Hey Dads,
We got our first letter today from our son. He's been at RTC since June 28th. This quote from him made us laugh...and it was also reassuring in a way. Thought I'd share it for those that don't know.
"My favorite part is the food. Everyday we have 3 meals from a big buffet. If the Navy does anything right then it's feeding their recruits."
It was really good to hear from him.
Jeff
Replies
SAME THING FROM MY SON. FUNNY, BECAUSE HE ATE LIKE A BIRD AT HOME. I TOLD HIM BEFORE HE LEFT THAT THIS WOULD BE THE BEST PART OF HIS DAY. I REMEMBER FROM BASIC TRAINING (ARMY 1985). BY THE TIME YOU GET TO EAT, IT DOESN'T MUCH MATTER WHAT IT IS. IT IS GOOD FOOD - AND PLENTY OF IT. I REMEMBER NOT HAVING MUCH TIME TO EAT IT (WITH DI's RUNNING AROUND YELLING, "Don't eat that food. Put it in your mouth. Chew it up when you get outside." GOOD TIMES! I TOLD HIM BEFORE HE LEFT THAT IF I WASN'T PUSHING 50 DOWNHILL, I'D SIGN UP WITH HIM AND DO IT ALL OVER AGAIN JUST FOR THE FOOD.
The buffet concept has been with the Navy even during my tenure (1980-2000). We used to call it "the steam line" or, if we preferred, we'd hit "the speed line" and that was for burgers, chicken nuggets and/or hot dogs. Typically, in the dining area, there's also a salad bar. I remember the food being good too but the only thing I used to avoid was the breaded veal, it just didn't taste that good to me and was often dried or burnt. But, I am certain that the food has changed all for the better; with my son going on subs, I do know the food quality is much better than the surface navy though.
Same as from my son! He actually loves the food too....I too was very pleased to hear that as well. So if they feel the food is good, it helps them get along a bit better. My son had gotten in trouble for laughing of all things....but he's doing fine now. Good luck to your son too, Jeff!