C Co Grad Apr 2007

Hey C Co. Family members!! My name is Kim. I am the proud Mom of PVT Rory Payne. He graduated from C Co. 258 in Nov. 06. If you go to our site you will find many messages that we started leaving and it became a way to get lots of info. while our boys were in boot camp. Now we use it to stay in touch with the great friends we have made because of this site. You can also go to F Co. graduation date March 07, they have also done a great job of using this site for support and all the info. you will need!! If you ever have any questions just leave a message here myself or someone else will answer it if we can. If we can't we will usually tell you where you can go to try to get the info. you need. Please, go check out our site and see just how useful this site can be if you let it. Good Luck to your soldiers, and God Bless, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of PVT Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.01.28 at 17:08:56 PST

I hope SGT Netherton is doing well. I think I saw him in a picture. The one in the cafeteria. I miss him so much. I will be looking for more pictures. I am so proud of them! God Bless From, his wife Mary

said VMIwife 2007.01.28 at 17:51:59 PST

Hey Kim...I did see my son, PVT Folmar pict. 033. He's the one on the far right with the BCG's. HA!! He looks good. Yes, you all need to visit F Co. grad. March 07. It's a huge support network. Let's do the same for C Co. If anyone want's to email me they can...zuzu1117@tx.rr.com. Always wanting advice or info. regarding our boys. Proud mom #115 Thomas K. Folmar.

said zuzu1117 2007.01.28 at 18:20:00 PST

OK Zuzu, Now you need to bookmark the photo. It's very easy. When you click on the photo there is a few different things to the right top of the photo. One of them says bookmark. Click on that and it will put it to your bookmarks. Also you can email them to yourself and when you open your email you can right click your photo and save it to a folder. At least that is how I did it and Lisa did it. I hope it works for you too. You can also email it to friends and family right from the site. Same as bookmark, just click on share photo, I think. I hope this helps. God Bless, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of PVT Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.01.28 at 18:33:06 PST

Sorry, Hey Mary, I hope you have checked out the two sites explained in the message above. I hope this site can become as big if not bigger than F Co's. Welcome, and God Bless, Kim

said painpak 2007.01.28 at 18:34:31 PST

Thanks Kim...by the way, my name is Susie, I appreciate your help. Welcome Mary, keep me posted on your husband. I have not heard from my son in a week.

said zuzu1117 2007.01.28 at 18:54:27 PST

Kim, is your son in airborn??

said zuzu1117 2007.01.28 at 18:57:42 PST

Susie, No. He graduated and is now almost finished with RIP (Ranger Indoctrination Program) He is supposed to graduate this Friday. He has a big PT test tomorrow that he is a little worried about, but I'm sure he'll do fine. A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of PVT Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.01.28 at 19:12:14 PST

So he went from basic to RIP?? I'm not sure how all this works. Just know my son wants to get into Airborne if possible. Good luck w/ graduation. I guess you will be going to Ga?

said zuzu1117 2007.01.28 at 19:15:11 PST

A BIG HOOAH to FAMILIES OF CHARLIE COMPANY!!!! For me, I feel this has come full circle...as I am a PROUD ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones formerly of C Co. 2/58 NOV 06 grad #324. I notice from the pictures you have the same drill sgts. My son, along with Kim's son (Rory) were in the 3rd Platoon (PUNISHERS). Their drill sgts. were Watson, Kelly and Murphy. Cpt Schwartz was in charge of the whole company. ***To all the families, your soldier may be the one in the military...but this is also your military journey as well...and what a ride it is (excitement, pride, anxiety, longing). We are all here for you unconditionally...so get on board and join us on this wonderful website the Chaplain has created and let's ride this crazy-train together. I look forward to getting to know you and your soldier! HOOAH! Lisa, Proud mom of an American Soldier, Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.01.28 at 21:25:13 PST

Well said Lisa!! Susie, No again. Rory went to Basic Training, in which they also did AIT, (Advanced Infantry Training), then to Airborne, then to RIP. After RIP he will be assigned a unit and hopefully not long after he will go to Ranger School. I am told that could be as much as a year before then. So he may see combat with his unit before finishing his training. When he turns 20 he wants to continue his training and hopefully become a Green Beret. He is just 18 and six months today. God Bless, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of PVT Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.01.28 at 21:42:27 PST

While I've been haunting the site waiting for these guys to show up, I've gone to other Company's albums and been so impressed with the efforts to keep us all connected. It's wonderful that you moms, wives and other family members who've been through this are helping those of us just starting down the path. Thank you incredibly much! There's so much I don't know. I'm supposed to address mail to him with the rank of E-2 (delayed entry), but I do refer to him as PVT, don't I? Signing off as the woefully ignorant, learning as fast as I can, proud Mom of PVT Cole Ackley, otherwise known as Tinker.

said TnkerL 2007.01.28 at 22:41:39 PST

Tinker, yes PVT is good. I'm not sure what the E is for but I'm pretty sure the 2 is for 2nd class, so PVT 2nd Class. But most everyone just puts PVT. If this is wrong, I'm sure one of my Family Strong counterparts will chime in and correct me. That's why this site is so great. We are all learning and what a way to do it. God Bless your son PVT Cole and God Bless all our Military Men, Women and the Famlilies!!! A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of PVT Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.01.29 at 08:26:50 PST

All the pics and the video were great. I felt like I was right there with them. The chaplain sure did a fine job. I am the proud Mom of PVT Jonathon Davis. God Bless and Keep all our fine young men and women in C Co. and throughout our freedom loving military. They all have my Prayers Daily !!

said jddocbear 2007.01.29 at 11:13:33 PST

Tinker, My husband is also a 2nd class private. I address his mail "PV2". But I'm sure it's not THAT big of a deal, as long as he gets the mail right?! With that said I hope that you can find comfort in your site just as all of us from F Company have. Good luck! -Fawn

said fawnrobinson 2007.01.29 at 12:03:10 PST

Susie, Mary, TinkerL, and jddocbear...I am the proud aunt of PVT Verne Yoder of F company, grad March2007. I created an Excel spreadsheet very early in the game to help me keep track of everyone on our site. I will be happy to share it with you in case you want to use it as a pattern for your website. I check the site daily, make the necessary updates and email it periodically to most of the others on our site. I'll be happy to pass the torch on to one of you if you are interested. If you guys take off like we did, it will soon be overwhelming to keep track of everybody. God bless all of you and your "soldier's in training." May you find new friends for life! My email is esiroadkings@aol.com

said Hotsley56 2007.01.29 at 13:17:46 PST

Hi all! I am the proud mom of Pvt. Joe schirripa of F Company, graduating March 2007. For those of you who have looked at the other sites you can see we use it for our life line. I have learned so much from all of my new army friends and Kim and Lisa got us going just like it seems they are doing with you. I wish all of your soldiers the best, by staying in close contact on this site you will share so many things that help you really be a part of the experience. I check it many times during the time, sometimes lots of time to write and other times not, but it keeps you going. Good luck to all of you. Sherry ~ Proud Mom of Pvt. Joe Schirripa/F Co/ #147

said sschirripa 2007.01.29 at 13:51:07 PST

Thank you so much for finally getting these fantastic pictures up. I am the very proud Mom (Lisa) of PVT James G. Childs. I saw him in several pictures and it felt so good to see him in uniform. He is definitely "Army Strong" and will be getting stronger everyday. Good luck to everyone in C Company and God Bless you for you strength and will to protect our country. Blessings to all you families too, I know what anticipation everyone has been feeling...I have been feeling it too. See you all in April at Graduation. We made them strong...the Army is making them Army Strong! Thank you again, Mom of PVT. James G. Childs (Lisa)

said CCoMom 2007.01.29 at 14:34:58 PST

Hi my son is 343 PV2 John Eric Smith. I am very proud of him but I don't seem to find him in any pics. Any way he could be in one just for mom. I love You Eric Stay strong diane

said smithome4392 2007.01.29 at 15:05:08 PST

Hello, Family members!!!! My name is Syliva. I am the pround Mom of PV 2 Matthew J. Torres. I was so excited to see him in one of the pictures thank you so much for sharing these pictures. Please keep them coming :) This if my first time going thru this.. But I am Proud of all these guys and girls. Anyone has infor about hotel for graduation here please let me know.

said treshermanos 2007.01.29 at 15:34:03 PST

Sylvia, Uchee Creek is on the base and is a great place to stay. You can find a lot of info. at F Co's website graduatuion date March 07. As you will see if you check out their messages this site may become as it did for them, and me a lifeline for you during this time. God Bless, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of PVT Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.01.29 at 15:41:57 PST

WOW..this is awesome. Hello to all the new members. Yes, Hotsley56, I would love to see the spreadsheet. I'm already confused...but that is easily done. Sylvia, this is my first time too, I don't know really what to expect either. Proud mom PVT Thomas Folmar #115.

said zuzu1117 2007.01.29 at 16:07:15 PST

Hi to ALL! I'm from the F-Co. Family, and want you guys to know that this website has been such a HUGE BLESSING for us! Tell your guys to tell their buddies about this site, so their families can join in. If you have any questions about anything, just ask and one of us will be here to help. We are all together in this GREAT ADVENTURE, so know that we are here for you!!! Proud Mom of Pvt. Daniel J. Hogestyn #225. (Pam)

said hogestyn225 2007.01.29 at 16:14:19 PST

I'm on my mom's account. My brother is Pvt Veroni #249. I'm going to Fort Sill on 20 Feb and I'm glad for this website. I get to SEE and not just hear what it's like. I didn't see my brother in any pics but I know he's there. He called home his third day crying and I felt bad for him, but I suppose it's for the better. We haven't got a letter from him yet and I was just wondering whether anybody has heard from their soldier yet letter wise. He is my little brother and I worry about him. Sometimes I'm as bad as my mom!

said nancyv919 2007.01.29 at 17:06:50 PST

Hello Co C...My son is also in F Co. Grad March 07. The site has been a fantastic source of info and encouragement. I'd like to encourage any of the dads of C Co. to get on board (especially any former military types) and offer support and help to the moms, wives, and sisters of Co. C. A question was asked about the ranks earlier. When I wa in the Air Force many years ago, the E-1, E-2 bascially indicated not just rank, but pay grade as well. The E stood for enlisted and the O-1, O-2 stood for officers. Hope that helps clarify things a little. God bless...Willie

said pastordad48 2007.01.30 at 09:57:02 PST

Hi Everybody, Welcome to the world of Military Families. I am Proud Mom of F Co PVT Verne Yoder #456. He is the first one in our extended families to be a part of the Military in a very long time. So this whole world was new for me. He is also my oldest child and first one to leave the nest. I thought I would never stop crying when he left, even though he had my full support. So for those of you who are still raw with the separation and pain of not knowing what your soldier is going through, this website is a lifeline to help you through the tough times and also a place to to let the whole world know how proud you are of your soldier! Best wishes to you and your loved ones

said yodahmom 2007.01.30 at 15:16:10 PST

HELLO MY NEW FAMILY, I'M HENRY THE DAD TO PVT2 MATTHEW J. TORRES OF C CO GRAD CLASS OF APRIL 07. I'M PROUD OF MY BOY AND ALL THE TROOPS. THANK YOU CHAPLAN FOR THIS GREAT WEB SITE.ALTHOUGH WE ARE VERY CONCERNED ABOUT OUR SON , GOD IS ON OUR SIDE, SO WE ARE NOT AFRAID. THANK YOU TROOPS AND YOU GOT OR SUPPORT!!!

said treshermanos 2007.01.30 at 19:37:55 PST

Hi everyone, My name is Chris, I am the father of PV2 Gregory A. Van Note. This is a great site. This a new experience for his Mom and myself. I am sure we will be looking on here alot for information. Thanks to everyone who helps to keep this site going. Only saw him in one pic, but that was great all the same. For nancyv919, hopefully you will be getting a letter very soon. We just got our 2nd letter from Greg today. Best wishes to all our troops and their families.

said CoCparent 2007.01.30 at 21:23:41 PST

Don't be too discouraged if you don't hear from your soldier...eventually you will. But don't let that discourage you from writing to HIM. From what my son has told me, getting letters from home helped keep him going through boot camp. He requested lots of pictures of us (his family and friends), any news from home and what is reported in the newspapers, along with highlights of sports (cut out articles)...they share this information with their battle buddies. Your soldier WILL have to do extra pushups for these letters, but my son assured me that it WAS WORTH IT!!!! As you start to get letters I encourage you to SAVE THEM. It's amazing to see what is written at the beginning of boot camp compared to how they write towards the end. At first it's all about ME..ME..ME, but it'll change to US..OUR PLATOON...OUR COMPANY. It really is a fact that boot camp changes the boys we know going in...and transforms them to strong, brave men at graduation! Good luck to the soldiers of Charlie Company!!!! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.01.30 at 23:19:14 PST

Just a quick note about lodging if you are going to attend boot camp graduation...Here is some information that I hope will get you started: you may stay on post at lodging or at a place called Uchee Creek Campground, which has nice houses and cabins for rent. Another option will be to get a hotel around Exit 10 on Highway 185. You can call Ft. Benning lodging and see what they have available at (706) 689-0067 or visit the internet site at the below location. http://benningmwr.com/lodging31905.htm...once again you can get additional information by visiting F Company March07 grad site (look at the beginnig of the posts where lodging is discussed). It's never too early to start looking and making reservations (just make sure that they are refundable). Have a good evening. Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.01.30 at 23:26:16 PST

Thanks to Lisa & Kim for all your input and information. I feel like I am part of a fantastic new family. I was so excited to view the pictures and of course my family and friends got the link too so they could see my son and all of his new brothers in arm. Thanks for the information about lodging for graduation. We are driving down from Cincinnati...my Mom & Dad and hopefully my son's little boy Haedn. He just turned 1 yr old yesterday. My son misses him so much and we are excited about the trip for graduation. A big HOAH to Chris & Henry from me...our strong young men are part of a great Unit...C Co. and will create bonds that will last them a lifetime. It seems like we are all becoming a big family too. I can't wait to meet all of you in April. We will definitely have reasons to celebrate together as a HUGE family...Army Family. FYI...I just re-read my son's book "Guide for Future Soldiers & Their Families"...this was great for me as I really learned about what our young men are doing on a daily and weekly basis. It gave a deeper conviction of support and love and most of all, TRUST in what they are doing. The role models they have, their DS's, will tear them down and build them back up and develop the man/woman that is deep in all of them and definitely make them "Army Strong". I am so proud to be meeting all of you and to be part of this wonderful family. God Bless our children and God Bless our Country! Love in Country! Lisa...Mom of PVT James G. Childs, C Company

said CCoMom 2007.01.31 at 10:15:43 PST

Hello to all. I appreciate reading all the information here and getting to know a few others who are experiencing many of the same things. I am the proud mom of #354 PVT Jonathan Woodall of Company C Graduation April07. Here is an address that a student of my husband gave to us to see the basic training schedule. It gives day by day happenings and videos. http://www.goarmy.com/life/basic/index.jsp This student is studying to be a chaplain. We'll have to tell him about the wonderful help pictures are to the family at home. We found a picture of Jon in the last photo before the video. He has his eyes closed in the food line. He is either so tired he cannot stay awake or praying that the food will be good! I am trying to use the idea of keeping a spread sheet of the soldiers and their family members. I think it will help me keep all the new names with their soldier. Margot

said MargotWoodall 2007.01.31 at 11:02:39 PST

You all can see that I need to work on giving correct web addresses. Please leave out the "This" on the above site. I don't even know how it was added to the address. Here it is again: http://www.goarmy.com/life/basic/index.jsp Margot

said MargotWoodall 2007.01.31 at 11:13:43 PST

Margot, If you need help with a spread sheet look above on the messages. Hotsley56 has left an email address if you need help. Good Luck, and God Willing this site will also take off as C Co. before you and F Co. now. A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.01.31 at 11:39:26 PST

Zuzu (Susie), I need for you to email me at esiroadkings@aol.com so I can email the spreadsheet back to you. Nancy, Proud Aunt of PVT Verne Yoder #456, F Company Grad March, 2007

said Hotsley56 2007.01.31 at 12:31:18 PST

hello, Just waiting for more picture from c-company. Enjoyed seeing my son PV 2 MATTHEW J. TORRES. Thanks for all ya rely on hotel for grad. can't wait. PROUD ARMY MOM GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS :)

said treshermanos 2007.01.31 at 15:30:08 PST

Hello everyone. I have not posted in a few days, I am glad to see more and more C company familes. Hotsley56, I will email you later tonight...thanks for the reminder. Kim...that is great news for Rory, I wish him the best. He sounds like he knows what he wants to accomplish and he is doing it. My son also wants to become a Green Beret. I hope it works out for him. I am getting a little worried, I have not received any mail or calls lately. I know everyone is experiencing the same things so I do feel a little bit better. At least I did see him on one of the pics.. I too am awaiting more pictures. That is a great thing that the Chaplain is doing. Proud mom of PVT Thomas K. Folmar #115.

said zuzu1117 2007.01.31 at 16:33:02 PST

C Co. Family Members, My name is Butch Jones, proud dad of PVT Tyler Jones. I am really glad this site exists. I do beleive that we found a picture of our son. The wife and I were very excited to find it. We are located in NW Illinois. I am so glad chaplain258 has taken these pictures for all of us to enjoy. Its a great way to get info on what's happening with all the soldiers in training. I have read a few of the other sites that have already graduated and have learned a great deal already. I am sure we will be back. We would love to hear from all of you. We are so proud of all of our "boys"!! God Bless Tyler's Dad-Butch

said jonestb0362 2007.01.31 at 19:51:34 PST

Welcome Families of Charlie Company. I've looked through the pictures and seen the video (I'm jealous by the way), and your soldiers look GREAT!!! You'll be truely be amazed at the transformation from now till graduation! Your soldiers will have hard work ahead of them getting into shape, learning to not be ONE but be a TEAM, but also keep in mind they will have lots of fun to; especially when they start to try out the different weapons and camp in their bivouac. Best of luck to your soldiers!!! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.01 at 08:22:54 PST

Oh wow....how about our soldiers with their gas masks & rifles!!!! Thanks Chaplain for these new pictures. My soldier, PVT James G. Childs was not looking forward to this part of Basics and now he made it through...HOAH!!!! I have been getting letters from him (4 total) since they went "down range" and every letter shines more and more! He misses home and his son Haedn a lot...I sent him pictures and he was so thankful...he said it really lifted his spirits a lot even though he wanted to cry after seeing his son. He told me it made him realize why he was doing what he is doing...for his self confidence, his love of our wonderful country and his son! He said he was so proud to be doing what he is doing and to keep the pictures coming!!!!!! So with that everyone...write a lot and send pictures. It really helps our soldiers get through this tough training and helps them to look forward to Graduation. Speaking of Graduation, my soldier told me to plan on being at Fort Benning the day before so we can be part of "Family Visitation Day". He said he wants to go eat somewhere really nice to eat and enjoy a meal that can last longer than 5 minutes....LOL. God Bless our Soldiers and most of all...Love in Country. Proud Mom of PVT. James G. Childs....Lisa

said CCoMom 2007.02.01 at 13:52:47 PST

Hi am Diane from North Carolina My son, My soldier is PV2 John eric Smith. We are so proud of him but worried also. I haven't seen any pictures of him but I have recieved a letter from him that he wrote, I can already hear the change in him. He says its hard vut he gonna make HOORAH C COMPANY. Military life is new to our family but I am so proud and can't wait for graduation. smithmom

said smithome4392 2007.02.01 at 13:56:14 PST

By the way I read where someone mentioned "Boot Camp" graduation....I was under the knowledge that "Boot Camp" is for the Marines....the Army it is Basic Training. Anyone correct me but that is what I thought...my dad was a Marine and that is what he called it...my step-father said for the Army it is Basic Training. I am learning just like the rest of us Proud Parents....especially those in C Company!!!! Lisa...Proud Mom of PVT. James G. Childs

said CCoMom 2007.02.01 at 13:59:05 PST

Hey Kim, you mentioned your son was in the RIP Program or finishing it. You also said he went into RIP after Graduation. Was he going to go Airborn also? The reason I ask is because my son is going Airborn after Graduation then go for RIP, as he wants to be a Ranger also. My son said he will have 2 days off after Graduation then he goes to Airborn School. I'm trying to get everything straight in my mind....thanks so much....Lisa, Proud Mom of PVT. James G. Childs

said CCoMom 2007.02.01 at 14:30:24 PST

hello everyone :) wow just watched more pictures from c company. I am so proud of them all. I have a ? on the web site of www.goarmy they talk about on the 9th week about graduation who's son is graduating on April 27 2007 that would be there 13th week right? someone help to understand this if i am wrong sorry :( PROUD MOM of PV 2 Matthew J. Torres

said treshermanos 2007.02.01 at 15:29:37 PST

Treshermanos, The April grads are combining basic and ait (advanced infantry training), therefore they train for 13.5 weeks. If you go on this sight, you get a daily description written by a soldier in basic. www.infantry.army.mil/itb / plus a lot of other good info. I just went thru the new pics, didn't see my son though. Proud mom of PVT Thomas Folmar #115.

said zuzu1117 2007.02.01 at 17:33:50 PST

Treshermano, The April 27th grads. They may have another April grad that is only 9 wks. You can also get graduation dates on the website above. Susie.

said zuzu1117 2007.02.01 at 17:35:34 PST

My son is PV2 Joseph Ruiz of C Co. I saw several pictures of him in the album and I am very grateful to you. He has not called and has only written once so it was a relief to see that he is doing well. My husband and I miss him very much. Are there any other parents or family members that feel the same way. Sincerely, Awilda Ruiz

said ERuiz46 2007.02.01 at 18:34:32 PST

Hi, Tinker here; proud, proud Mom of PV2 Cole Ackley. I was almost relieved to not see Cole in this last bunch of pictures. Real cute. I haven't gotten a letter yet, so I don't know what his Airborne date is. This site sure helps with all the waiting! Is there a schedule for OSUT like the one for BCT? I haven't been able to find one and it would be nice to have that connection. If anyone steps up to handle the spreadsheet idea, I would love to be in the loop. If it takes more than one person to do it, I could help, but can't take the whole thing on. Chaplain, if you read these, I can't begin to express how big a blessing you give me/us. Take care, Tinker

said TnkerL 2007.02.01 at 19:01:49 PST

OK, first Lisa. Yes Rory went to Airborne then to RIP. As far as your son knowing how long he will have between training trust me that will change. Don't count on anything until they graduate pretty much. ....Treshermanos, all soldiers go through basic then AIT, (advanced infantry training) it is the way the Army does it. So yes it is 13 weeks or so, not 9 like we all thought when they enlisted....Tinker, I'd love to help but that is an area I'm not familiar with, but I'm sure one of my conterparts (as I like to call them) will have that info. for you once they see your message. God Bless' A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.01 at 19:16:26 PST

Hi family of PV2 Joseph Ruiz, welcome aboard :) I think we all feel sad, happy and most of all PROUD of these young men. It was great that you got to see your son on these pictures we saw matthew on picture 117 the video at the very end of it. Boy, that made my day. we have beem able to talk to him for about 20 seconds and we have received four letters so far. Remember keep writting them and sending pictures. I have read from many other that they love this. And if anyone knows of any of the soldiers that need someone to write to let me know I love to write. May God bless each and everyone of our soldiers and there families. PROUD MOM OF PV2 MATTHEW J. TORRES

said stmt1 2007.02.01 at 19:16:42 PST

A BIG Thank You to the Chaplain for all those pictures. Keep them coming :) PROUD MOM OF PV2 Matthew J. Torres

said stmt1 2007.02.01 at 19:22:15 PST

I've started an excel spreadsheet for you guys and emailed it to Susie. She indicated she would try to keep it updated. If anyone else would like a copy to help get you started please email me at esiroadkings@aol.com. Nancy Proud Aunt of PVT Verne Yoder #456 F Co Grad March 2007

said Hotsley56 2007.02.01 at 19:59:02 PST

ERuiz46, you are not alone. We are all in this together. Welcome to the sight..we'll keep in touch and keep up with our sons. I received a 20 sec. call and two, 2 line letters. Not much. Wow some people have received 4 letters...I'm jealous. Hotsley56, got the spreadsheet, but I couldn't open them. Don't know if it's my computer. I will try sending them to work, maybe then I can use them. PS...I don't want to be responsible for it..I need help:-) Proud mom of PVT Thomas Folmar #115.

said zuzu1117 2007.02.02 at 18:18:49 PST

Hi C Co. families. I am the proud mom of PV2 Logan Meyer. We miss him very much. Got 1 30 second phone call and 1 letter so far. This forum is great to stay in touch with the families. Do any have others who have served? Just curious. Do they really have to do pushups for letters? I am so proud of them all! God Bless! Proud Mom

said gizmo688 2007.02.02 at 18:18:51 PST

gizmo, yes they really do. But, I don't think is as many as we hear and they really don't mind they say they would rather get mail!! A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.02 at 18:26:19 PST

Hey everyone, Im new to all this bootcamp stuff, Im dating Pvt Chris Weland, I am planning on coming down to his graduation in april, but i had heard that after 9 wks he would have a day or 2 before he starts his AIT. I was wondering if anyone knew if that was true and if there was a chance that myself and our soon to be 5 month of son can go down and see him, hasnt been gone but soon to be a month and i was hoping i could fly down to see him before april. If not i guess we'll have to wait til april and possible get to see him in one of the pics that are posted, no luck so far though

said pvclw 2007.02.02 at 18:40:12 PST

hello everyone got two more letters from my son that makes a total of 6 letters wow i love it. I write to him everyday. I miss him so much :( But am very proud of him. and all our soldiers. Hope everyone is doing good. A big thanks to the Chaplain love those pictures. and keep them coming :) Who all is from Texas that has a son in c company. We are from Cleveland,Texas oh yes welcome aboard family of Pvt Chris Weland. God bless our young men and young ladies PROUD MOM of PV2 Matthew J. Torres

said stmt1 2007.02.02 at 20:55:56 PST

Kim, thanks for letting me know things can change. I will be prepared for anything!!!!! For all you parents that haven't recieved that phone call or a letter....don't worry...it will come. I feel I have been fortunate...maybe it's because my son actually bought stamps....LOL. Anyway, God Bless all of you and our soldiers. I can't wait to meet you all at Graduation in April. Have a great weekend! Lisa, Proud Mom of PVT. James G. Childs

said CCoMom 2007.02.03 at 12:42:57 PST

what a blessing to have these pictures.Ilook forward to them, makes it so much easier.My son has been in 2 so far. Thanks Chaplain,Proud Dad of PVT Ryan Coffey 212

said armyofone78 2007.02.03 at 15:15:11 PST

pvclw, Yes there is I believe a 3 day pass after the nine weeks. I wish I could help you in exactly when that is, but don't know. And I know one of the wives from our Co. visited her husband during this time with their 3 boys, she even took a few pictures of my son for me and emailed them it was great. I hope this helps, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.03 at 15:55:30 PST

I found another video of C Co on youtube. The video is titled Pick Up Day. The link is: http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=marinemurdock

said nancyv919 2007.02.03 at 16:06:46 PST

I'm the proud mom of George Stech. We're praying for you, son. We love you and are extremely proud that you want to serve your country. Everyone misses you, and we have received a ton of calls requesting your address. Thanks for sending it. We love you, but He loves you the most.

said Armymomma13 2007.02.03 at 17:22:17 PST

Hello C Co. I am the proud Mom of PV2 Joseph Ruiz. I would like to say thank you to the chaplain for putting up these pictures and letting us view our loved ones. It is especially important because I have only received one letter from him and it makes my husband and I feel closer to him. God bless all the soldiers of C Co. and their families. Sincerely, Awilda Ruiz

said ERuiz46 2007.02.03 at 18:24:01 PST

At least for now, I'm willing to be the Keeper of the Spreadsheet. I won't hesitate to let you all know if it doesn't work for me. The spreadsheet includes our site names, first names, soldiers names, connection to the soldier and city, email and phone if you wish. If you would like to have it, email me at alchemy@whidbey.com and I'll send it out. I can do periodic updates to all who I send it out to. Those of you without Microsoft Office can still do this by using Open Office. a free Office equivalent made available through Sunsystems. Here's the link to the download if you're interested: http://download.openoffice.org/2.0.2/index.html I have no clue why this didn't come through as a link, but you can cut and paste it into your browser's address bar. Maybe it will be a link when it posts. Thanks to PVT Verdoni's sister for the youtube video! I didn't see Cole in it, but enjoyed it none the less. Kim - 5 days ago you referred to Rory as PVT and 3 days ago as Ranger. Did he just graduate Ranger school? Congradulations. How long is the training for that? We're in Washington State. Anyone else? Anyway, it's taken me about an hour and a half (with distractions) just to get this typed, so I better stop before anything else comes up. Take care, Tinker - Proud Mom of PV2 Cole Ackley

said TnkerL 2007.02.03 at 20:41:52 PST

Whoo Hoo...got a 5 pg. letter today, I'm happy. I feel so much better now. The letter was very detailed on what they have been going through. He said they were in "white phase", not sure what that means. He also mentioned that "c" company was doing very well. Not sure how he did in the gas chamber as the last day of writing was the day before they were to go into the chamber, he was a little nervous. He also mentioned that they went to a leadership class last week and his platoon was really starting to come together. He sounded really upbeat and said he was having fun going through the obstacle courses and learning how to use all of the weapons. stmt1...we are from Texas...Garland actually. Not sure where Cleveland is, I'll look it up. Proud mom of PVT Thomas Folmar 115.

said zuzu1117 2007.02.03 at 20:54:24 PST

TnkerL...I'm glad you volunteered, I will help out if you ever need it.

said zuzu1117 2007.02.03 at 20:58:54 PST

Painpak...forgot to ask. Can we send nail clippers and tweezers. Thomas needs them and they were out at the PX?? My initial guess says no! Let me know or if anyone else knows:-)..Proud mom of PVT Thomas Folmar 115.

said zuzu1117 2007.02.03 at 21:24:52 PST

Wow, it's been a couple days since getting on here and what a pleasant surprise to see all the postings! Keep up the great job!!! ***Tinker, where in Washington are you from? We're in Vancouver, WA. My son, Brandon has just been stationed in Fort Hood, TX...so you know where we'll be going for our summer vacation. :)**** Charlie company families- make sure you continue to write to your soldiers OFTEN...during this first phase they may not get their mail daily, but they WILL get it evenually and your soldier will definitely appreciate receiving letters from home and gain strength from your support (according to Brandon the push-ups are WORTH IT). As for clippers and tweezers...I would NOT send them. The only thing at this point in time I would send is letters, pictures and cut out sections of the newspaper (Sports Section). We were able to send foot powder, cough drops, gel soles, Advil, toothpaste... but Company F families were not... So it's my advice to wait until your soldier tells you what is appropriate and what's not. Have a great evening! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.03 at 21:52:29 PST

proudmom32...he asked us to send in his last letter. Maybe he will call tomorrow. I really don't want to send if they will throw them out or worst of all they make him pay for it. Proud mom PVT Thomas Folmar 115.

said zuzu1117 2007.02.03 at 21:55:25 PST

You know that handsome soldier on the far left in that one picture? He's mine, AND I GOT TO TALK TO HIM JUST NOW. For the first time! And there are 2 letters in the mail! To me! I'm the one with the drippy grin. Or is that dippy? I don't care. Life is great on cloud 9. He said there were no push-ups for letters (maybe he didn't want to discourage me from writing) but he didn't care if there were. "It sucks to not get mail." Bye from the happy, giddy, grinning, ecstatic, proud Mom of PV2 Cole Ackley, otherwise known as Tinker.

said TnkerL 2007.02.04 at 13:35:39 PST

Thank you, thank you for the pictures chaplain. This really is a lifeline for our huge family to see what George is going through. We are so proud of our son, and it's so encouraging to hear the postings. It's wonderful to hear that they are working together and doing well. I spent a couple of hours pouring over the pictures in hopes of seeing my son. I found him, and his brothers were so thrilled to see him too. We're beamin' proud of you, George Matthew. Expect a ton of letters. We love you, and Go, Bears!!!!

said Armymomma13 2007.02.04 at 14:40:58 PST

Hello, C co. family, we recieved a couple of letters from our son and he sounded great. Says he misses us but really likes what he is doing. Great to see some new family memebers here. He definetly confirms that hearing from home is really great and helps keep your spirits up. After reading all the comments, it will be great to put faces with names at gradualtion. TINKER-thanks for keeping the spreadsheet. I'll be sending our info soon. Thanks again to the chaplain for this, it's really great getting to see all our "boys" in training.

said jonestb0362 2007.02.04 at 14:46:48 PST

LISA - Clinton is on the South end of Whidbey Island, which is NW of Seattle. TO ALL - I was so giddy in my last posting. If there are any of you out there who have yet to hear from your 'boy', I hope it's soon and you feel as great afterwards. I wasn't gloating, just floating way off the planet! Bye from Tinker, happy, proud Mom of PV2 Cole Ackley.

said TnkerL 2007.02.04 at 17:21:22 PST

TERESA-I am the mom of PVT GARY WILSIE he is in C.CO.I received a letter from him this weekend,he was very upset that he had not received any mail from home.I e-mailed his captain because I HAD SENT ABOUT 20 LETTERS TO HIM.I was very sad for Gary.Today the captain called he said the soldiers mail goes through lots of hands before it reaches theirs.I bet he was so excited, the captain sad he got 10 at once.Not sure he cryed, but mom cryed for him.I would like to know what a spreadsheet is?SO if your soldier has not received a letter from any of you he will get it.Proud mom of PVT #353.said teresa

said soldiermom353 2007.02.05 at 09:25:10 PST

hello c-company family and all others I received a phone call yesterday from my son PV2 Matthew J. Torres. It was great to hear from him. Things going good. Soldiermom353 your right about the letters I to have send many letters to Matthew and he is waiting to get them. I also mailed him his mouth piece he wanted. I asked his recruter and he said it was ok to mail it to him. I do miss him so much. I am very Proud of him. Everyone have a great week and hope you hear from your son/daughter soon :) take care PROUD MOM OF PV2 MATTHEW J. TORRES

said stmt1 2007.02.05 at 11:13:48 PST

Don't be discouraged about your soldier not getting his letters...eventually they will. They sometimes hold them and it's my belief that they do this for a reason. Right now they are breaking them down...and rebuilding them the ARMY WAY. It sounds more horrible than it is...but it does make them stronger. So continue to send them, and yes they will have to do push-ups for receiving so many (but it's WORTH IT!). STAY STRONG... Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.05 at 11:36:17 PST

Tinker, Sorry so late answering your question about Rory, I have been busy. No, he graduated RIP. Which means he is a Ranger and will go to a Ranger Unit. His assignment is Fort Lewis, Washington which is exactly what he wanted. The Ranger School will come later when his commanding officer decides he is ready, when he does start Ranger School it is a 6 month training class. RIP is only 4 weeks. He actually flys to Washington tomorrow sometime, from there he will in process and then hopefully be able to come home since his unit is on leave until the 19th. We are Praying!!....Teresa, a spread sheet is a way to keep track of all the family members and who their soldiers are on this site. It can get very confusing when you start reading twenty posts a day as with F Co.s site. I am praying your Co.s site takes off as well as C Co.s before you and F Co.s is still doing. God Bless, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.05 at 11:46:49 PST

hello, how can i get the site for the spread sheet. would love to have one. Proudmom32 I do write my spirt is down today. but i am writing to my son. I also have a card for him for valentine and am having all my co-workers sign it. take care God Bless each and everyone of you. Very Proud Army Mom of PV2 Matthew J. Torres also painpak congralation for your son making ranger best of luck to him

said stmt1 2007.02.05 at 12:13:23 PST

Soldiermom353 and stms1......Tinker has agreed to be the "keeper of the spreadsheet" for C Co for now. If you email her at alchemy@whidbey.com, she will send you a copy. Nancy - Proud Aunt of PVT Verne Yoder #456 F Co Grad March 2007

said Hotsley56 2007.02.05 at 13:09:53 PST

I would love to know where everyone is from in C Co. We are from north of Cincinnati OH. If anyone has heard of Kings Island Amusement Park that is where we live....across the highway on the beautiful Golf Center @ Kings Island. Looking forward to more pictures from Basic Training...it is such a blessing to see them...let's us know our soldiers are working hard. I e-mailed Tinker to get the spreadsheet. I am very willing to help in any way I can! Have a great evening & week. Love in Country!! Lisa, Proud Mom of PVT.James G. Childs

said CCoMom 2007.02.05 at 14:02:49 PST

You're doing the best thing stmt1...when your spirit is down turn to your Army Family who'll be there to pick you up! For those of us who've had soldiers already go through this phase...we've been there, believe me. If your son is anything like mine, this is his first time away from home...and my first time away from him...it's darn hard!!! But we get through it TOGETHER and I believe we're stronger than ever before! Plus there's a bonus...you get to develop lifetime friends that you probably would have never gotten to know. I'm going to leave you with an inspirational quote (I used to put them at the end of every letter I wrote my son, and I hope it helps you too)..Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired, and success achieved. --Helen Keller ***This week marks another week closer to graduation! Hooah! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.05 at 14:08:04 PST

Wow, I am seeing alot of new and old names on here. Our last cycle of parents seem to be somewhat infectious. For all you new people, I am SGT Murdock, been here at ITB for a little over 3 years. I work on your soldiers weapons and supply all their TP and what not. I also try to get out and help Chaplain Rusack get some pictures when he cannot make it to a big event. I am trying to talk him into getting some videos on YOUTUBE but he is busy enough getting hundreds of pictures on here. So, until then, you can check out some of the videos of your boys here: http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=marinemurdock and I will keep you updated when I get some more posted. ARMY STRONG, BE ALL THAT YOU CAN BE, and all that other HOOAH stuff, Sincerely, SGT Murdock

said TwinMurdocks 2007.02.05 at 14:18:55 PST

HEADS UP C-CO Do you know how special it is for SGT Murdock to communicate with you. There are no SGTS from F-Co doing that for us! Bless you SGT Murdock! Proud F-Co Mom

said yodahmom 2007.02.05 at 14:43:06 PST

Thank you SGT Murdock. At least I know my soldier has TP and his weapon is in good working condition...LOL. I know he is part of a great Company. Looking forward to meeting more proud parents and to meeting you and the Chaplain in April. Lisa, Proud Mom of PVT. James G. Childs

said CCoMom 2007.02.05 at 14:49:42 PST

Welcome back Sgt.Murdock...you've been missed. Charlie company is VERY lucky to have you! How are the twins doing? I hope all your family is doing well. Keep up all the great work!!! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones (formerly of Charlie Co. Nov06, #324)

said proudmom32 2007.02.05 at 15:00:04 PST

HELLO FAMILY/FRIENDS thank you hotsley56 for the email address for the spead sheet and thank you Proudmom32 for the words of encouragement. It sometime just gets hard. CCoMom we are from Cleveland, Texas which is about 40 miles north of Houston,Tx. Just waiting for more pictures to be posted. I did receive another letter from my son that sure does make my day. God Bless our boys :) SGT Murdoc