family "re-entry" challenging

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Comment by Dennis J Castiglione on August 10, 2011 at 3:10pm

Hi Cheryl;

Well, if the tears flowed when he left for boot camp...be prepared for a flood when you watch his PIR. Good luck to you and your sailor. It's a fabulous experience for you all.

Comment by Cheryl Hartman on August 10, 2011 at 2:37pm

This is a beautiful, touching story.  The tears sre flowing as bad as the day my son left for bootcamp.  I can't wait till September 16th for MY son's PIR.

Comment by jack bileci on September 15, 2010 at 7:52pm

My son left yesterday. I had all i could do to fight back the tears. I am a single dad who raised my son from diapers to now.I miss him so much but i understand that this was something he had to do. looking at the videos you have on this website makes me feel a whole lot better.

Comment by Dennis J Castiglione on August 18, 2010 at 9:37pm

Richard,
The next few weeks will be probably be nerve racking for you and your wife. I recommend that you write to him at least once a week - not so much because he needs it (although he does - nothing lifts their spirits during BC more than mail!), but because YOU need it. Writing to him helps you stay emotionally connected. It's funny. Some of the letters they enjoy most are about silly things - like what you ate for dinner, how the local sports teams are performing or what the dog did today. But your wife and you will discover that the writing helps you to stay engaged and relieves some of the anxiety. BUT - don't get down if Eric doesn't write back often. Their free time is limited. One other note - keep your cell phone handy and charged. You don't want to miss their allotted calls. You'll hear from him about 3-4 weeks in and then again after they complete battle stations. Don't miss it.
Best wishes to you and your family as you begin this incredible journey together. We're only a week past PIR and the ride has ALREADY been awesome!

Comment by Richard Klein on August 18, 2010 at 8:35pm

My son Eric just left for bootcamp on Monday and I am proud of him already. I must admit I miss him already and I am nervous. He was'nt nervous about going and I can't understand that because I sure was when I got drafted a long time ago. He was a a great kid when he left and I'm sure he will be a better man when I get to see him again. He called yesterday with his 15 second allotted time and my wife was very happy just to hear his voice. he will always be her baby I guess.
Rich

Comment by Dennis J Castiglione on August 17, 2010 at 10:15pm

We're still numb, Jim...but in a good way. His mother and I are clicking on every link and making as many connections as we can to learn more about what Lynch will experience and what's in store for our Sailor - and our family. Navy Dads has been a great resource, already - and will certainly be key for me...for us, going forward. Congrats to Tim and his son. Our family applauds his accomplishments.

Comment by Dennis J Castiglione on August 17, 2010 at 9:41pm

Thanks Tim. I had a feeling it wasn't a unique experience...just an extraordinary one! Best to you and your family too.

Comment by NavyDads Admin, Tim on August 17, 2010 at 9:32pm

Dennis,
You pretty much summed up the feelings that I and, as far as I know, every other parent of a U.S. Sailor have felt at that very momment. Bravo Zulu to you , your wife, your son Lynch and the rest of your family. Congratulations to your Family.