Betsyleebig

Wonderful and so close!

We are in West Melbourne, what class is your son? Mine is 1201M

Jynni

Dear Betsyleebig,

I read your comment on the Nuke Moms page. I am very sorry that your son is leaving the nuke program. It's imperative that he has support and start to focus on alternative career paths, particularly if he leaves the Navy. There are many worthwhile and well paying career choices outside of the Navy. Our kids are our future. If they don't do well at one thing, we must help them find the inner strength to deal with disappointments and mistakes and help them transition to another rating within the Navy or to civilian life. Please don't feel sorry for yourself and you must prevent him from feeling sorry for himself.  My son was a nuke officer on a submarine. He was an accomplished officer. His men loved him. He was offered an ungodly bonus to reup, he chose to leave the Navy. While he feels going into the Navy was the right decision at the right time, he is happy with his choice to leave. His father and I both encouraged him to stay and change it from within. The decision was his. My son has said a number of times, that the nuke program could be made less difficult without sacrificing the standards. Life as a submariner is especially difficult. A few years ago, I asked him what he would say to a sailor who is leaving the nuke program?  Without hesitation, he said, "Consider himself lucky because it's better to leave the program and preserve his sanity, then stay and go crazy. Make sure the guy doesn't beat himself up. Make the parents don't take the separation like it's the end of the world." Please give your son an extra long hug.
Regards, BQB.

Furthermore, if your son is good with his hands (and don't want the college route) have him check into some technical course as well. My son works in a large lab. He said that many of the current machinist are all in their late 50s and 60s - these guys are going to be retiring and there aren't that many being trained to replace them. I know there is something out there for him. He obviously is one smart guy. I know you feel he gave up a golden opportunity career wise. That is true - the nuke program would have set him up for life but he can get pass this and find something equally significant and meaningful without the stress.