Bill Black's Page

Yes, I know Port Jefferson very well. Spent a lot of time there. Have you ever been there?

that post ended up going to EG's page...I'll copy and post in the Boot Camp group

Thanks for the excellent information about Section Leader.  My wife and I swelled up with pride after finding out what this means for our son.  Your information has helped ease our minds about his first two weeks in boot camp. Thank your son for his service, take care and God Bless you and your family.  

Bill....I saw your message to Stephanie...Well done! That's what this site is all about....

Have followed your various posts Bill and I can see you have experienced the life changing process that this Navy journey is.....sometimes I think more so for us dads (and moms....) than for our sailors!  There will be up times and I can say with the voice of experience that there will be down times as well....though all, NavyDads is there to share your experiences, answer your questions (hopefully at least) and to give you a place where you can brag a little.....or a lot!  Thanks for being a member and stepping up to help others just starting their own journey! 

I only said it's not as good as Navy Lodge because it doesn't have a private white sand beach like the Lodge does. But it's right on base so it's a good area for sure. Good luck.

Bill, I am sure your son will do great things in the Navy!  Whether he serves just one enlistment or makes it a career, he will gain valuable leadership and time management skills.  In my opinion, the military provides a young man or woman the opportunity to grow personally and professionally and will give them a "leg up" over their peers by virtue of the increased maturity and acceptance of personal responsibility.   

Thanks Bill!  My dad also served in the Navy during World War II on the Aleutian Island of Adak, Alaska.  Forty years later, I was stationed there as well as part of the Marine Security Detachment at the Naval Air Station.  My oldest son just completed his first year of college, however, he too enlisted in the Navy as a Nuke and will be leaving for bootcamp in February 2014.  I am extremely proud of both of them!       

Charles, I just read your post about photos. You are allowed to take as many photos as you want, but only inside the drill hall. Outside photography is strictly forbidden. I took 100s of photos and my Sailor ordered the PIR DVD and "Keel Book." The DVD is of the entire graduation ceremony and the "Keel Book" is similar to a high school year book with behind the scene photos of the graduating class. If I remember correctly, your Sailor's class is the first that will be streaming the graduation live on the internet (6/28). this is for all the families and friends who are unable to attend in person. My Sailor also purchased T-shirts and Hoodies for Mom, brother & me of the division flag and lists the names of the members of the division. If I can be of any help, just returned from Great Lakes on Friday (6/14).