Son leaves in 5 days...a few questions

[TMC]

Hi all, I’ve been reading your posts in anticipation of my son’s departure on 12/16.  Just wondering if he should take stamps with him, how much cash to take, and how much money to put on a calling card?

Also, is the Sandboxx app US Navy sanctioned?  There appears to be so many rules and restrictions regarding communication during their time in Boot Camp.  I have read about all the rules on sending letters as to not call attention to them.  Any info is appreciated.  I will send another comment after he leaves Monday!  I have a feeling this group will be very helpful to me.   Thank you! 

[Baker1013]

Hi TMC,

My Sailor did not take stamps with him but was able to get them while there.  The initial info we had read said no more than $10 cash should go with him.  We had not found a calling card to send with him, but he was able to purchase one there at the NEX.  By the time he is able to call home (roughly three plus weeks) he will have money in his account from the Navy.

We have not used Sandboxx but from what I have read on this site, it is okay to use for Basic Training but once your Sailor goes to A School, it is NOT recommended.  It has a privacy issue.  Just know that whatever you send through Sandboxx is sort of like a post card, it gets printed out and then given to the SR.  Hope this helps.  Keep reading all the stuff you can find!!

[Phoenixmom]

Hi TMC and welcome! When my Son Left to BC In his wallet he took stamps a List of all phone numbers and addresses I found a small pocket address book and put it in his wallet, also A Message from me and some scriptures. He took no more than 30.00 as that is what they had told him so he can get something to eat. They aren't suppose to take much with them clothes on their back wallet calling card although I have heard that some calling cards don't work at their phone bank and that they will be able to purchase a card at the NEX store. Here is some info on how they get paid and what they are given for Hygiene. When Will the Recruits be Paid? and Information for Spouses

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• Click under recruits and it will give you info on what to bring and not bring. each link has information on each subject.

[B'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)]

Hi TMC - be sure to read my discussion on the main page:

SANDBOXX APP for Letters to Bootcamp

You can use the app for bootcamp but it is not recommended for after - OPSEC reasons.

Baker1013 and Phoenixmom both gave good info on the stamps, calling card and $$.  Also be sure to check in with the boot camp page as many of your questions will be answered there (Answers to Common Questions at the top of the boot camp page.)

[NavyMomofJM]

Hello TMC, 

My son took the recommended $10 for cash. He did take stamps with him but when we got his box back it had them in there . They can get stamps and phone cards there at bootcamp. My husband and I tried to find phone cards before he left but maybe it was were we live that they were hard to find it. 

Sandboxx, we did not use it because I did the math and since it can not be used after boot camp. It didn't seem really worth it. My son seemed to get his mail just as quickly as others so, really it is your preference. 

Wish your son the best of luck in boot camp. 

[TMC]

Thank you Mom’s. Very helpful. My son left today. Tough day but very proud of him. Got the Safe Arrival call....earlier than expected. Now I guess I wait for the form letter with his address.