I went to Japan on business for DoD and was told to catch the military bus. I could not find it at the Tokyo airport. Eventually, I found the DoD booth. I had to pay yen to travel on the bus to the base. The military does not give civilians a sponsor or contact number.
My husband went to Yokosuka base as a civilian. Missed his flight so missed the person picking him up. He also had no contact number until offices opened the next day. He found a hotel and navigated the train system in the morning. Some woman grabbed his hand and pulled him to the right train.
The people are so nice. Sometimes they are really shy, so be patient.
yesterday was crazy here. I actually got off work on time. after I grabbed a salad for lunch, I decided to do outside work before it got any hotter it was already 97. First I racked up all the weeds we had pulled and left lay in the yard, carried them to the burn pile. Then set out to pick my strawberries, an hour and half later as I came towards the end, I started feeling the heat, couldn't bend over without getting sick to my stomach and felt like someone hitting me on the back of the head with a ball bat. by the time I finished and carried them all to the house, I had a pounding headache and could hear my blood pressure rushing in my ears. I put them on my table, took off my shoes and proceeded to the bathroom for a cool shower, I knew I had to get my temp. down, yes I grabbed a bottled of water, slow sips,,.. at the end of my shower, I turned it to cold to shock my body, I felt better, still had the headache, drank another bottle of water and went to sit and put my feet up our weather station said 103! That's not feels like, that was the temp. okay maybe I shouldn't have stayed out so long. LOL then my phone weather alert started going off, Storms, 60 mph winds (not unusual for us) but quarter sized hail, downpours....take cover and they proceeded to name off all the little villages and birbs within 20 miles of us, you know it's bad when they are naming off (on the TV) villages with less then 1200 people! Of course I didn't take cover, I had to watch and see what was going on. The Temp. dropped to 69 and boy did it let loose, My husband arrived in the middle of it, he reported sideways rain and weird heat, flooding in normal areas but a mile down the road it was dry. Then weather alert started announcing flooded areas....but by 2 hours later it was over. I had my monthly doctor's apt. so I called to see if they had electric (we lost ours for a bit) or if they had gone home to their families. They said, Nope we had no idea all that was going on, I said your village was named in the path, nope all they got was a little rain. LOL our evening proceeded as normal. They are calling for repeats today and tomorrow. Ohio can't stand the heat. Bahahaha. but glad to report we're all fine.
Hi to my soon to be friends on Japan Moms. My sailor detached from GC yesterday and will take a few things to his sisters in Moncks Corner and then come home to the center of the state.
His report date is the end of July, so we will take a trip to Georgia to see his oldest bro and SIL and niece who is soon to be 2. From what I have heard, the sailors really love Japan. How much does it cost to go there from the east coast? My oldest son took Japanese as his language at Georgia Tech and wants to go for a visit. Since KAM has 4 more years, will he spend all that time in Japan or will he have opportunities for coming back to the states. What is the trend with the nuke guys?
Pulling weeds is a very early morning thing for me unless I am in the shade and just pull a few (if that is possible). Am trying to stay out of the yard because of the mosquitoes .....have tried using vics vapo rub, but that doesn't seem to work....I don't want to have the yard sprayed with chemicals.
Will be reading as much as I can. Nice to be here finally.
Hi KAM, my son has been in Yokosuka, Japan since the Fall of 2015. The job took some time to get used to (he is a Nuke too) but he now loves Japan. He originally was committed for 4 years but now I'm not sure since he reenlisted and is in the Navy for at least 9 years now. My husband and I visited him in March and had the best time ever. We flew from Boston to Narita Airport in Tokyo and found a direct flight for just under $1,100 each on Japan Airlines. The prices vary greatly depending on what time of year you go I believe. We went for 12 days and the weather stayed in the mid 40s to mid 50s except out last day hit 60, just like home in Massachusetts so we were used to it. He has come home twice from Japan, once for a Christmas break (in February) and again last August for his sister's wedding. If they have the leave time they can definitely come home but the airfare is usually last minute. I know he paid at least $2,000 each time he came home. Hi now married sister is having a baby in August so I hope he can make it home soon after that to meet his first nephew! If you can, you should definitely try and go!
Hi KAM I have to be at work 6 days a week at 7:30 am and don't get home till 6 or after. Tue. I usually get off by 1:00 so take advantage to get "stuff" done, we knew the storms were coming so....
My daughter has been in 10 years this August so not sure how much things have changed. but she signed up as a IS and had to do a 6 +2 contract half sea and half land. Her first orders were over seas for 1 year, then she resigned up for the 2nd tour over there, then went to Japan for 3 years....for her it is usually 2 or 3 years. I believe a lot depends where they are going because of the expense of moving people. And then their Specialty also plays a part.....He will get leave days that add up to about 30 days a year. BUT they can only take them if someone else can do their job and only so many can be on leave at any one given time. My sailor married another sailor, it's hard to get leave at the same time,, they usually ask for Thanksgiving because EVERYONE wants Christmas off. And it is Very expensive.
We went to Japan back in 2010 for Christmas (for 2 weeks) her ship was in dry dock. We bought tickets like a month in advance, we couldn't do earlier because we had to make sure she was gonna be there. Cost us 2,600 per ticket then taxes.....we just took our carry on.....Wouldn't have missed it for the world! It's the cleanest country ever and the nicest people. We encouraged her to take her leave over there and to travel and to see the sites. So make sure yours has a civilian passport.
My son had 6 year commitment when he signed up. Two years of school was followed by 3 years in Japan. That left 1 year when he needed new orders. He had many options but he had to extend at least one year to get orders out of Japan. They would not give him new orders for less than 2 years. Otherwise, they were going to extend his time in Japan by the year.
Welcome to our group. Tell us about your sailor and family.
what's up with this being kicked off - get a new password - etc !!!!
Trying to catch up
Love the pictures Maggs and so glad you are back on too.
Welcome aboard New Moms. And as the others have stated " Jump into the Water" that means share about you and your sailor. My sailor is back in Japan for the second time and Japan is truly a nice country for our sailors to be.
Heard the news about the ship. Any updates? Fingers crossed that all are found - safe!
Need to get - weather here is changing fast. And it seems it is effecting the computers. Why? Must not want me to gossip. talk later hugs
I have put feelers out to my contacts to see if there will be a fundraiser. Because two berthing compartments flooded, that's a lot of sailors who just lost all their uniforms and personal goods. I don't know what the Navy does towards helping them, but if they need help, and we can be of assistance, I will find out how.
For now, if anyone wants to help, I suggest donating to the USO in general. Red Cross is helping as well, as well as Navy Relief, MWR, and of course, the Family Readiness Groups, and the FFSC (Fleet and Family Service Center).
I am heartsick over the Fitzgerald. Sending love to all the parent, and sailors too. Great job to the DC's, I know they put themselves in harms way to minimize the damage. Still, to be in search for their crew mates is not going to be easy.
maggs, the divers found them. It is all just so incredibly sad.
But yes, the crew did an amazing job keeping the Fitz afloat and getting her back to port. Right now the base is doing all they can for them. It is like a small town. We are all family right now.
My heart is aching . My son is in Yokosuka it's very somber everyone is very hurt. my son works at the Naval Hospital he's a corpsman. I'm praying for the families of those sailors.
Anti M - I want to donate money is this the website to go to that you posted?
Such a sad week for our Navy. yes, my blue candles are lit and praying constantly. Obviously not the outcome we were praying for.....Prayers continue for the family, friends, command....
My daughter was physically sick. Her heart is over there.....to make things worse she was handed her signed papers on the 15th she's Officially out of the Navy.
Oh Anti M I am so very sorry my heart truly is hurting. I don't know if my son knew some of the young people that passed away but I know his heart is aching he's over in Yokosuka at the Naval Hospital there he's been there almost 3 years. You know the Bible says the Lord put no more on you than you can bear but sometimes I wonder it truly hurts
My Sailor called USS Fitzgerald home for 3 years and my family is heartbroken for all the families and Sailor's on the ship. I can't imagine getting that phone call. My Sailor was close to 4 of the Sailor's that we lost as they are like family and the Navy is really a small community. If there's anything I can do to help PLEASE let me know. Thinking of all the Japan Sailor Moms Kelli xo
Daizygirl72 - Anti M Did post a link where you can donate money. I tried to copy and paste it here . Guess I'm not good at computers. But it is in the messages below. If anyone can copy it please do. My son is in Yokosuka I think he knew some of them. This is so painful.
I was in Yokosuka for 12 years (3, and then later, 9). This makes my heart ache.
I suggest donating to the Relief Society because they are also providing interest free loans for the sailors to buy what has not been donated. The USO because they provide free wifi, a place to unwind, coffee and snacks, and other resources. Red Cross is good too. If you really want to send a package, send one to your own sailor, because they need some comfort too. They can donate anything they cannot use personally. Include a hand written note.
Anti M
Thank you sooo much you have done more than enough. When I could not get a hold of my son you gave me numbers to call for the ombudsman and then you've done so much you have helped.so many moms here with your knowledge you know so much about Japan. I'm sure I can speak for some of the other moms here that also know a lot without you along with Blondie T Lynn, Maggs etc. etc. I don't know what I'd do you're all wonderful thank you thank you and it's not how much you can give it is the goodness of your heart that's what counts (((HUGS)))
Drew
When my nephew first went to his sub, I donated to the USO monthly, as they were where he found wifi and relaxation, plus their airport facilities. If you need a gift for you sailor, this may be a workable idea if they do not need stuff.
Thank you for the links. I shared them on my social media so I hope it brings in some donations. My followers have been very generous in the past with my Relay For Life walks ect.. My youngest Sailor is now in Okinawa he's a Corpsman and my Sailor who spent 3 years on the fitzgerald is now in Spain.. They both love the Navy and the travel that comes with it. Please let me know if I can help in any way. This site gave me much comfort when my sons were in boot camp. I was a crying mess most of the time. No one understood how I felt but the women on here. I'd like to repay some of that if I could xoxo
My son leaves for Sasebo on Wednesday. He has never been contacted by a sponsor. He did fill out the form for the shuttle. Is there anything else he should do? We will suspend his cell phone when the plane leaves. We leave for Florida Sunday and board our cruise on Wednesday. It will be hard to leave him here but he's looking forward to a couple of alone days.
Daizygirl72 a- I know how you felt it seems like nobody understood but the Navy moms I was the same way my youngest son when he left in February 2015 I thought I was gonna lose my mind it was snowing outside and I was driving home alone after dropping him off to go to Boot Camp in Illinois. I was crying driving in the snow everywhere I went my son was with me all of a sudden I was alone. Came home got out the car came in the house my chocolate lab looked at me and the yellow lab looked at me on the other side and my cat curious was meowing and I was crying that day was a mess I can remember it like yesterday. He's a corpsman now at the Naval Hospital in Yokosuka. I'm very proud of him and all of the other young men and women in the military. I haven't seen my boy in ayear hope to see him soon. Seems you have some pretty great sailors yourself I'm sure you're very proud. Hugs to you as well .
Thanks Anti M for the link. My daughters ship is also stationed in Yokosuka. I spoke with her on Friday and she was pretty upset they were at there first Port call and she says that the USS Fitz at some time had been with her ship out to sea. So it hit her pretty hard. Praying for all families involved and the fallen sailors.
I put an update from the Relief Society in the discussion for the Fitz. Seem like they are inundated with donations of goods, they are now asking for monetary donations.
Hello Navy Moms, my daughter has completed A school in p-cola for AME and has her orders for Yokosuka. She believes she will be deployed immediately to the Reagan. She has a sponsor that has communicated with her about a few things. Would any of you Moms/sailors know about "how" to do emails on the ship? Is there a computer pod or is there Ethernet/wifi for a laptop/tablet? She was told that some sailors keep their phone with them basically in airplane mode, true? Sorry for.all the questions, newbie Navy mom. :-)
Each sailor is issued a ".mil" email address, and must use ship's computers. She will not be able to use a personal tablet or laptop for communications at sea. This is so when the ship sets "River City", or restricted communications, they can control all points of access.
She will need a local phone in Japan, Many opt to suspend their US phone and service while there, as her US phone is not compatible with the Japanese system. The carrier will try to sell her their international plan, but it gets expensive. Airplane mode is risky, there are horror stories of four figure roaming charges. Her sponsor should be able to fill her in on phones when she gets there.
Welcome, kimberlya. Do you know which base? We have several in Japan. Yokosuka and Okinawa are the biggest, followed by Sasebo, Iwakuni, and Misawa. Japan is a lovely, safe country, with friendly people. LOL, and terrific food! Do you have a passport? Your sailor should get a civilian passport too, in case they want or need to travel when not on orders.
I was at Yokosuka for a very long time. I know they've made changes to the base and in town, but I still recognize everything when I see the pictures. A great area to explore, and MWR offers some nice tours. Kamakura is an easy 20 minute train ride, that is where the Great Buddha resides. Nikko is a day trip, and best enjoyed if you stay overnight in a ryokan (Japanese inn). Tokyo and Yokohama are nearby. Kyoto is more of a long weekend/take a week of leave trip, and so is Miyajima (near Hiroshima), but well worth the time, as they are so unique and interesting.
Mt. Fuji climbing season. I remember how much fun my sailor had when he did several years ago. He is now back in Sasebo and has been preparing himself to climb. He brought his climbing staff along from the last two climbs of Mt. Fuji and is looking forward to having all the sides covered with the branding marks. Anti M - you climbed Mt. Fuji - yes? I have not heard much from him of late. I know he and the other mates on his ship have been preparing for an inspection.
Welcome Aboard MamaB. Here we all just ask what we need to know. Honest there have been some odd/silly/downright funny questions too. So just jump in and ask.
I forgot to say thank you Anti M for making sure information about the lost of 7 sailors happened and means of helping.
I dont normally post warnings or any such thing, but I am concerned about the safety of our sailors. Loose Lips and Opsec. Snapchat updated a new feature, Snap Maps. Anyone who are friends on Snapchat can see where and what other friends are doing. I think it could be used as way for others to Track Exes, but also could be used nefariously. If your sailor has it, Let them look into Ghost Mode, a way to turn it off. Or just get rid off it. Please look it up, and help our sailors stay safe. Thanks
A week today, Angel will see her Orthopedic vet. We will know more about her hips. We suspect an operation is in her future. If needed it will be preformed the next day. Lets hope, it is not as expensive as I predict, and she heels well. Friday is Hubbies Doctors appointment, we will find out our next step on that. and I am still awaiting my Lyme test results. I feel like I am in the Navy right now.. Hurry Up and wait!! :)
Kim
I went to Japan on business for DoD and was told to catch the military bus. I could not find it at the Tokyo airport. Eventually, I found the DoD booth. I had to pay yen to travel on the bus to the base. The military does not give civilians a sponsor or contact number.
My husband went to Yokosuka base as a civilian. Missed his flight so missed the person picking him up. He also had no contact number until offices opened the next day. He found a hotel and navigated the train system in the morning. Some woman grabbed his hand and pulled him to the right train.
The people are so nice. Sometimes they are really shy, so be patient.
Jun 13, 2017
Blondie
yesterday was crazy here. I actually got off work on time. after I grabbed a salad for lunch, I decided to do outside work before it got any hotter it was already 97. First I racked up all the weeds we had pulled and left lay in the yard, carried them to the burn pile. Then set out to pick my strawberries, an hour and half later as I came towards the end, I started feeling the heat, couldn't bend over without getting sick to my stomach and felt like someone hitting me on the back of the head with a ball bat. by the time I finished and carried them all to the house, I had a pounding headache and could hear my blood pressure rushing in my ears. I put them on my table, took off my shoes and proceeded to the bathroom for a cool shower, I knew I had to get my temp. down, yes I grabbed a bottled of water, slow sips,,.. at the end of my shower, I turned it to cold to shock my body, I felt better, still had the headache, drank another bottle of water and went to sit and put my feet up our weather station said 103! That's not feels like, that was the temp. okay maybe I shouldn't have stayed out so long. LOL then my phone weather alert started going off, Storms, 60 mph winds (not unusual for us) but quarter sized hail, downpours....take cover and they proceeded to name off all the little villages and birbs within 20 miles of us, you know it's bad when they are naming off (on the TV) villages with less then 1200 people! Of course I didn't take cover, I had to watch and see what was going on. The Temp. dropped to 69 and boy did it let loose, My husband arrived in the middle of it, he reported sideways rain and weird heat, flooding in normal areas but a mile down the road it was dry. Then weather alert started announcing flooded areas....but by 2 hours later it was over. I had my monthly doctor's apt. so I called to see if they had electric (we lost ours for a bit) or if they had gone home to their families. They said, Nope we had no idea all that was going on, I said your village was named in the path, nope all they got was a little rain. LOL our evening proceeded as normal. They are calling for repeats today and tomorrow. Ohio can't stand the heat. Bahahaha. but glad to report we're all fine.
Hope you all are okay
Jun 14, 2017
KAM Mom
Hi to my soon to be friends on Japan Moms. My sailor detached from GC yesterday and will take a few things to his sisters in Moncks Corner and then come home to the center of the state.
His report date is the end of July, so we will take a trip to Georgia to see his oldest bro and SIL and niece who is soon to be 2. From what I have heard, the sailors really love Japan. How much does it cost to go there from the east coast? My oldest son took Japanese as his language at Georgia Tech and wants to go for a visit. Since KAM has 4 more years, will he spend all that time in Japan or will he have opportunities for coming back to the states. What is the trend with the nuke guys?
Pulling weeds is a very early morning thing for me unless I am in the shade and just pull a few (if that is possible). Am trying to stay out of the yard because of the mosquitoes .....have tried using vics vapo rub, but that doesn't seem to work....I don't want to have the yard sprayed with chemicals.
Will be reading as much as I can. Nice to be here finally.
Jun 14, 2017
Besties4dogs (NukeMM)
Hi KAM, my son has been in Yokosuka, Japan since the Fall of 2015. The job took some time to get used to (he is a Nuke too) but he now loves Japan. He originally was committed for 4 years but now I'm not sure since he reenlisted and is in the Navy for at least 9 years now. My husband and I visited him in March and had the best time ever. We flew from Boston to Narita Airport in Tokyo and found a direct flight for just under $1,100 each on Japan Airlines. The prices vary greatly depending on what time of year you go I believe. We went for 12 days and the weather stayed in the mid 40s to mid 50s except out last day hit 60, just like home in Massachusetts so we were used to it. He has come home twice from Japan, once for a Christmas break (in February) and again last August for his sister's wedding. If they have the leave time they can definitely come home but the airfare is usually last minute. I know he paid at least $2,000 each time he came home. Hi now married sister is having a baby in August so I hope he can make it home soon after that to meet his first nephew! If you can, you should definitely try and go!
Jun 14, 2017
Blondie
Hi KAM I have to be at work 6 days a week at 7:30 am and don't get home till 6 or after. Tue. I usually get off by 1:00 so take advantage to get "stuff" done, we knew the storms were coming so....
My daughter has been in 10 years this August so not sure how much things have changed. but she signed up as a IS and had to do a 6 +2 contract half sea and half land. Her first orders were over seas for 1 year, then she resigned up for the 2nd tour over there, then went to Japan for 3 years....for her it is usually 2 or 3 years. I believe a lot depends where they are going because of the expense of moving people. And then their Specialty also plays a part.....He will get leave days that add up to about 30 days a year. BUT they can only take them if someone else can do their job and only so many can be on leave at any one given time. My sailor married another sailor, it's hard to get leave at the same time,, they usually ask for Thanksgiving because EVERYONE wants Christmas off. And it is Very expensive.
We went to Japan back in 2010 for Christmas (for 2 weeks) her ship was in dry dock. We bought tickets like a month in advance, we couldn't do earlier because we had to make sure she was gonna be there. Cost us 2,600 per ticket then taxes.....we just took our carry on.....Wouldn't have missed it for the world! It's the cleanest country ever and the nicest people. We encouraged her to take her leave over there and to travel and to see the sites. So make sure yours has a civilian passport.
Jun 14, 2017
Kim
My son had 6 year commitment when he signed up. Two years of school was followed by 3 years in Japan. That left 1 year when he needed new orders. He had many options but he had to extend at least one year to get orders out of Japan. They would not give him new orders for less than 2 years. Otherwise, they were going to extend his time in Japan by the year.
Welcome to our group. Tell us about your sailor and family.
Jun 15, 2017
Anti M
This is horrible news. They are back in port, seven are still missing.
If anyone needs the family contact numbers, I know where they are posted.
https://www.navytimes.com/articles/us-navy-destroyer-collides-with-...
Jun 17, 2017
Anti M
Contact numbers, and I hope no one needs to use them.
https://www.facebook.com/7thfleet/photos/pb.54808967401.-2207520000...
Jun 17, 2017
T-Lynn
I AM back on!
what's up with this being kicked off - get a new password - etc !!!!
Trying to catch up
Love the pictures Maggs and so glad you are back on too.
Welcome aboard New Moms. And as the others have stated " Jump into the Water" that means share about you and your sailor. My sailor is back in Japan for the second time and Japan is truly a nice country for our sailors to be.
Heard the news about the ship. Any updates? Fingers crossed that all are found - safe!
Need to get - weather here is changing fast. And it seems it is effecting the computers. Why? Must not want me to gossip. talk later hugs
Jun 17, 2017
T-Lynn
Jun 17, 2017
NavyMum
praying for the sailors of the Fitzgerald :(
Jun 17, 2017
Anti M
I have put feelers out to my contacts to see if there will be a fundraiser. Because two berthing compartments flooded, that's a lot of sailors who just lost all their uniforms and personal goods. I don't know what the Navy does towards helping them, but if they need help, and we can be of assistance, I will find out how.
Jun 17, 2017
Anti M
Fair winds and following seas, shipmates.
https://www.navytimes.com/articles/seven-missing-fitzgerald-sailors...
Jun 18, 2017
Anti M
For now, if anyone wants to help, I suggest donating to the USO in general. Red Cross is helping as well, as well as Navy Relief, MWR, and of course, the Family Readiness Groups, and the FFSC (Fleet and Family Service Center).
Jun 18, 2017
Anti M
UPDATE
USO Japan donation link:
https://www.uso.org/donate/japan/?sc=WCENJAPAN0
Jun 18, 2017
maggs
I am heartsick over the Fitzgerald. Sending love to all the parent, and sailors too. Great job to the DC's, I know they put themselves in harms way to minimize the damage. Still, to be in search for their crew mates is not going to be easy.
Jun 18, 2017
Anti M
maggs, the divers found them. It is all just so incredibly sad.
But yes, the crew did an amazing job keeping the Fitz afloat and getting her back to port. Right now the base is doing all they can for them. It is like a small town. We are all family right now.
Jun 18, 2017
Anti M
Navy.Marine Relief Society needs donations also.
https://donate.nmcrs.org/page/contribute/nmcrs-donate
Annotate 'Fitzgerald Disaster' in the 'in memory of' line.
Jun 19, 2017
NavyMum
praying for the survivors and the families :(
Jun 19, 2017
DREW7062
Anti M - I want to donate money is this the website to go to that you posted?
Jun 19, 2017
Blondie
Such a sad week for our Navy. yes, my blue candles are lit and praying constantly. Obviously not the outcome we were praying for.....Prayers continue for the family, friends, command....
My daughter was physically sick. Her heart is over there.....to make things worse she was handed her signed papers on the 15th she's Officially out of the Navy.
Jun 19, 2017
Anti M
Drew, yes, the two links I posted are official and the best way to help right now.
Yokosuka was my home for 12 years. I am devastated, and crying quit a bit.
Jun 19, 2017
Anti M
This is a beautiful tribute.
https://www.facebook.com/7thfleet/videos/10155354185828396/
Jun 19, 2017
DREW7062
Jun 19, 2017
s.m.r.
Jun 21, 2017
daizygirl72
My Sailor called USS Fitzgerald home for 3 years and my family is heartbroken for all the families and Sailor's on the ship. I can't imagine getting that phone call. My Sailor was close to 4 of the Sailor's that we lost as they are like family and the Navy is really a small community. If there's anything I can do to help PLEASE let me know. Thinking of all the Japan Sailor Moms Kelli xo
Jun 21, 2017
DREW7062
Jun 21, 2017
Anti M
I was in Yokosuka for 12 years (3, and then later, 9). This makes my heart ache.
I suggest donating to the Relief Society because they are also providing interest free loans for the sailors to buy what has not been donated. The USO because they provide free wifi, a place to unwind, coffee and snacks, and other resources. Red Cross is good too. If you really want to send a package, send one to your own sailor, because they need some comfort too. They can donate anything they cannot use personally. Include a hand written note.
Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society https://donate.nmcrs.org/page/contribute/nmcrs-donate
Annotate 'Fitzgerald Disaster' in the 'in memory of' line.
USO https://secure.uso.org/?sc=WEBDONATE&show_amount=true
Red Cross https://www.redcross.org/donate/donation
Jun 21, 2017
Anti M
I also put the links in a discussion post, so they will be easier to find.
I am distressed because I cannot donate much right now.
Jun 21, 2017
DREW7062
Thank you sooo much you have done more than enough. When I could not get a hold of my son you gave me numbers to call for the ombudsman and then you've done so much you have helped.so many moms here with your knowledge you know so much about Japan. I'm sure I can speak for some of the other moms here that also know a lot without you along with Blondie T Lynn, Maggs etc. etc. I don't know what I'd do you're all wonderful thank you thank you and it's not how much you can give it is the goodness of your heart that's what counts (((HUGS)))
Drew
Jun 21, 2017
Anti M
When my nephew first went to his sub, I donated to the USO monthly, as they were where he found wifi and relaxation, plus their airport facilities. If you need a gift for you sailor, this may be a workable idea if they do not need stuff.
Jun 21, 2017
daizygirl72
Jun 21, 2017
Monkeyflower
Jun 21, 2017
DREW7062
Jun 21, 2017
kjsdaughter
Thanks Anti M for the link. My daughters ship is also stationed in Yokosuka. I spoke with her on Friday and she was pretty upset they were at there first Port call and she says that the USS Fitz at some time had been with her ship out to sea. So it hit her pretty hard. Praying for all families involved and the fallen sailors.
Jun 22, 2017
Anti M
I put an update from the Relief Society in the discussion for the Fitz. Seem like they are inundated with donations of goods, they are now asking for monetary donations.
Jun 22, 2017
CatCaitysMama
Jun 25, 2017
Anti M
Each sailor is issued a ".mil" email address, and must use ship's computers. She will not be able to use a personal tablet or laptop for communications at sea. This is so when the ship sets "River City", or restricted communications, they can control all points of access.
She will need a local phone in Japan, Many opt to suspend their US phone and service while there, as her US phone is not compatible with the Japanese system. The carrier will try to sell her their international plan, but it gets expensive. Airplane mode is risky, there are horror stories of four figure roaming charges. Her sponsor should be able to fill her in on phones when she gets there.
Jun 27, 2017
kimberlya
Thanks for adding me. My son reports to Japan in August. I'm excited,,,scared,,,unprepared...
Jun 27, 2017
Anti M
Welcome, kimberlya. Do you know which base? We have several in Japan. Yokosuka and Okinawa are the biggest, followed by Sasebo, Iwakuni, and Misawa. Japan is a lovely, safe country, with friendly people. LOL, and terrific food! Do you have a passport? Your sailor should get a civilian passport too, in case they want or need to travel when not on orders.
Jun 28, 2017
kimberlya
Jun 28, 2017
Anti M
I was at Yokosuka for a very long time. I know they've made changes to the base and in town, but I still recognize everything when I see the pictures. A great area to explore, and MWR offers some nice tours. Kamakura is an easy 20 minute train ride, that is where the Great Buddha resides. Nikko is a day trip, and best enjoyed if you stay overnight in a ryokan (Japanese inn). Tokyo and Yokohama are nearby. Kyoto is more of a long weekend/take a week of leave trip, and so is Miyajima (near Hiroshima), but well worth the time, as they are so unique and interesting.
Jun 28, 2017
Anti M
Mt. Fuji climbing season is about to open. That's best done with a tour.
Jun 28, 2017
T-Lynn
HI
Mt. Fuji climbing season. I remember how much fun my sailor had when he did several years ago. He is now back in Sasebo and has been preparing himself to climb. He brought his climbing staff along from the last two climbs of Mt. Fuji and is looking forward to having all the sides covered with the branding marks. Anti M - you climbed Mt. Fuji - yes? I have not heard much from him of late. I know he and the other mates on his ship have been preparing for an inspection.
Welcome Aboard MamaB. Here we all just ask what we need to know. Honest there have been some odd/silly/downright funny questions too. So just jump in and ask.
I forgot to say thank you Anti M for making sure information about the lost of 7 sailors happened and means of helping.
Wish I had some gossip to share, but I have none.
So I wish all a great evening.
Jun 29, 2017
scully_the_skeptic
My son is in Yokosuka assigned to the Chancellorsville. He loves it there.
Jun 29, 2017
maggs
Tick season here, Make sure your clocks hold on to them. I removed two in two weeks, now I have joint pain. Lyme test looks to be in my future.
Jul 1, 2017
maggs
I dont normally post warnings or any such thing, but I am concerned about the safety of our sailors. Loose Lips and Opsec. Snapchat updated a new feature, Snap Maps. Anyone who are friends on Snapchat can see where and what other friends are doing. I think it could be used as way for others to Track Exes, but also could be used nefariously. If your sailor has it, Let them look into Ghost Mode, a way to turn it off. Or just get rid off it. Please look it up, and help our sailors stay safe. Thanks
Jul 3, 2017
DREW7062
Jul 3, 2017
maggs
A week today, Angel will see her Orthopedic vet. We will know more about her hips. We suspect an operation is in her future. If needed it will be preformed the next day. Lets hope, it is not as expensive as I predict, and she heels well. Friday is Hubbies Doctors appointment, we will find out our next step on that. and I am still awaiting my Lyme test results. I feel like I am in the Navy right now.. Hurry Up and wait!! :)
Jul 5, 2017
Blondie
Hugs Maggs. Putting all your needs before God.
Jul 5, 2017