Christina

What to do before they go.  Do get on the site and go through all available information.  If he/she has any past medical issues make sure you have up to date comprehensive records.  Take her/him to the dentist if you have insurance-if he/she needs wisdom teeth removed it would be wise to have it done before he/she leaves.  Make sure he/she is in top physical shape: he/she must be able to swim, run 1.5 miles in less than 12 minutes, do situps and pushups.  My son used Insanity and P90X workouts and worked out with a trainer for a month. navy seals SR's do a little more.  Get into a good sleep schedule that involves waking up at 6:00 am.  If he/she has access they should also get some weapons training in using a pistol and rifle. Also, learn as much about Navy as you can.  Chain of command, rules, different types of ships, etc,  Doing this will give him/her a big edge over the other candidates. Go to the swearing in ceremony if you can. When he/she leaves they need a few phone cards that are ready to use (activated), stamps, some cash, license, passport, social security info, bank account info.  Let him/her know that no matter how tough he/she is those first two weeks are life altering.  All kids and parents report that there SR just wanted to quit!  The first letter will be tough.  Besides the arrival call the next call is usually the fourth week, but carry your phone with you at all times-he/she will be more positive with this call.  Then things just keep getting better.  Start writing him/her the day they leave and number the letters-these are there life lines. Scan pictures and joke, fb pages, etc and then write letters on the other side.  There are a number of bc questionnaires that are fun to include as well. Good luck on this wonderful journey.

Christina, did he have a phone card?  I don't know that he needed one for that call but he might have.  I have heard of this happening before for a lot of varied reasons. I would call his recruiter or RTC site and talk to public affairs.  The word on this site is no news is good news so I wouldn't worry at this point...it is just so hard when this happens.  You should get his box in a few days.  If you have anyother questions please feel free to ask.  My son just graduated 7/13.