Author Topic: Our kids are enlisting (Read 5354 times)

oHIobellboy · « **on:** October 17, 2010, 03:27:29 PM »

Well, Karl Jr. (Twiggy's oldest) takes his physical for the Army on Tues this week. Tentative departure is March 7th for Ft. Jackson, SC.
My oldest daughter Heather takes her ASVAB tomorrow. She scored an 84 on the practice test. From the way it's looking and the path she wants to follow she may end up at Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo. next year for basic and AIT. Could be an extended stay for us in MO next year if graduation is close to Labor Day. We have any members close to FT. Leonard Wood?

Ski Edition · « **Reply #1 on:** October 17, 2010, 06:36:38 PM »

I think we had this conversation in M1's driveway and expressed my views on this. I wish them both the best of luck in their future endeavors in the military.

Rick · « **Reply #2 on:** October 17, 2010, 08:07:28 PM »

spent 6 years in the guard and 7 years and counting on active duty. I wish them both the best of luck being in the military has it rewards. If they are headed to jackson let me know. I havent been back to FT Leonard wood since I was in basic in 1997. GOD SPEED TO THE BOTH OF THEM.

Vetman · « **Reply #3 on:** October 17, 2010, 10:30:25 PM »

I can't speak for the Army but in my 21+ years in the Air Force I had good times and some bad times.
BUT I wouldn't change a thing because I learned so much and got to see and be in some pretty great places around the world.

GOOD LUCK to both of them Mike.
I hope they have much success in their chosen profession.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #4 on:** October 18, 2010, 05:31:04 AM »

Quote from: Vetman on October 17, 2010, 10:30:25 PM

I can't speak for the Army but in my 21+ years in the Air Force I had good times and some bad times.
BUT I wouldn't change a thing because I learned so much and got to see and be in some pretty great places around the world.

GOOD LUCK to both of them Mike.
I hope they have much success in their chosen profession.

They both looked into the Air Force first. Right now the recruiter is saying there's at least a 1 yr wait to get in.

Didit · « **Reply #5 on:** October 18, 2010, 07:22:32 AM »

Thats gotta make ya'll very proud of them both Mike and Debbie, awesome choice in this time of strife in the world today. Good luck to the both of them!

Didit

Intimidatoruag · « **Reply #6 on:** October 18, 2010, 08:05:11 AM »

Talked to Debi about it Sat. that is awesome and scary at the same time ......

God speed to both of them .... I'm the service will make the best of both of them ....

John

moosc · « **Reply #7 on:** October 18, 2010, 10:03:36 PM »

My friends 18 year old says he wants to go in the Air Force. But his GF doesn't want him to go. I along with his parents believe it is the best thing to do is go in any service. You learn so much and go to unique places. I'm a Army brat and loved it. My dad was a 20 year career guy. I was going in coming back from my physical on greyhound my dad found out met me at bus station and physically beat the crap outa me kicked me outa of the house. I dropped outa of high school and left him for NC. After 10years of not seeing my dad we have made up. He apologized but I still feel uncomfortable around him.

Sent from my DROIDX using Tapatalk

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #8 on:** October 19, 2010, 04:45:41 AM »

Well the results are in. Heather scored a 90 on her test yesterday. From what I understand, she should qualify for just about any job she chooses.

Donnie1 · « **Reply #9 on:** October 19, 2010, 08:13:18 AM »

That's awesome Mike and Debi. I know we talked quite a while at Bratfest about it. I know the Army has some better enlistment bonuses and school payouts, however the Air Force pays 100% tuition as well. If nothing else tell them to make the best out of the schooling. I kick myself everyday for not taking advantage of it. I know it will make them better people in the long run and if nothing else will teach them the respect, honor and integrity that is missing is so many of today's younger crowd.

After 22 yrs in teh Air Force I can honestly say that I am a different person and feels great to hear someone tell you thank you for your service but I in turn tell them, no thank you for your support.

If extended stay is what you need next year just let me know, we are a couple of hours away from Ft Leonardwood but you are more than welcome to stay here for a few days and we will even be there for graduation with you.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #10 on:** October 19, 2010, 08:16:29 AM »

Quote from: Donnie1 on October 19, 2010, 08:13:18 AM

That's awesome Mike and Debi. I know we talked quite a while at Bratfest about it. I know the Army has some better enlistment bonuses and school payouts, however the Air Force pays 100% tuition as well. If nothing else tell them to make the best out of the schooling. I kick myself everyday for not taking advantage of it. I know it will make them better people in the long run and if nothing else will teach them the respect, honor and integrity that is missing is so many of today's younger crowd.

After 22 yrs in teh Air Force I can honestly say that I am a different person and feels great to hear someone tell you thank you for your service but I in turn tell them, no thank you for your support.

If extended stay is what you need next year just let me know, we are a couple of hours away from Ft Leonardwood but you are more than welcome to stay here for a few days and we will even be there for graduation with you.

That would be great Donnie. I'm sure Heather would even like you guys being there.

Ski Edition · « **Reply #11 on:** October 19, 2010, 08:18:30 AM »

Quote from: oHIobellboy on October 19, 2010, 04:45:41 AM

Well the results are in. Heather scored a 90 on her test yesterday. From what I understand, she should qualify for just about any job she chooses.

Great Job Heather!!! She is Air Force material!!

Richie_Rich · « **Reply #12 on:** October 19, 2010, 09:42:44 AM »

We're a couple hours away from Ft. Leonardwood too.

You are always welcome.

I wish them both the best of luck.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #13 on:** October 19, 2010, 07:02:38 PM »

Well Donnie and Rich, I appreciate the offers but things have taken a turn. Believe it or not there are no openings for the next 18 months in the intelligence areas that she wanted to go into. Instead she chose PATRIOT Fire Control Enhanced Operator/Maintainer.

I guess letting her push the big red train horn button led her to wanting to push other buttons and blow stuff up.

Anyway, She's going to basic at Fort Jackson SC. Her AIT will start Tues Sept 6th at Ft. Sill, OK. Depending on what day her graduation is will determine if we are at Bratfest this year.
She was told that Basic is 9 wks and 4 days. She leaves June 20th but was told that the first week there is week "0"
so her Basic won't start until June 27.

Ski Edition · « **Reply #14 on:** October 19, 2010, 07:15:29 PM »

Quote from: oHIobellboy on October 19, 2010, 07:02:38 PM

Well Donnie and Rich, I appreciate the offers but things have taken a turn. Believe it or not there are no openings for the next 18 months in the intelligence areas that she wanted to go into. Instead she chose PATRIOT Fire Control Enhanced Operator/Maintainer. I guess letting her push the big red train horn button led her to wanting to push other buttons and blow stuff up.
Anyway, She's going to basic at Fort Jackson SC. Her AIT will start Tues Sept 6th at Ft. Sill, OK. Depending on what day her graduation is will determine if we are at Bratfest this year.
She was told that Basic is 9 wks and 4 days. She leaves June 20th but was told that the first week there is week "0"
so her Basic won't start until June 27.

Great for her!!! I remember when I enlisted---I was very excited and couldn't wait to get there!!

Maybe Bratfest in Oklahoma??

Donnie1 · « **Reply #15 on:** October 19, 2010, 07:42:07 PM »

Quote from: oHIobellboy on October 19, 2010, 07:02:38 PM

Well Donnie and Rich, I appreciate the offers but things have taken a turn. Believe it or not there are no openings for the next 18 months in the intelligence areas that she wanted to go into. Instead she chose PATRIOT Fire Control Enhanced Operator/Maintainer. I guess letting her push the big red train horn button led her to wanting to push other buttons and blow stuff up.
Anyway, She's going to basic at Fort Jackson SC. Her AIT will start Tues Sept 6th at Ft. Sill, OK. Depending on what day her graduation is will determine if we are at Bratfest this year.
She was told that Basic is 9 wks and 4 days. She leaves June 20th but was told that the first week there is week "0"
so her Basic won't start until June 27.

Wow, that's quite the turn of events. Congrats for her. That would be awesome to be able to blow stuff up like that.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #16 on:** October 19, 2010, 07:42:18 PM »

Quote from: Ski Edition on October 19, 2010, 07:15:29 PM

Great for her!!! I remember when I enlisted---I was very excited and couldn't wait to get there!!

Maybe Bratfest in Oklahoma??

When my little brother graduated from Fort Dix the let me take him down to Aberdeen proving grounds as I lived on the south side of Baltimore at the time. I wonder if I can pull that off with my daughter and detour through St. Louis.

BTW all, I sent her the link so she can read this. She says thank you to all.

Richie_Rich · « **Reply #17 on:** October 19, 2010, 07:55:43 PM »

I guess with the military, you don't know until you know.

I'm glad she found something she wants to do.

The welcome mat is always out.....well at least in spirit. We don't have an actual door mat.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #18 on:** November 07, 2010, 02:09:04 PM »

Well here's the latest update. Karl needed to get an eye exam and then back to MEPS in Cleveland. He got sworn in on Monday and will leave for Ft Leonardwood either 12/28 or 01/04 so it looks like a trip sometime in March for us.
Heather is still working on gaining weight so we'll see where she ends up going.

Ski Edition · « **Reply #19 on:** November 07, 2010, 03:40:37 PM »

Quote from: oHIobellboy on November 07, 2010, 02:09:04 PM

Well here's the latest update. Karl needed to get an eye exam and then back to MEPS in Cleveland. He got sworn in on Monday and will leave for Ft Leonardwood either 12/28 or 01/04 so it looks like a trip sometime in March for us.
Heather is still working on gaining weight so we'll see where she ends up going.

Great news, but slow down on the modding and buy some groceries!!!!

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #20 on:** November 07, 2010, 04:01:08 PM »

Quote from: Ski Edition on November 07, 2010, 03:40:37 PM

Great news, but slow down on the modding and buy some groceries!!!!

he he...the mods I already had.

Al · « **Reply #21 on:** November 07, 2010, 05:20:07 PM »

Quote from: oHIobellboy on November 07, 2010, 02:09:04 PM

Well here's the latest update. Karl needed to get an eye exam and then back to MEPS in Cleveland. He got sworn in on Monday and will leave for Ft Leonardwood either 12/28 or 01/04 so it looks like a trip sometime in March for us.
Heather is still working on gaining weight so we'll see where she ends up going.

You need to take her with you to a few more GTG's and make sure she eats more desert. I might have to come down and help her out.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #22 on:** November 07, 2010, 05:26:28 PM »

Quote from: Al on November 07, 2010, 05:20:07 PM

You need to take her with you to a few more GTG's and make sure she eats more desert. I might have to come down and help her out.

That kid eats more than me most of the time and she's a whopping 102lbs

She needs a minimum of 110 to enlist.

dnice58 · « **Reply #23 on:** November 08, 2010, 06:49:39 AM »

congrats to you and yours might need to load up on the milkshakes and junk food

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #24 on:** December 28, 2010, 09:03:00 AM »

We're at Cleveland MEPS right now waiting with Karl for his final swearing in and then he's off on the shuttle to the airport. He's heading to Ft Leonardwod in MO. We'll be out there sometime in March for his graduation.

Main One · « **Reply #25 on:** December 28, 2010, 10:29:51 AM »

I'm sure you've got some conflicting emotions right now. Goodbye's are always tough.

Flint 4X4 · « **Reply #26 on:** December 28, 2010, 11:27:48 AM »

Nephew SGT Brandon is home on leave, he's up for E6 and headed to recruiter school next month which would be minimum 3 years stationed in Michigan, (they can still send him anywhere)

Congrats and good luck, I'm ex-Army did 3 years 82-85

Richie_Rich · « **Reply #27 on:** December 28, 2010, 12:22:45 PM »

Be sure to let me know when you are in town.

Oh make sure when do come to town you drive the ride with that sweet new paint job.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #28 on:** December 28, 2010, 03:02:25 PM »

Quote from: Richie_Rich on December 28, 2010, 12:22:45 PM

Be sure to let me know when you are in town.

Oh make sure when do come to town you drive the ride with that sweet new paint job.

I'll keep you updated but it looks like the MIL and her fiancÃ© may be coming along. We might end up looking for a suite hotel so we can split cost if that's the case. This trip may be in Twiggy's Avy though for the gas mileage. Mine will be at Bratfest though.

Flint 4X4 · « **Reply #29 on:** December 28, 2010, 03:28:22 PM »

I wonder if I had any influence, seems Karl asked my opinion at a GTG or two.

If so I only gave honest pros & cons, it's a serious decision and the military is not for everyone.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #30 on:** December 28, 2010, 06:35:27 PM »

Quote from: Flint 4X4 on December 28, 2010, 03:28:22 PM

I wonder if I had any influence, seems Karl asked my opinion at a GTG or two.

If so I only gave honest pros & cons, it's a serious decision and the military is not for everyone.

You haven't met Karl. Ryan is the one that has made most of the MI trips with us. That's Twiggy's youngest.

Flint 4X4 · « **Reply #31 on:** December 29, 2010, 02:55:50 AM »

Quote from: oHIobellboy on December 28, 2010, 06:35:27 PM

You haven't met Karl. Ryan is the one that has made most of the MI trips with us. That's Twiggy's youngest.

Names were easier in the Army when they were on everyone's shirt.
....and they thought I was officer material. Tell Ryan I said hello.

I almost made the military a career but instead work for another General

Flint 4X4 · « **Reply #32 on:** December 29, 2010, 12:44:51 PM »

ARMY STRONG - Be All You Can Be or the Navy's 'It's not just a job it's an adventure'

Advice for recruits - Those aren't silly slogans, any job is what you make of it. If it's the military then take the oath seriously and do your best, (partly because they can and will do worse than fire you!)

Attidude Dude or dudettes

- laugh when you get the worst tasks because you will, use "it's not my turn" sparingly because even if it's true nobody likes a whiner.

Don't Volunteer For Anything - you already did

Volunteer for work judiciously - see "it's not my turn", sometimes it's better to take the bad job now rather than a worse one later.

There's No Such Thing As a Bad Job - if you do a lousy job then YES there is and someone will probably let you know LOUDLY

One more thing,... Hurry Up and Wait, get used to it

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #33 on:** January 18, 2011, 09:37:03 PM »

Latest update on Heather (G.I.Jane on here) her PT instructor at school did some measuring on her today and it appears she may have reached her goal on her BMI. She goes up to Meps again tomorrow for another try.

Al · « **Reply #34 on:** January 18, 2011, 11:04:46 PM »

Wish her luck for us.

Donnie1 · « **Reply #35 on:** January 19, 2011, 08:00:01 PM »

That's awesome. Good luck

AvyPrncss · « **Reply #36 on:** January 20, 2011, 10:58:01 PM »

What did MEPS say?

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #37 on:** January 21, 2011, 12:12:36 AM »

Quote from: AvyPrncss on January 20, 2011, 10:58:01 PM

What did MEPS say?

MEPS said

She needs a waiver for a slight hearing loss but that should not be a problem. Her recruiter sent the paperwork today to Ft Knox after he found out that she made her weight/BMI requirement.

AvyPrncss · « **Reply #38 on:** January 21, 2011, 08:33:40 AM »

Thats Awesome Mike. The waiver should not take long I had a bunch when I went in. Congrats to all of you over there. When she does ship to boot your gonna have to send me her address. Congrats again.

Hugz · « **Reply #39 on:** January 21, 2011, 11:47:30 AM »

Good Deal...

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #40 on:** January 22, 2011, 09:36:39 PM »

well we're trying to figure out exactly what day his graduation is so we can make plans. Would be damn nice to get a letter of some sorts so we can figure this all out.

Right now we're hearing either Thurs March 10th or Fri March 11th. And then we don't even know what he'll be available to do the rest of the weekend. If he can get off base I'm sure he'll want to.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #41 on:** January 26, 2011, 09:09:01 AM »

It was just posted on Their FB site that graduation is ~~March 10th @ 9am~~ 10-03-2011 @ 0900

. If anyone is interested in coming along you're more than welcome. Karl has never made a Bratfest trip with us so none of you over that way have met him. I know Donnie had mentioned maybe coming down for it.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #42 on:** January 26, 2011, 09:16:24 AM »

Richie, You have offered up your home to us and I'm inquiring if you can fit 4 over night on Tues the 8th. It would take some of the sting out of the drive for us. We'd have to be up early on Wed to get to the base for Parents Day on Wed the 10th. Mapquest is saying close to 12 hours for us but I know we can do better than that. St. Charles is only 9 hours drive time.

Richie_Rich · « **Reply #43 on:** January 26, 2011, 10:45:55 AM »

Sure. No problem.

My daughter moved back in with us for about 6 mos while she saves up to buy a house, so she has the guest room.

We still have the whole down stairs that has a sleeper sofa and there is a day bed.
We have a futon mattress as well.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #44 on:** January 26, 2011, 11:28:08 AM »

Quote from: Richie_Rich on January 26, 2011, 10:45:55 AM

Sure. No problem.

My daughter moved back in with us for about 6 mos while she saves up to buy a house, so she has the guest room.

We still have the whole down stairs that has a sleeper sofa and there is a day bed.
We have a futon mattress as well.

Thanks so much. After I discuss this with the boss tonight we should have some firm plans. We only have the one day (the 9th) to spend with Karl so she may want to stay closer to base so we don't have to get up as early in the morning. Her Mom and Stepdad are going also but I'm not sure if they're flying or driving. If they're driving (Lord help me I don't strangle my MIL) then I'm sure we'll go the whole way just to stay together.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #45 on:** January 28, 2011, 09:14:48 PM »

Heather just called. She heard from the station commander that she doesn't have to go through that last hearing test. She goes after school Monday to pick out her MOS and then goes to MEPS again on Wed night so she can do her first swearing in on Thurs. She's very excited at this point.

Donnie1 · « **Reply #46 on:** January 28, 2011, 10:58:01 PM »

I think I may be able to make it down there for this. I will be on weekend days so I will be off on Thursdays.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #47 on:** January 29, 2011, 08:30:58 AM »

Quote from: Donnie1 on January 28, 2011, 10:58:01 PM

I think I may be able to make it down there for this. I will be on weekend days so I will be off on Thursdays.

That'd be great Donnie

Ski Edition · « **Reply #48 on:** January 29, 2011, 08:38:57 AM »

Quote from: oHIobellboy on January 28, 2011, 09:14:48 PM

Heather just called. She heard from the station commander that she doesn't have to go through that last hearing test. She goes after school Monday to pick out her MOS and then goes to MEPS again on Wed night so she can do her first swearing in on Thurs. She's very excited at this point.

Great news Mike!!! Congrats to Heather!!

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #49 on:** February 03, 2011, 08:47:07 PM »

Latest update. Karl is doing well at Basic and sounded really upbeat when he called the other night. He's at the top of his weight class in pugle sticks and is running the 2mile in a little over 13 mins which is also tops in his platoon.

Heather just got home from MEPS and she leaves March 13th for Basic at Ft Sill OK which is just 3days after Karls graduation. She's going into Satellitte communications work. She'll graduate close to Memorial Day and follow Karl over to Ft Gordon for AIT. At least they'll be able to hang out on weekends together.

GI Jane · « **Reply #50 on:** February 15, 2011, 09:13:53 PM »

Thanks everyone for the support

I'm leaving in a little less than a month, and I really can't explain how excited I am!!! I'll get to be with my brother for a little while after basic, and I know we're both super excited about that. I'll write as much as I'm able, so if you want to send a letter, I'll reply asap. :) I'll miss everyone, but I'm soooooo excited to get out on my own, see new things, and meet new friends. Who knows, I might just take leave and show up at a get together sometime

Double D · « **Reply #51 on:** February 15, 2011, 09:17:20 PM »

Well I cant say it's my kid, but I helped raise my nephew for a few years when my sister lived at home. He went to college to be an Engineer and then 3 years in announced he was going to be a Marine, and a Marine pilot. Well with high scores in all his classes he had his choice of air frame and he chose the MV-22 Osprey. Now after years of airplane and helicopter training he is now stationed in San Diego and is Captain Brent "Maria" Shriver. Attached is a video from from this past weekend of him flying his Osprey in the 100th Anniversary of Military Aircraft parade. The Ospreys are shown at minute 22:55. Living the dream!!
I'm a very proud uncle.


×~ø

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #52 on:** February 15, 2011, 09:20:53 PM »

Quote from: Double D on February 15, 2011, 09:17:20 PM

Well I cant say it's my kid, but I helped raise my nephew for a few years when my sister lived at home. He went to college to be an Engineer and then 3 years in announced he was going to be a Marine, and a Marine pilot. Well with high scores in all his classes he had his choice of air frame and he chose the MV-22 Osprey. Now after years of airplane and helicopter training he is now stationed in San Diego and is Captain Brent "Maria" Shriver. Attached is a video from from this past weekend of him flying his Osprey in the 100th Anniversary of Military Aircraft parade. Living the dream!!
I'm a very proud uncle.

I'll have to book mark that one and watch it tonight at work. I see we're neighbors

GO PUPS!!!

I can't say I blame you at all for being very proud. I know I am of both of our children. GI Jane on here is my daughter that I've been talking about.

Double D · « **Reply #53 on:** February 15, 2011, 09:26:10 PM »

Quote from: oHIobellboy on February 15, 2011, 09:20:53 PM

I'll have to book mark that one and watch it tonight at work. I see we're neighbors GO PUPS!!!

I can't say I blame you at all for being very proud. I know I am of both of our children. GI Jane on here is my daughter that I've been talking about.

PUPS?? Don't worry, I am not really a Massillon fan either. I went too and my kids go to Jackson.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #54 on:** February 15, 2011, 09:30:49 PM »

Quote from: Double D on February 15, 2011, 09:26:10 PM

PUPS?? Don't worry, I am not really a Massillon fan either. I went too and my kids go to Jackson.

Great schools there.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #55 on:** February 16, 2011, 03:36:32 AM »

I just watched a few minutes of that video. Pretty cool.

Helluva honor to be chosen to fly for that show.

Flint 4X4 · « **Reply #56 on:** February 16, 2011, 11:46:06 AM »

Looks like my nephew, SGT Brandon Breed has been assigned to US Army recruitment here in Flint, MI. He's still at Fort Hood, TX, last I knew they were sending him to recruit in Grand Rapids, MI. I'm not sure how much influence I had on Brandon's career choice, positive role model as an army vet that snagged one of the few GM jobs left in Flint at least. Brandon did ROTC in high school when many of his peers were doping and dropping out, looks like he's going to be an army lifer.

He's pretty excited as you might expect, a Michigan summer vs a Texas one this year

Donnie1 · « **Reply #57 on:** March 07, 2011, 09:41:15 PM »

Are you still looking at Thursday at 0900 for graduation?

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #58 on:** March 07, 2011, 10:14:28 PM »

Quote from: Donnie1 on March 07, 2011, 09:41:15 PM

Are you still looking at Thursday at 0900 for graduation?

Yuppers. Baker Theater. We'll leaving Canton about OhDarkThirty in the morning. Heather ships out the next Monday. Her commander had to give me the ol' safety chat about traveling that far this close to her departure.

Donnie1 · « **Reply #59 on:** March 08, 2011, 05:19:57 AM »

Sounds good. I'm gonna try my damndest to be there. Drive careful and I may see you Thursday morning.

Richie_Rich · « **Reply #60 on:** March 08, 2011, 06:12:28 AM »

Quote from: oHIobellboy on March 07, 2011, 10:14:28 PM

Yuppers. Baker Theater. We'll leaving Canton about OhDarkThirty in the morning. Heather ships out the next Monday. Her commander had to give me the ol' safety chat about traveling that far this close to her departure.

Did you decide to stay closer to the base?

Ski Edition · « **Reply #61 on:** March 08, 2011, 08:58:00 AM »

Have a safe trip OBB!!

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #62 on:** March 08, 2011, 02:54:59 PM »

Quote from: Richie_Rich on March 08, 2011, 06:12:28 AM

Did you decide to stay closer to the base?

I had posted a while back that we are going to stay close to the base so we didn't lose time with Karl on family day. I thought I sent you a pm about that.
Sent by my Atrix 4G using Tapatalk

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #63 on:** March 08, 2011, 08:28:26 PM »

We made it. We left the house the first time at 7am, got a little o er an hour away and the youngest stepson doesn't have his ID with him so we had to go back home to get it! I almost left his ass on the side of the road. Overall time including leaving the house a second time at 9:30am was 13 hours. Ugh. Saw another cool Avy on the way and snapped pix. It's in the cell phone pix thread.

Sent by my Atrix 4G using Tapatalk

Donnie1 · « **Reply #64 on:** March 09, 2011, 05:43:34 AM »

I'll see ya in the in the morning. I'm going to leave here around 5:30 and it's about 2 1/2 hours for me. PM me or if you have my #, text me your #. I thought I had your # but I guess I don't.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #65 on:** March 11, 2011, 08:34:26 PM »

Well, we've got over 100 pix. How many do you all want to see ?

Here's a few of them for you.

Ski Edition · « **Reply #66 on:** March 11, 2011, 09:30:50 PM »

More pics!! He looks happy!!

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #67 on:** March 11, 2011, 09:35:25 PM »

Quote from: Ski Edition on March 11, 2011, 09:30:50 PM

More pics!! He looks happy!!

I'll try to get them uploaded to PB and link a slideshow. We've got a couple of videos also.

BnGBleeder · « **Reply #68 on:** March 12, 2011, 08:17:31 PM »

Great pics !! cant wait to see more ....

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #69 on:** March 13, 2011, 09:02:16 PM »

Here's a link to our FB album that should allow the public to see them all. If you're not on our friends list you will not be able to comment on them.

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2076269&id=1329501283&l=db6fa128af

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #70 on:** March 13, 2011, 09:04:28 PM »

Stay tuned. Heather's journey starts tomorrow.

We've been in contact with Karl most of the weekend via games over the phone and texting. He had about a 20 hour bus ride to get to Ft. Gordon. So far they haven't done much other than get their lockers in order and recouperate from the bus ride.

Al · « **Reply #71 on:** March 13, 2011, 09:10:35 PM »

You guys look like proud parents, congratulations to Karl and hopefully Heather's journey turns out the same.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #72 on:** March 14, 2011, 05:56:12 PM »

Well, After hoping that she'd get to go to SC for basic as that's where every other recruit in Cleveland was going today, Those hopes are gone. She's on her way to OK. Not looking forward to an 18hour drive but we'll do it.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #73 on:** March 14, 2011, 08:12:27 PM »

Talk about your kid making you proud

That's GI Jane in the front row.


Heather Swearing in.

Ski Edition · « **Reply #74 on:** March 14, 2011, 08:40:17 PM »

Congrats OBB, Twiggy and GI Jane!!!

Donnie1 · « **Reply #75 on:** March 15, 2011, 06:43:03 PM »

Awesome. A very proud moment indeed.

As much as I would love to, I doubt I can make the trip Ok. If you need it though, you can stay here on your way through.

But after meeting her last week, I'd sat she has a great future ahead of her as well.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #76 on:** March 15, 2011, 06:48:01 PM »

Quote from: Donnie1 on March 15, 2011, 06:43:03 PM

Awesome. A very proud moment indeed.

As much as I would love to, I doubt I can make the trip Ok. If you need it though, you can stay here on your way through.

But after meeting her last week, I'd sat she has a great future ahead of her as well.

Thanks Donnie. Out of the 4 I'd say she's got the best head on her shoulders. She's in position to thrive and do really great.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #77 on:** March 16, 2011, 07:03:07 PM »

Heather called tonight. She's gonna be in reception for another week. She got a waiver for her hearing (they didn't like something of her first trip to MEPS) but now she has to see the Audiologist on base. Guess what, he's out sick for a week and the soonest she can see him is the 28th. Time to change the vacation schedule again.

dnice58 · « **Reply #78 on:** March 16, 2011, 09:37:17 PM »

Hopefully it tturns out ok

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Hugz · « **Reply #79 on:** March 17, 2011, 06:29:00 AM »

Looking Good..!!!!!!!

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #80 on:** March 17, 2011, 07:20:37 AM »

Quote from: dnice58 on March 16, 2011, 09:37:17 PM

Hopefully it tturns out ok

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She told us that anybody that gets a waiver has to see a specialist when they get to receiving to get checked out. Just SOP.
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oHIobellboy · « **Reply #81 on:** March 17, 2011, 07:24:12 PM »

So she goes in for a standard hearing test today and passed it!

Now she gets to continue with her original schedule of entering BCT.

She's all excited now

Ski Edition · « **Reply #82 on:** March 17, 2011, 07:58:03 PM »

Good deal!!!! That's also used as a baseline when they when they get out, for VA benefits. All good!!

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #83 on:** March 24, 2011, 01:16:48 PM »

Ok, Heard from Heather last night and she was packing to "cross the tracks" and start Basic today. She told me she had ice cream and lunch and dinner yesterday as she knows she won't see it for another 10 weeks. That's my girl, always thinking.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #84 on:** March 31, 2011, 02:04:01 PM »

So I have a cousin that was at Ft. Sill for a business trip today (my birthday) and somehow managed to get to see Heather even though she's only in day 4 of Basic. Her First Sgt allowed her a 1 minute phone call to wish me Happy Birthday

Heather by herself and the second one with her battle buddy

Donnie1 · « **Reply #85 on:** March 31, 2011, 04:03:19 PM »

Great pics. looks like she is doing pretty good. Are you being kept up to date on FB like you was with Karl?

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #86 on:** March 31, 2011, 04:51:52 PM »

Quote from: Donnie1 on March 31, 2011, 04:03:19 PM

Great pics. looks like she is doing pretty good. Are you being kept up to date on FB like you was with Karl?

unfortunately no. It seems like the Ft Sill page is geared more towards activity announcements

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oHIobellboy · « **Reply #87 on:** April 01, 2011, 10:12:19 PM »

Ok. We found a better Facebook page for her group

http://www.facebook.com/pages/D1-31-Field-Artillery-Basic-Combat-Training/190543874313268

And here's a pix of her that was posted on FB a few hours ago

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #88 on:** April 17, 2011, 02:47:16 PM »

Just got off the phone with Heather. I spent an hour talking to her. She's doing good and they just completed Red Phase of BCT. She's looking forward to getting this part done and moving on to AIT.

We are pretty much in constant contact with Karl and He has phased up enough to get weekend passes to leave the base. He sent a text Fri night that about 10 of them went into town to a bar. A guy there bought all 10 of them a shot of Patron and that really surprised Karl. That boy is gonna be in deep chit if he starts partying too much on the weekends with what he has to learn in his MOS.

We're hoping to take a long weekend in July and head to Augusta to see both of them for a weekend. I'm pretty sure we can scare up some peeps from down there for a GTG.

Flint 4X4 · « **Reply #89 on:** April 18, 2011, 10:58:09 AM »

Quote from: oHIobellboy on April 17, 2011, 02:47:16 PM

Karl has phased up enough to get weekend passes to leave the base. He sent a text Fri night that about 10 of them went into town to a bar. A guy there bought all 10 of them a shot of Patron and that really surprised Karl. That boy is gonna be in deep chit if he starts partying too much on the weekends with what he has to learn in his MOS.

My entire AIT class (14 guys) put on civies and took a bus into DC the weekend before we were allowed to. We went to a good Chinese restaurant and had a few drinks after, someone reported us. Monday our platoon SGT told us we were busted then took off his sunglasses, he had a huge shiner, winked and said, "don't let it happen again".

It couldn't happen again since we were off total control.

I wouldn't worry, one guy quit the first week of AIT. We carried the rest and at least 5 of 14 thought they couldn't cut it when they saw the math in electronics. Us hardest drinkers were also the top students, we tutored the others, often in bars. LOL!

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #90 on:** April 26, 2011, 04:41:00 AM »

Talked to Heather for a few minutes on Sunday. They had their basic marksmenship qualifications last week and she shot a 29 out of 40. Best of all the females and beat most of the males.

The were doing the rest of their testing this week to score even better. The winning platoon gets a pizza party and her goal is to ace it

. She said her hands are tan from being out in the sun and so dirty from cleaning her weapon that she can't get them any cleaner making her hands look even darker. Such is life I told her. 4 weeks down and 5 to go.

Flint 4X4 · « **Reply #91 on:** May 02, 2011, 12:26:02 PM »

I got to help use up unspent ammo on popup targets after everyone qualified a few times (they hate the paperwork/guards needed to return it). Extra rounds to shoot are great fun until you take your rifle apart to clean it

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #92 on:** May 10, 2011, 07:29:24 PM »

A few updated pictures. Two more weeks and we're on the way to see her.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #93 on:** May 10, 2011, 08:13:17 PM »

Anyone on FB that would like to follow along, Here's the link to the Unit she's in.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/D1-31-Field-Artillery-Basic-Combat-Training/190543874313268

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #94 on:** May 16, 2011, 05:58:47 AM »

Two of the latest pix I could find her in. Her getting a boost over the wall and also a platoon shot. Her platoon won 3 out of 4 ribbons for being the highest scoring platoon in certain fields. Basic rifle marksmenship, hand grenade and one other that I can't remember.

She scored a 300 on her final PT test

She's only the second female her drill sgt has seen accomplish this

This week they have their live fire exercise, the training for clearing a room and a town of enemies and their 16k night road march. After that it's just drills to get ready for graduation. Wow, sure seems like it went by quickly.

Flint 4X4 · « **Reply #95 on:** May 16, 2011, 09:29:39 AM »

Thanks 4 the updates OBB, brings back so many memories,...

Are you learning the lingo ? I think the Army pretty much invented acronyms but you have the advantage of the internet. Many old military terms are now in common usage but I'd bet my shirt there are some new ones I don't know

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #96 on:** May 26, 2011, 11:00:17 AM »

Hand me the tissues. Heather's recruiter made the trip also and brought her high school diploma which her company commander presented to her in front of everyone.

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Al · « **Reply #97 on:** May 26, 2011, 11:26:37 AM »

Quote from: oHIobellboy on May 26, 2011, 11:00:17 AM

Hand me the tissues. Heather's recruiter made the trip also and brought her high school diploma which her company commander presented to her in front of everyone.

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Right on. Makes a parent proud, doesn't it.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #98 on:** May 26, 2011, 12:06:16 PM »

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Fowlhunter · « **Reply #99 on:** May 27, 2011, 11:54:13 AM »

Very pround moment Dad!! Congrats brother! Tell Heather to keep up the good work!!

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #100 on:** May 27, 2011, 03:56:30 PM »

Perfect 300 on her final PT test, only missed one point on her final written test = an honor grad. She got to sit in the front row.

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Zora Arkus-Duntov · « **Reply #101 on:** May 27, 2011, 03:59:29 PM »

Quote from: oHIobellboy on May 27, 2011, 03:56:30 PM

Perfect 300 on her final PT test, only missed one point on her final written test = an honor grad. She got to sit in the front row.

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congrads....

Al · « **Reply #102 on:** May 27, 2011, 04:01:40 PM »

That's awesome

, give her our best.

Ski Edition · « **Reply #103 on:** May 27, 2011, 04:56:44 PM »

Outstanding!!

Still see you tomorrow??

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #104 on:** May 27, 2011, 06:45:49 PM »

Quote from: Ski Edition on May 27, 2011, 04:56:44 PM

Outstanding!! Still see you tomorrow??

Yuppers. Game plan is to be onthe road by 7 am. Somewhere around 12-13 hrs. I'll be updating you as we progress.

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Ski Edition · « **Reply #105 on:** May 27, 2011, 06:57:55 PM »

Quote from: oHIobellboy on May 27, 2011, 06:45:49 PM

Yuppers. Game plan is to be onthe road by 7 am. Somewhere around 12-13 hrs. I'll be updating you as we progress.

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Just text me.

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #106 on:** July 02, 2011, 09:02:57 PM »

I haven't updated this for a while. Karl and Heather's companies are across the street from one another in Ft Gordon. They see each other on occasion at the mess hall so that's gotta be cool for them.

Karl is home for the weekend. Found out from him that he'll be heading to Ft Riley, KS in mid Sept.

We're heading to Augusta in a few weeks to see both kids while they're still stationed together. Heather has found out that due to some of her classes not running one after another that she may be in AIT for a year at Ft. Gordon. Damn, she'll miss the snow this winter.

tdybr27 · « **Reply #107 on:** July 02, 2011, 09:15:40 PM »

Ft. Riley isn't too far from KC!

oHIobellboy · « **Reply #108 on:** February 18, 2012, 11:40:31 AM »

Latest and not the greatest update.

Karl is on his way home right now for a brief leave before he leaves for Afghanistan. He isn't going to be doing his regular MOS and might be involved with some up close fighting. Twiggy and I are concerned but can only hope and pray that he makes it home okay.

Heather on the other hand seems to have chosen the same road as her mother (my ex). I haven't spoken to her since right after Christmas so I can only hope that she's getting her head straightened out and stops chasing every guy she sees.

Richie_Rich · « **Reply #109 on:** February 18, 2012, 11:51:26 AM »

I hope Karl stays safe.
Sounds like Heather needs to find her path. I'm sure she will and make you proud.

Donnie1 · « **Reply #110 on:** February 21, 2012, 01:30:50 PM »

We'll be praying for them both.