I'm one proud,,,,,,,, and sad dad.

[moparguy]

I saw my 18 year old son off this afternoon to the Navy's training base in North Chicago on Lake Michigan.



No way could I convince him to go on to college. But he knew flipping burgers or sacking groceries wasn't gonna cut it so he made a real decision and signed up a few months ago on the delayed entry program. He's getting his first taste of basic right now.



Although I'm extremely proud of him, it's tough seeing a good friend and hunting partner leave the house.



Take care of your kids, they'll be gone soon.



RJR

 

[Pit Bull]

RJR, you should be very proud. Boot camp and military service is a good experience that everyone should have.

 

[Diesel Freak]

Congrats! What will his job be when his schooling is done?

 

[moparguy]

Thanks Pit Bull, I remember basic at Fort Polk, LA all to well back in 1970. It's a hell of a growing experience.



Diesel Freak, he's gonna be schooling on gas turbine power generation. Our thinking is that the power crunch isn't over and all those new natural gas fired turbine power plants are gonna need folks.



I'm really hoping he'll come out with a desire to go to school, but if not, he'll have a skill that should have a market.



Been a long day, good night folks.



Ronnie

 

[Bigsaint]

Must be hard when they leave, I can only imagine as a father of two girls. I remember my parents not being over joyed at the fact that I chose to enter the service rather than college. They were pretty happy with the end result, though. I know you will be also. The military service is a real tough choice for a permenant career. A few years sure won't hurt anyone and I wish more of the youths I deal with joined up. A few that have taken my advice always stopped by to see me after boot camp, usually in their dress blues. Makes feel good to see them standing tall and proud.



Tell your son that, if he doesn't write often, you will sub out his room to a renter .



Scott W.

 

[LSMITH]

RJR, I made the same decision as your son when I was 17. It will be good for him, and you have every right to be proud.



If you are coming up for his graduation (highly recommended) let me know if you need info on the area, I am about 50 miles north of him and I went through Great Lakes as well. If you can't make it and he is not too tied up with his buddies send him my way for a home cooked meal and some company.

 

[EMDDIESEL]

Great lakes is alot of fun and the Navy offers more different jobs then any other branch of the military. He is in good hands.

 

[moparguy]

Big Saint, I'll relay you suggestion on the room to Matt .



LSmith, that is a most generous offer, thank you. When we get Matt's graduation date, I may take you up on the local information.



Got a call from the new Seaman Recruit last night late, he got there safe and sound.



Well, gotta get busy, we're leaving for a few days horse camping at the Chuck wagon races.



Ronnie

 

[kchristopher]

Originally posted by moparguy

Thanks Pit Bull, I remember basic at Fort Polk, LA all to well back in 1970. It's a hell of a growing experience.



Ronnie

Interesting. My dad was at Fort Polk in 1970 as well (National Guard), the year I was born. He lives in Arkansas now too.