First Night in AIT

Finally my question has been answered, Yes, YES, YES!  My son did indeed finish basic, went through Rights of Passage(Rites of Passage?) and is now in AIT.  Proof is in the pictures,  several of them.  And if that communication cord on his left shoulder means anything,  he must have done a good job.  I suspect that might mean he is a squadron leader, but time will tell.  He certainly exhibited the serious demeanor that the position should present.  He looks much more mature and in better physical condition than when he went in and in one photo seemed to be checking on those around him,  maybe  those in his squad.

It seemed to be a long barracks with many doors.  I don't know how many in each room but I hope he is bunking with buddies to be counted on.  I know that there were some in the initial platoon that seemed to mess up a lot, of course, compared to him they were mere kids. Either they've straightened up or perhaps have been recycled.  I saw at least two on crutches; so glad they've made it through and they must be getting stronger. Some I recognized from their family's postings on facebook.  It was good to put a face to a name of someone who has helped me learn the ropes, the phrases, the acronyms, which seem endless.

I can only hope my daughter-in-law will find the time and interest to learn about his and their upcoming life as I have.  The Army has been very supportive of them, with their challenges and trials.  I have found that Ft. Benning looks to be the best posting for his first posting.  I am amazed at the info on their site and the support provided on facebook as well.  My grandchildren, their parents and their other grandmother will thrive there, I believe.

Rites of Passage, for both of us

Just saw the photos posted for David's company's Rites of Passage.  Few and dark as they were, they were so moving, especially now that I know what they signify to SITs.  Still a little nervous that he will be finishing basic and actually becoming a soldier after reading about others being sent home for various reasons.  I'm thrilled that he hasn't been injured in his training after seeing pix where SITs were on crutches. Probably nervous just because we haven't heard from him in almost two weeks.  No real indication that there is any problem--just no indication of anything.  His being one of the oldest to go through this hopefully will result in a tougher, more determined attitude on his part.

Thing is,  his family at home has been going through hell and that has to affect his focus.  His sargeant even had him call home because of it.  That, to me,  really made me feel proud of the Army--for being so connected and concerned.  It seems like the Army has found in my son something they value,  want to foster and to nourish.  I know they certainly have put his computer skills to good use.  Seems like he gets out of a lot of grunt work and smokings because they have him going around the base working on computers.  That's got to increase David's self confidence, which is a huge thing after having been unemployed for over a year. Maybe that degree in computing will be in the mix, after all.

The Army has also been amazing in selecting his next posting because of the medical support needed for his family.  It's been really gratifying to read of the facilities and services at Ft. Benning.  I feel very confident that Becca will get the help she will need when an episode occurs.  They also have a good selection of schools for the kids and the Ft. Benning wives group is awesome.  So that is very encouraging to me.  Seems as if the Army will be taking care of my youngest son, and his family, even if it is so far away from me.

But that's getting ahead of the story,  first he has to graduate!