Any one else love one leaving march to Chicago for basic

[Nikki.]

I am kinda scared i know hardly nothing about the navy.

[Shannon]

My daughter leaves March 14. 2018

[Debbie77]

I realize this thread was in Dec 2017 - but wanted to offer support.  My son - Chief - has been in the Navy for 19 years - will retire next year.  At that time there were no social media for support and his first ship duty was in the middle East when the U.S.S Cole was hit.  In fact, my son's ship was first on scene and while they were a support ship, they were doing guard watch over the Cole until the rest of the fleet arrived.  At that time he was a shop keep, but had to pull his weight on guard watch as well.  As a mom it was extremely hard, but I was so proud of him - serving his country (we are a very long line of Military service - Marines & Navy).  

His time in the Navy has been a roller coaster of emotions, but I am so very proud of his commitment and service.  Due to his assignments and ship duty involving several international situations, I can not share the history he has been a part of, but I can say - of all the things he could have done in his life, this is and was the best he could have done - for our Family, Country and Nation.  Letting go of any of our children is hard.  It's how we let go and what they do when they leave that in time makes the difficulty bearable.  I hope this helps a new Navy Mom.  And I offer one last piece of advise - always, always tell your child how very proud of their service you are and their commitment - every time you say good bye when they leave.  

[Phoenixmom]

Debbie77 Thank You so much for sharing this, I know all the tragedy that has happened I watched the world news and it was heartbreaking. at this time when this was happening, My son was barely attending A school, I was very confused as to why these tragedies were ocurring. I thank Your Son for all his hard work he has put into saving our Country and helping those in need. My Son is 19yrs old and is Deployed in the Middle east himself, I know he will be in good hands and every day I tell him I am proud of him. Thank you for sharing this. and it has helped, Much Love to you and how Proud you must be!

[Debbie77]

Phoenixmom,

I am glad it helps.  It is difficult when our children choose a path that puts them in danger - our hearts are there with them.  But as I taught my children growing up, there are always those who are willing to sacrifice to preserve this Nation.  I was raised this way and while this journey I have share with my son (most of the time he has not known) is a very difficult and scary,  I have remained grateful for his heart in understanding this idea.  Thank you for your son's service and your's as well.  I know the pride you feel.  =)

[Debbie77]

Shannon,

I know today was a very hard day for you filled with pride, love and many tears.  Know your daughter will be ok.  Know you will grow along side her as you and she walked this journey.  It is not just their journey, but ours as well as we learn to let go, trust in their choices, experience and purpose.  Know you walk a path that only mothers before you have walked and that in time you will join them to encouragement, support and love for other mothers.  Welcome to the Navy Mom family.  Know we are with you as well.