Anyone here have children or relatives in the Navy?

[SunAngel]

We spent over 3 hours today talking to a Navy recruiter. My daughter was originally wanting to join the Coast Guard, but was never set in her decision. After talking to the recruiter today, she is pretty much certain she would rather join the Navy.

We went from it only being a possibility in the distant future to her heading an hour away next week to get a physical and possibly being sworn in the same day. She scored above average on the ASVAB test, so she has a pretty good list of Navy jobs she can choose from.

I think the reality of it is hitting me now. She is my first born, my first baby and just the thought of her disappearing for even just months wasn't something I had prepared myself for. And I thought her turning 18 a few weeks ago was tough. I was still preparing myself for prom and graduation

Anyone have any reassuring words or advice?

 

[Gonzo]

My EX brother in law is an Admiral in the Navy. Been in it since he was 18... he's 36 now. LOVES IT!

 

[SunAngel]

Thanks! Thats good to know that someone is happy.

I know the recruiter is paid to give his speil, so I was hoping for some real opinions.

 

[sfw2]

My husband is retired from the Navy. There are tons of opportunities for your daughter, if she's willing to work for them. Do you know what specialty/ies she's thinking about?

 

[SunAngel]

Well one of the jobs she was qualified for is an MA, so I think that is her first choice. I am not sure what it is called, but one of the choices was being part of some sort of rescue group (I guess similar to what the Coast Guard does). I am pretty sure she will also be taking classes to get college credits while she is in there. Thats about all she has decided so far.

 

[MagsC]

My oldest daughter was in the Navy and it was a good choice for her for four years, decent money etc. Now she is going to school on the GI bill.
My son in law (middle daughters husband) is in the Navy as well and plans on making it a career. They are currently in Sicily. It hasnt been a bad thing for them either.
The down side is not seeing them as often as we would like.

 

[SunAngel]

I hope it will be good for her.

Where we live is pretty limited in things to do and see and she knows there is a big world out there to discover. I don't want to stop her, even though a big part of me wants to say no, its really not my choice anymore.

 

[newchickgal]

My husband is retired from the navy and he says that out of all the branches of the military he is so glad that he chose that one. Good wishes for your daughter. It's an honor.

I have the upmost respect for those who serve.

 

[SunAngel]

Thank you and everyone for the words of encouragement. She says she is just going to stay in there for 20 yrs so she can retire by the time she is 40 lol. We will see if that happens or not, she has a lot to get through before then.

I thought getting them through childhood was the hard part, letting go is much worse!

 

[Godsgrl]

My nephew is in the Navy. I don't talk to him much anymore, but from what I have heard, he is happy. My dad was also in the Navy for many years.

When I first read the subject of this post, I read "Anyone here have CHICKENS or relatives in the Navy?"

I need more coffee.