B Co - Grad May 2007

My name is Barbara Buck... My husband is PVT2 Thomas Buck 302 Im really glad that I get to see what he is doing in Basic.. It makes it alot easier being home alone while he's gone... his kids loved seeing his face in his "soldier uniform". Thank you!

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.08 at 14:18:21 PST

Great pictures and thank you very much for posting them! Our family appreciates the opportunity to see our son. Rhonda Wilson (Mom of Matt Parga-Manasse)

said rrhwilson 2007.02.08 at 18:00:20 PST

T.J, We are rooting for you!!! Gary, Sue and Drew

said tjbuckfamily 2007.02.08 at 18:18:14 PST

Dear B Co. Family Members, My name is Kim. My son Ranger Rory Payne, graduated Nov. 06 from C Co 258. Thanks to Chaplain Rusack this site became a life line for me and a lot of other families. If you go to either C Co.grad date Nov. 06 or F Co. grad date March 07 and take a look at the messages you will find you can make this a great experience for yourself as well as your soldier. If you have any questions just leave a message here someone from one of the other Co's will answer it for you I can guarantee it. There will be lots of info. you will need, please feel free to go to F Co's site and leave a message there if you don't get the answer here. God Bless your Soldiers, and God Bless you for them. A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.08 at 20:03:47 PST

Well said Kim...I ditto that! Hello, I'm Lisa and a very proud mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones (formerly of C Co 2/58 Nov06 grad, #324). I'd like to welcome you all. Your soldiers may have signed up to be in the military, but it's also the families that support him/her that are there every step of the way. This journey, especially in the beginning, will take you from highs to lows, to longing and anxiety..but LOVE and PRIDE always shine through!!! Lean on one another through it all and it will be the best experience that will end up lasting you a lifetime. I personally don't know what I would have done without Chaplain Rusack and all the wonderful/amazing ARMY STRONG friends I've come to know and cherish. Best wishes to you all, I look forward to hearing about your soldier and getting to know you. Hooah! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.08 at 21:27:04 PST

ARMY WIFE 2007 Barbara, I thought it would be nice to invite you to check out the Chaplains webshots of Fco Grad March 2007. We have over 1000 posts. maybe you can get it going for all the moms of your sons company I know it was very emotional and informationally helpful in times when you miss them so much. look for names like Hotsley56, Painpak. Proudarmydad. They are so experienced with all this and have helped me out tremendously. My son Ed Bolen FCO#301 is graduating in 20 days. I can't believe it! You and your family really need to stay with this website. Let me know what you think? Jeanine

said wjetc 2007.02.08 at 23:14:26 PST

You all are in for a ride! Kim and Lisa are conductors par excellence. I'm Tinker, proud Mom of PV2 Cole Ackley #101, C Co 2/58, Apr 07 grad. Our first pictures went up Jan 19th, and these two were among the first to greet us, show us some ropes, and help us get going. This journey is huge, and we are in it together, encouraging each other when it's tough, sharing the joy, and getting to know each other as one ARMY STRONG family. Even though our graduation is over 2 1/2 months away, we are already making plans and looking forward to meeting in person the people that we are connecting with in a very special way. Welcome to the Army, Tinker...proud Mom of PV2 Cole Ackley

said TnkerL 2007.02.08 at 23:19:15 PST

Thanks to all of you; Lisa, Kim, Tinker and Jeanine, for the introduction and words of incouragement! Barb was kind enough to send me an email and it felt so good to realize we not in this alone. Last night I searched each picture for a glimps of Matt (238 PFC, B Co. 2nd BN 58th IN RGT). Chaplain Rusack, you are a saint for putting these pictures up. I see that there are several companies here. Does the BN start off together and grad. together? Are most of the men trying for Ranger? This is all new to me. The up side is that I am here in Georgia. A good friend of mine is part of a group that helps support Ft. Benning's troup's families by taking bikes, clothes, etc and adopting families during Christmas. Should we be getting hotel reservations for grad now? I am north of Atlanta - too far to make the drive both days. Thanks, Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.09 at 07:35:55 PST

Hi Rhonda. Not all companies graduate together, some are behind others by a week or so. All the soldiers have different assignments they've signed up for (Ranger, Airborne, etc.). My son attended to get into the Ranger program, but ended up voluntarily withdrawing (for the time being) and has just been assigned to his new home unit at Fort Hood, TX. So a lot can change. You are very lucky indeed for being so close. If you go to the C Co April 07 grad website I just posted information on lodging several days ago. I would recommend staying at Uchee Creek Campground (that's where I stayed). The sooner you make your reservations the better because they fill up quickly. I would also recommend if you are thinking about going there that you reserve the larger of the cabins (it's only a couple dollars more, but a big difference in what you get). A HUGE thank you goes out to your friend for being a part of a special group that helps out the troop's families...I would love to be close enough to do that. Again, we all welcome you!! Hooah! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt.Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.09 at 07:58:40 PST

My husband just wrote me a letter a few days ago, saying that he was chosen out of 400 guys to join the Old Guard, 3rd Us Infantry!! I have heard that this is a major honor! How often do they choose people for this position? I don't know too much about it, only what I have looked up on the internet. We will be based in Ft. Myer Virginia. I am so proud of him!! This will be an awsom oppurtunity for him and our family.. so far this has turned out to be so much more than what I expected!

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.09 at 09:09:42 PST

FYI: News relayed to F Co by our C Co Moms regarding the airport that I found very valuable: You can accompany your soldier inside the airport, to the actual boarding gates...when he gets his tickets and shows his military ID, all you need to do is show your license and they will give you a visitor's pass to go through security with your soldier(anybody UNDER 18 needs to check in as well so they get a pass, but no ID required). I seen a lot of families in the airport saying their tearful farewells at the security area because they didn't know...spread the news... It gives you more time with your loved one before they depart and a little more privacy.... Proud Mom of Warrick #154. (Judy)

said BYNES61 2007.02.09 at 09:41:01 PST

Hi all, greetings from Proud Army Strong mom of F Co. 4th Platoon PFC. Daniel Brioli #406. 20 more days and my son graduates! This has kept me focused on the good stuff.....I'll never forget the worry until I received that first letter and knew he was in his glory... C Co. mom's made this all so easy,,from coping,to finding a place to stay, and just what to expect in general, Thank your soldiers from the Brioli's, anyway, enjoy the ride. It will be up and down, but it's all good. Have a nice day all in this small world in which we live.... Sylvia

said dbrioli 2007.02.09 at 10:32:54 PST

I'm confused! Do they not come home after graduation? Or do you mean for the ones going away to school?? I guess Im just not sure what you mean!

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.09 at 10:34:17 PST

Wow, it looks like all our families from the other Co's are climbing aboard this wonderful train!! This is definitely something I hope will become a well known site to all new soldiers and their families. Without this site I would have been lost. We have grown in friends that I know will last a lifetime. My hope is that you climb aboard with us. It will make the experience the best it can be. God Bless Chaplain Rusack for this wonderful opportunity he has given the families of 2/58. Thanks sooo much Chaplain we will never forget!! A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.09 at 10:34:47 PST

Armywife2007, It all depends what their assignments are whether they will get to come home for a few days or not. Rory enlisted to be a Ranger, so after basic/AIT he also had Airborne training, which was a few weeks then he had RIP (Ranger Indoctrination Program) training that was another four weeks. If it hadn't been for Christmas Exodus Rory wouldn't have come home. When he graduated from RIP last Friday he was held there until Wednesday then he flew to Washington which will be where he checks in with his unit. He will in process he said that takes 6 days then get put into a barracks. His unit just got back from a tour in Iraq so he wont deploy for six months. His unit is on leave until the 19th and we were hoping they might let them come home for a few days until then, but it's not looking that way. So we will be making plans to go and see him in April for spring break. I hope this answers your question. Some guys did go home right after graduation, again it all depends what they are enlisted for. God Bless, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Rnager Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.09 at 10:43:43 PST

Armywife2007- Congratulations to your husband!!!! HOOAH! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt.Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.09 at 11:14:03 PST

painpak... How will I know what he is doing after Basic/AIT??We just found out what he is doing .... he found out when he got picked out of formation.. after the testing at the Reception Battalion... It would just be nice to know, so that I can tell my kids and the rest of the family.

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.09 at 11:15:17 PST

I mean that we just found out about the Old Guard.. Im not sure about the training for that.

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.09 at 11:17:01 PST

Armywife, unfortunately I can't help you there. I have no idea about other training if there is any for that or if he will be assigned to a unit and they will train him. I do know that with F Co. the orders for their soldiers have changed a few times since they have been in basic. All I can see is to wait and see. Only time will tell. Sorry I couldn't be of more help. God BLess, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.09 at 12:13:00 PST

I'm in agreement with Kim...it really is a WAIT AND SEE when you're in the military...nothing is 'for sure'. However, if I were you I would try contacting your husband's recruiter. If he doesn't know he would have the resources to find out. If and when you get your answers...let us know too. We're all like sponges and like to gather as much information as possible. :) GOOD LUCK and BEST WISHES. Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.09 at 14:55:27 PST

Barb, First, great pictures of the kids! They are too cute. You are very lucky. Second, I think I remember you saying TJ was going Ranger. My understanding of that process (and anyone correct me if I am wrong) is that they do IBT/AIT (Infantry Basic Training and Advanced Infantry Training) - which is what they are doing now. Then they go to Airborne School. That, too, is at Ft. Benning. I was lead to believe there is not a break between the two. If you look at the Airborne website they show a class where they report on May 11th (graduation date), start on May 14th and Finish June 1st. When they graduate Airborne the Rangers take them that day and they do RIP which is a Ranger Initiation course (also at Benning), but not actual Ranger School. If they make it through that they are assigned to one of three Ranger Battalions located in Savannah, GA; Ft. Benning, GA or Tecoma(?), Washington. There they wait for an open slot in Ranger school which is a 62 day ordeal with three 'legs' to it. The first is at Ft. Benning, the second in the North Georgia Mountains and the third in FL. Whew! A lot of training, but that is good as they are more prepared. On the "Old Guard" website I saw where they have a height requirement! Interesting. Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.09 at 16:26:44 PST

he was going ranger... until he got chosen for the Old Guard.... so now i don't know what the plans are

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.09 at 18:33:37 PST

Rhonda, You did an awesome job. Rory just finished his RIP and was assigned to the 2nd Battalion which is in Washington. I didn't know there was a height requirement though, what is it? Just curious since Rory has gone through RIP I'm sure he's OK. God Bless, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.09 at 20:55:33 PST

Hello families of B Company..welcome aboard. My name is Susie and I'm proud mom of PVT Thomas Folmar #115, he is in C company grad. April 07. He left Jan. 11th for basic. Let me just tell you this is an awesome support group that you will find you lean on everyday. Even if I don't post, I read all of the postings daily (if you want to keep up you have too) anyway, I find strength and encouragement from all my new friend. Tinker is right Kim and Lisa are top notch! Keep the faith and congrats on your husbands assignment. PS...your pictures are great, you have a nice looking family..Susie, Proud mom of PVT Thomas Folmar #115.

said zuzu1117 2007.02.09 at 21:49:30 PST

Good to meet you Suzie. My son left for basic on the 22nd of Jan. (Wonder about the differnce in the timeline?) He took his PT and whatever other test, went to his Dad's for a while and then checked into the hotel. After the flurry Cof two letters and the pictures this past week, today I am somewhat down. Actually, if I don't get my head out of my proverbial arse and get busy the dog is going to have to learn to change the toilet paper around this house. With Travis away at school and Matt out-of-reach it is too quiet around here. Maybe I'll go borrow someone else's children for a while. That'll put things into perspective. Kim - it is just the "Old Guard" that has the height requirement. Their site says 5'10" to 6 feet something or another. Maybe it is because they are geared toward ceremony and it looks better? One of Matt's friends posted on myspace that in Matt's letter he said he had been put in charge of 55 men during inprocessing. Does anyone know what that is about? Rhonda Proud and Respectful of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse No. 238!

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 09:32:12 PST

My son Brandon Nichols is in the May 2007 class. I want him to know how much he is loved and missed. Thank you for this site so we can see alittle bit of him. Brandon I love and Miss you... Love Mama and Dad and Amanda

said vengebretson 2007.02.10 at 09:44:34 PST

Hello to all ! My nephew Travon Taylor is my heart and hope you all make it home safe to give us some Love..

said Fmracer 2007.02.10 at 10:09:59 PST

Hello everyone! My son PVT. Donavan A. Reather #339 is in B Co. and we are very proud of him. His Dad and I are always waiting for a call or letter. It is nice to know there are others we can 'talk to' that are going through the same thing. We are so proud of Adam and miss him so much. We are happy and proud of him for following his dreams.

said reathersmom 2007.02.10 at 10:40:56 PST

My name is Felicia Brown and I am the proud sister of PFC DeShawn Brown. Thank you so much for this website. I am glad that we have an opportunity to see updates of our family members.

said FeeFee81 2007.02.10 at 11:12:56 PST

I am Jason Stephens mom class of May 07 saw one picture of him and it was so good to see him. So proud of him but miss him a lot. :(

said jjdmnana 2007.02.10 at 11:53:58 PST

My name is Pam..My son is PVT Ford Gary 218. I am so very proud of him. This is the first time he has been away from his family but he is doing great. These pictures really help to just see what is going on. I know the next time I see him he is not going to be the same 18 yr old boy who left home but he will be a man whom I'm so proud of. Thanks

said LEEFERD 2007.02.10 at 12:00:06 PST

You are right Pam...your son may have left as a boy but after boot camp there is no doubt what-so-ever that he has become a man! It was so wonderful to see pictures of my son throughout boot camp (Thanks again Chaplain), but when I seen and hugged him for the first time at graduation in Nov. there was a definite and noticable change. I keep telling Brandon that he'll always be my kid...even though he may have 6 pack abs, towers over me and is a defender of freedom for the great U.S of A. :) I definitely know what you are all feeling as the separation anxiety. When Brandon left in August, it was the first time he'd ever been away from home. Now he's at Fort Hood, TX. Bet you can guess where our family will be taking our vacation this year?! :) STAY STRONG BRAVO COMPANY...it does get easier, remember to rely on your ARMY FAMILY to get you through the tough days! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.10 at 12:13:22 PST

Rhonda...so you are from TEXAS?? So am I, we live in Garland, I grew up in Dallas. What a small world. I'm kind've in the same shoes as you. I do have my other son at home, but he is a Sr. this year and is rarely home. It is very quiet around here at times. Hang in there, it will get better. Gotta go check the mail...it'l be the 5th time today. Take care..Susie, proud mom of PVT Thomas Folmar Charlie Co. April 07.

said zuzu1117 2007.02.10 at 12:30:09 PST

LEEFERD, I'm an F-Co Mom and we had the opportunity to see our soldiers after the first 6 weeks of their training due to Christmas Exodus. The difference in my son in that short period of time was astounding. Our family especially noticed the air of confidence and self-esteem he displayed. Army Families have a hard time keeping their buttons from poppin' Proud Mom Of F-Co PVT Verne Yoder #456

said yodahmom 2007.02.10 at 13:15:13 PST

yodahmom...I see what your doing on F-Co sight....triplicat entries just to get your postings higher!!! :) Susie, Proud mom of Thomas Folmar #115 C-co.

said zuzu1117 2007.02.10 at 13:51:29 PST

SO MANY NEW FACES IN JUST ONE DAY! I was over looking at F Co's posts. Someone claimed we would not be able to catch up with their 1100+ posts. We should thrown down the gauntlet and declare the challenge. Who is up for it? If you would like I can make a roster including name, email address and son/husband to distribute. I think we will be knowing each other for a long time to come as our sons/husbands make life long friends, too. OK. Give me your feedback on these two ideas. Rhonda Proud and Respectful Mom of PFC No. 238 Matthew Parga-Manasse.

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 13:59:10 PST

Rhonda... that is the best idea that i have heard yet!! I am all for it!! If you need any help with anything... Im your woman!! We can do this!! It would be good support for all the wives moms families and our soldiers!!!! More power to ya!!

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.10 at 14:43:24 PST

Way To Go B CO.!!! A Challenge is just what you need to get going. That's what I did with F-Troop and they passed us by a mile. Although now the standard is pretty high. You guys definitely have your work cut out for you. I wish you all the luck in the world. One thing that F-Troop did was to send their soldiers letters telling them to tell other guys to get their parents to log on to. I think it helped, because they have quite a few different family members. So GOOD LUCK, and God Bless. A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.10 at 14:58:37 PST

OK, I hit the button a few times to help out F-Troop, so I guess I need to be fair!! Here goes nothin. LOL

said painpak 2007.02.10 at 15:31:49 PST

OK, I hit the button a few times to help out F-Troop, so I guess I need to be fair!! Here goes nothin. LOL

said painpak 2007.02.10 at 15:31:49 PST

Barb, Great! We do it then. All of you that want to participate in the challenge the woose's over in F Co put out late this week -- start blogging away! Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 17:38:11 PST

Anyone that wants to have their name put on the roster email me at acomputerwiz_nerd@yahoo.c om and include your name, your soldiers name & roster number and your email. I will distribute the list to those that have chosen to be included. Rhonda - Proud and Respectful Mom of PFC No. 238 Matthew Parga-Manasse

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 17:38:55 PST

Great news!! Tina got a letter from Matt and he is a Platoon Leader! That is how he got the PFC instead of PVT. WAY TO GO MATT. Give 'em all you've got! Rhonda Proud and Respectful Mom of PFC No. 238 Matthew Parga-Manasse

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 17:41:19 PST

My name is Patti Reed. Our son is PV2 Michael Reed #340, B Co.. We are also so very proud our son. This site is a great way to feel closer to him. Thank you, Chaplain Rusack!

said preed9800 2007.02.10 at 17:44:42 PST

Suzi! A fellow TEXAN! I was born in Dallas and raised in Tyler. Matt was living in Allen working at Middlekaufman Ford until he enlisted. He graduated from Brookhaven College & the Ford Asset Program. His son is still in Allen. I get soooo homesick! Atlanta - trust me - is not the south. Rhonda - Proud and Respectful Mom of PFC No. 238 Matthew Parga-Manasse

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 17:47:40 PST

WELCOME! to Mama and Dad and Amanda Nichols! PROUD Parents of Brandon. Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 17:50:25 PST

WELCOME! PROUD Aunt of Travcon Taylor. Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 17:51:06 PST

WELCOME! PROUD parents of son PVT. Donavan A. Reather #339 is in B Co. Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 17:52:03 PST

WELCOME! Felicia Brown PROUD sister of PFC DeShawn Brown.

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 17:53:53 PST

WELCOME! PROUD Mom of Jason Stephens. Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 17:54:30 PST

WELCOME Pam! PROUD Mom of PVT Ford Gary 218. Pam, our sons' are in the same platoon. Where are y'all from?

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 17:56:22 PST

Kim, Thanks for the advise on letting the soldiers in on this one. OK -- Next time you write your son please tell them we have to BEAT THE PANTS off of F Co. and we need them to get as many families coming to this site as possible. Be sure and include the web address in your letter. If you need it it is: http://good-times.webshots.com/album/557524474GIxoHk -Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 18:00:00 PST

WELCOME Patti Reed! PROUD parent of PV2 Michael Reed #340, B Co. Patti, your son is in the same platoon as Barb's husband. -Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 18:02:48 PST

To the parents of Donavan A. Reather #339. Your son is in the same platoon as Barb's husband (ArmyWife2007) and Patti Reed's son (preed9800).

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 18:06:22 PST

TIP: If you want to contact anyone on this site directly these are the steps. 1) Click on the user name at the end of their post. 2) A new page will open up with their profile. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and on the right side is a cream colored box that says "do you like <theirusername>?" and below those words click on "make friens". A box will open up for you to send them a message. Be sure to include your email address. This will ensure that your email remains private. If you don't care who sees it just post here who you would like to contact you directly and include your email.

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 18:16:10 PST

TIP: If you want to contact anyone on this site directly these are the steps. 1) Click on the user name at the end of their post. 2) A new page will open up with their profile. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and on the right side is a cream colored box that says "do you like <theirusername>?" and below those words click on "make friens". A box will open up for you to send them a message. Be sure to include your email address. This will ensure that your email remains private. If you don't care who sees it just post here who you would like to contact you directly and include your email.

said rrhwilson 2007.02.10 at 18:16:10 PST

I want to see my baby PVT Taylor Travon, where is he?

said Fmracer 2007.02.11 at 04:52:50 PST

Hello to PVT Taylor Travon's fan. Have you looked through all the pictures? If you will describe him I will look, too. It took me some time to find my son. If he is not in any of the pictures you may need to wait for the next round. Let me know if you want us to help you look.

said rrhwilson 2007.02.11 at 06:18:33 PST

Hello B Co! Looks like the challenge is ON! Rhonda....I'll email you my F Co spreadsheet in exchange for yours. My email address is esiroadkings@aol.com Be sure to visit our site for lots of great info. Blessings to all of you and your soldiers-in-training. Nancy Proud Aunt of PVT Verne Yoder, F Co Grad March 2007.

said Hotsley56 2007.02.11 at 14:59:26 PST

Last night, before '07 graduations fell into a black hole (yes, Stephen Hawking, there really are black holes), I noticed that the more post to a company the more pictures there were. Did anyone else notice that? I think (not positive) that F Co was the only company that had videos. So not only do we want to whoop-up on F Co, but we WANT LOTS OF PICTURES and VIDEOS! Way cool. So, please, post! post! post! Rhonda - Proud and Respectful Mom of #238 PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse B Co 2/58

said rrhwilson 2007.02.11 at 16:17:41 PST

I agree Rhonda, Lets get this going! I did not notice my son in any of the pics but hopefully in the next round. Can't wait!! We want LOTS OF PICS AND VIDEOS!! Proud Mom of #339 PVT Donavan Reather B Co 2/58

said reathersmom 2007.02.11 at 17:01:06 PST

I agree Rhonda, Lets get this going! I did not notice my son in any of the pics but hopefully in the next round. Can't wait!! We want LOTS OF PICS AND VIDEOS!! Proud Mom of #339 PVT Donavan Reather B Co 2/58

said reathersmom 2007.02.11 at 17:01:06 PST

I've been through the pics over and over. I haven't found Michael in any of them either. We miss our son, PV2 Michael Reed #340 B Co and look forward to seeing him hopefully on the next posting of pics. I'm ready for the posting challenge!

said preed9800 2007.02.11 at 17:18:04 PST

Hey all the Chaplains webshots is back to normal..also wanted to tell you C-co grad April 07 has 8 videos. Also wanted to give you one more posting. Susie, Proud mom of Thomas Folmar Charlie Co. #115.

said zuzu1117 2007.02.11 at 17:52:03 PST

Wow!!! Look at this! It is truly Amazing the power of a soldiers family! I am so happy to see everyone posting comments and giving your support for your soldiers!! God Bless you all and welcome to the Army Family!! We are all here to support each other! I urge you all to email Rhonda and have your name put to our Roster!

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.11 at 18:33:51 PST

Patti, Maybe the next posting there will be more pics! Our entire family can not wait to see pis. The longest Donavan has ever been away from hom was the 2 1/2 weeks he was gone to Virginia for Jamboree in Boy Scouts until now. It is especially hard on his little sisters. Proud Mom of #339 PVT Donavan Reather

said reathersmom 2007.02.11 at 18:34:40 PST

Adding your name tho the Roster will help us all stay in touch.. to help each other out and be one big Army family community. Look forward to getting to know you all... Feel free to email me if anyone needs anything or just needs someone to talk to It can be lonely.... For everyone.

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.11 at 18:35:51 PST

bj_buck@hotmail.com

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.11 at 18:37:03 PST

Barb, thank you for the e-mail address. Mine is tammyreather@aol.com if you need anything. Tammy Proud Mom of #339 PVT Donavan Reather

said reathersmom 2007.02.11 at 18:48:37 PST

Wanted to let you know that F Co has gladly shared their roster with us!!!! LOVE YOU F Co, but we'll still surpass your postings! They are also tracking who will be staying at Uchee Park for graduation. We could also track where everyone will be staying. The excel sheet they sent is great and very well designed!! Those folks are going to be tough to beat, but we have it in us!!!! Rhonda - Proud and Respectful Mom of #238 PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse

said rrhwilson 2007.02.11 at 18:58:49 PST

Tammy, Barb is right. We are all in this together and we will be there to support each other all the way. It must be tough on you. I pray that God keeps them safe and healthy, keeps the spirit in their hearts and that they make life long friends. Rhonda - Proud and Respectful Mom of #238 PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse

said rrhwilson 2007.02.11 at 19:10:37 PST

Yes, it is tough; I think it is tough on us all and we are all in this together. We pray for all of those brave young men that God keeps them safe and well as it is about them. Each of our wonderful young men had the maturity and great,loving heart to make this commitment and we are proud of them all. They will make life long friends as I am sure we will as well. Thank you for adding my name to the roster! Proud Mom of #339 PVT Donavan Reather

said reathersmom 2007.02.11 at 19:22:24 PST

Rhonda, LOL. I think you might beat F-Troop all by yourself. But, They are a tough bunch and I'm sure they won't give up without a fight!! Good Luck to you both!! God Bless, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.11 at 20:08:30 PST

Rhonda, I just read your profile. Not only do we both have sons in B Co., but we have sons at Georgia Southern, as well. I've sent you an e-mail with my information for the list. Proud mother of PV2 Michael Reed #340

said preed9800 2007.02.12 at 04:51:21 PST

Okay... heres the deal. I ended up getting the whole family stoked about graduation. So I have 6 more people coming with me to Georgia! I need to make arrangements for a place to stay... money will probably be kinda tight... I still don't know who all is going.. might end up with more. How do you go about making arrangements at the campground? And what is the price difference between that and a hotel? My sister in law works for the Marriot so she gets a big discount.. so just looking for advice from someone who knows the area better... I have never even been out of Arkansas! LOL

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.12 at 08:46:39 PST

Barb, just sent you an email with links to the on base and campground housing then I thought to share them with everyone else. http://www.benningmwr.com/uchee31905.htm AND http://www.benningmwr.com/lodging31905.htm . Guess I had better make reservations myself. Those large cabins look nice. That is great that everyone is coming with you. Road trip! Rhonda - Proud and Respectful Mom of #238 PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse

said rrhwilson 2007.02.12 at 09:07:29 PST

Finished checking my emails during lunch and it looks like we may end up with a decent roster after all. If you are just now coming to this site, we are creating a roster to share contact information. If you want to be put on the roster email me at acomputerwiz_nerd@yahoo.c om with your name; your soldiers name, routing number and company; and family members you want and your email address. City and state would be great also! Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.12 at 09:44:05 PST

Wow...the pictures are awesome. Can't wait to see more! So I guess this is a new family, so-to-speak! His letters indicate that he's with a great group of guys and is enjoying the challenging experiences. We are very proud of #237 PV2 Brandon Nichols. -Jamie and daughter, Jacey Nichols

said JAMIEandJACEY 2007.02.12 at 09:44:33 PST

WELCOME!! Jamie and Jacey! Yes this has proven to be a life line for me. I find myself visiting this site a few times a day... its a way for me to feel closer to my husband! Just like Rhonda said.. almost feel like a stalker!! God Bless the Chaplain for this site.. he has made this long hard transistion so much easier for me already.. I just can't wait to see more pictures!!!

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.12 at 09:53:06 PST

Oops I didn't include city, state on the email I sent. It's Memphis, TN.

said JAMIEandJACEY 2007.02.12 at 09:53:20 PST

By the way... your daughter is ADORABLE!!!

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.12 at 09:55:14 PST

Thank you! She's 19 months. Hopefully, her daddy will be done with all the basic & airbourne training to catch her second birthday in June. All his friends and family here in Memphis are thinking of him. Yeah...I wasnt able to identify Brandon in any of the pictures, so I definitely look forward to the next round. How many children do you have and where abouts are you from?

said JAMIEandJACEY 2007.02.12 at 10:14:09 PST

OK B Co. I have been checking your pages and there doesn't seem to be many bookmarked photos of your soldiers. Either you don't know how to do it, or you haven't found any pics. of him. It is very easy to bookmark then they are on your page for all to see. When you see a picture of your soldier, to the right top page of that picture is a box with different things you can do, email to a friend(which you can email them to yourself and copy them to a folder on your own computer, there also is one that says bookmark. Click on this follow the prompts then the picture will be on your page and we can put soldiers with families. Good Luck, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.12 at 10:18:40 PST

I Bookmarked my page!!!! Picture 71!! Im so proud of my man!! He just looks so handsom!

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.12 at 10:53:47 PST

I have 2 children. Kiley who will be five March 8. And Cooper who will be 2 May 29. So your little girl is about the same age as my lil boy! I live in Arkansas... Garfield to be axact.. Home of the BIG ICE CREAM CONE!! LOL Proud, Army strong wife of PVT2 Thomas Buck!! HOOAH!!

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.12 at 11:01:16 PST

Rhonda.... CONGRATULATIONS!! I am so happy for your son! Way to go! Im rooting for him! I bet you are so proud!

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.12 at 11:02:59 PST

Thanks Kim...you completely read my mind. It would be great to see everyone's soldier and who their families are..it's another get way of connecting/bonding! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.12 at 11:59:38 PST

when will new photo's come out? we have been at 71 for days now.

said Fmracer 2007.02.12 at 12:44:27 PST

Fmracer, I think the Chaplain takes pics when he can and then posts them. I am not sure how many men he has to take care of, but it is probably a lot. Since he has multiple companies I think we have to wait. It looks like he did F Co. on the 11th so maybe the wait will be short. Thanks Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.12 at 13:11:47 PST

Yah Rhonda is probably right! The Chaplain has a whole lot of soldiers to take care of out there! I am sure that he is getting them posted as fast as he can make time for! My husband said in his last letter that the Chaplain has been taking pictures of everything! He said that the guys have been wondering if we have seen them or not! I wrote him back and told him to tell everyone that EVERYONE has been looking at the pics.. and that we have an awsom setup going for the B co families! I am sure that they will all be so happy to hear it! The Proud loving wife of PVT Thomas Buck, Barb

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.12 at 13:27:35 PST

PVT2... sorry

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.12 at 13:28:45 PST

Kim, Thanks for letting us know how to bookmark. It does look like this site gives us several things to do. I did manage to get it to hook up with my page on myspace.com, but it took me two tries. Maybe we should create a website on facebook dedicated to B Co. Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.12 at 13:31:57 PST

hey yall.. guess what.. we are almost at 100!!! Well have to have a party! Yah Rhonda that would be a good idea.. What kind of pics do you think that we should put in there?? Pics of whats going on at home while they are gone? Or pics that everyone can put in of their soldiers as we get to see them???

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.12 at 13:37:49 PST

**TO BLOW UP A PICTURE REALLY BIG** Click on the picture ** In the upper right corner under where is shows what number the picture is is an magnifying glass with a plus in it and the words "full size" that you click on ** When the picture opens up click anywhere on the picture and it gets really BIG. Now you can RIGHT mouse click on the picture and choose "Save Image As" and a box will pop up where you can choose to save it to your desktop and to rename the picture if you want. Lesson two of the day! haha Rhonda Proud and Respectful Mom of #238 PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse

said rrhwilson 2007.02.12 at 13:40:05 PST

Barb, let's do both and then we can send the link to Chaplain Rusack and maybe he can show it to the men. Who knows if they can get near a computer, but it is worth a try. Anyone else have any other ideas of stuff we can do? Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.12 at 13:59:40 PST

okay everyone listen up... I need to know if anyone in here is family with a PVt Bowen!! From the third platoon in company B. Because he is my husbands battle buddy! He's in the bunk above him. So since they are going to be doing all there stuff together i would just like to find out who the family is so that I can introduce myself! The proud loving wife of PV2 Thomas Buck

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.12 at 14:48:41 PST

Hi everyone. My fiance is #144 PV2 Reyes. We live in Carrollton, GA. These pics are great can't wait for more! I'm glad to know I'm not the only waiting :) spazzy_ga@hotmail.com

said spaz_ga 2007.02.12 at 16:33:50 PST

WELCOME Spaz! PROUD fiance of #144 PV2 Reyes! You are going to find this site very informative, a way to meet the families of your fiance's buddies, and best of all, to catch a glimps of him in pictures. If there is anything we can do to help you just holler! Post as often as you want and feel free to ask questions! Rhonda - Proud and Respectful Mom of #238 PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse

said rrhwilson 2007.02.12 at 17:05:12 PST

Barb, did you find the Bowen family? I did not notice that name anywhere. Talked to Tammy earlier and she may call you tonight. She is outside of Tulsa OK. How far is that from you? Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.12 at 17:07:17 PST

Hey Lisa (proudmom32) THANKS for signing my guestbook. I have gone back and put names (and relations) to the faces of my family. Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.12 at 17:09:48 PST

does anybody know how long it will be before they can use the phone?

said Armygf 2007.02.12 at 17:13:33 PST

Rhonda, in the picture on your profile which one is your son?

said spaz_ga 2007.02.12 at 17:15:10 PST

Armygf, from everything that I've been told if they are lucky and do well with their marksmanship then they MAY get a phone call. Other than that they really won't be allowed to use a phone at all. My honey (144 PV2 Reyes) said they were given 1 1/2 min. phone calls earlier this week but half the phones don't work and he didn't even bother trying. This time includes the time it takes to enter the phone card number, telephone number and everything.

said spaz_ga 2007.02.12 at 17:18:40 PST

Spazzzzzz - I LOVE that name! In the professional family one it is the bald guy. In the one at the mall it is the balled guy with the goatee holding my favorite rugrat "The Big E". We are in Alpharetta GA, just north of Atlanta. I see you are in Carrollton. You are VERY close! Rhonda

said