter told me that she will be moving to Hawaii in June, (after she graduates from college) to live for a year with her Navy fiance. :( It kinda feels like I have 2 kids in the military some days. You have obviously done a great job with your boys and after experiencing BC with my youngest son, I'm sure your son will do just fine. He is very lucky to have had a brother go before him because I'm sure that he has learned a lot from his experience too. Good luck to you and your boys. Congratulations!
Betsy, Thank you for your words of encouragement! Makes me feel better knowing that "your baby" is doing awesome. I know my son will be okay, but it's still hard when it's your baby. We'll both be fine!
Today day is the day ladies.... My SR is @ Meps waiting as we speak..... yesterday was a very hard day for me, as I live in TN and he is in CA.... so I didn't get to see him off. He wanted me to be at PIR rather than fly home to watch him fly out.... I am 90% better today.... and he is in wonderful spirits! thank you all for preparing me for some of the emotions I have been feeling.
Ok ladies (and dudes!)!!!! So today I was surfing the net and was like "Oh I need to get my parents window decals for their cars that say 'Navy Dad' and 'Navy mom'" So I went and found this site... http://www.soldiercity.com/us-navy-decals-navy-stickers.html
I was wowed by all the awesome stuff you can buy! "ZOMG LIKE NO WAY" I said... I spent $40 on stickers lol. Got My granddaughter is in the Navy x3 (lots of grandparents), My Daughter is in the Navy, mom and dad, My sister is in the Navy (for my lil bro-- the kid on my profile pic lol) and of course for my dad a navy retired. They even have cool kids stuff (uniforms, flight suits, and NWUs its so sweet)
So I thought I would share just incase you also wanted to get navy Stickers or hats or even sweaters. Usually you would have to buy this stuff at like the NEX (Navy exchange) and you would have to have a military ID which is just too mch work blah blah blah. ENJOY!!!
This is my first comment for this group. I'm new to all this, but not new to DEP. My son has been DEPped in since Sept. 2009 - his senior year. He graduated June 2010 and has been sitting and waiting this entire time.
Now we're 3 weeks out from today - 3/16, that we'll have him at MEPS in Indy. Time is screaming by and even tho I'm trying to wrap my head around all this, the emotions are flying. I know I'm not the first to feel this way, but Man, is this hard! Any suggestions?
What did you do with all their stuff in their room. Did your DEPper help you in the "weeding out" process? This is nearly impossible! So much to do and think about.
MamaC, I had one in DEP for 9 months. He left for BC on 12/7. A few weeks before he left I had him go through his closet and bureau to get rid of any clothes he didn't want. We donated the good ones to Goodwill and threw out the ones that were less than favorable. He only had a few things left!! I just brought those down to him in Goose Creek, SC. He was so happy to get his civilian clothes. He can't wear them yet, but, he's got them for when he can.
My other son just got a job last Thurs. (CTR) and is going to BC on 4/14!!! Only a 2 month DEP time! He's my baby and it's dejavu all over again. I know he'll be fine, but it's still nerve racking. He's only got 7 weeks to get really physically fit. He's 6'4" tall and weighs only 173, but he's not very active. Oh, except for his computer and x-box games. His fingers are very fit!! LOL! We started a walk/jog program yesterday. I'm doing it along with him. I figure it'll help me also. He could only do 6 push-ups and 13 sit-ups! Will we have him ready in 7 weeks? I just hate the thought of him getting screamed at.
Hope this info helps. It will be easier on you if your son goes through it all himself since he will know what he wants and doesn't want anymore.
Hi Ladies... I just heard that my home town magazine is doing an article on my son.This is so cool. He will be in the summer issue. So, hopefully he will be in A school and I can send it to him.. For the moms out there that live in a small town, you might want to check with your local news paper or magazine and see if they want to do a story on your child. I know when I told my son he was so excited..it makes them feel special and loved. I am also checking with our vfw to see if they can come by to our going away party to say Bye to my son(he leaves March 28th). Just trying to make this a very special day for our family.. Have a great day!
My son leaves from Indy Next Wednesday! We have been waiting since June!
I created a calendar in the March Group discussions showing who is going on what day that month - we are a very supportive and somewhat crazy group! We would love to have any and all March Mama's (wifes, gf, guys) join us - the more the merrier! Welcome aboard!!
Mama C = I highly recommend that your son be encouraged to clean his room before he leaves. At the very least, have him pack a box of the things he would like to have once he PIRs. While my son's room was cleaned and clothes gone through, he was too busy with his friends to pack a box, and he now regrets it. Mom is stuck figuring out what to ship to him - not fun!
Also, after PIR your son will want his own underwear and white t shirts, the boys miss their cologne almost as much as they miss their cell phone. A nice addition to your care packages will be zip loc bags and small plastic containers for storing food. In barracks all food must be stored in sealed containers.
Mama C: I agree with Life is Peachy 150%. My son hasn't left for bc yet (ship date is 3/9), but he doesn't live at home either. Between his dad and myself his bedroom has been exterminated with hazmat suits and boxed up. The boxes that made "the cut" are being stored in our guest bedroom. He is a MAJOR pack-rat, and it took us weeks to find the floor! (ust kidding about the hazmat suits)! I keep asking him to get the things together that he wants shipped to A school and he keeps putting me off. I'm sure he will consider this a huge emergency once he's at A school with NOTHING but the things he had in bc!! It won't be any emergency for me...I stopped being the "helicopter" parent many years ago after taking the Parenting with Love and Logic classes.
I guess he will get what he gets when the time comes. He has always been a procrastinator. I'm hoping the Navy experience will help solve that issue for him. :)
To: Life Is Peachy, Ebigirl and ForeverMom - Thanks for the ideas and the laughter! You hit the nail on the head, all of you. Brad is a procrastinator and a pack rat. I think he's secretly hoping that I will do the work for him - NOT! I'll assist, but he has to tell me what he wants to keep. Also, thanks for the heads up with what he might want to hold back for A-School. Never thought of that.
He did go thru his stuff and gave away bags of clothes and shoes to a friend of ours that does mission work in the Dominican Republic. I was blessed he thought of others and their needs.
CMom - I will check out the link for the March Group you mentioned. Sounds like a good thing. I'll look closer at it this weekend.
If you future recruits are on your car insurance, you may want to call your insurance agent and see if you can suspend their coverage. Our policy allowed us to suspend my son's insurance while he was in boot camp. We saved over $300 by doing that.
I would highly suggest that you keep your future recruit on your health insurance policy while in boot camp, if they are currently on it. If the Navy finds that they may have a pre-existing condition while they are in boot camp, they will expect your insurance company to foot the bill for it. The Navy will, most likely, treat them, but financially it will be your recruit's responsibility.
Also, don't forget to suspend you recruits' cell phone lines while they are in boot camp. Some providers charge a small amount to suspend a line, others do it for free. We have Verizon, there was no charge. Just make sure you tell them WHY you want the line suspended. It saved us a lot of money.
If they are posted overseas, where US cell phones don't work, they can cancel their service without penalty. All you have to do is show a copy of their orders.
Hello everyone...I'm learning so much here and feel so grateful to have this forum to put my mind at ease. I'm hoping someone can help me right now. My son took his oath in December and leaves June 15th. He graduates from high school June 1st. I obviously must combine his graduation and going-away party. We're working on the invitations and I want to word it in a way that will make everyone feel welcome without the expectation of a graduation gift. I would feel terrible if someone didn't come to say goodbye because they felt they had to give him a gift. We're going to have a senior picture at one end and the Navy emblem at the other and just the information about the party. Perhaps it isn't even necessary to say anything and I should just let the guests do as they see fit? We're expecting to invite about 100 people. I am open to suggestions.
I watched the video last night and cried. My son is just 2 weeks away from going and anything seems to set me off. But it was nice to see some of what they will be going through.
I also sat and cried like a baby watching the video. Thank you for sharing it with us. My SR is one week away from shipping out and finally admitting that he's getting nervous. Although I cried while watching the video, it is very helpfyl for me to know what the process/procedures are at b.c.
i know everything will be send back home, but can you keep a small makeup in bootcamp,not to use it everyday while in bc,but to use it when in time for picture day and PIR?or will they allow us to buy in NEX?if we don't have one?
Hello fellow DEP moms! I've started a blog to help me write and work through my wide range of emotions as the days pass and my son's 8/8/11 boot camp departure grows nearer. Drop by if like. http://sonandsea.blogspot.com/
Thanks to all of you that share your experience, knowledge and heart here at N4M! ♥
I'm hoping a knowledgeable Navy person can answer this question. Does the Navy have a...minimum... weight requirement? I seem to be getting conflicting information and this is causing a little, how should I put it..disagreement with my son. He's gone through MEPS and is scheduled to leave for BC on May 3rd. However his recruiter is telling him he can't go unless he gains more weight. Keeping fingers crossed someone here has the correct answer.
There is a minimum requirement.....or at least there was when I went into the the military. My recruiter told the women who were close to the bottom end of the weight scale that pound for pound bananas stay longest in the system. We would eat X number of pounds of bananas and the weight would stay on up to 3 days. Once in we would have muscle gain, so all was good.
Thank you for bringing up the weight issue. My son is 6' tall and weighs around 145. He seems to remember being told not to get to 135 or under. I've shown him how to make fruit smoothies, always with at least a banana and various frozen fruits. He adds whey protein powder and often drinks them at night before he goes to bed. He's starting to understand that he gains or maintains his weight best when he eats home-cooked meat and potatoes, not fast food. I too am concerned that he will lose in BC since he leaves in June and it will be very warm.
He eats everything, Weight gainer powered stuff, tons of food, milkshakes, some body build stuff he bought. Nothing works. It's genetics I told him, he comes from a skinny family. he's not sickly and there is no medical conditions. He's 5' 10 and 125 lbs. I can only find Maximum weight requirements. His recruiter is convinced he won't be excepted in BC at that weight. MEPS didn't have a problem with it so I don't get it. He's working so hard and I hate to see him be rejected for something like weight.
Oh I just read your post from an hour ago. He puts the whey protein powder into the smoothies? I'm not sure my son has tried that combination. Going to tell him tonight. He's been eating 5 guys burgers lately. Since he usually works 2-10 he doesn't eat a good home cooked meal. God help him if he cooks himself that. lol He has been doing a huge breakfast of eggs,sausage and corned beef hash and cheese.
Gold Standard 100% without artificial sweeteners can be purchased at the Vitamin Shoppe, online if you don't have one nearby. It sounds to me like your son probably gets way more than enough protein if he's eating all those burgers, cheese and eggs, maybe some carbs will help fatten him up.
My son needs to get his 4 wisdom teeth out. His ship date is 4/14. His apt. is 3/31. She told me that 2 weeks was plenty of time for him to heal before he ships. Well, he had to go see his recruiter yesterday and the recruiter wanted to talk to me. So, my son calls me and the recruiter tells me we shouldn't have it done. It could delay his ship date or even get him kicked out!! What!! The chief in the office told my son if he could get it done within the next week that would be fine. Recruiter still doesn't think we should do it. Even though the chief said it would be fine. We were very confused about the whole thing last night. Recruiter told me to use that money and go on a vacation! I don't care about the vacation or the money. I just want my son to be comfortable. After talking this morning my husband and I decided I will try to get him in for an apt. ASAP! We just can't stand the thought of what he might go through in bootcamp. That whole experience is scary itself. Never mind throwing having to have all 4 of your teeth pulled out on top of it while in there. Then only having a day or so of bed rest. At home MOM can take good care of him in the comfort of his own bed!!!!
Well, they did have an apt. for my son next Tues. His consultation is tomorrow. He has to have all 4 of them pulled. At least that's what they are saying. One is already coming through and the 3 others are impacted. So, lots of digging!! Ouch! I had it done when I was in my early 20's and it was no fun at all. I couldn't imagine having it done in BC. I know in my heart we have made the right decision. He is so relieved also! My other son who is also in the Navy told us not to do it because of the money we would save. If it were him having to have it done while in there, he would appreciate us having it done before too! He had all 4 of his out when he was only 16. So, it's easy for him to say.
Also, my dad who was in the Army back in the early 50's had to have a circumcision while at BC!!! He said a whole bunch of guys were lined up and had to have it done. They all had a week of bed rest and then back to training! Now that's gotta be some major pain! LOL! I guess we just baby our kids to much these days.
My son is in DIvision 924 Ship 02 PIR 4/29. Any other moms with a child in the same group. he went in 03/01. I got my 1st form letter & his address w/ PIR date.
can i send my son a tracphone while he is in basic? his recruiteer said i can send anything but food :). If anyone can give me a link to anyone in his PIR 4/29 Divison 924/ship 2 I would greatly appreciate it. i haven't been very successful in navigaitng this site. JessicaB-Sailor Mom has been WONDERUL - a huge source of knowldege - thank you so very much!!
MamaMia
Hello, for new recruits of last week, here's the PIR 4/8/11 group I just started. http://www.navyformoms.com/group/pir482011
I sure hope I did this right! Welcome aboard any new moms!
Feb 14, 2011
nikosmom ( CVN 70, Seaman )
Feb 14, 2011
William in Nashua
LauraR no we did not go to boot camp graduation. We plan to visit our son in the spring in South Carolina while he is in A school when we can spend the entire weekend together. I was thinking of driving his car down there, drop it off and fly back. Then we can bring him much more stuff, load his car trunk with his gear.
You cannot give them anything at PIR, they are not allowed to bring anything with them back to the ship even if you do go. So even if you gave them stuff they are not allowed to bring it back to their ship. It is possible to meet them at the airport and hand it over but that might conflict with your flight home. It can be chaotic after PIR as they are still on duty (have watch over the weekend) so liberty hours are changeable. For example my son had security watch. Also, my son did not get final orders and airline tickets until yesterday so even if we had gone to PIR we would have flown back on Sunday.
We sent him a Verizon calling card with 700 minutes on it and he can use that until he gets settled and gets his phone.
What I did was just fill a medium sized Priority Mail carton with his phone, charger, wristwatch, alarm clock and a few other things and I mailed it directly to his address at A school. It arrived at the mail room yesterday which means it will take a couple days to find its way to him; he arrives in Charleston this afternoon.
Another thing I did was create a Google Voice account and got a phone number in the Chareston, SC calling area. That way he can call home even from a pay phone and it is always a local call. He dials a local South Carolina number and it rings on our home phone. You can PM me if you want more info on how to do it.
Feb 15, 2011
William in Nashua
Fishmom here is a description of the OS (operations specialist) rating
http://usmilitary.about.com/od/enlistedjob1/a/os.htm
Here is AC (air traffic controllman)
http://usmilitary.about.com/od/enlistedjob1/a/ac.htm
Feb 15, 2011
Betsy, mom of Stennis sailor
Feb 15, 2011
jdmom
Feb 16, 2011
Lizzie's Mom Ship 03/Div 367
William - I had assumed my daughter would be grad and go and so could take the stuff right away, but you're right, I might just be better off taking her important stuff already boxed and then if I can't give it to her at the airport, I can mail it from the airport.
I'll get additional information from you off line on the phone number thing. Sounds like a great idea!
Feb 16, 2011
mumziepooh
Feb 16, 2011
BBWinthemoon
hi Ladies,
Just a quick note, I have not posted here in a while, My sons PIR was 2/11 and the one thing asked him was what was the best thing that you did before you left, He said have my "wisdom teeth pulled" he was very glad that he did this from home and was able to have meds and rest. He says the guys that had them done there were not happy SR's, they got minimal meds and only one day to rest. This is not to say that they were not well taken care of or that the procedure was bad in anyway, just his thoughts.
Feb 17, 2011
BBWinthemoon
Feb 19, 2011
HM__Mom Ruth
We were contacted by the recruiter back on February 10 and advised that there was an opening this month for an LS if Charlotte wanted it (her original ship date was in August). She said "yes" and we were told by the chief that she did have the slot, but they had to wait for the people in Millington to get the new contract. They were apparently shut down because of snow. We waited and were put off all last week with vague information, then finally on Friday my husband called the recruiter directly and was told that they weren't shipping anyone early now. Has anyone had a similar experience? Its been a real emotional rollercoaster and I'm not sure we are getting the whole truth.
Feb 20, 2011
Arwen
I am getting very frustrated with my son. He's supposed to be exercising and losing weight (there is no way he can make weight now), but he isn't doing anything about it. Yes, he does exercises when he feels like it, but once a week for ten minutes isn't going to do him any good.
He SAYS he really wants to do this, but he's completely distracted with his computer and watching animes all day long. He's sitting around doing NOTHING, and enjoying every minute of it. He seems to think he has "plenty of time," - just like he did in high school and ended up having to return for an additional semester to finsh the FIVE classes he failed in his senior year.
He's so smart, it drives me nuts. He got a 93 on his ASVAB without studying, but he has absolutely NO self-motivation.
My older son was much the same way, and the Navy turned him around. I'm worried my younger son will not get to the point where he will get the chance to do so.
Feb 20, 2011
STG3_VeNard
Arwen--- you got to tell him its either sink or swim. Sometimes they need to be driven out of this funk. I have had to motivate so many people in DEP to loose weight and i myself am in DEP. what needs to happen is you or someone he knows needs to motive him. Work out with him everyday 2x a day morning and evening. I am currently wrking out 3 times a day with 3 different people... why?? because if i dont work out with them they figure well then i dont have to. they dont get motived but if you are hurting just as badly as they are and you are making the sacrafice to then they will see that, I have to get these DEP/ers to loose 10 lbs each in a week. so far they each have lost 5 pounds. me... i have become stronger.
So you need to sit him down and say look this is what is going to happen if you dont get motivated. maybe box up all his games and anime. I mean something has to give.
Feb 20, 2011
William in Nashua
My son shaved more than two minutes off his 1.5 mile run times, during boot camp. His weight was never a problem though. He was more than 30 pounds under the weight limit when he went in, and neither gained nor lost weight during boot camp. His PFA average was Good (Medium) range mostly because his score on the exercises was much higher than that and it all gets averaged in with the run.
Feb 21, 2011
Pamela
Feb 21, 2011
Pamela
Thank you so much Peggy! I'm sure that he'll be fine. I really want him to go down to Goose Creek to see his brother before he leaves. My husband has a 3 day weekend coming up in a couple of weeks. They haven't seen each other since my oldest left on Dec. 7th. If he doesn't go to see him before he leaves for boot camp, it's no telling when they'll see each other again. You would think it would be easier for me since I just had one go through it. I guess it's harder because he is my baby. It's just scary for him. He's such a great kid and never gives us any trouble what-so-ever! I'll miss him terribly! He'll be going to Pensacola for his A-school. To far to travel to see him as often as I'll be able to for my oldest in Goose Creek. Plus, my sister lives in Charleston so we can stay with her when we visit. We're only 4 hours away from there. He'll also be there for just about 2 years versus my youngest whose A-school is only 3 or 4 months long. Huge difference. Just gonig to take some getting used to I guess. Even my husband is worried for him. He wasn't like this with my oldest. I'm very proud of them both and know that they have to spread their wings and fly.
The reason why he's going so quickly is that someone who had that particular job was kicked out of DEP. So therefore, my son got that job and the date that that kid was going to leave. My oldest would of loved that scenario for himself way back when. Not my youngest though. He's quite content sitting on his computer and playing his x-box. He'll be going through withdrawals. LOL!!
Feb 21, 2011
Betsy, mom of Stennis sailor
Feb 22, 2011
Pamela
Betsy, Thank you for your words of encouragement! Makes me feel better knowing that "your baby" is doing awesome. I know my son will be okay, but it's still hard when it's your baby. We'll both be fine!
Feb 22, 2011
CKD's~mom(Ship 03, Div 145)
Feb 22, 2011
STG3_VeNard
Ok ladies (and dudes!)!!!! So today I was surfing the net and was like "Oh I need to get my parents window decals for their cars that say 'Navy Dad' and 'Navy mom'" So I went and found this site... http://www.soldiercity.com/us-navy-decals-navy-stickers.html
I was wowed by all the awesome stuff you can buy! "ZOMG LIKE NO WAY" I said... I spent $40 on stickers lol. Got My granddaughter is in the Navy x3 (lots of grandparents), My Daughter is in the Navy, mom and dad, My sister is in the Navy (for my lil bro-- the kid on my profile pic lol) and of course for my dad a navy retired. They even have cool kids stuff (uniforms, flight suits, and NWUs its so sweet)
So I thought I would share just incase you also wanted to get navy Stickers or hats or even sweaters. Usually you would have to buy this stuff at like the NEX (Navy exchange) and you would have to have a military ID which is just too mch work blah blah blah. ENJOY!!!
Feb 22, 2011
Mama C (PS E-Class 1202-1)
This is my first comment for this group. I'm new to all this, but not new to DEP. My son has been DEPped in since Sept. 2009 - his senior year. He graduated June 2010 and has been sitting and waiting this entire time.
Now we're 3 weeks out from today - 3/16, that we'll have him at MEPS in Indy. Time is screaming by and even tho I'm trying to wrap my head around all this, the emotions are flying. I know I'm not the first to feel this way, but Man, is this hard! Any suggestions?
What did you do with all their stuff in their room. Did your DEPper help you in the "weeding out" process? This is nearly impossible! So much to do and think about.
Feb 23, 2011
Pamela
MamaC, I had one in DEP for 9 months. He left for BC on 12/7. A few weeks before he left I had him go through his closet and bureau to get rid of any clothes he didn't want. We donated the good ones to Goodwill and threw out the ones that were less than favorable. He only had a few things left!! I just brought those down to him in Goose Creek, SC. He was so happy to get his civilian clothes. He can't wear them yet, but, he's got them for when he can.
My other son just got a job last Thurs. (CTR) and is going to BC on 4/14!!! Only a 2 month DEP time! He's my baby and it's dejavu all over again. I know he'll be fine, but it's still nerve racking. He's only got 7 weeks to get really physically fit. He's 6'4" tall and weighs only 173, but he's not very active. Oh, except for his computer and x-box games. His fingers are very fit!! LOL! We started a walk/jog program yesterday. I'm doing it along with him. I figure it'll help me also. He could only do 6 push-ups and 13 sit-ups! Will we have him ready in 7 weeks? I just hate the thought of him getting screamed at.
Hope this info helps. It will be easier on you if your son goes through it all himself since he will know what he wants and doesn't want anymore.
Feb 23, 2011
KellynKaty(corps-Mom)
Feb 23, 2011
CMom
Mama C - you need to check out the March group - http://www.navyformoms.com/group/leavinforbootcampinmarch
My son leaves from Indy Next Wednesday! We have been waiting since June!
I created a calendar in the March Group discussions showing who is going on what day that month - we are a very supportive and somewhat crazy group! We would love to have any and all March Mama's (wifes, gf, guys) join us - the more the merrier! Welcome aboard!!
Feb 23, 2011
Life is Peachy
Mama C = I highly recommend that your son be encouraged to clean his room before he leaves. At the very least, have him pack a box of the things he would like to have once he PIRs. While my son's room was cleaned and clothes gone through, he was too busy with his friends to pack a box, and he now regrets it. Mom is stuck figuring out what to ship to him - not fun!
Also, after PIR your son will want his own underwear and white t shirts, the boys miss their cologne almost as much as they miss their cell phone. A nice addition to your care packages will be zip loc bags and small plastic containers for storing food. In barracks all food must be stored in sealed containers.
Feb 24, 2011
ebigirl
Mama C: I agree with Life is Peachy 150%. My son hasn't left for bc yet (ship date is 3/9), but he doesn't live at home either. Between his dad and myself his bedroom has been exterminated with hazmat suits and boxed up. The boxes that made "the cut" are being stored in our guest bedroom. He is a MAJOR pack-rat, and it took us weeks to find the floor! (ust kidding about the hazmat suits)! I keep asking him to get the things together that he wants shipped to A school and he keeps putting me off. I'm sure he will consider this a huge emergency once he's at A school with NOTHING but the things he had in bc!! It won't be any emergency for me...I stopped being the "helicopter" parent many years ago after taking the Parenting with Love and Logic classes.
I guess he will get what he gets when the time comes. He has always been a procrastinator. I'm hoping the Navy experience will help solve that issue for him. :)
Feb 24, 2011
Mama C (PS E-Class 1202-1)
To: Life Is Peachy, Ebigirl and ForeverMom - Thanks for the ideas and the laughter! You hit the nail on the head, all of you. Brad is a procrastinator and a pack rat. I think he's secretly hoping that I will do the work for him - NOT! I'll assist, but he has to tell me what he wants to keep. Also, thanks for the heads up with what he might want to hold back for A-School. Never thought of that.
He did go thru his stuff and gave away bags of clothes and shoes to a friend of ours that does mission work in the Dominican Republic. I was blessed he thought of others and their needs.
CMom - I will check out the link for the March Group you mentioned. Sounds like a good thing. I'll look closer at it this weekend.
Have a great weekend!
Feb 26, 2011
Betsy, mom of Stennis sailor
If you future recruits are on your car insurance, you may want to call your insurance agent and see if you can suspend their coverage. Our policy allowed us to suspend my son's insurance while he was in boot camp. We saved over $300 by doing that.
I would highly suggest that you keep your future recruit on your health insurance policy while in boot camp, if they are currently on it. If the Navy finds that they may have a pre-existing condition while they are in boot camp, they will expect your insurance company to foot the bill for it. The Navy will, most likely, treat them, but financially it will be your recruit's responsibility.
Feb 28, 2011
Arwen
Also, don't forget to suspend you recruits' cell phone lines while they are in boot camp. Some providers charge a small amount to suspend a line, others do it for free. We have Verizon, there was no charge. Just make sure you tell them WHY you want the line suspended. It saved us a lot of money.
If they are posted overseas, where US cell phones don't work, they can cancel their service without penalty. All you have to do is show a copy of their orders.
Feb 28, 2011
monkeymind
Mar 1, 2011
Mooselover (GW Mom)
Mar 1, 2011
michelle c
Mar 2, 2011
ebigirl
Mar 2, 2011
Shanermansmom(EM1135)
12 days to go.
Mar 3, 2011
amayah
Mar 3, 2011
amayah
Mar 3, 2011
amayah
Mar 4, 2011
SonandSea
Hello fellow DEP moms! I've started a blog to help me write and work through my wide range of emotions as the days pass and my son's 8/8/11 boot camp departure grows nearer. Drop by if like. http://sonandsea.blogspot.com/
Thanks to all of you that share your experience, knowledge and heart here at N4M! ♥
hugs~Dale
Mar 5, 2011
CTmomof3
Mar 6, 2011
Lizzie's Mom Ship 03/Div 367
Mar 6, 2011
monkeymind
Mar 6, 2011
CTmomof3
Mar 6, 2011
monkeymind
I found a Navy minimum weight chart. Great news for you CTmomof3, your son's minimum ship weight to BC is 123 waverable to 111. Here is the link
http://usmilitary.about.com/od/navyjoin/l/blrecrutwtmale.htm
This appears to be an authoritative source.
Mar 6, 2011
CTmomof3
Mar 6, 2011
CTmomof3
Mar 6, 2011
monkeymind
Mar 6, 2011
Pamela
Mar 8, 2011
Pamela
Well, they did have an apt. for my son next Tues. His consultation is tomorrow. He has to have all 4 of them pulled. At least that's what they are saying. One is already coming through and the 3 others are impacted. So, lots of digging!! Ouch! I had it done when I was in my early 20's and it was no fun at all. I couldn't imagine having it done in BC. I know in my heart we have made the right decision. He is so relieved also! My other son who is also in the Navy told us not to do it because of the money we would save. If it were him having to have it done while in there, he would appreciate us having it done before too! He had all 4 of his out when he was only 16. So, it's easy for him to say.
Also, my dad who was in the Army back in the early 50's had to have a circumcision while at BC!!! He said a whole bunch of guys were lined up and had to have it done. They all had a week of bed rest and then back to training! Now that's gotta be some major pain! LOL! I guess we just baby our kids to much these days.
Mar 8, 2011
Josie, Jordan's proud mom
Mar 12, 2011
Josie, Jordan's proud mom
Mar 12, 2011