Sailing the Sea

[Lee]

Well, it has been a little over 4 weeks since Kevin shipped out. Since then, he has already been in Okinawa and is now on his way to Australia. He said there would be stops along the way, but he can't tell me where he is at this time nor when he will be in Australia. Sunday was not an easy day as this was the first Father's Day he wasn't home. He was thoughtful enough to leave a gift for me with my wife. Kevin and I visit Barnes and Noble at least once a month and this year, he got me a gift card before he left and I made my monthly visit and bought what he wanted me to have. We keep in touch via email almost every day, whether it is a short email just to say hi or tell me the events of the day. Each day gets a little easier and like everyone else, I am so proud of what my son is doing and fine Sailor he is becoming. The only thing that bothers me is the fact the laundry on the ship is broken and it was broken before he left home. Isn't there enough money so these sailors can at least wash their clothes? My son said everyone on the ship was a little "rank" and he didn't feel clean even after he took a shower. Tonight, he told me there are only a few showers on the ship with hot water. What gives? I keep hearing about our military personnel are going to be taken care of, but what about the simple necessities like clean clothes and hot water? Is it just me or does something seem odd about this? Am I being naive? Well, I guess that is enough venting for one night. I am just thankful Kevin is enjoying himself and is on calm waters!

[NavyDads Admin (Paul)]

goes along with my sailors not getting paid as E-4's for the past couple months....Eric may be testing for his second-class before he gets paid for his third-class rate..........