Featured Discussions - Navy For Moms2024-03-29T04:47:12Zhttps://navyformoms.ning.com/forum/topic/list?feed=yes&xn_auth=no&featured=1Beginning October 5, 2023 Recruit graduations will be Thursday rather than Fridaytag:navyformoms.ning.com,2023-07-28:1971797:Topic:113402982023-07-28T14:39:36.207ZB'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)https://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/Bsnukemom
<div class="xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs x126k92a"><div dir="auto"><strong>**FROM THE US NAVY RECRUIT TRAINING COMMAND (7/27/2023)**</strong></div>
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<div dir="auto">Families and friends of future Sailors: <strong>Beginning October 5, 2023,</strong> recruit graduations will be conducted on Thursday instead of Friday. This will allow an extra day of off-base liberty for the graduates and their families. Federal holidays, such as Thanksgiving, will push up the…</div>
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<div class="xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs x126k92a"><div dir="auto"><strong>**FROM THE US NAVY RECRUIT TRAINING COMMAND (7/27/2023)**</strong></div>
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<div dir="auto">Families and friends of future Sailors: <strong>Beginning October 5, 2023,</strong> recruit graduations will be conducted on Thursday instead of Friday. This will allow an extra day of off-base liberty for the graduates and their families. Federal holidays, such as Thanksgiving, will push up the graduation to Wednesday.</div>
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<div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a"><div dir="auto">For a current list of upcoming graduations dates and all graduation information, including instructions for obtaining graduation ceremony tickets, please visit our website at U.S. Navy Recruit Training Command > Graduation.</div>
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<div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a"><div dir="auto">The liberty policy will also change effective October 5.</div>
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<div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a"><div dir="auto">Enjoy LIBERTY (free time off base) with your NEW SAILOR! Sailors are allowed to spend time off base (Liberty) with their family following the graduation ceremony. The amount of time spent depends upon where your Sailor is going for follow-on training. The Navy is required to transport Sailors to their next command, so Sailors MAY NOT travel to their next command in your vehicle or with tickets purchased by themselves or by you.</div>
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<div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a"><div dir="auto">• SAILORS REMAINING AT GREAT LAKES FOR SCHOOL: Sailors remaining at Great Lakes for “A” school Will have the following schedule:</div>
<div dir="auto">o DAY OF GRADUATION: You will normally have free time off base (liberty) with your Sailor from the conclusion of graduation until about 8pm. You will return your Sailor using the RTC main gate and drop your Sailor off at the RTC Chapel. The Sailor MUST be in his or her barracks by 9 pm, so plan accordingly.</div>
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<div dir="auto">o DAY AFTER GRADUATION: The next day, your Sailor must check into his or her school before being granted more free time with you time off base (Liberty). You will pick-up your Sailor OFF BASE at the Great Lakes National Museum of the American Sailor between approximately 10am and noon and the Sailor can normally remain with you off base until Sunday evening. For more information about liberty procedures, please contact the school house directly:</div>
<div dir="auto">o Culinary Specialists (CS): Although this “A” school is located in Virginia, these Sailors will remain in Great Lakes for up to one week to complete additional firefighting training.</div>
<div dir="auto">o Engineering: For Surface Warfare Engineering School Command Great Lakes:</div>
<div dir="auto">GRLK_SWESC_PAO@navy.mil</div>
<div dir="auto">o Combat: For Surface Combat Systems Training Command Great Lakes:</div>
<div dir="auto">scstc-gl_pao@navy.mil</div>
<div dir="auto">o EOD: For Center for Explosive Ordnance Disposal, please call 847-688-6819 (EOD Sailors ONLY!)</div>
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<div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a"><div dir="auto">• SAILORS TRANSFERRING TO SCHOOL OUTSIDE OF GREAT LAKES:</div>
<div dir="auto">o DAY OF GRADUATION: You will normally have free time off base (liberty) with your Sailor from the conclusion of graduation until about 8pm. You will return your Sailor using the RTC main gate and drop your Sailor off at the RTC Chapel. The Sailor MUST be in his or her barracks by 9 pm, so plan accordingly.</div>
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<div dir="auto">o DAY AFTER GRADUATION: The next day you may return through the main gate and pick your Sailor up at approximately 8am in the RTC Chapel parking lot. Once again, the Sailor MUST return to his or her barracks by 9 pm that evening, so plan accordingly.</div>
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<div dir="auto">o SATURDAY MORNING: You may meet your departing Sailor at the airport to say good bye and to give the Sailor any small items he or she may want for “A” School (laptop, a few items of civilian clothing, etc.) but remember your Sailor is already carrying a seabag, garment bag, and back pack!</div>
</div> New in 2022: Navy to lengthen Basic Military Trainingtag:navyformoms.ning.com,2022-01-11:1971797:Topic:113060672022-01-11T15:26:12.374ZB'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)https://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/Bsnukemom
<p class="Paragraph-sc-1tqpf5s-0 jQOUvm body-paragraph body-paragraph"><strong>Navy recruits will complete 10 weeks of <a href="https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2020/10/20/largest-class-of-new-sailors-since-2004-graduates-from-navys-recruit-training-command/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">boot camp</a> in 2022, rather than the eight weeks that has been the standard.</strong></p>
<p class="Paragraph-sc-1tqpf5s-0 jQOUvm body-paragraph body-paragraph">The additional two weeks of Basic…</p>
<p class="Paragraph-sc-1tqpf5s-0 jQOUvm body-paragraph body-paragraph"><strong>Navy recruits will complete 10 weeks of <a href="https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2020/10/20/largest-class-of-new-sailors-since-2004-graduates-from-navys-recruit-training-command/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">boot camp</a> in 2022, rather than the eight weeks that has been the standard.</strong></p>
<p class="Paragraph-sc-1tqpf5s-0 jQOUvm body-paragraph body-paragraph">The additional two weeks of Basic Military Training at Recruit Training Command aboard Naval Station Great Lakes, Illinois, will be devoted to the completion of a<span> </span><a href="https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2021/10/13/the-navy-is-hunting-for-coaches-to-enhance-sailors-professional-personal-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“Sailor for Life” module</a><span> </span>that targets the conversion from civilian to sailor, according to Capt. Dave Hecht, a spokesman for the chief of naval personnel.</p>
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<p class="Paragraph-sc-1tqpf5s-0 jQOUvm body-paragraph body-paragraph">“This will focus on character development through lessons in mentorship, small-unit leadership, professional and personal development and advanced Warrior Toughness,” Hecht said in an email to Navy Times.</p>
<p class="Paragraph-sc-1tqpf5s-0 jQOUvm body-paragraph body-paragraph">A few other changes in<span> </span><a href="https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2018/11/24/not-your-daddys-boot-camp-why-great-lakes-got-tougher-2/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">training and personal development</a><span> </span>are also slated for the new year.</p>
<p class="Paragraph-sc-1tqpf5s-0 jQOUvm body-paragraph body-paragraph">That includes expanding the<span> </span><a href="https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2017/02/15/cno-to-sailors-we-need-to-get-tough/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Warrior Toughness training</a><span> </span>that recruits go through during boot camp to the entire fleet. First introduced to recruits in 2018, Warrior Toughness is designed to help sailors perform in stressful situations and is based on concepts originally developed by Naval Special Warfare.</p>
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<p class="Paragraph-sc-1tqpf5s-0 jQOUvm body-paragraph body-paragraph">“The fleet-wide campaign will ensure all Sailors benefit from the psychological skills and character development needed to maximize their performance in challenging environments,” Hecht said.</p>
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<p>Article taken from Navy Times:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2021/12/23/new-in-2022-navy-to-lengthen-basic-military-training-expand-its-community-college/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Navy to lengthen Boot Camp - Navy Times</a></p>
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</div> SUICIDE PREVENTION INFORMATIONtag:navyformoms.ning.com,2021-09-10:1971797:Topic:112947052021-09-10T18:25:52.952ZB'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)https://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/Bsnukemom
<p><span> </span><strong>World Suicide Prevention Day - September 10</strong>.</p>
<p>Here are some help lines if your Sailor or anyone they know is ever in need:</p>
<p><strong>Military Crisis Line – 24/7</strong><span> </span>confidential and toll-free support for service members and veterans in crisis. Call 1-800-273- TALK (option 1), text 838255 or visit<span> </span><a href="http://www.militarycrisisline.net/">www.militarycrisisline.net</a></p>
<p><strong>Navy Chaplain…</strong></p>
<p><span> </span><strong>World Suicide Prevention Day - September 10</strong>.</p>
<p>Here are some help lines if your Sailor or anyone they know is ever in need:</p>
<p><strong>Military Crisis Line – 24/7</strong><span> </span>confidential and toll-free support for service members and veterans in crisis. Call 1-800-273- TALK (option 1), text 838255 or visit<span> </span><a href="http://www.militarycrisisline.net/">www.militarycrisisline.net</a></p>
<p><strong>Navy Chaplain Care</strong><span> </span>– Communications with Navy chaplains are always 100% confidential unless the service member decides otherwise. Sailors and family members can speak with their nearest command chaplain, call 1-855-NAVY-311 to request chaplain support or <a href="https://www.navy311.navy.mil/home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.navy311.navy.mil/home</a></p>
<p><strong>Military OneSource</strong><span> </span>– Confidential non-medical counseling available to service members and families. Call 1-800-342- 9647 or visit<span> </span><a href="http://www.militaryonesource.mil/">www.militaryonesource.mil</a>.</p>
<p>#NationalSuicidePreventionDay</p>
<p><strong>Call or Text: 988 to speak with a trained counselor.</strong></p> * * * Pass-In-Review Ceremonies Return With Guests August 13th, 2021 * * *tag:navyformoms.ning.com,2021-07-20:1971797:Topic:112878432021-07-20T23:44:48.468ZB'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)https://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/Bsnukemom
<p><strong>***UPDATE 7/29/2021*** ONLY FULLY IMMUNIZED GUESTS ALLOWED</strong></p>
<p><strong>* * * New Guidance for Pass-In-Review Ceremonies Beginning August 13th * * *</strong></p>
<p><strong>In light of observed changes and impact of the Coronavirus Delta Variant and out of an abundance of caution for our recruits, Sailors, staff, and guests, Recruit Training Command is restricting Pass-in-Review (recruit graduation) t<span style="text-decoration: underline;">o ONLY fully immunized guests…</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>***UPDATE 7/29/2021*** ONLY FULLY IMMUNIZED GUESTS ALLOWED</strong></p>
<p><strong>* * * New Guidance for Pass-In-Review Ceremonies Beginning August 13th * * *</strong></p>
<p><strong>In light of observed changes and impact of the Coronavirus Delta Variant and out of an abundance of caution for our recruits, Sailors, staff, and guests, Recruit Training Command is restricting Pass-in-Review (recruit graduation) t<span style="text-decoration: underline;">o ONLY fully immunized guests (14-days post final COVID vaccination dose).</span> Specific information on this policy change will be provided in the coming days and weeks. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your support.</strong></p>
<p><strong><br/> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">PLEASE NOTE – This policy is subject to change as leadership continues to monitor the spread and impact of the Coronavirus.</span><br/> <br/></strong></p>
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<p><strong>**PREVIOUS INFORMATION**</strong></p>
<p><strong>Recruit Training Command will re-open boot camp graduation, or the Pass-In-Review ceremony, for a limited number of family members and guests beginning with graduation ceremonies August 13, 2021.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Each recruit may invite two guests (max, no exceptions) to attend in person. (Children 2 & under do not count toward the guest limit.) </strong><strong>Guests do not need to provide proof of vaccination for COVID-19 to attend. However, in order to ensure the health and safety of all, every person attending is required to wear face masks while indoors and observe social distancing protocols. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">If you are unable to wear a mask, you will not be able to attend, and will not be allowed into the facility.</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>To help us ensure the health of our new Sailors and staff, and to take full advantage of all Naval Station facilities freely and unmasked (outdoors), we encourage you to be fully immunized before you arrive.</strong></p>
<p><strong>FOLLOW THIS LINK FOR UP TO DATE INFO:</strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/graduation.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">RTC Graduation</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Your SR will be calling you for information on the 2 guests. Print out this form and have it handy. Even though it says 4 guests <span style="text-decoration: underline;">THERE ARE ONLY 2 GUESTS ALLOWED AT THIS TIME.</span></strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/GUEST%20SECURITY%20ACCESS%20FORM%20V3.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SECURITY ACCESS FORM</a></strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p> Is your recruit leaving for Boot Camp during COVID?tag:navyformoms.ning.com,2020-09-23:1971797:Topic:112338722020-09-23T20:37:07.738ZB'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)https://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/Bsnukemom
<p>If you have a son or daughter that is getting ready to leave for boot camp during COVID please sit down with them and have a real good talk about what to expect. </p>
<p>Since<span> </span><strong>Covid</strong><span> </span>has hit things have been all over the place - they get put in quarantine, they get out of quarantine, they get put back in quarantine. A <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">normal 8 week</span> now 10 week boot camp (as of 2022) could drag on much longer and…</p>
<p>If you have a son or daughter that is getting ready to leave for boot camp during COVID please sit down with them and have a real good talk about what to expect. </p>
<p>Since<span> </span><strong>Covid</strong><span> </span>has hit things have been all over the place - they get put in quarantine, they get out of quarantine, they get put back in quarantine. A <span style="text-decoration: line-through;">normal 8 week</span> now 10 week boot camp (as of 2022) could drag on much longer and it<span> </span><span>can take a huge mental toll on them.</span> It's important that they understand<span> </span><strong>THIS IS ONLY TEMPORARY</strong>! They need to be physically strong but more importantly they need to be<span> </span><strong>MENTALLY STRONG</strong>! </p>
<p>Let your recruit know that they probably won't even get a letter from home until they are at least<span> </span><strong>HALF WAY</strong><span> </span>through boot camp. <span> </span><strong>NO</strong><span> </span>you haven't forgotten about them - it just takes that long for them to train someone in the mail room so they can get their mail. The first couple of weeks they may question their decision to join - and that's normal! But they need to be strong. This is just the beginning of their Navy career and they need to learn to be<span> </span><strong>FLEXIBLE</strong>. </p>
<p>Remind them they are<span> </span><strong>STRONG</strong><span> </span>and<span> </span><strong>THEY CAN DO THIS</strong>. </p>
<p>Before they leave ask them<span> </span><strong>HOW BAD DO YOU WANT THIS? </strong> They have to want this real bad.</p>
<p>They've got this mom and so do you!</p> **PLEASE DON'T DELETE YOUR PROFILE**tag:navyformoms.ning.com,2019-05-16:1971797:Topic:105682792019-05-16T18:55:47.494ZB'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)https://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/Bsnukemom
<p><strong>***PLEASE DON'T DELETE YOUR PROFILE***</strong></p>
<p><strong>If you leave Navy for Moms ALL your posts will disappear.</strong></p>
<p>The way the Navy for Mom's website works is if you decide to <strong>leave permanently</strong> any and all posts/comments that you have made will disappear (and we have no way of recovering them). </p>
<p>We ask that if you have contributed information to groups then please don't <strong>permanently</strong> leave the site. Your information could…</p>
<p><strong>***PLEASE DON'T DELETE YOUR PROFILE***</strong></p>
<p><strong>If you leave Navy for Moms ALL your posts will disappear.</strong></p>
<p>The way the Navy for Mom's website works is if you decide to <strong>leave permanently</strong> any and all posts/comments that you have made will disappear (and we have no way of recovering them). </p>
<p>We ask that if you have contributed information to groups then please don't <strong>permanently</strong> leave the site. Your information could be helpful to current and future mom's. </p>
<p><strong>You can leave individual groups and your posts won't disappear - this is only if you leave the website completely.</strong></p>
<p>Please consider what you have contributed to the site before you decide to leave permanently and delete your profile.</p>
<p>Thank you.</p> SANDBOXX APP for letters to BootCamptag:navyformoms.ning.com,2019-03-28:1971797:Topic:105295482019-03-28T18:57:11.740ZB'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)https://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/Bsnukemom
<p>There has been much discussion regarding sending letters to SR's in boot camp via the SANDBOXX App.</p>
<p>Here is information I have received from RTC:</p>
<p><em>"<strong>While RTC does not endorse or promote the app, recruits are most certainly welcome to receive letters sent through them.</strong></em></p>
<p><em>The RTC mail room does not deal with ANY FedEx or UPS mail (Sandboxx falls under this category). They strictly only deal with misdirected mail, such as wrong addresses or…</em></p>
<p>There has been much discussion regarding sending letters to SR's in boot camp via the SANDBOXX App.</p>
<p>Here is information I have received from RTC:</p>
<p><em>"<strong>While RTC does not endorse or promote the app, recruits are most certainly welcome to receive letters sent through them.</strong></em></p>
<p><em>The RTC mail room does not deal with ANY FedEx or UPS mail (Sandboxx falls under this category). They strictly only deal with misdirected mail, such as wrong addresses or ASMOs. All mail that the post office on the main side of the base deals with goes straight from that post office directly to each ship. There, it gets sorted by division. Any mail for a recruit no longer in that division then gets sent to RTC's mail room where the two staff members must look up each individual letter in the computer to find the correct division for that recruit. Those letters are then sent out for redelivery. Thus, which explains such letters get delayed. Plus, anyone sending letters to a recruit whose division isn't even in their permanent ship yet will also have their letters sent to the mail room. Which is why we constantly stress: wait for the form letter! Especially if the recruit gets ASMOed from failing baseline PFA.</em></p>
<p><em>Which bring us to the FedEx letters. Because the mail room is only authorized to deal with USPS mail, any letters sent via FedEx or UPS which cannot be delivered due to a wrong address, get sent back to the carrier. " </em></p>
<p>So you may continue to use the Sandboxx app but keep in mind IF your recruit changes divisions for any reason the letter will NOT be forwarded to them - it will be returned to you. And remember someone else (at Sandboxx) is reading your personal letters and has access to your information.</p>
<p><strong>To clarify - it is important to wait for the formal letter to send mail to your recruit <em>whether or not</em> you are using Sandboxx or USPS.</strong></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Also - it is not recommended to use the Sandboxx APP after they finish boot camp and are in the fleet. Use of Sandboxx once they are in the fleet has been known to delay homecoming. Please consider this once they are out of boot camp.</strong></span></p>
<p>Hope this clears up some of the confusion!</p>
<p><strong>Here's the link to the app:</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.sandboxx.us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sandboxx App</a></p>
<p><strong>**Updated info September 2022</strong></p>
<p><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/10809416052?profile=RESIZE_710x"/></p>
<p><span> </span></p> Wear your RED SHIRT on Friday!tag:navyformoms.ning.com,2018-06-07:1971797:Topic:103910822018-06-07T22:05:09.362ZB'sNukeMoM⚓️MMN(Vet)https://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/Bsnukemom
<p>On Friday's we wear <strong>RED</strong> to <strong>R</strong>emember <strong>E</strong>veryone <strong>D</strong>eployed.</p>
<p>Here's the story of red shirt Friday:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.militaryveteranproject.org/news/what-does-red-friday-mean-redfriday" rel="noopener" target="_blank">What Does Red Friday Mean?</a></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1799221279?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1799221279?profile=original" width="246"></img></a> <span>So wear a </span><strong>red…</strong></p>
<p>On Friday's we wear <strong>RED</strong> to <strong>R</strong>emember <strong>E</strong>veryone <strong>D</strong>eployed.</p>
<p>Here's the story of red shirt Friday:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.militaryveteranproject.org/news/what-does-red-friday-mean-redfriday" target="_blank" rel="noopener">What Does Red Friday Mean?</a></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1799221279?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1799221279?profile=original" width="246" class="align-full"/></a><span>So wear a </span><strong>red shirt</strong><span> every </span><strong>Friday</strong><span> to show that you respect and support our troops and veterans.</span></p>
<p><span><a href="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8130934293?profile=original" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/8130934293?profile=RESIZE_710x" width="400" class="align-full"/></a></span></p>
<p><a href="http://omvae.wayne.edu/pdfs/red_shirt_friday_handout.2375515.pdf"></a><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1799221279?profile=original" target="_self"></a></p>
<p><span>Feel free to share your <strong>RED</strong> <strong>Friday</strong> selfies ;-D</span></p> Things to Do in the Last Month before Your Future Sailor Leaves for RTCtag:navyformoms.ning.com,2012-09-20:1971797:Topic:73545072012-09-20T01:25:52.881Zlemonelephanthttps://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/lemonelephant
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">As you prepare for your future Sailor to leave, breathe and take one day at a time.</font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><font size="3"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Read…</span></strong> </font></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">As you prepare for your future Sailor to leave, breathe and take one day at a time.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><font size="3"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Read</span></strong> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/opsec-and-persec" target="_blank" rel="noopener">OPSEC and PERSEC (Making Changes To Your Profile)</a> <strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">within</span></strong> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boot Camp Moms (and loved ones)</a> <strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">and start practicing OPSEC and PERSEC now. You will most likely need to change the Privacy Settings for your My Page from "Anyone" to "Members" (or to "Just My Friends" if your future Sailor has a contract for a special ops or Spook rating) and there may be other changes that you need to make.</span></strong></span></font></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">Your future Sailor may want to join</font> <a href="http://www.navydep.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.navydep.com</a> <font size="3">to learn the ins and outs from the DEP point of view.</font> <font size="3">There are also flash cards to assist with learning the info for the DEP PQS online at</font> <a href="http://www.cram.com/tag/dep" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><font size="3" color="#0000FF">http://www.cram.com/tag/dep</font></a><font size="3">,</font> <a href="http://quizlet.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><font size="3" color="#0000FF">http://quizlet.com/</font></a> <font size="3">(type Navy DEP in the Search box), and other sites. Quizlet has a free App that your future Sailor can use on some Smart phones. Encourage your future Sailor to study the <a href="https://www.cnrc.navy.mil/images/guides/011-0144%20(Rev%2012-15)%20Start%20Guide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP START Guide</a></font> <font size="3">and complete his/her DEP GUIDE PQS and get and stay in shape. The <a href="https://www.cnrc.navy.mil/images/guides/nrc-fit-nut-rec-gui-rev-2019.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NAVY FITNESS & NUTRITION GUIDE</a></font> <font size="3">will help him/her to know what to be doing to prepare and will give the standards that s/he must meet. A recruit can be advanced to E-2 (or to E-3 if s/he entered as E-2) by successfully completing the DEP GUIDE PQS, passing a written multiple choice test with 80% or above at Recruit Training Command (RTC), <strong><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">and</span></strong> passing the PT-Baseline (the first PFA) with a SAT-MED. Completion of the DEP GUIDE PQS will be confirmed and documented by the Classifier at MEPS. (If the recruit does not have the signatures within the DEP GUIDE, s/he may still be able to be advanced by passing the test and initial PFA in some instances.) Working out ahead of shipping can help to prevent injuries while at RTC as well as helping to insure that the future Sailor is able to pass the PFA. (See <a href="http://navyformoms.ning.com/forum/topics/prevention-of-stress-fractures-for-those-in-dep" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Prevention of Stress Fractures for Those in DEP</a>.) The YMCA in some areas and some health clubs and fitness centers offer free or reduced rate memberships to those in DEP.<br/></font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">The Navy does NOT teach recruits how to swim; some remediation is provided for those who need it, but it is not swim lessons. Recruits need to arrive at RTC with basic swim skills and the ability to float. Have your future Sailor practice in a pool before shipping.</font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">It is very important that your future Sailor be physically fit prior to shipping to RTC and that s/he be able to pass an initial run test.</font></span></strong> <span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">"The initial run standard is evaluated on the 1.5 mile run of the first Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) at boot camp. The initial run standard for male recruits will be 16 minutes 10 seconds and 18 minutes seven seconds for female recruits."</span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">See <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1zQrQK68Xw" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HOW TO PREPARE FOR BOOTCAMP IN 2019?</a>.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><a href="http://www.navydads.com/group/bootcamp/forum/topics/a-must-read-for-all-new-navy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A MUST READ for All New Navy Parents</a> within <a href="http://www.navydads.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NavyDads.com</a> has some good info for future Sailors and their loved ones.</p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><strong>Make sure that your future Sailor stays healthy and injury free, especially in the last month, because even a small cut or blister on a hand or foot when s/he reports to MEPS can cause a future Sailor to be delayed in shipping.</strong><br/></font></span></font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">A website that will have a lot of information for you and your future Sailor is</font> <a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/</a><font size="3">. There are tabs for you and your future Sailor. </font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">Here are some things you need to do in the last month before your future Sailor leaves:</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> 1.</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">Assist your future Sailor in getting his/her slim black wallet ready. (Buy one in the men's</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">department,</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> even for the gals. We have seen recruits be able to keep other conservatively colored</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">wallets and</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> even </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">a green wallet, so if your future Sailor</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">already has a thin wallet that s/he is</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">comfortable with, then</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> use </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">that </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">because s/he will be less likely to send it home.) Tell your </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">future Sailor</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">to KEEP the wallet</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> unless </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">s/he </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">is told specifically/personally to put it in the box.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> a. Driver’s license and DEP photo ID. [Check to see that your future Sailor's driver's license will</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> not expire during boot camp. </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">This is especially important for those with a contract for Aviation</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> Boatswain's Mate - Fuels (ABF), Equipment Operator </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">(EO), Master at Arms (MA), and Religious</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> Program Specialist (RP). Sailors with contracts for those ratings have had to</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">remain in holding</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> in GL and have not been permitted to go to "A" School due to an expired driver's license. Some</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> had </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">to </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">get a contract for a different rating or for one of the</font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/professional-apprenticeship-career-tracks-pact-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PACT Programs</a> <font size="3">when a new license</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> was not obtained </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">by a </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">specified date. Those with a contract in the Nuclear Field also need to have</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> a current driver's license, but not having it does not cause delays until "A" School, so those with a</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> contract for NF should also make sure to have it.]</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> b. SS card—not a copy (Recruits have been put on hold when the SS card was forgotten and did</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> not </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">arrive at RTC by a </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">specified date. If the SS card is lost, order a new one as soon as it is</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> discovered to be lost.)</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> c. a small amount of cash ($10-$25) Your future Sailor will be given a voucher for meals, but it's</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> nice to have a little bit of </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">pocket money. $10-$25 would not be enough if your then recruit is</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> delayed in shipping </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">and has to spend extra time at a hotel or airport due to storms or some</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> other cause. The Navy </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">picks up the tab for the hotel, but not always for food beyond what the</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> voucher covers. </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">Some recruits have received an additional food voucher, but others have not. If</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> you check the </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">weather and suspect that storms in Chicago or another location may delay your</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> then Recruit, then </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">you might want to be sure that s/he has $50-$60 to cover meals for up to two</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> days.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> d. stamps (they can be purchased at RTC, but it is good not to have to)-- Don't send stationery</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> as it takes up room</font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> and besides they get stationery, including</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> envelopes, to use at RTC. I typically only </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">suggest sending pre-addressed stamped</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> envelopes if the r</font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">ecruit has relatives in another country since postage is higher</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">and the recruit</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">may not know or have the correct postage or if your recruit requests that you send some after a</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> few weeks </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">due to running out of RTC stationery.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> e. a few Band-Aids and a couple of strips of moleskin (make sure s/he knows how to use it to</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> prevent/treat blisters; they </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">can get these from medical, but it is good to have them early)</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> f. Decide if s/he is going to use Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) (I suggest that s/he does.) or</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> Armed Forces Bank or </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">his/her own financial institution. S/He will need to have form 1199A</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> completed at his/her bank (the bank has the form) if </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">s/he will use that and put the form in</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> his/her wallet and/or take a blank check. Recruits/Sailors are paid a day earlier if they </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">use</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> NFCU than if they do not—we have been seeing deposits to some other institutions also arrive</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> a day early—and there is a branch located at most places where your future Sailor will be</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> stationed. They also have the active military </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">account which will reimburse your future Sailor for</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> up to $20 on ATM fees every month.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Your future Sailor can set up an account with NFCU prior to leaving for RTC by calling</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> 1-888-842-6328 and get the </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">1199A Direct Deposit Sign-up Form online at</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.navyfederal.org/pdf/ebrochures/1167ep.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><font size="3" color="#0000FF"> https://www.navyfederal.org/pdf/ebrochures/1167ep.pdf</font></a><font size="3">.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> If your future Sailor has bills that s/he wants to set up to pay by allotment, have him/her take the</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> information to set that up </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">during P-days. S/He will need the name of the company/person, the</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> phone number, the address and the account number </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">or if the allotment is to be made to a</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> person's bank account s/he will need the Bank routing number and the account</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">number as </font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> well as the person's name.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> (Paydays are the 1</font><sup><font size="2">st</font></sup> <font size="3">and 15</font><sup><font size="2">th</font></sup><font size="3">, but recruits must be at RTC at least 3 full weeks to be paid</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> on a pay day, so if you will </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">be paying bills for your recruit, it is best to have enough back ahead</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> of time to cover one to two month's bills because </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">although your recruit will be paid from the first</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> day, it could take 3 or 4 pay days for the pay to settle in to what it will be. If</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">you are the spouse of</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> a recruit, know that BAH has been paid in the first pay period for some, but others did not</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> receive it until near the end of boot camp or after PIR, but it will eventually be caught up. If you</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> are unable to put enough money back </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">to cover the bills for the first month or so, then speak with</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> the creditors and see if the bills can be suspended or payment </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">delayed for a month until a</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> deposit has been made. </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">Payment on student loans may be deferred while the recruit is at the</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">RTC. Not all institutions will defer the payment so have money put back and a plan in place for</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> making the payments if the </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">loans are not deferred. For more information on pay and BAH, see</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/when-will-the-recruits-be-paid" target="_blank" rel="noopener">When Will the Recruits be Paid? and Information for Spouses</a></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">.)</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Some recruits have had their bank accounts compromised while in boot camp so be sure that</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> your recruit lets the bank </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">know that s/he will be in boot camp in Great Lakes, IL and the</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> approximate dates</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">so that the bank will flag any charges </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">during that time and call a designated</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> person to check on the charges. If you are not already an authorized user on the</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">account, this</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> may require a POA from the bank specifying that you are to be contacted for this purpose.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> g. a list of addresses <strong>and phone numbers</strong> of those s/he will contact during BC—include the info</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> of people s/he may need </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">to contact for security clearance as well as friends and relatives. S/He</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> would be able to keep a small address book, but </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">the list in the wallet is better and less likely to</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> accidentally get put in "the box." Now that most people have cell phones many do not have</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> important </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">phone numbers memorized. (Have him/her give you a list of email </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">addresses or phone</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> numbers </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">for his/her friends and/or access to his/her fB account so you can pass on his/her </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">address</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> once </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">you get it.)</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> h. Activated calling card or calling card numbers. <br/></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> If you choose to purchase a calling card, be sure to activate it and write down the info on</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> the back of the card </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">before putting it in the wallet so you can add more minutes if needed.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> If you or your future Sailor has a PennyTalk account, your recruit can use that account to make</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> calls from RTC. Calls </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">within the USA and some other countries are 1 cent per minute. This</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> may be a good option if your future Sailor has </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">people to call in other countries. See</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.pennytalk.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><font size="3" color="#0000FF"> http://www.pennytalk.com</font></a><font size="3">. (Note: A 49¢ connection fee is charged each time a call connects. A</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> 99¢ monthly service fee applies to all accounts. A 90¢ payphone surcharge applies to each call</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> made from a payphone, which is what your recruit will use at RTC.) See <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/phone-cards-and-phone-calls" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Phone Cards and</a></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/phone-cards-and-phone-calls" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Phone Calls</a>.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Make sure your future Sailor knows how to use the calling card. Practice before s/he leaves.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> Calling </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">cards are available for purchase at the NEX at RTC, but it is good not to have to</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> activate a calling </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">card before making any calls. <br/></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Your recruit will need a calling card to make any calls other than the "I'm here!" call, which is the</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> last call your then recruit will make from his/her cell phone before putting it in "the box" to be stored</font></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">,</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> or calls for information or if there is a problem. All other calls are made from a payphone.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> <strong>Recruits are not permitted to keep their cell phones at RTC.</strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> i. small photo/s (no nudity or questionable content)</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> j. Slip a short encouraging note into his/her wallet from you and/or other loved ones so s/he will</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> be able </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">to read it in the </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">days/weeks before s/he will receive mail. (Also encourage him/her to</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> write a note to </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">you either before leaving or on the </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">way to BC and slip it in a pocket or shoe for</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> you to read before </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">you </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">get mail from him/her.) If your future Sailor will have a birthday within the</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> first 4 weeks after arrival, then slip a sealed birthday greeting in his/her wallet to open on that day--</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> perhaps a small card (such as a gift insert card) that does not openly advertise the birthday and has</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> no glitter.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> k. a small calendar if your future Sailor wants to mark off the days until PIR (know that some</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> RDC's do not permit calendars so your then recruit may have to tear it up)</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> l. gallon sized zip-top clear plastic bag. Your recruit can use it to keep the items together that s/he is</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> allowed to keep and can use it to keep letters together in his/her A/B drawer once s/he is in his/her</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> permanent ship.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> <strong>m. <span>Recruits shipping during COVID-19 may also take a personal entertainment device with no</span></strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><strong><span> camera and / or two books to be used during the 14 days of ROM. Personal entertainment</span></strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><strong><span> device means a handheld, non-cellular equipped, non-camera equipped device with a primary</span></strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><strong><span> purpose of personal entertainment, such as an e-reader or gaming device. Tablets, laptops,</span></strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><strong><span> gaming consoles, and any device with cellular capability are not allowed.</span></strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> 2. S/He will be able to keep a small Bible if s/he wants to take one or s/he can get a New Testament and</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Proverbs at MEPS prior to shipping or at RTC.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> S/He will also be able to </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">keep a small religious medal if s/he wants (it must be silver in color and</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">smaller than </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">his/her dog tags). Some will send them back though, so make sure your future Sailor</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> knows to keep it. Some have taped</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">the religious medal</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">in the wallet since many have not been able to</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> keep a chain if worn on a chain to RTC.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> S/He will be able to keep and wear a wristwatch, if </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">desired. </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">It is best if it is water resistant and black</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> or</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">silver in color, but recruits have also been able to keep </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">watches with a navy blue or brown</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> wristband. One that costs less than $20 is best at RTC and after.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Married recruits are able to wear a plain wedding band.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> Anything s/he takes </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">that s/he is able to keep must be able to fit in his/her "valuables sock" (a tube</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> sock that s/he will carry) during P-Days. </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">Everything else will be put in "the box."</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> 3. Help your future Sailor decide what s/he will wear to MEPS and if s/he will take a change of</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> clothes or not. Remember that </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">your future Sailor will be taken to a hotel the day before the ship</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> date for MEPS and will stay overnight at the hotel. S/He </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">must have clean underwear (boxers for</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> the guys and full-coverage underwear and sports bra for the gals) and socks at</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">MEPS. Old</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> clothes are permitted, but be sure that your future Sailor is not wearing clothes with holes and</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><font face="Arial, sans-serif"> know that sandals or flip flops without a strap around the back are not permitted at MEPS. Future</font></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><font face="Arial, sans-serif"> Sailors have not been able to ship </font></font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">when they have shown up in clothes that are not allowed. Recruiters</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> or parents have made trips t</font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">o buy suitable clothing the night before swearing in at MEPS. Be aware</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> and be sure that your </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">future Sailor is dressed appropriately.<br/></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Also discuss his/her options of putting the clothes in the box, trashing them, or donating</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> them.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> My son took a change of underwear that he changed at the hotel and threw the others away there.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> He shaved with a </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">disposable razor and used the hotel toiletries. He also wore his least favorite</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> clothes and trashed them at RTC.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> If you are going to MEPS to see him/her sworn in, s/he can take a backpack with his/her toiletries</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> and a change of clothes for </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">the hotel room and give it to you when s/he sees you.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> 4. You need to determine if you are going to MEPS and the airport and find out from the Recruiter</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> when you should be there if </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">you are. Some MEPS require that the recruiter submit paperwork</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> ahead of time in order for you to attend the swearing in. </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">This is especially true if MEPS is located</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> on a military base because you will need a pass to get on base. If MEPS is located on a military</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> base, you will need current ID for everyone in the vehicle and current vehicle registration and proof of</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> insurance in order to drive onto the base. Your recruit</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">will have to be with you at the airline counter to</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> get a gate pass if you plan to wait with him/her. Some airlines consider a recruit who is shipping to</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Boot Camp to be under orders and will permit loved ones to obtain a gate pass and accompany</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> him/her past security and others do not. If you intend to accompany your then recruit to the airport,</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> check with your future Sailor's recruiter to see what airline will be used and call to check to see if you</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> will be able to accompany your then recruit.<br/></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> 5. Talk with your future Sailor about how you want to handle any bad news. My Sailor told me he only</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> wanted to be notified </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">if his father, sister, or I were to die. He asked that news of any other deaths</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> or hospitalizations, even grandparents and </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">close friends, be kept from him until after PIR.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Fortunately, we did not have to face that.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> 6. Decide if you need a Power of Attorney.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> There are 2 main types, a general Power of Attorney and a </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">Medical Power of Attorney. </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">You may need</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> these if s/he has bills or personal property that you will need to take care of or if </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">s/he were to be hurt</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> while at </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">RTC. You can get the forms to do both kinds of PoA for free </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">online and customize them to</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> your needs and then have</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">them notarized. You can find a general Power of Attorney online </font></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><a href="http://www.expertlaw.com/library/estate_planning/medical_power_of_attorney.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><font size="3" color="#0000FF">http://www.expertlaw.com/library/estate_planning/medical_power_of_a...</font></a> <font size="3">has a Medical Power</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> of </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">Attorney form. You </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">only need a PoA if you will need to take care of financial matters or</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> personal </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">property for your recruit. The MPoA is only </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">needed if your recruit is incapacitated;</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> otherwise,</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">the </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">HIPAA form or medical information waiver form is all that is needed.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> A durable PoA that will cover both is best drawn up by an attorney and most will charge less than</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> $50 to do so. Be aware that a durable PoA may not be accepted by some institutions because it may</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> be seen as being too broad.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> Keep a photocopy of your future Sailor's driver's license with the power of attorney. Some states</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> must have both in order to </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">use the PoA. Some banks will only accept their own PoA that must be</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> signed at the bank, so check with your financial </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">institution if you will be taking care of any banking</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> business for your future Sailor. If you will only be taking care of matters </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">dealing with a vehicle, you</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> may only need the form that can be obtained from the license bureau or DMV.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> 7. For those of you with exes, speak with your Future Sailor about who s/he should send the form letter.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> to. The</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">recruit decides who that is mailed to, not anyone at RTC.</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">It is good to </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">know ahead of time</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> how this is going to be handled because</font></span> <span><font size="3">the form letter</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">will indicate the address and </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">PIR date and</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> will include <a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/RTC_GRAD_VISITOR_ACCESS_FORM-4.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the Security Access Form</a> to be </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">completed with the info on those who will be attending</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> PIR so they can receive their tickets</font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">. If </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">both </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">parents are </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">going to PIR, then the one receiving <span>the form</span></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><span> letter </span></font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">will need to </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">share the information in </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">that letter </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">with the </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">other parent, but everything in <span>the form</span></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><span> letter </span></font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">and <a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/RTC_GRAD_VISITOR_ACCESS_FORM-4.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the Security Access Form</a> can </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">be found </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">on this site in several places as well as</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> at <a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil</a></font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NavyRecruitTrainingCommand" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.facebook.com/NavyRecruitTrainingCommand</a>.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> 8. Help him/her determine the names of up to 4 people who s/he will be submitting to receive tickets for</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> PIR.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> Your recruit will be permitted </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">4 guests unless s/he ends up in a large TG. Plan ahead of time </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">who</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> will attend if only 3 guests are </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">permitted. Everyone ages 3 </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">and older must have a ticket to attend. </font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> Those </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">ages 2 and under are able</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">to </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">attend without</font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">a ticket.</font> <font size="3">This is very important since <strong>only those </strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><strong> with tickets will be able to enter</strong></font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><strong>RTC. Your then recruit will have the final say as to who will </strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><strong> attend. </strong>Those names will be submitted on <a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/RTC_GRAD_VISITOR_ACCESS_FORM-4.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the Security Access Form</a></font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> <span><strong>During COVID there is no PIR.</strong></span><span> </span><span><strong>Guests are not permitted on RTC.</strong></span></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> 9. Call and put his/her cell phone on military hold/suspension while s/he is at BC beginning the day</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> after you expect him/her to </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">arrive at RTC or a day later than that in case s/he arrives in the wee</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> hours of</font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> the morning. Set it up so that you can call the day </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">before PIR and remove the Hold so that</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> s/he </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">will be able to use his/her phone on Liberty and once s/he gets to "A" School.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> If your future Sailor has a vehicle, you may also want to have him/her removed as a driver on the</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> insurance and look into </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">having the vehicle changed to a "pleasure vehicle" if someone will be</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> driving it every now and then or to "in storage" if it will </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">be parked to save money on the insurance.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">10. Have him/her help you decide what to do about the things in his/her room. Also, have him/her set</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> aside the things that s/he </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">will want you to bring to GL with you to have on Liberty and at "A" School.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> Things </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">to take PIR weekend, which must be able to fit in </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">his/her black backpack (obtained at RTC),</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> include: favorite underwear, </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">laptop, cell phone charger, </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">and one set of clothes--some choose a favorite</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> T-shirt or 2 and have the jeans sent later</font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">. <span><strong>Now that </strong></span><span><strong>"the box" is not sent home some pack a</strong></span></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><span><strong> SMALL</strong></span></font></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><span><strong>backpack with these things so that they have</strong></span><span> </span><span><strong>them once they get their box after</strong></span></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><span><strong> graduation so they have them at "A" School. Be sure it and the</strong></span><strong> clothes worn will fit in a</strong></font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"><strong> 14x14x14 box. </strong>Things you </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">will be able to send later, depending on the "A" </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">School and its length may</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> i</font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">nclude: a</font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">dditional set/s of </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">clothes, gaming system, musical instrument, a </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">few favorite pictures...</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> (You can check on the site for his/her "A" School to help determine what is and is not allowed and</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3"> how soon. If you don't </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">know where your future Sailor will go for training, go to</font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/forum/topics/ratings-a-school-locations-and" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ratings, A School</a></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/forum/topics/ratings-a-school-locations-and" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Locations, and Links to Groups</a><font size="3">.)</font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><strong>SCAM ALERT:</strong> If your future Sailor has any bank cards or credit cards, have him/her call a week or so before the ship date and let the bank or issuing agent know the dates that s/he will be in BC and provide a contact number of a loved one that they can call if there are any charges made on the card from any place other than the NEX at RTC. There have been reports of charges being made while the recruit is in BC. Sometimes the charges are not able to be reversed if they are not discovered until after BC. There have been some reports of credit cards being maxed out before the charges were discovered.</font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">Although your future Sailor is covered by Tricare health insurance from the day s/he swears in at MEPS on the way to RTC, I suggest that you don’t drop your Future Sailor’s health insurance until after PIR. If something happens and s/he is sent home, s/he may have trouble getting health insurance, so this is one case where I say to plan for the worst case situation when I typically tell loved ones to plan to attend PIR on time and don't think about the possibility of being sent home or a delayed PIR. Check with your agent to see how easy it would be to add him/her back on if s/he were to be separated and if your policy allows dependents to be added at any time, then you may be able to remove him/her from the policy once s/he has sworn in at MEPS and is on the way to RTC. Being separated from the armed services is not a qualifying condition that allows a person to be added on outside of the regular enrollment time for many policies.<br/></font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><font size="3"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Females should get their hair cut in the last week before leaving if they wish to do so.</span></strong> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Have her go to a good stylist and have her hair cut well above collar length and she should be fine and may not even need another haircut until A School. (See <a href="http://www.public.navy.mil/BUPERS-NPC/SUPPORT/UNIFORMS/UNIFORMREGULATIONS/CHAPTER2/Pages/2201PersonalAppearance.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.public.navy.mil/BUPERS-NPC/SUPPORT/UNIFORMS/UNIFORMREGULATIONS/CHAPTER2/Pages/2201PersonalAppearance.aspx</a>.)</span></font><font size="3"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"> New female recruits are permitted to keep long hair if they wish and are taught how to properly wear their hair in a Navy regulation bun. Female recruits who wish to have their hair cut may still request to do so. Hair pins and barrettes that match the hair color may be permitted. Corn rows that are uniform in size and distance apart and do not include beads or other adornment have been permitted for some as long as the length is above the collar for those females with hair that would better be styled in that manner. There are some videos on youtube that discuss appropriate hairstyles for females while in Navy BC and afterwards. Your future Sailor's hair should be her natural hair color when she ships because she will not be able to do any color touch ups during BC. Recruits with unnatural looking hair color, including highlights, have been required to dye their hair, so it's best to address that before shipping. Your future Sailor will need to remove any nail polish or fake nails on both hands and feet before reporting to MEPS and should not wear makeup to MEPS or to RTC.<br/></span></font></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><font size="3"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><strong>Females who are on birth control pills</strong> prior to shipping should take their birth control pills with them along with a signed and dated note from their physician. The recruit will either be permitted to keep them or they will be tossed and something will be prescribed from the pharmacy. All female recruits are offered the option of birth control during boot camp.</span></font></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><strong>Earrings are not permitted at Boot Camp</strong> except for graduation photos and PIR and those must meet Navy standards and can be purchased at the NEX.</p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span><strong>Males with facial hair should shave prior to shipping</strong> to make the first few shaves at RTC easier.</span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">Relax and enjoy the time you have together.</font></span></strong> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">Don't start missing your loved one before s/he leaves. Make the time together good for everyone.<br/></font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><font size="3"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">If your future Sailor wears contacts,</span></strong> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">make sure that s/he wears glasses or takes glasses and a contact case to RTC because s/he will have to remove contacts upon arrival and it will be several days before the eye exam and new glasses are given and s/he will not have any eye correction during that time. <strong>In</strong> <strong>fact, your recruit could be without correction for nearly a week if s/he does not take/wear glasses to RTC and it could be longer if your recruit is held in P-days for some reason.</strong> (The vision exam is on P-3 or P-4 and glasses are received that day, but there is no processing on the weekend, so it is usually about a week or longer for most recruits from the time they arrive to the time they receive their glasses. See <a href="http://www.lovell.fhcc.va.gov/locations/USSRedRover.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.lovell.fhcc.va.gov/locations/USSRedRover.asp</a>.) Those who wear glasses are able to keep and wear them until after they receive their new glasses, then they must put their civilian glasses in their A/B drawer and can wear them for pictures and PIR if they meet Navy standards. Some recruits have been able to keep contacts in a case along with a small amount of solution. They must put them in their "Valuables Sock" and then A/B drawer and can wear them for pictures and PIR. You will be able to send contacts to your recruit to wear for the graduation pictures and for PIR.</span></font></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><font size="3"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">If your future Sailor wears a retainer,</span></strong> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">s/he will be able to keep it at RTC as long as it was declared in the paperwork; a waiver may be required for some ratings. Recruiters sometimes tell future Sailors to remove them, but your future Sailor should respectfully refuse and ask that the retainer/s be documented. If your then recruit wears the retainer/s to BC, then it will be more likely that s/he will remember to keep the retainer/s and not accidentally put it/them in "the box" when packing it. Permanent retainers may be a disqualifying condition for some ratings, so if there is a choice between permanent or removable retainers, then choose removable retainers.<br/></span></font></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><strong>If you accompany your future Sailor to the Recruiter’s Office</strong> prior to his/her shipping out, walk a few steps behind and be alert as you approach the recruiter’s door. Your future Sailor will have to stop and request permission to enter. You don’t want to accidentally walk into your future Sailor as s/he is executing the salute before entering.</font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"><strong>On the day s/he leaves</strong>, remind him/her to drink plenty of water because s/he will be drug tested at MEPS or soon after arrival at RTC and DO have him/her take his/her cell phone and charger because s/he can call/text you along the way and will be able to make that last call to you from it. Let him/her know to call once s/he gets to Chicago before getting to RTC so you will have a little more time to talk because the next call will be a scripted 15-30 second call and there will not be time for chitchat. There are no longer phone banks to make the "I'm here!" calls from, so your then recruit must call from a cell phone, either his/her own or a borrowed one.</font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><font size="3">There have been reports in the past of people taking cell phones and/or watches prior to the recruits getting to RTC. Let your future Sailor know that at no time prior to packing "the box" should anyone ask for those or other personal items--if it happens, they need to respectfully decline the offer and then get the name of the individual and report it. Anything that a recruit cannot keep will be packed "the box" and held for them until later and they will put anything that they can keep in their "Valuables sock" and keep it with them.</font></span></strong></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">See <a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/REQUIRED%20CHECKLIST.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/REQUIRED%20CHECKLIST.pdf</a>, </font> <font size="3"><a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/WHAT%20TO%20BRING.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/WHAT%20TO%20BRING.pdf</a>, and <a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/WHAT%20NOT%20TO%20BRING.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/assets/pdfs/WHAT%20NOT%20TO%20BRING.pdf</a>. These documents are also available in other forms at <a href="https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/recruits.html#prepare" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.bootcamp.navy.mil/recruits.html#prepare</a>.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">A video that may be helpful:</font> <a href="http://navyformoms.ning.com/video/what-to-bring-to-boot-camp" target="_blank" rel="noopener">What To Bring to Boot camp</a><font size="3">.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">I hope that helps.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">Check out the discussion</font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/profile/Arwen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arwen</a> <font size="3">posted,</font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/forum/topics/your-recruit-s-final-meps-experience-an-overview-of-their-last" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Your recruit's final MEPS experience - an overview of their last ho...</a><font size="3">; but be sure to read my reply concerning the statement about not eating for a day or two--Recruits DO eat. I also suggest that you join the group,</font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boot Camp Moms (and loved ones)</a><font size="3">, and start checking out the Pages (found under the pictures of the Members) there;</font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/arrival-and-what-happens-at-the-rtc" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arrival and What Happens at RTC</a> <font size="3">will let you know what happens at RTC and what to expect.</font></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">Make sure to join the group for the month that your future Sailor leaves to connect with others with loved ones who may be leaving the same day/week and may have PIR with your Future Sailor. Each of the following is a clickable link.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinjanuary" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for Boot Camp in January</a><font size="3"> </font><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinfebruary" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for Boot Camp in February</a></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinmarch" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for bootcamp in March</a><font size="3"> </font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinapril" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for bootcamp in April</a></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinmay" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for bootcamp in May</a><font size="3"> </font> <a href="http://navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinjune" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for bootcamp in June</a></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinjuly" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for bootcamp in July</a><font size="3"> </font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinaugust" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin'</a></span> <span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinaugust" target="_blank" rel="noopener">for bootcamp in August</a></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinseptember" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for bootcamp in September</a><font size="3"> </font> <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinoctober" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP - Leavin' for bootcamp in October</a> </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampinnovember" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for bootcamp in November</a><font size="3"> </font></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/leavinforbootcampindecember" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DEP-Leavin' for bootcamp in December</a></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">You may also want to check out</font> <font size="3"><span class="feed-story-header dy-clearfix"><a href="http://navyformoms.ning.com/group/deppersinbutnotyet" target="_blank" rel="noopener">»» Welcome to the MEPS and DEP group ««</a></span>.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3"> </font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><font size="3">Some have asked about the blue candle tradition and have wanted to include blue candles as favors at an "Anchors Aweigh" party, so check out</font> <a href="http://navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/blue-candles" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Blue Candles</a><font size="3">.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><font size="3">If you have a young child and would like a book to help explain about Daddy (or Mommy) being away at boot camp, then check out <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span id="ebooksProductTitle" class="a-size-extra-large">Hooyah Daddy!!: My Daddy's in Navy boot camp</span></span> <span class="a-size-large a-color-secondary a-text-normal"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Kindle Edition</span> available from amazon.com at</span> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CXIQ54G?*Version*=1&*entries*=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CXIQ54G?*Version*=1&*entries*=0</a>.</font></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"></p>
<p>The Page, <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/what-does-mean-a-guide-to-navy-abbreviations-and-terminology" target="_blank" rel="noopener">What does ??? mean? (A Guide to Navy Abbreviations and Terminology)</a>, will help you with many of the new terms you will come across.</p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: 0pt;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">After your loved one has shipped:</span></strong></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">If your loved one is on your auto insurance, you can take him/her off of the policy. When s/he is home on leave your Sailor will be able to drive your vehicle and be covered without being added back on if you give him/her permission to drive the vehicle. (See the info in number 9 above concerning your recruit's vehicle.)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Call and put your recruit's cell phone on hold. (See number 9 above.)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Check out <a href="https://navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/what-is-it-like-during-the-14-days-of-rom" target="_blank" rel="noopener">What is it like during the 14 days of ROM?</a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Check out the information in <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms/page/arrival-and-what-happens-at-the-rtc" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arrival and What Happens at RTC</a> to know what is happening and what to expect. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Join <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boot Camp Moms (and loved ones)</a> if you have not already done so.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Try to be be patient and to remember "No news is good news!"</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Join your PIR group once you receive the form letter. PIR groups are posted in <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/group/bootcampmoms" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boot Camp Moms (and loved ones)</a> and in the DEP groups.<a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/forum/topics/groups-listed-by-pir-date" target="_blank" rel="noopener"></a></span></li>
</ul>
<p style="background: white;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 8pt;">The above information is provided by <a href="http://www.navyformoms.ning.com/profile/lemonelephant" target="_blank" rel="noopener">lemonelephant</a></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 8pt;">, the mom of a retired Sailor.</span></p>
<p style="background: white;"><span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 8pt;">Discussion updated 08/01/2020<br/></span></span></p> TIPS for Connecting up with N4M's with Smartphones, Tablets, and Other Devicestag:navyformoms.ning.com,2012-08-08:1971797:Topic:72536512012-08-08T22:27:16.635ZFireTeamLeaderWife aka FTLWhttps://navyformoms.ning.com/profile/FTLW
<p>Since there are so many devices out there now...I thought it might be a good idea to have a discussion for tips on how to best utilize them with the site. I will start out with the basics of how I use my Android personally and will add more either as I remember (LOL) or find out new things. Please feel free to ask/answer questions and post your own tips.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #993300; text-decoration: underline;">RESPONDING to EMAILS from my Android:</span></strong></p>
<p>One…</p>
<p>Since there are so many devices out there now...I thought it might be a good idea to have a discussion for tips on how to best utilize them with the site. I will start out with the basics of how I use my Android personally and will add more either as I remember (LOL) or find out new things. Please feel free to ask/answer questions and post your own tips.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #993300; text-decoration: underline;">RESPONDING to EMAILS from my Android:</span></strong></p>
<p>One issue I see often is, <span style="color: #800000;"><em>"I can't answer the emails I receive for the content that I follow. I choose,'To view the new comment, visit: (link)' and it takes me to the site but I can't respond. I have to sign in first. Too many steps."</em></span></p>
<p>The way I solve this issue is I sign in to N4M's in the AM and <em>stay signed in all day</em>. This way when I do the above it takes me straight to the comment and I can read it and then answer, as I am already signed in.</p>
<p>Once done, I either hit the "back" (looks like reverse arrow) on the phone to go back to my emails or the home button (looks like a house).</p>
<p>Now, this doesn't mean you have to "be" on the site all day...you can still browse the internet etc., it just means that you are already signed in and ready to go!</p>
<p>Just sign out at night before bed...if you can! LOL It is good to sign out once and a while. You can also adjust the settings on your phone to remember passwords if you like.</p>
<p>I have also stayed signed in for several days with no issues. I had one mom with an iPhone say that she has done the same.</p>
<p><strong>How to</strong> <strong>respond to emails</strong>...you can't respond directly to an email (in other words hit reply type and send) from N4M. The email lets you know about postings Groups, Discussions etc. that you are following. Within the email is a link that will take you to the post on this site. When you click that link it should take you to that post on the site and then you can post your reply there. Does that make sense? If not, I will think of a better way to state it :-).</p>
<p>The link looks something like this and should be the first of two or three different kinds of links on an email.:</p>
<p><strong>To reply to this message, click here:</strong></p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">http:/<a href="http://www.navyformoms.com/profiles/message/listInbox" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">www.navyformoms.com/profiles/message/listInbox</a>...</span></strong></p>
<p>(and so forth...that one is a partial and the source was an Inbox reply to me...I just did not finish all of the link)</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #993300; text-decoration: underline;">BOOKMARKING the SITE:</span></strong></p>
<p>N4M's does not have an app. So, what I do to access it is (IOW...not from an email), I Bookmark the site. I can do this with each individual group I am on as well. then the Bookmark takes me straight to that group.</p>
<p>I can also access through the Address bar on my phone...where the URL is located. I can click it and it will bring up the History of where I have been. If the last place was one of my groups...it will "be" where it was when I left it. Refresh the page by clicking the refresh button (mine are two curved arrows) just like you would on your computer.</p>
<p>There is more as far as Windows on my phone, the extent of what I can do, Mobile Optimized view vs. Desktop view etc...but I will add that as we go along.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="color: #993300; text-decoration: underline;">WINDOWS on my ANDROID:</span></span></strong></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">I can have up to <strong>four</strong> Windows open on my phone. So I can load four websites at a time.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">When I am on the Internet, I hit the "List" tab on my phone (it's next to my Home icon and has three lines) and it will give me a six box menu. Windows is one of them. Then I hit the + sign to add another Window. You can enter a URL OR select one from your History. Just tap the URL box and your History will come up.</span></p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #993300; text-decoration: underline;">MOBILE OPTIMIZED VIEW vs. DESKTOP VIEW:</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">Well...I personally like Desktop View. It looks on my phone exactly like it does on my Computer. Toolbar works from my phone in this view. Post Links, Images, Media (videos and my fave smileys!), text, file links, fonts and all the do-dads! I have an Android.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><em>I have started new PIR groups from my Phone</em>! Along with an Image for the group as it loads differently.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">I can also highlight, copy and paste. Copy URL links (though I cannot edit it to look all pretty and open to another page, but when on the go you do what you can!) and paste them in. I can open multiple windows with the site and load different Groups on them or content and copy from one and then paste on another.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">Easy. You just got to play with it Folks!</span></p>
<p><em><span style="color: #000000;">Mobile Optimized is great if you want simple.</span></em></p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;">SWITCHING BETWEEN THE TWO:</span></strong></p>
<p></p>
<p>VIEWING Navy for Moms on your phone, there are two options: Mobile Optimized view and Desktop view.</p>
<p><strong>Mobile Optimized</strong> view. When you sign in on your phone it automatically signs you in to Mobile Optimized view. This is a very limited view of the site. Personally do not like it. How you post is limited as well, you don't get the same tabs as you would on the computer.</p>
<p><strong>Desktop</strong><span> </span>view looks just like it would if you were on your computer. You can use all the functions (changing fonts etc) just like on your computer. Love this mode :-)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>To switch to Desktop from Mobil Optimized view: </strong></span></p>
<p>After you sign on go to the Menu icon in the top right corner of the site.</p>
<p>Click it for the drop down Menu.</p>
<p>Scroll down and click Desktop view.</p>
<p>That's it!</p>
<p>IF you would like to go back to Mobilized view :-( , simply scroll down to the bottom of the page and there is a sign that says, "Switch to the Mobil Optimized View", click it and it should change back.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">(Let me know what you like about MO view for those of you who use it!)</span></p>
<p>I am hoping that helps some and I also hope that we can help each other out with our device usage!</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1799209086?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="110" class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1799209086?profile=original"/></a><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1799209259?profile=original" target="_self"></a></p>
<p> </p>