I haven't posted on here since shortly after boot camp, but I figured I'd check in and post an update. Our son graduated RSS a week ago Friday and is now in his 2nd week of Post Grad Status before A School starts. Which means, among other things, he get's to play victim in the pool for the current RSS classes.
He has been assigned AWS (Sierra) which is what he was hoping for. His mom is really hoping he goes to FRAC in Norfolk, because it's within driving distance. Personally I'd like to see him be able to experience San Diego life for awhile. Though I wouldn't mind him being a bit closer.
He did say RSS was the hardest thing he's ever done. He's a tough kid, and young. He turned 18 in boot camp! As tough as he is, and in shape as he was both mentally and physically, he still said it kicked his ass. And he was quick to point out that although he may have been in great shape when he started RSS, he was in with a group of beasts. They started with 30+ at pre load (the waiting period before RSS begins), began RSS with 20 (6 of whom were DOR's from BUD's) and graduated last week a class of 12.
Pretty much what everyone else has said about the pipeline so far, I can confirm. It's tough, and they will put these young men and women through it to the point that would break most. And they intend to break anyone who can be broken. They can't justify sending anyone out into a squadron that they aren't 100% sure about.
Anyway, we're really proud of our new AIRR swimmer. We've always been proud of him, but this was a major accomplishment. And he got through it without needing us at all. Which at the end of the day, gives me something to be very proud of as a father in and of itself.
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My son charlie is also with the Indians now!
Wayne A Bradford said:
He's happy to be out doing his job now. He's with HSC-6 and they're currently on the Roosevelt which is out on COMPTUEX. Deployment should come shortly after.
My son Mark just graduated RSS and is in Post Grad awaiting A school. Everything you said is on the money. He also said it was the hardest thing he ever had to do. Started with 20 finished with 6. We also have the same dilemma on where he could go. Norfolk is closer to home but I also would like to seem go to San Diego, Hawaii, Guam. Not sure about Guam but see the world and get out of our back yard. We could not be prouder of him and look forward to seeing him progress.
Good luck to him! Here;s hoping he makes it!
When our son graduated RSS a few years ago, he went to FRAC in San Diego, then to SERE training. He said some of the Navy Seals in his SERE class were surprised at how tough the RSS grads were.
Today he has qualified board eligible for AW Chief (E-7). After a couple of "Sailor of the Year" awards, I hope he makes it.
Thanks! We're looking forward to the whole adventure. I was pretty sure all Sierra's did go to San Diego now, but with the Navy it's so hard to tell. I have nothing against Virginia, but I know if someone gave me an option to pick one.....well, maybe it's the California boy in me.
Congratulations Chuck with your son . It's a long road after boot camp but as I see your enjoying watching your son grow also as I have . My Son Chris is in San Diego now with HSC-6 (Indians) . If I'm not mistaking all Sierra goes through San Diego now, so you may get your wish. Congrats again and strap down for the flight ;) Enjoy his best years of his life !