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said justinagirl 8 months 13 days ago

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said mixmagtmb 2008.01.28 at 07:58:48 PST

Thank you <img src="">http://techno-minimal-bit.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/techno.gif">

said mixmagtmb 2008.01.28 at 07:58:38 PST

Thank you <img src="">http://techno-minimal-bit.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/techno.gif">

said mixmagtmb 2008.01.28 at 07:58:35 PST

Does anyone know how I could obtain another 2/58 Infrantry Patriots Ft,Benning, GA hat that was sold at the Turning Blue Ceremony? I really needed to purchase one for my son's grandfather and just totally forgot. If anyone can help me out that would be great. My husband and I took PVT lstclass Brian K Fuller to the airport yesterday he has to report to Ft. Hood by today 5/31. It was wonderful having him home that short time and very hard to see him leave. Good luck to everyone who is starting their new assignments.

said armymomfuller 2007.05.31 at 07:02:05 PDT

Found what I needed ... just kept googling along until it came up. Good luck to all ... and thanks for ALL of the great info!

said proudtobemikesmom 2007.05.25 at 13:55:04 PDT

As a proud new military mom, I learned SO MUCH from reading all of these posts! My son, Pvt Michael Martinek #225 F Co. 2/58, will graduate bootcamp in August. Like many of you found, it is really hard to get info far enough in advance to make plans to be there. Do you know if there is a site or page like this for the families in his company? If not, can anyone tell me how to get one started? This is such a valuable resource for the families of every group of solidiers who go through. It must have been great to finally meet everyone when you got together at graduation. Thank you for giving me more information than I have been able to find anywhere else! The very proud mother of Pvt. Michael Martinek #225 F.Co 2/58th.

said proudtobemikesmom 2007.05.25 at 11:20:42 PDT

We are so very proud of our Infantry Man, and all those guys who signed up during this time in our countries history. Way to go guys. Stay safe.

said MartieDon 2007.05.23 at 14:42:04 PDT

We are so very proud of our Infantry Man, and all those guys who signed up during this time in our countries history. Way to go guys. Stay safe.

said MartieDon 2007.05.23 at 14:42:04 PDT

The Turning Blue Ceremony on Family Day, spending time with my soldier that afternoon and the graduation on the next day was AWESOME! So glad I did not miss it! Now, How can I get ALL pictures and videos taken of this group...it's like 430 pics & videos! Cannot seem to figure this out from Webshots. Does anybody know how to help me? I want to do a scrapbook and include everything and everyone! Thanks, Donna Email: dca52@yahoo.com or Darthur1@suddenlink.net

said dca52 2007.05.23 at 11:08:44 PDT

Awesome...looking forward to your email Chelane. It's great Rhonda and Deb/Erv have jumped on too... Best wishes to all your soldiers; may they be safe, stay out of harms way and thrive in the military! HOOAH! Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.05.23 at 10:07:48 PDT

Chelane, I can't wait to hear about your trip! Y'all did have perfect weather. I wonder as the men go back to see their friends what they think now. Both ways. Glad he is out and about with his buddies. Take care. Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse (formerly B Co) Airborne

said rrhwilson 2007.05.22 at 16:01:00 PDT

WHAT AN EXPERIENCE!!! HOOAH! Our trip was fabulous. We could not have asked for better weather for our trip, and the ceremonies ~ well what can I say??? AWESOME!! Of course the best part was seeing my son, as a man and a protector of this great country. He seems so different, yet still the same. As soon as we got home on Sunday he was off and running to go visit friends! He went to his old high school yesterday at lunch time to say hi to some friends, then spent the night in town with some buddies. Hopefully he will be home tonight so that we can enjoy his company.... Phillip is being stationed at Ft. Lewis in Tacoma Washington until at whatever time he is deployed overseas. I will post more later on our experience... (look for an email), but as for now I must get ready for work... Once again I can not thank all of you enough for the support that has been shown here. God Bless and take care.... Proud and honored mom of PVT Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.05.22 at 05:57:53 PDT

The Turning Blue Ceremony has arrived, I am so excited for you all, because I know how excited we were!! Definetly take the kleenex, and be prepared to see MEN, instead of your 'BABY BOY'!!! A wonderful Day and experience. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF YOU!! AND HAVE A SAFE TRIP!~DEBBIE AND ERV PROUD PARENTS OF PVT. MATT RITTHALER (2/58 B-CO #440)

said dritthaler 2007.05.17 at 13:07:59 PDT

FINALLY!!! Family Day and Turning Blue Ceremony has arrived. I hope you're taking LOTS of pictures and that you brought the kleenex. :) May the sun shine brightly on you and your soldiers today. Their blue cord was hard earned and congratulations go out to A Company...HOOAH! How wonderful that your soldiers will be graduating on Armed Forces Day!!! When my son and the company he graduated with...Charlie Co Nov06, graduated it was Veteran's Day...it made the day that much more special and I hope it is for you too!!! Best wishes.... Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.05.17 at 07:45:05 PDT

Chelane, you sound so excited it makes me want to go down there for y'alls graduation! Have a great trip! Hooah to A Co. Glad y'all made it! Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse B Co, 1 PLT, Airborne

said rrhwilson 2007.05.16 at 16:20:35 PDT

Have a great time and a safe trip!!!! Georgia...here you come!!!! Come back and post all about your experiences!!!! You and your soldiers will be in my thoughts as Thursday and Friday approaches...best wishes! Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.05.16 at 10:39:11 PDT

OMG!!! I CANT BELIEVE IT! GEORGIA HERE WE COME! Looks like we will be up BEFORE the chickens tomorrow... 0230 to be exact. I told my hubby that we should just stay up all night and sleep on the plane... sounds good to me anyway. I can barely contain my excitement, and as for working today??? Yea right! Oh well - I guess I'll give it my best shot... AND I found this wonderful site: servicememories.com - its a great place to get all kinds (tons) of military scrapbooking stuff. Ok gotta get crackin'. Cant wait to meet you all! Proud and honored mom of PVT Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.05.15 at 08:48:12 PDT

I hope all the moms out there had a WONDERFUL MOTHER'S DAY!!!! You all are now down to hours...can you believe that? T-Minus 55 hours...give or take...Are you all packed? Checked your lists, did you forget anything? The excitement is building!!!!! HOOAH! Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.05.14 at 07:51:52 PDT

Chelane, so good to hear your voice...and even greater news about Phillip!!!! May these fews days speed by and you find yourself in Georgia before you know it!!!! I'll be thinking of you. HOOAH! Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.05.11 at 19:53:09 PDT

Chaplain Rusack, these pics and videos are amazing, you got a great one of my baby brother. He looks filthy but seems to wear that dirt with pride. Thanks for all you have done for the families of A company during ours boys training. Thanks again and God Bless. Proud Sister of PVT #412 Brian K. Fuller Jr.

said armyproud 2007.05.11 at 14:43:26 PDT

OK GANG ~ 5 days and counting!!! I cant seem to think about anything but our up coming trip! HOLY COW talk about no poductivity at work! Who needs a job anyway! Just kidding. I packed Phillip's civies today, along with my travel iron, meds, personals, lap blankets, and of course my beautiful scarves. My checklist is sitting by the bags just waiting to be completed. I have planned a surprise party for Phillip on the 26th, and about 22 of his friends will be attending along with about 30 family members. I have never done anything like this so I'm going crazy trying to plan for this trip and getting house work and yard work done before party day. So much to do so little time! Anyway have a great day everyone! Proud and honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.05.11 at 09:55:21 PDT

If you all go back 10 days or so you can review the QUICK HINTS and SUGGESTIONS for Turning Blue and Graduation. Here's just a short recap to keep in mind: Arrive to all events EARLY, this will enable you to get the best seating and to sign up for Class A portraits right after the ceremony on Thursday, instead of having to wait around on Sand Hill all afternoon. Make sure you have your identification at all times so you can get through check points quickly and smoothly... At Turning Blue LOOK AROUND you for any soldier that DOESN'T have family there...go up to him and congratulate him...maybe offer to take him to lunch with you (he'll appreciate it more than you know). If staying at Uchee Creek, you may NOT get cell phone coverage, and it also straddles two time zones, be aware of the time (make sure it's EASTERN STANDARD TIME...which is what Fort Benning is on). Bring at least one outfit of civilian clothing for your soldier. DON'T FORGET THE CAMERA (and kleenex...you'll need it). Most of all, have fun and enjoy every single second it goes by so quickly!!!! You are now T-Minus 5 days and the countdown continues...HOOAH!!!! Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.05.11 at 06:53:09 PDT

Hi, My name is Donna, Proud Army Mom of PVT. Michael in this group A. Co to graduate in May 2007. I've spotted my soldier in several of the pics and cannot seem to stop looking at our soldiers and the men they have become! Thank you so much for allowing me to come and see my boy! To Chaplain Rusack, you are awesome for sharing these pictures for the Moms and Dads of our fine soldiers! Donna PAM of Anthony and Michael

said dca52 2007.05.10 at 16:31:36 PDT

Hello A company!! I was just reading some of your posts. My son graduated in March 07 and now is in more training. I also went over to C-Company, they just got back from their soldier's graduation. You might want to read some of their posts. They can give you alot of info i.e. photo costs, etc. Congratualions to Company A!! ARMY STRONG AND ARMY PROUD MOM BOLEN. (Jeanine) p.s. reading everyone's posts makes me feel like I am there all over again. I love it!

said wjetc 2007.05.10 at 09:10:51 PDT

Hi A Company, We heard from 412, PVT Brian K. Fuller last night. He sounded GREAT!!!!! He said they all made it and what a honor it was to be pinned on Honor Hill. He said as they got closer up the hill the new companies F & E graduating classes of August 2007 were on the side lines cheering them on he said it was wonderful to know he accomplished something so important to him. They are officially Infantrymen HOOAH!!!!!! They are in Recovery Week and he said he knows why they call it that your body and mind really need to recover from FTX. He said they even had soda yesterday. Have a great week and see all of you next week at this time. Everyone have a safe trip.

said armymomfuller 2007.05.10 at 05:04:31 PDT

Class A photos- I don't think they are under $100...it depends on the package you purchase and how many poses you get. We got 2 poses and bought a 8x10 frame and I think it cost close to $200... but don't regret one cent of it...they turned out WONDERFUL...AND you get them right after you get them taken...which is on Thursday (after Turning Blue Ceremony)...make sure that before you get your seat for the Family Briefing that you sign up for a sitting time...it's first come, first serve. Best wishes, Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.05.09 at 13:35:37 PDT

Can anyone tell us what the costs is of the formal photos?

said armymomfuller 2007.05.09 at 12:55:24 PDT

*****THANK YOU CHAPLAIN RUSACK, for getting these pictures up so quickly and for your continued efforts till the very end....YOU ARE GOING TO BE GREATLY MISSED!!!! All my best to you! Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.05.09 at 12:53:11 PDT

CONGRATULATIONS TO A COMPANY...they are now Infantrymen!!!! HOOAH!!! ...well deserved!!! This morning they would have gotten a Warrior's breakfast of steak and eggs and did skits about their drill sgts....I'm sure it was a great time had by all! Now it's on to RECOVERY WEEK...don't let the name fool you...they will be inventorying and cleaning EVERYTHING from sun-up to sun-down with very little sleep. It's a tough week, but they'll get through it just knowing that the light at the end of the tunnel is you being there to see them march onto Kanell Field!!! I'm so proud of them all! ***Chelane, it looks like you got everything on your checklist...just don't forget your scarves/hats...oh, and the plastic (it's expensive there but worth it). Make sure you get there early on Thursday and Friday so you get good seats and sitting times for the Class A formal portraits if you plan on getting them... T-Minus 7 days and counting down. WOOO HOOOO!!!! Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.05.09 at 11:52:57 PDT

OMG WE (I) MISSED IT!! LAST NIGHT WAS THEIR MARCH!!! LOOK AT THE NEW PICS... I FEEL HORRIBLE..... WAAAAAAAA

said Chelane1970 2007.05.09 at 11:34:54 PDT

Hi Jeanine! Great to have you check in! And thanks for the heads up on the civies for our soldiers! I'd already thought of that several times... how quickly I'd forgotten AGAIN!! LOL So then if everything is on track (hopefully huh Janice??) then our guys should be doing their march on Honor Hill tomorrow right? OH JUST HAD A TOUGHT!!! KLEENEX!! You might need to take a box (just to cover the family sitting next to you!). Ok I'll check in shortly... Until later, Proud and honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.05.09 at 10:18:05 PDT

Chelene1970!! You sound like I did last March 07. Except, i packed tooooooomuch! The only thing I can see you may have forgotton is "civies" for your son. I know my son Ed asked me to bring his bluejeans, and sneakers and shirts. So he could change as soon as possible!! But, being a mom I ironed his shirts (lots) and brought too many of his clothes. He took only his favorites!! Have a great time. My email address if you would like is neener.1955@yahoo.com (Jeanine) Ed graduated march 07 (foxtrot) p.s. While we were there there was a tornado touch down!!!OMG. Thank God it didn't hit Uuchee Creek or the base.

said wjetc 2007.05.09 at 09:25:47 PDT

I haven't heard anything from Benny. According to the letter from the Commander, When I spoke with my son, he said they were starting the FTX last Wednesday and according to the Commander's letter, they should have been finished by back on base yesterday. He also said not to rely on the calendar as the Drill Sargeants have control of the training and change the dates of certain training due to bad weather.

said doodie6550 2007.05.09 at 07:08:29 PDT

Right now we are going through a drought. High's in the 80's and lows in the 60's. Don't forget your sunscreen and hats. If any of you have stadium seating pads, these wouldn't be bad to bring. Maybe you can send some of the stuff via federal express or airborne, or priority mail to the place where you are staying. This way you don't have to carry all this stuff on the plane. Contact the hotel and see what their procedures are.

said doodie6550 2007.05.09 at 07:04:41 PDT

HONOR HILL?? Already? Should be today or tomorrow... According to the schedule day 7 of FTX training is today. I want to express my gratitude to everyone popping to to share in our excitement. I am going crazy... (as if I wasn't to begin with!!) I am so excited to see my son again yet a part of me is scared too... Seeing our baby boys as men is going to be a shocker. I almost feel a little cheated and saddened that I was not able to be a part of that transition. Ok so here is a check list ~ proudmom (everyone) help me out here.... #1 Clothes ~duh - look kinda funny showing up in the buff :)OH and don't forget pjs if you are sharing sleeping quarters! ~ #2 Toiletries (don't forget your toothbrush, meds and sunscreen) ~ #3 Identification ~ #4 Camera(s) still and/or video ~ #5 Binoculars ~ #6 Umbrella ~ #5 blanket or pillow to sit on (cover up with) ~ after all it is Georgia and you never know what the weather will be like ~ #6 Cell phone & charger (computer & charger) ~ #7 Book to read on your flight ~ and finally (my favorite!) #8 Lots and Lots of Hugs (after all you have to bring them for your loved ones who are not able to come :) ~ Please post and add to the list if you think of anything I may have forgotten.... AND OH make sure you have someone to look after your pets! I'll be checking in at least 10 times a day now so I'll post later! God Bless all of you for your support. Proud and honored mom of PVT Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.05.09 at 06:36:54 PDT

A Co families...can you tell me when your soldiers are due back from FTX...when do they reach Honor Hill? Today? Tomorrow? I have them in my thoughts and am so proud of the progress they have made so far... Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.05.08 at 21:15:23 PDT

Congratulation A company!! This is Mom Bolen (Jeanine) from F company (Foxtrot) My son graduated March 07. Proudmom 32 was saying that when you see your soldiers how much they have changed! (for the good). Just wanted to tell you that after graduation, my son and I started walking away from the DS and the other soldiers. I was holding his hand and kind of pulling him away with me. He said "MOM, I feel weird, like I am not suppose to do this and I will get in trouble". He was so conscious of having to be with his buddies (soldiers). He was not used to having to be able to just walk with a soda in his hand! They do change; strong, consciencious, proud as a peacock!!! And all of us are. Well, I just wanted to tell you how proud we all are of you and your soldiers!!!!!!!!! My son in now in more training at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. HOORAH AND ARMY STRONG MOM , JEANINE

said wjetc 2007.05.08 at 09:00:30 PDT

Hi EVERYONE....HONOR HILL awaits your soldiers. I'm sending you a video that will give you the scope of just how important Honor Hill is to our brave soldiers (make sure you get the Kleenex before watching…it's a MUST SEE!!! www.infantry.army.mil/itb / Then click on the ARMY videos on the left. It won't be long now...you are now T-Minus 8 days away. HOOAH!!! Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.05.08 at 07:38:55 PDT

Hi Everyone, I hope everyone is doing well and I can tell everyone's excited as we get closer to gradution. Proud mom thanks so much for the great advice on the time zone factor and those wonderful young men who whose families may not be able to be with them at the turning blue ceremony. I would consider it an honor to even shake their hand. Joshua is doing well, with all the injuries you all have been discussing though I'm getting a little worried especially with this last stint. Josh was in the infirmary for about 4 days, sick as a dog. I would imagine he's had a hard time getting use to GA weather coming from Phx. Take care everyone and I hope to see you at graduation.

said ArmyMom229 2007.05.06 at 19:38:25 PDT

hey A company, Wanda here. Hope to meet everyone May 17th. We will be there to see Paul's battle buddy that was recycled. Also looking forward to seeing our Chaptain Rusack & Col. Sheffield. I will be with the 2 Pauls...one will be in his dress A's and the other walks with a cane. You can't miss us...look at our icon & hopefully you can spot us. Chelane I will be looking for you! I will be logging on every day waiting for your guys to reach HONOR HILL! they are in my thoughts&prayers...Ho oah, Wanda proud Mom & Nanna

said PaulsMum 2007.05.06 at 16:46:06 PDT

I received the letter from the Commander advising what will happen on Graduation Day as well as when our sons will be calling us. I am keeping my fingers crossed as they are finishing the FTX now and should return early on the 8th. Hopefully, they will call us to let us know if they graduated. If they fail the FTX, they do not graduate. I'm sorry to hear about all of the injuries and medical departures. My heart goes out to all of you. Of course, it is difficult to type when you have your fingers crossed (HA HA). I hope to meet alot of you on May 17th. I believe my son has to report to Fort Hood on May 31st. He said he is 99% sure that will be his orders; however, we never know until the orders are in you hand. You should be receiving your letters soon. It will be in your son's handwriting with the Commander's address on the return.

said doodie6550 2007.05.06 at 15:15:08 PDT

Hi. Thanks for the response. At least we know it's not just us with a mail mix up or something. Maybe coming soon. Brian believes that he is initially going to Ft. Hood, with no other information that we know of as far as "deployment". From the few times I've been on, it sounds like there were quite a few people from A Co. who had to drop out completely, or at the least, go home to recuperate to return later. To say that it's unfortunate, and dispapointing for them is a huge understatement. Brian said that the terrain there is very rugged, with them constantly climbing over rocks etc. He said that a lot of the injuries were leg/knee related, and he came close to hurting himself multiple times just slipping on the rocks. I guess he was fortunate though. (Maybe because he has really big feet, who knows). I think that possibly a lot of the potential "posters" were some of those folks. We just really haven't had a lot of time to visit/post on the website, except to check for new pictures periodically. Finally, yes we are coming to graduation. Best of luck to everyone. Dad of #412 Brian Fuller Jr. A Co.

said Briansdad01 2007.05.06 at 08:25:32 PDT

Hi Briansdad ~ Nope no packet. I'm still waiting for something from the ARMY.... Are you and your family still going to graduation? Except for your post no one from A Co. has been here in a week ~ and before that? well in forever! Its been rather disapointing. I was really hoping to use some of these posts in my son's scrapbook... Have a good day. The COUNT DOWN IS ON.... 11 days and counting... Have you heard anything from Brian about deployment? Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip R. Conell #306.

said Chelane1970 2007.05.06 at 07:30:14 PDT

Has anyone from A Company received a "graduation packet" with the graduation information as promised in the original form letter home? We have the dates, but some particulars would be nice. Dad of #412 Brian Fuller Jr. A Co.

said Briansdad01 2007.05.06 at 04:07:02 PDT

Hi Chelane and Rhonda! Yep, in just a short time you'll get to receive that wonderful hug that you've been thinking about these past 14 long weeks! You'll really notice the changes in your sons...not just physically but EVERYTHING, it really does boggle the mind. The boy that left your door step a few months ago is no longer...but a true man of HONOR...a Guardian of Freedom! I'm so very excited for all of you...!!! ***And for those of you that have injured soldiers but still pop on here to read messages: Your soldiers are still in my thoughts and prayers and I'm wishing them the very best!!! HOOAH. Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.05.03 at 09:55:32 PDT

Hey Chelane! You are almost there and we are 6 days and a wake up call away! Can you believe we are almost there? Hope you and your Mom enjoy yourselves. We will post pics after grad next week. Don't forget to drop over and say hi! Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse No. 238 B Co.

said rrhwilson 2007.05.03 at 08:25:22 PDT

Well I'm here Proudmom! Once again thanks for the info. The count down is on and I am so excited to see my son I think I'm driving everyone around me crazy.... Only 13 days before we fly out to Georgia. Phillip wanted a couple of his friends to go with us, even said he would pay for the airline tickets and everything, but with prom, finals & graduation (Phillip SHOULD be going through his SR. Class graduation too - not OSUT:). It doesn't seem as though anyone will be able to come with us. My mother is going to Georgia with us which will be rather fun. This will be her first "vacation" ever, her first flight, and it will be a very nice repreeve from her work schedule. Not to mention she will be a part of this very improtant celebration for Phillip. I wish you all the best and I look forward to seeing those who will still be at gradutaion to honor our soldiers. Proud and honored mom of PVT Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.05.03 at 07:49:03 PDT

Anyone out there???? When do your soldiers leave for FTX? Come on gang, this is the time to unite and get energized from one another...you've come a long way and the you're wait is almost over...climb back aboard and lets see this through together... GO ALPHA COMPANY!!!!!!! HOOAH!!! Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.05.02 at 09:31:48 PDT

****ANOTHER quick "hint" for today: If you are looking to bring something special for the soldiers to hand out, here is what one lady did and was a HUGE hit (especially with my son): She got those small lunch sacks and put in all different types of mini candy bars. What does your soldier seem to crave the MOST, candy, energy drinks and a home cooked meal! My son thought he had gone to heaven when a woman out of the blue started going from soldier to soldier handing these bags out, the minute we got into the car he started to tear into the CANDY! :) At the time I thought to myself, "boy I wish I'd thought of that" and was grateful someone else had the foresight. If you don't want to put together sacks like she did, maybe put several bowls out on the tables at the lodge for your BBQ...YOUR SOLDIER WILL LOVE YOU FOR IT. :) *****Chelane, you're not alone...as for it getting easier...well, sometimes...the good thing is that after graduation you will have the opportunity to talk with Phillip as much as your cell phones will allow...it does help ease things somewhat. Stay ARMY STRONG!!! Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.05.01 at 09:43:01 PDT

Well gang.... I kinda feel like Donkey from Shreck .... "All by myself.... don't want to be... all by myself...." So sorry to hear about Craig. I missed Phillip's call on Sunday, but my hubby got to talk to him. Phillip said that he gets to come home with us after graduation and stay until the end of May... he has to report to Fort Riley Kansas on the 31st of May and will be there for 16 days then off to Kuwait for 15 months.... OMG!! What am I going to do for 15 months??? What about his birthday? what about Thanksgiving? what about Chirstmas??? What is a mother to do?? I thought OSUT was going to be difficult, but its a cake walk compared to what his stay in Kuwait will be. I had a really hard in church yesterday. Does this get any easier? Proud and honored mom of PVT Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.04.30 at 15:16:19 PDT

Hello. I'm sorry to hear about Craig as well. I hope his ankle heals quickly and that he is able to continue in the Army. Please tell him that I am amongst the tons of people that are proud of his efforts and devotion to help protect and serve our country! God bless!

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.04.29 at 14:12:15 PDT

Hello military families! I have been here just reading and watching. The day is coming fast! may 18th!!! what a day to remember! as of now I am not sure about what is going on with my son? awhile past he had broken his foot in 2 places but tuffed it out with his training? he has completed the bootcamp phase of his traing but called me to say he might be coming home to stay for a couple of months till his foot heals then go back to finish his training? I am so proud of him and I am looking forward to his call that he is coming home? But I am not sure if he will be graduating may 18th with every one else? I will find out soon? ha ha I have really tried hard to see if I could rejoin the army and come back in?? but they said I am too old and have been out of the air force too long to come back in?? oh well?? ha I will just be cheering on our new soildiers and heros and be happy God blessed me this way!!!! dad of PVT JODY PHILLIPS PS-- you can still get in touch with me at www.myspace.com/garydphil lips or flyboyof3@yahoo.com

said flyboyof3 2007.04.29 at 02:12:09 PDT

I'm so sorry to hear about Craig...I hope he makes a quick and healthy recovery and is able to remain in the military. Best wishes goes out to him! Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.04.28 at 07:22:50 PDT

Sharon & Joel, I am sorry to hear that about Craig. Hopefully, he will be able to stay in! Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.04.28 at 06:37:19 PDT

Hey everyone. We got bad news about our soldier yesterday. He had been fighting a sore ankle for the last five weeks so finally went to sick bay last Friday. We thought he might be able to return to training this week but instead has been put on light duty for four weeks. He is awaiting an appointment with a podiatrist to determine what they will do next. The options he has are to heal and go back into Infantry training or find another job in the Army that might not be so hard on his feet. It is also possible they may give him a medical discharge which he desparately does not want since he loves the Army so much. At least he made it through basic training so we are assuming he will not have to repeat this part of his training if he stays in. So, we won't be attending graduation and meeting all of you. We want to thank everyone for all the support and new friends we have made. Best of luck to you and your soldiers. Proud parents of PFC Craig Haley, #115, A Company.

said haley557 2007.04.27 at 16:58:58 PDT

Hey Chelane and Gary, where are all y'all? Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.04.27 at 16:07:39 PDT

ProudSister, my pleasure! Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse No. 238 B Co

said rrhwilson 2007.04.27 at 16:06:58 PDT

**** PROTO OF SCARF AND HAT up on my album...please view!*** Click on my icon and check out what your slogan will look like on the scarves and hats. REMINDER, Tuesday is the last day to place an order. Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.04.27 at 08:28:44 PDT

*****SCARF AND HAT UPDATE****** If you click on Chelane1970 icon, then go to her Album marked Slogans you will see Opt III (that's the favorite slogan that was chosen for the scarf) and also what the ball caps will look like. The hats will be the same color as the scarves, light blue (symbolizing INFANTRY). Please have your orders turned into me NO LATER THAN TUESDAY, May 1st at NOON (EST) so I can ship them to you the week of May 7th so you'll get them in plenty of time for graduation. Send your orders to: ldpsport@aol.com ***Cost for scarves: $20 + $2.50 shipping. Cost for hats: $18.50 + $2.50 shipping. I will accept check, money order or through PayPal (Visa/Mastercard). If interested in PayPal I'll send you instruction on what account to go through (it's easy and confidential..verified account with high scoring). Once I receive your order I'll send you a confirmation email with my address if needed. Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.04.25 at 14:15:30 PDT

Rhonda, thank you so much for the emailing me the maps.

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.04.25 at 06:57:48 PDT

ProudSister - Glad to see you back. We have lost just about everyone that was posting on our end over here so its been rather lonely. Raintree - I was really happy to hear that you were able to spend some time with your son. What an experience that must have been. I am so proud of all of our Soldiers. This next few weeks is really going to push them to their limits both physically and mentally so lets say an extra prayer for them each and every day. Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.04.24 at 13:56:45 PDT

ProudSister2PFCONE, if you will send me your email address at acomputerwiz_nerd@yahoo.c om I will email you back all the maps I have of the Ft. Benning area. Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse No. 238 B Co

said rrhwilson 2007.04.24 at 07:24:35 PDT

Hello everyone. It has been quite awhile since I left a comment here, however I have been checking around often. I hope everyone is doing great. Sorry to hear about the soldiers that have been wounded, hurt. God bless them all! I have tried to get directions via mapquest from the hotel I am staying at but for some reason when I put in conway drive it doesn't recognize it. Does anyone know what address I should use? I tried typing in sand hill and that didn't help either. I want to print out driving directions prior to going so I have them on me. Please help if anyone knows. THANKS! God bless you and our soldiers that we are all very proud of! I can't wait to see my brother again!!!!

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.04.24 at 06:41:09 PDT

I missed a day of advice...sorry about that...Okay here goes: At the Turning Blue ceremony you will leave the bleachers and approach your soldier who has to remain in formation...standing at attention. When you get to him is when he can 'be at ease'. This is when you'll be able to give him the warmest, biggest hug you've ever given him and place the Blue Cord on his uniform. **Now, this is actually more of a request than advice: PLEASE look around and see if there are other soldiers standing there 'at attention' because they have no family/friends there. I ask of you wonderful BRAVO Company family members to approach these soldiers and tell them how proud you are..thank them for their service and see if they would like to wait for their drill sgt. to place their blue cord on them or if you could have the honor...most of these brave soldiers standing there with nobody around...will love you for this!!! I personally had the honor of placing the blue cord on my son's 'battle buddy' and will never forget his sincere words of, "Yes, Mam that would be real nice of you...Thank you Mam." By the way, his family ended up coming later in the day and were there for graduation..if not, I would have adapted him for the remainder of our time and had him hang out with us. A wonderful Army Pal of mine just had this experience and she put on several blue cords for soldiers and took them back to Uchee Creek for some homecooked meals. She said they were very appreciative. *** So there you go, that's my personal request that I tell everyone...thank you for keeping your eyes peeled. Hooah! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones ***PS. More advice to be continued tomorrow... :)

said proudmom32 2007.04.22 at 10:45:17 PDT

Sorry to hear about Pvt. Burkheimer...best wishes to him for a speedy and healthy recovery. ****How awesome raintree64, that you got to spend time with your soldier the past weekend...I bet he's changed much since the first time he left... You're right, it won't be too long now... Hooah!!! Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.04.22 at 10:34:06 PDT

Sorry it has been so long since I have posted, working 2 jobs keeps one exhausted. Spent the past weekend with my son Pvt Caleb A Carpenter. Got to meet several of your sons, how pleasant they were. Such gentleman. All seem to be doing so well, and counting down the days. Thank you to everyone for your support, and keeping us informed. It is hard to believe that graduation is almost here. What a ride. Prayers and blessings to all.

said raintree64 2007.04.22 at 04:00:10 PDT

Well A Co. is down another soldier.... Received an email from Burkdaddy, and apparently PVT Burkheimer has broken his leg and has returned home for 4 weeks. He will be sent back to Fort Benning after the 4 weeks is up for re-evaluation and then may have to restart AIT. PVT Berkheimer - I wish you the best of luck and speedy recovery.... Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.04.21 at 14:25:20 PDT

Chelane, thanks for your response...I was getting worried that nobody was reading or that nobody really cared and maybe I was wasting my time. Thanks. ****Ok...it's another day, which brings me to another day of advice (yeah!!).***For those staying at Uchee Creek Campground...be aware that it's in the middle of two time zones (yep...). Your cell phone will have a hay-day changing back and forth. So if you have a watch make sure you put it to Eastern Standard Time so you are on the right time for planning to leave to Turning Blue, getting your soldier back to barracks on time on Thursday (8pm), and getting to Graduation. ALSO, there is VERY LITTLE cell phone coverage at Uchee Creek. I couldn't get a signal at all and I have Verizon. I'm told that T-Mobile may get a little reception, but not much. There will be phones in the cabins...but don't rely on your cell phones until you leave the campground. Any other place on Fort Benning we had no other reception problems. Until tomorrow... Hooah! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.04.20 at 11:58:40 PDT

Thanks for your advice Lisa ~ I look forward to receiving the information that you are so willing to provide! You are a gem! 27 DAYS LEFT!!! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.04.20 at 11:23:21 PDT

More than likely the first place you'll go on Sand Hill is the Rec Center (a.k.a the visitor center). As soon as you get there go to the table with the portraits, chose the package, and YOU set the sitting time...pay(make sure to bring the PLASTIC they are very expensive!). Then go into the auditorium, which is through a doorway by this photo table and get GOOD SEATS for the Family Briefing. There will be a slide show where the commander will introduce the captain and some of the drill sgts your soldiers have told you about. It is AFTER this that you'll be asked to walk to Kanell Field, where you'll sit on bleachers and watch as your soldier marches onto the field with the rest of his company for the first time. They start marching from the far corner of the field... Which leads me to my next advice for the day...*** I recommend that you bring binoculars, a blanket and an umbrella (depending on the weather) to this event. The blanket is multi-purpose, if it's a little chilly you can cover your legs (especially those wives and girlfriends who are dressed up in high heels and a dress..)or you can use it to sit on (those bleachers get to feeling hard after awhile). Stay tuned for more advice tomorrow... Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt.Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.04.19 at 07:59:53 PDT

Hi Everyone...great postings the last couple of days. Gary, how wonderful for you to see your son and his battle buddies, sounds like you had a great time! As you may or may not remember, awhile ago I sent little tidbits of suggestions/advice about graduation. Well, to refresh memories or just to add new 'words of experience' I'm going to post several over the next coming days. Here's my advice for the today (with many to follow): When going to Turning Blue and Graduation make sure to leave EARLY so you get good parking, good seating and don't get caught in a traffic jam at the CheckPoint leading to Sand Hill...AND if you plan on purchasing portraits of your soldier in his Class A uniform (which will be right after the Turning Blue Ceremony), it is first come first serve on sitting times, so if you get there early the better sitting time you'll get. I'm getting excited for you all.. Congratulations to your soldiers for completing 'basic' training this week. Yahoo!!! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones ***PS. I'll be posting your scarf and hat slogan in the next day or so...I'll send out another post to let you know...

said proudmom32 2007.04.18 at 08:17:40 PDT

Gary, thank you for the kind words about my son. Benny mentioned that he ran into you and Jody at the movies. Benny said the movie "Shooter" was pretty good and thought you were a great guy. I guess in our generation, you are "cool". I truly believe the Army has cultivated our boys into strong Army soldiers. I am glad that the civilians are recognizing and honoring our soldiers. My son didn't mention the recognition but did talk about how he is enduring the training. He did mention that the next five weeks are going to be tough and he also said that he is now a squad leader. I am looking forward to meeting the families of A Company in May. I'm sorry you cannot be there, but will take many pictures as well as videos. Proud Mom of R116, PV2 Benny J. Hermanson, A Co. 2/58.

said doodie6550 2007.04.17 at 14:47:04 PDT

Gary - What a wonderful experience! I would have given anything to be there with my son and his buddies. I actually did have a wonderful conversatation with with my son on Saturday. Usually Phillip is pretty quiet and its hard to get a word out of him, however he was full of chatter with all of the training that they have been going through. He said that he and his buddy were staying at a Maryott and that the break away from the barracks was a much welcome event. We actually spent an hour and a half on the phone! The boys were headed out for dinner about 2000 to Applebee's. I really hoped that they had the same type of welcome and response that PVT Phillips and his group did. I'm sure that those boys just swelled with pride hearing all of the well wishes and appreciation being bestowed upon them. Anyway we are down to 29 days.... Just think 4 weeks more.... YEA!!! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.04.17 at 10:55:13 PDT

WOW!!!! WHAT A GREAT TIME I HAD WITH REAL HEROS!!! I WAS THERE IN COLUMBUS DURING OUR GUYS 36 HOUR TIME OFF.... I FLEW OVER FROM PHOENIX ARIZONA FRIDAY THE 13TH AND HAD A GREAT TIME WITH MY SON AND SOME OF HIS FRIENDS! I MET SO MANY OF YOUR SONS!! I REALLY WISH I COULD HAVE TAKEN PICTURES OF ALL OF THEM BUT I AM SO SORRY I DID NOT??! I MET #116 PVT BENNY HERMANSON AND WAS SO IMPRESSED WITH HIM!! I WAS SO IMPRESSED WITH OTHER GUYS I MET!! I WANT YOU ALL TO KNOW THAT EVERY WHERE I WENT WITH THESE GUYS THAT TOTAL STRANGERS WOULD COME UP TO THEM AND SHAKE THERE HANDS AND THANK THEM FOR WHAT THEY ARE DOING AND TO KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!!!WOW!! I WAS IN TEARS SO MANY TIMES AND SO IMPRESSED WITH ALL THAT!! ONE TIME ME AND MY SON AND HIS FRIENDS THAT WERE WITH US WENT TO THE PEACH MALL?? AND THE GUYS WANTED TO TRY ONE OF THOSE WATER MASSAGES? THERE WAS A MAN AND HIS FAMILY THERE THAT PAID FOR ALL OF THEM TO HAVE THIS MASSAGE!!!! WOW!! ME AND MY SON WENT TO OLIVE GARDEN TO EAT AND THE MALE WAITRESS WAS SHAKING MY SONS HAND AND SAYING HOW PROUD HE WAS OF HIM AND WHAT HE WAS DOING FOR OUR COUNTRY!!! EVERY GUY I MET WAS VERY POLITE AND FRIENDLY!! I FELT VERY CLOSE TO EVERY ONE OF THEM! I FELT LIKE THEY TOO WERE MY SONS!!! I WISH I COULD JOIN THE ARMY TO BE WITH THEM ALL THE TIME?!!! I WOULD IN A HEART BEAT!!!! I AM SO PROUD OF ALL YOUR SONS!! PLEASE BELIEVE ME! GARY PHILLIPS DAD OF #423 PVT JODY PHILLIPS

said flyboyof3 2007.04.16 at 11:57:26 PDT

Too Cool!!!! I'm glad Benny is two-steps ahead... I loved the suspense on what was on the camera...it was almost like Christmas when they got developed. :)

said proudmom32 2007.04.14 at 09:48:21 PDT

PROUDMOM32 that's how I was to post some pictures on my album of Benny and his buddies on one of their 8 hour passes. He sent me the disposable camera and I had Wal-mart develop the pictures and give me a CD so I could send some of the pictures to my family.

said doodie6550 2007.04.13 at 15:47:16 PDT

Hi!! ANYONE??? LOL... I just received an email from Nancy. There is an online chat board that has been set up for 2/58. Looks like ALL Companies are invited to join in on the fun, so here is the web address just in case you would like to check it out: www.network54.com/forum/5 58377 you don't have to be a member to post, so plese come on in and see whats going on. Take care. Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.04.12 at 21:05:06 PDT

Tink, I was sad to hear about Mike's injuries. Let us know what you hear. For his sake I hope he gets to do a restart! Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse No. 238 B Co

said rrhwilson 2007.04.12 at 16:29:32 PDT

Hello Company A family!!! Come out, come out whereever you are.... I wanted to give you one word of quick advise just before your soldiers complete basic training, go through Nick at Night and HOPEFULLY receive a 36 hour pass... when they call you to tell you that they are on pass request that they go out and purchase a disposable camera. Ask that they take all kinds of pictures and mail the camera back to you for developing. YOU'LL LOVE GETTING TO SEE EVERYTHING THROUGH THEIR EYES...THE FOOD...THEIR BUDDIES FALLING ASLEEP IN THEIR CHAIRS FROM COMPLETE EXHAUSTION, ETC. As the next few weeks go by I'll be posting more advice and suggestions as graduation approaches....so come back to this website often! I'm sure we'd all love to see everyone's posts about how everyone's doing...jump back on board!!!! Hooah! Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.04.12 at 15:29:33 PDT

Thank you.

said tink3rbel1 2007.04.12 at 08:27:55 PDT

Tink - Sorry to hear about Mike's injuries. Somethings are just so out of our hands that the only thing we can do is go with the flow... Mike will be in my prayers, and I wish the best for you and your family. Take care and God Bless.... Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.04.11 at 20:56:06 PDT

tinkerbell- I'll keep Mike in my prayers that he gets better quickly...no matter what his future holds, I'm very proud of him for signing up to serve his country!!!! Hooah! Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.04.11 at 20:20:41 PDT

Hello everyone! sorry its been a bit since I have been here, but I was waiting for new news on my sons situation before I posted again. Mike had hurt him leg. he was in recovery when he went back out and hurt his back, Wellllll, he was recovering from that when he reinjured an old childhood injury which put him again back out. He was hoping for a restart, but he was not sure if he was going to get it or a Medical discharge. Last I heard from him it had looked like he was going to end up with the medical discharge, but I have not heard from him since that time. Either way, I have canceled my Resv. at the cabin and will not be joining you all. I have enjoyed our time texting and My heart will always stay with Co. A and your boys. Thank you all for ALLLLL your support and I wish nothing but God's Blessings upon you all. Thank You.

said tink3rbel1 2007.04.11 at 12:59:16 PDT

Chelane, I got your email...sorry it took me so long to respond. My schedule has been so full since getting back from Fort Hood a week ago...playing catchup hasn't been as easy as I would have liked. It looks like you found the videos... Speaking of countdown.... Is Company A still interested in getting scarves/hats? I will need to know by the end of the week so we can do a proto of what your Company slogan will be...or if you have a couple you like, we could put it to a vote. Please let me know. ***A special loud shout out to Wonder Mini Wanda...HELLO!!!!! Lisa, proud mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones, 3rd BN 1st ID, Alpha 2/2 Fort Hood, TX

said proudmom32 2007.04.11 at 10:38:03 PDT

Chelane, look forward to meeting you at "turning blue". We will be there for Paul's battle buddy that was recycled. countdown to graduation. Hooah,Wanda proud mom of Pvt. Paul Simons, 121st Airborne ABN,LRS, Ft.Gillem,Ga.(Echo)

said PaulsMum 2007.04.10 at 19:34:56 PDT

Well hello everyone. Just thought I'd drop in to see if anything new and exciting has happened on the A Co. link. Its sad to see everyone lose interet in this so quickly. Anyway, if any of you check in the new photos are awesome! The videos are pretty rough, but for the most part you can make out quite a few of the Soldiers. Although I did not see my son in any of the videos, it made me proud to see these men doing what the Lord has led them to do for our country... And God Bless those sons who said "Hi Mom"! I can just about bet anything that those precious words from thier sons made your heart soar! Oh and BTW ...... Only 37 days left!! Hooah!!Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.04.10 at 16:54:22 PDT

Gary, be sure to take tons of pictures! Have a great time and let us know how everyone is doing. Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.04.10 at 10:05:55 PDT

Hello all! Gary, glad you will be able to see your son! He will love seeing you I am sure of it! Briansdad, you wrote a wonderful letter! What a treat. Blessings to you all! Tammy-Proud Mom of PVT Donavan 'Adam' Reather #339 B-Co 2-58

said reathersmom 2007.04.09 at 19:11:58 PDT

HELLO EVERY BODY! GRADUATION IS GETTING CLOSE!! MY SON PVT PHILLIPS WILL BE GETTING HIS 36 HOUR TIME THIS COMING WEEKEND(13TH-15TH) AND I WILL BE THERE WITH HIM!! I WILL BE STAYING AT THE DAYS INN FT. BENNING, I WILL BE THERE FRIDAY THE 13TH AND STAYING TILL SUNDAY 15TH!!!!!! I AM SO EXCITED TO BE ABLE TO SEE MY SON AND THE AREA! GARY PHILLIPS

said flyboyof3 2007.04.08 at 14:14:20 PDT

Happpy Easter Everyone!!! Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.04.08 at 10:58:12 PDT

The closest hotel to Ft. Benning is the EconoLodge and I think Motel 6 (where I am stayig for graduation) isn't that far. I did search and found a website that found a site with a map of hotels and far they were from the base. Do not stay at Holiday Inn, I've read bad things. But the EconoLodge is closest and 68 a night and Motel 6 isn't that far and 40-something a night.

said spaz_ga 2007.04.08 at 08:36:19 PDT

Alleluia, Christ has risen, as he said. He has risen from the dead. Alleluia. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. Let Israel say: "His love endures forever." I was pushed back and about to fall, but the Lord helped me. I will give you thanks, for you answered me; you have become my salvation. The stone the builder rejected has become the capstone; This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. from the house of the Lord we bless you. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit: as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen Alleluia, Christ has risen, as he said. He has risen from the dead. Alleluia. (Antiphon, Matt. 28:6a, 7b; Ps. 118:1-2, 13, 21-22, 24, 26) Almighty God the Father, through your only-begotten Son Jesus Christ you have overcome death and opened the gate of everlasting life to us. Grant that we, who celebrate with joy the day of our Lord's resurrection, may be raised from the death of sin by your life-giving Spirit; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen (Collect of the Day)

said rrhwilson 2007.04.08 at 08:05:19 PDT

raintree64, the two I have heard most often are Econolodge and Motel 6. Connie stayed at one of those. I will ask her to come post what she knows here. Rhonda Proud Mom of Matthew Parga-Manasse No. 238 B Co.

said rrhwilson 2007.04.08 at 08:05:07 PDT

I know that this has been asked before, but I am short on time, and in need of a quick answer. We are going down to see Pvt Caleb A Carpenter for his 36 hour leave, he wishes not to stay on base, therefore we are in need of the closest hotel. Thank you for your help.

said raintree64 2007.04.08 at 04:20:25 PDT

11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back from captivity. [b] I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile." (Jeremiah 29:11-14) God, today help me to rest in your glory knowing that you do have a plan for us all. In Christ Jesus' name. Amen

said rrhwilson 2007.04.07 at 08:05:47 PDT

Thanks for your kind words. A friend is video taping the wedding, and when I give the "Dads welcome speech" I plan to ask everyone to look into the camera, at one time, and yell "Hoooahhhhh". I'm going to send Brian a copy for when he has his thirty six hour pass, and hopefully he will get it, and get a chuckle. Should be pretty funny. My best to everyone.

said Briansdad01 2007.04.06 at 20:11:59 PDT

briansdad, what a wonderful letter to your son. I always try to share some humerous stories with my son, but mine pale in comparison to yours. Michael's brother is getting married later in the summer and we're unsure of whether he will be able to attend. It will be sad to have such a happy occasion without the whole family together. Patti, Proud Mom of Michael Reed #340, B Co.

said preed9800 2007.04.06 at 18:42:39 PDT

Briansdad what a nice letter to your son. Hope he gets to read it soon. Hope the wedding is as special as it should be good luck to you all. Karen Proud Mom of Jason Stephens #449 B Co.

said jjdmnana 2007.04.06 at 17:32:15 PDT

Hey ACo, just popped over from BCo to send a little love your way. Pass it on to your soldiers....To Briansdad, GREAT LETTER! Maureen, Proud Mom of Spc. Joey DeMartino #114 Bravo Company 2nd Battalion 58th Infantry Regiment

said modemartino 2007.04.06 at 16:14:34 PDT

Briansdad, thanks for the smile you put on my face! Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse No. 238 B Co

said rrhwilson 2007.04.06 at 16:01:31 PDT

********** LOVE BUMP ********** B Co is thinking about y'all! Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.04.06 at 16:00:13 PDT

28 Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. 29 He gives power to the faint, and strengthens the powerless. 30 Even youths will faint and be weary, and the young will fall exhausted; 31 but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:28-31) Dear God, hear our hearts and fill our young soldiers with your strength. Call out to their hearts so that they will turn to you to find the powers and salvation you so freely give. Carry them through this day by giving them the peace that comes from relying upon your wisdom. Give support to them - as you are giving to each of us - to share with each other. In the name of Christ Jesus we ask. Amen - Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.04.06 at 15:59:39 PDT

Many Thanks!

said Briansdad01 2007.04.05 at 12:16:52 PDT

Briansdad - Too funny about the Red Lobster story - thats what I call service! CONGRATS to your daughter and her upcoming event, its sad that Brian will not be in attendance, but I'm sure he will be thinking of all of you just as much as you will be thinking of him. Honestly I'd given anything to see you guys do the "Elaine Dance"... I can picture it now!! LOL). and thanks for sharing your "letter" with us. Janice - I will definately take a look see at the pictures... next time you write or talk to your soldier tell him thank you for taking the pictures and thanks to you for adding them to your album.... Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.04.05 at 11:04:10 PDT

Briansdad - Too funny about the Red Lobster story - thats what I call service! CONGRATS to your daughter and her upcoming event, its sad that Brian will not be in attendance, but I'm sure he will be thinking of all of you just as much as you will be thinking of him. Honestly I'd given anything to see you guys do the "Elaine Dance"... I can picture it now!! LOL). and thanks for sharing your "letter" with us. Janice - I will definately take a look see at the pictures... next time you write or talk to your soldier tell him thank you for taking the pictures and thanks to you for adding them to your album.... Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.04.05 at 11:03:44 PDT

Hi Everyone, my son sent me a camera to get developed and there are some pictures on my webshots of Futrell, Medina, Blackwell, Nilson and some other soldiers I do not know as I cannot set their names on their uniforms. Take a look at my album to see some of the pictures.

said doodie6550 2007.04.05 at 10:19:31 PDT

Oh, I almost forgot.........We are gonna buy you a cheeseburger the size of a basketball when we come down, and you can wash it down with a gallon of Red Bull

said Briansdad01 2007.04.05 at 09:58:51 PDT

#412 Brian Fuller Jr. 2-58 You said you were able to get some limited internet time, so this message is for you bud! Here's what's going on: 1) There are too many dogs in this house at one time. I had to make a command decision, and sent one packing. (The one with the bug eyes, and flat face) He was last seen carrying his hobo style backpack (a sack on the end of a long stick) and hopping on to a train box car headed for warmer weather. He muttered something about coming to Fort Benning to steal socks from your duffle bag. He can not visit here again 2) You weren't imagining things when I talked to you on the phone on Wednesday. Mom was in fact actually getting a shoulder rub from the waiter at the Red Lobster at dinner. He asked her, "Can I get you anything else?" She said, "a shoulder rub". So thats what he did. I guess I should have stopped it, but, what the heck. It gave me more time to talk to you while I ate my Margarita grilled lobster. 3) Melissa's wedding is Two days away. We are gonna miss you boy. I really wanted to see you dance "The Elaine Dance" with me. But it's o.k. I will make a toast to you. I'm just hoping that bug eye dog doesnt show up with his bad attitude, and start a scene by begging for table scraps. You know how nasty Pugs can be. 4) We love you, and are so proud of your accomplishments. Stay Strong, Hang Tough. The end is toughest in some ways because you want to be finished. Remember, soak up every bit of training they throw at you. 5) Finally, remember the words of Evel Kneivel that we talked about (No not OUCH, the other ones) and remind yourself every day. You said you would check the website, so here it is Love You Bud, Dad

said Briansdad01 2007.04.05 at 09:46:50 PDT

No Text

said Briansdad01 2007.04.05 at 09:14:12 PDT

HEY

said LEEFERD 2007.04.04 at 19:33:51 PDT

It does look as though B Company has more interaction with each other, but PLEASE DO NOT DEFECT FROM A COMPANY. There have been several suggestions made by some of our parents regarding bbq/pot luck, emblems for our own scarves, etc. but no one has shown much interest. Let's get together A Company and get involved. Let Chelane know whether she should pursue the "emblem" for A Co. If we want her to pursue this, then let's contact her about how many we want. Do we want to have a large flag to symbolize our unity with the winning emblem to hang at graduation or smaller flags to waive during graduation ceremonies. Maybe the parents can get together on the 16th just to introduce ourselves and tell stories about our soldiers. It would be nice to show all the other companies that we are behind our boys. A Company, you're the best!!!! CHELANE, your aunt is in God's hands and he works through the doctors taking care of your Aunt. What better hands can she be in. I also wish to say Thank You for coming up with the three emblems for us to vote on. Proud Mom of PV2, Benny J. Hermanson, A Co., 2/58

said doodie6550 2007.04.04 at 08:08:52 PDT

GOOD MORNING EVERY BODY! IF YOU HAVE NOT SEEN YET? THERE ARE SOME GREAT NEW PICTURES OF OUR SONS AT CHURCH SERVICES!! 53 PICTURES TOTAL! THANKS, #423 PVT JODY PHILLIPS DAD GARY PHILLIPS

said flyboyof3 2007.04.04 at 07:02:21 PDT

Thank you for your prayers - We appreciate it. And thanks for visiting our "side" looks like I'm going to have to join the B Co. LOL.... Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.04.04 at 06:49:49 PDT

Hello A Co, I am Proud Sister of Pvt. Shawn Dickinson #425 B Co. Just wanted to stop by and say hello and sending my love and support to you all. Chelane I am truly sad to hear about your husbands aunt, she and you all have been added to my prayers. You all are rocking along. Have a beautiful week!!!!!

said BigSisterKimmy 2007.04.03 at 16:39:26 PDT

Chelane, Sorry to hear about your husband's aunt. I will keep her in my prayers. Please know we are all here for you if you need anything. God Bless, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.04.03 at 11:33:40 PDT

Well - looks like our group has dwindled away .... Sorry I've been out of commission - just found out my husband's aunt has been diagosed with ovarian cancer, so our family has been dealing with "stuff". Glad to hear that Mike is doing well Tink - and just think we are down to 45 days and counting. YEA!! Well I'd better be off - lots of work to be done... Catch you all later. Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.04.03 at 11:28:48 PDT

Received a letter From Mike. He said he did not need me to send him anything more, that they pay him well their and he had enough money to buy what ever he needed if and when he needed so I was not to send him anything more.. like the Phone card. He gave me his bank card and told me to put in on for him... Pay Phone prob did not let him do it. He sounded good. got all his qualifications he needed and is on ...forgot what he called when you get hurt in there... he hurt his leg and then his back took him out the rest of the way. My "indestructible" boy if finding out he IS a mortal after all LOL. He said he is getting a 10 day pass after Grad and is coming home. he then will go to Ft. Hood Texas... anyways... I'm going to tell him that it looks like the group BBQ is being called, so we could do anything else he wanted. I'm going to even suggest that if he really did like the BBQ idea, we could grab some stakes and have our own.. AND, it should be warm by then if he wanted to play in the lake and rent (if rentable)a boat to go out and play on... What ever he wanted.. getting ready to write him back tonight.

said tink3rbel1 2007.04.02 at 12:07:16 PDT

16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (I Thessalonians 5:16-18) God, because you are in control I can rejoice in every event that takes place in my life. Help me to have patients and wait on your will. In Christ Jesus' name, amen. Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.03.31 at 09:34:47 PDT

****** LOVE BUMP *******

said rrhwilson 2007.03.31 at 09:34:35 PDT

11 Not that I am referring to being in need; for I have learned to be content with whatever I have. 12 I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, or having plenty and of being in need. 13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:11-13) Dear God, having little and having plenty does not always have to do with material things. Sometimes it is a phone call, a letter or a picture. Teach us to value what we have and be content in all matters; relying upon Christ as our Savior. Amen (Thank you Ronda for your words last night. They inspired this prayer.)Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse B Co. #238

said rrhwilson 2007.03.30 at 05:57:21 PDT

I to am lost as to what to get my son for graduation, im open to suggestions. My son also is not interested in the cookout,he want's to spend all his time with only his family.He said he would like to leave the base and go do something,so we will probably take him out for dinner. PROUD MOM OF PVT GREG BARKER 102, A CO.2/58.barker 65

said barker65 2007.03.29 at 21:18:57 PDT

I think I am going to cancel the Lodge for the May 17th and let everyone do their own thing. Chelane came up with the idea to get together (pot luck/bbq) and it appears Phillip has other plans. I know the turning blue ceremony and grduation will be very busy and we might not have the opportunity to have a "cookout" for our soldiers. PROUD MOM OF R116, PV2 BENNY J. HERMANSON, A CO. 2/58.

said doodie6550 2007.03.29 at 11:54:02 PDT

Chelane: Don't rely on this information that Phillip will be going to Fort Riley unless he has it in writing. Do you know where he got this information? As you know, things change on a weekly basis. Did Phillip volunteer for another position or is he going to airborne?

said doodie6550 2007.03.29 at 11:50:30 PDT

Chelane and everyone: If the pot luck/bbq isn't working out, we call can hang out on the 16th and do whatever the guys want to do after all it is their day. Maybe the parents can have a get together at one of the Chalets or pavillion. Please give me your thoughts and it looks like a lot of people are not responding or have other plans. Thanks

said doodie6550 2007.03.29 at 11:44:14 PDT

Morning, Afternoon, and Evening - Just checking in to see what everyone is up to. I received a letter from PFC Connell #306, and by the sounds of things right now he will be going to Fort Riley after he is finished at Fort Benning. I have no clue what will happen there, if he will be going through additional training or what... does anyone know?? As for the graduation gift - I am still lost as to what to get him. Also - it doesn't look at though Phillip is interested in doing the Potluck :( If he changes his mind great - if not we will just have to enjoy our time with you all on Wednesday night and Thursday morning. Anyway have a great day everyone. Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.29 at 11:34:07 PDT

hey everybody, Wanda,echo mom, here! We will be coming down from Atlanta for "turning blue" on May 17th. Paul's battle buddy was "recycled" in Alpha and we are anticipating him going to Honor Hill. Look forward to meeting everyone....Wanda proud mom of Pvt.Paul Simons, who hopefully finished his Airborne jumps today!

said PaulsMum 2007.03.28 at 18:57:01 PDT

doodie, tink3bel1, etc, James Avery has some pocket pieces (sterling silver) and I found some more at our local bible shops. If it is a religious article you want to send. If not there must be some others. If I find them I will let you know. Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Bo.

said rrhwilson 2007.03.28 at 18:30:52 PDT

Chelane: I hope that by graduation they can get anything. Bill and I were just thinking about what type of graduation gift would be appropriate. You want something they can take with them whether they are at Fort Hood or fighting in Kuwait, Bagdad, etc. Something symbolic that our soldier can carry with them in their boot, maybe, near their heart so they know we are always thinking of them and they are always in our hearts. Proud Mom of PV2 Benny J. Hermanson, A Co. 2/58.

said doodie6550 2007.03.28 at 18:15:11 PDT

spaz_ga THAT! was a GREAT joke, THANKS for sharing it. make me LOL.... Thanks for the prayer rrhwilson, although this one actulay brought a tear to my eye.

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.28 at 12:56:08 PDT

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand." (Eph 6:10-13 NIV) Dear God, urge us to stand strong in the Lord and to turn to each other to share the strength, love and blessings you are giving to each of us. In Christ Jesus' name. AMEN Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.03.28 at 06:46:08 PDT

Chelane, I am having our Sen. fly a flag over the U.S. Capital and will present that along with a pocket piece for graduation. Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.03.28 at 06:45:59 PDT

Hi, everyone. This is Connie from Bco. I'm the company joke teller and I just got this joke and thought I would share it with all the moms! It's just too funny!...NEVER LIE TO MOM...Brian invited his mother over for dinner. During the course of the meal, Brian's mother couldn't help but keep noticing how beautiful Brian's roommate, Stephanie, was. Brian's Mom had long been suspicious of a relationship between Brian and Stephanie, and this had only made her more curious. Over the course of the evening, while watching the two react, she started to wonder if there was more between Brian and Stephanie than met the eye. Reading his mom's thoughts, Brian volunteered, "I know what you must be thinking, but I assure you Stephanie and I are just roommates." About a week later, Stephanie came to Brian saying, "Ever since your mother came to dinner, I've been unable to find the beautiful silver gravy ladle. You don't suppose she took it, do you?" Brian said, "Well, I doubt it, but I'll send her an e-mail just to be sure. So he sat down and wrote: Dear Mom: I'm not saying that you "did" take the gravy ladle from the house, I'm not saying that you "did not" take the gravy ladle. But the fact remains that one has been missing ever since you were here for dinner. Love, Brian Several days later, Brian received an email back from his mother that read: Dear Son: I'm not saying that you "do" sleep with Stephanie, I'm not saying that you "do not" sleep with Stephanie. But the fact remains that if Stephanie was sleeping in her own bed, she would have found the gravy ladle by now. Love, Mom

said spaz_ga 2007.03.27 at 18:07:05 PDT

Sorry, Mike's sister came in for the week from PA. Hope everyone is still doing good!

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.27 at 17:25:38 PDT

HELLOOOO EVERYONE!! MIGHTY QUIET HERE OVER THE LAST FEW DAYS - GUNNA HAVE TO LIVEN YOU ALL UP SOMEHOW.... I read one one of these post where the families have bought different gifts for their Soldier for graduation... Does anyone have any clue as to what you get someone who really can't have anything?? Just curious... Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.27 at 16:43:40 PDT

Hi Everyone: I reserved the lodge for May 17th. We have the lodge from 9:00 AM on May 17th to 9:00 AM on May 18th. I asked the reservation desk to see if the prior patrons who have the lodge on the 16th not to put up the tables and chairs. They said they would ask them. I will call a little later to see what the other patrons said. If not, we will be really, really busy after the turning blue ceremony getting everything ready. We would still like to get a count of how many parents and family will be there. Thanks. Proud Mom of PV2 Benny J. Hermanson, A Co., 2/58.

said doodie6550 2007.03.26 at 16:50:35 PDT

Hello friends of sons with our sons. i am happy to be part of this! my son pvt jody phillips was born in lake charles louisiana. we are from baton rouge louisiana and now live here in the phoenix arizona area. we left louisiana 1 month before katrina hit, and i am very glad to be here!i love the dry climate and mountains!when i talk to jody on the phone he tells me all that is going on? the guys all support one another and are like a family to each other! i am so proud that your sons are the friends of my son and they back each other up!i am hoping and praying that i can go to the may 18th grad. but i am not so sure? i had open heart surgery and when it was time to go back to work i found out my work place let me go? so i have been job hunting and if i get a new job before then? they may not let me go? anyway i have been talking to my son jody about it and i hope he understands? :0( ----------------------- please feel free to also get in touch with me at: flyboyof3@yahoo.com gary phillips

said flyboyof3 2007.03.26 at 14:28:30 PDT

Welcome Flyboyof3! Nice to have you join us on this journey. By the looks of your post you have quite a bit of Military background. Speaking for myself this is my frist real experience with the Military, so for me there were and are lots of questions, but here are are few for you.... Would you like to be added to our "Family Contact List"? This is a running list of all of the families who have posted here, their addresses, email, phone (lots of info - share what you want). The majority of us will be attending the "Turning Blue" ceremony on May 17th, and the graduation from Basic on May 18th, and staying at Uchee Creek Campgrounds. If you and your family plan on attending, all of the information is provided in the above posts, or you may email me direct at: chelane1970@hotmail.com or chelane_connell@hotmail.c om, as I have all of the information saved as a word attachment. We also have some information on memoribilia for our Soldier's graduation that we would like to share with you if you are interested. It will be a pleasure having you here to share this wonderful experience with us. Check in as often as you can and post as often as you like! GOD Bless - Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.26 at 10:50:05 PDT

I spoke to Mike on the BBQ and he said YES! he was excited to go knowing I am coming to GA. I told him if he had any friends that would like to go to, who would not have anyone showing up, that we had space and I would contribute more for them to join us..... GLADLY I WILL!! Oh... didn't mention before... I also asked him about his phone card and he said that he had plenty of money to buy what he needed and for me not to worry about it.. He said they pay him well for being there.

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.26 at 08:27:07 PDT

Has anyone heard from their soldiers regarding the proposed BBQ/Pot Luck?

said doodie6550 2007.03.26 at 07:53:44 PDT

*****Thanks to Debbie (dritthaler) for this prayer ***** Good Morning !!!! This morning when I awakened A nd saw the sun above, I softly said, "Good morning, Lord, Bless everyone I love." Right away I thought of you And said a loving prayer, That He would bless you specially, And keep you free from care. I thought of all the happiness A day could hold in store, I wished it all for you because No one deserves it more. I felt so warm and good inside, My heart was all aglow. I know God heard my prayers for you, He hears them all, you know. Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co

said rrhwilson 2007.03.26 at 06:10:50 PDT

Sorry y'all, got busy and did not get to this until now. 28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to his purpose. 29 For whom he foreknew, he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom he predestined, these he also called; whom he called, these he also justified; and whom he justified, these he also glorified. 31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:28-31)

said rrhwilson 2007.03.25 at 18:48:53 PDT

HOWDY Gary, PROUD Dad of PVT JODY PHILLIPS #423! Welcome. Your experience will be a boon to all of us here. Wow, another NATIVE TEXAN! Chelane will be around in a bit to properly welcome you. I was just over here visiting from B Co and saw your post. Please come back often and share your knowledge and company with us often. Where do y'all live now? You can find us over on B Co and I will send you an invite to my facebook account. Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse B Co #238

said rrhwilson 2007.03.25 at 18:48:05 PDT

HELLO MY ARMY FAMILY FRIENDS! MY SON IS PVT JODY PHILLIPS #423. HE IS PART OF A MILITARY FAMILY! HIS RELITIVES WERE MILITARY, NAVY(some were in pearl harbor when it was attacked)BOTH HIS GRANDADS WERE ARMY,(in korea,vietnam)I WAS AIR FORCE ON C-130'S AND WAS BORN IN FT. HOOD TEXAS. IF I HAD TO DO IT AGAIN? I WOULD HAVE GONE INTO THE ARMY LIKE MY DAD... I WOULD GO BACK IN A HEART BEAT!HA, YOU CAN TALK TO ME AT WWW.MYSPACE.COM/GARYDPHIL LIPS

said flyboyof3 2007.03.25 at 11:01:26 PDT

You never know for sure where our soldiers are going after basic and AIT. They can be told that they are going to Ft. Hood, Ft. Jackson, or some other place and then find out a week before they graduate, their assignment could change. We just have to wait. How did you son find out where he was going?

said doodie6550 2007.03.25 at 08:25:21 PDT

Hi Everyone: I spoke with the Lodge reservations yesterday to see how far in advance we need to notify them if we cancel. They said we have to cancel 8 days before the event. We are able to get the key at 9:00 AM on May 17th since there is an event on the 16th. I requested the party on the 17th not put away the tables and chairs since this will take up time on the 17th. Since most of us will have refrigerators in our accommodations, we could buy the food on othe 16th and then transport it to the refrigerators on the 17th before the turning blue ceremony which I think starts at 12:00. I will call tomorrow to make the reservations to insure that we will have the lodge. Please let me know what your think. You can e-mail me at jgillies49@comcast.net also. Thanks

said doodie6550 2007.03.25 at 08:16:23 PDT

That's kept giving them that a boys.

said ArmyMom229 2007.03.24 at 20:49:36 PDT

Hello everyone! I heard from Josh and it sounds like they had a terrific time at the airshow. He mentioned people were very nice, keeping giving them that a boys and of course they got a lot of looks from some really cute girls. . .Hey Josh mentioned he'll get to come home for 10 days, heading for Fort Hood for 2 weeks after that and then Kawait. Has anyone else heard this? Proud mom of Pvt Joshua Viol.

said ArmyMom229 2007.03.24 at 20:47:55 PDT

HELLO A-CO************LOVE BUMP FOR THE DAY************** PROUD MOM OF PVT MATT RITTHALER #440 B-CO 2/58

said dritthaler 2007.03.24 at 15:37:40 PDT

Good Afternoon Alpha Co families...I'm stopping in real quick to say hello, I'm enjoying all the bonding you all are forming...it's wonderful! I hope you all get to hear the voice of your soldier this weekend. I'll be back soon. Lisa, Proud mom of an American Soldier, Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.03.24 at 13:27:43 PDT

helloRAINTREE64 i am pvt vallasters mom its funny i got a letter 2 days ago from him and he too mentioned carpenter as the guy he talks to the most. He mentioned that they were going into airborne together i think.He said your from indiana we are from new jersey. i was so excited when i read your comment it was like making a connection to his new life.

said chantalh430 2007.03.24 at 10:42:27 PDT

Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Jesus Christ. (Philippians 6-7 NRSV) God, thank you for the life and laughter of my two healthy sons'. Continue to wrap them in your loving protection. I trust that you will always be their guardian and guide. Thank you for loving family and friends which help to support our needs. Continue to bless us all. Amen

said rrhwilson 2007.03.24 at 05:30:36 PDT

Welcome 4wheelenblondie!! I too would like to extend a warm welcome to you. So far this has been a crazy and wild ride, and quite the learning experience on many levels. I have a family contact info spreadsheet going so if you would like to be added to it just let me know by posting to this site, or by emailing me personally at: chelane_connell@hotmail.c om. We have fun here, there is great advice that is given, emotional support from other moms ('cause some dads just don't get how mom feels! LOL), and the friends that you make here are truely there for you... What is your son's name and RN#. We would love to have you stay and post with us - and again welcome aboard!! Also check out the ideas for the scarf and hat designs that we have come up with. You can do this by clicking on my name and opening the album that says Designs - Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.23 at 16:40:45 PDT

Haley557: Congrats on Craig being named sharpshooter. I'm so glad their platoon all qualified. Pizza does sound good. Still do not know what we will be doing as far as the BBQ/Pot Luck. I don't want to wait too late to rent the Lodge out. We can use the Lodge as a hangout for those solders on the families on this website to cool off from the Georgia heat. We do need to get an idea. I will contact the Lodge to see if their is a cancellation charge, DUUUHHH, forgot to ask.

said doodie6550 2007.03.23 at 16:24:24 PDT

Welcome 4wheelinblondie. You will find this sign a wealth of information as well as support from all the families that have sons and/or daughters going through basic training and how the families have used this website to vent their feeling of loss. If you need any information, and cannot find it on the other comments, just write and one of us will respond. Proud Mother of R116, PV2 Benny J. Hermanson, Expert marksman (YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!), A Company, A Co., 2/58th Inf. Reg.

said doodie6550 2007.03.23 at 16:20:48 PDT

WELCOME 4wheelenblondie! What is your son's name? I love your nickname... let me guess... your blonde and have a 4 wheeler! haha Where are y'all from? Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co.

said rrhwilson 2007.03.23 at 15:58:04 PDT

hey guys my son is in A company, i like looking at these pics sometimes the guys all look the same.

said 4wheelenblondie 2007.03.23 at 09:00:05 PDT

hey guys my son is in A company, i like looking at these pics sometimes the guys all look the same.

said 4wheelenblondie 2007.03.23 at 08:59:58 PDT

Chelane, would you mind taking a look at ours? We need some input to come to a final decision. Thanks! Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.03.23 at 08:09:24 PDT

Thank you Rhonda! That was awesome and so true....... I have set up a new album for the Scarf and Hat design - so take a look and let me know if you want to see something different, and let me know what your thoughts are by adding a comment. Thanks to all and have a wonderful GOD filled and blessed day! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.23 at 07:30:31 PDT

I will open up the windows of heaven for you and pour out a blessing so great you won't have room enough to take it in!" (Malachi 3:10) How many grains of sand on the beach? How many blades of grass in the meadow? How many drops of dew on the tree? If you could count all these, you could count the number of God's blessings. Do not even try to count. Just trust, enjoy, and give thanks. (Celtic Praise) Dear God, open the windows of Heaven and let us dance in the joy of Your love and strength. Amen

said rrhwilson 2007.03.23 at 06:56:56 PDT

Congrats on qualifying! And way to go for Craig and Benny. You guys are doing great! Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co.

said rrhwilson 2007.03.23 at 06:56:44 PDT

Great news about everyone qualifying...way to go soldiers of A Company!!! Hooah! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.03.22 at 21:26:25 PDT

AND we need to set up some kind of cooking arrangement for a bbq cooking shift. I was thinking that if we all take a 15 minute turn at the grill then nobody gets "stuck" with the job, and everyone will have equal time to spend with their Soldier. There is lots of time to think about this one so there ya go....

said Chelane1970 2007.03.22 at 20:21:14 PDT

WOW! How wonderful for both PV2 Hermanson and PFC Haley!!! Way to go guys! Rhonda - thanks for posting your dailies.... I'm sure that we will all be able to take something valuable away from them everyday. I know I will anyway - I just love my daily devotionals. They are so inspiring. NOW ON TO OTHER BUSINESS.... I had the pleasure of speaking with Janice (aka doodie6550) yesterday on the tellie - and this is what she had to say..... PV2 Hermanson's aunt has offered to rent out the "Lodge" at Uchee Creek for the A Co. Family Day (the fee is $200). The Lodge has a full kitchen, including 2 fridges, an ice machine, and AC. This will give the option of being indoors out of the warm weather and bugs. The sooner we can get some feed back on what everyone wants to do the better our chances to reserve the building it that is what the group decides to do. This is a very generous gift that is being offered - so give it some thought and post here or email me or Janice as soon as you can. HOOAH! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.22 at 19:55:16 PDT

doodie6550 Just talked to Craig & he said he had qualified on the range as sharpshooter. He said only 2 in his platoon qualified as expert and one was Benny. You should be really proud of your son. Just from reading your posts and emails I'm sure you're not one to toot your own horn about your son. So we are doing it for for you. He also said they would get to have pizza & gatorade for all of the soldiers in his platoon because everyone had qualified. He was sure looking forward to it. So, just wanted to say way to go PV2, BENNY J. HERMANSON, #116, A Co., 2/58! Proud parents of PFC Haley, #115, A Co., 258.

said haley557 2007.03.22 at 18:44:41 PDT

OK y'all, I thought I was over on B Co site and just realized I posted to A Co. Sumtimerz setting in this brain! Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.03.22 at 14:39:52 PDT

HOWDY raintree64, PROUD Mom of Caleb A. Carpenter! Wow, that is a great looking young man! Sorry to say I have not met any families with that name. Anyone else? Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238

said rrhwilson 2007.03.22 at 14:38:54 PDT

Hi all. I got a funny picture of my brother that he had taken at the airshow last Saturday (well he sent it to my children actually). I also got another letter. He also hit the target with that tank missle weapon and they all shouted "tank killer, tank killer, tank killer. (that's what they shouted when the target was hit). He was thrilled he was chosen and still says he's still smiling from it all. 8 more weeks til we get to see our soldiers! HOOAH!!!!!!!

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.03.22 at 13:23:11 PDT

Hey guys, heard from my son yesterday, via a letter. Caleb A Carpenter, 2-58, he mentioned his friends name as being Vallaster. Are there any mom's or dads here that there last name is Vallaster. Hope all is doing well. Prays to you and yours.

said raintree64 2007.03.22 at 13:05:52 PDT

"Not one sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't worry! You are more valuable to him than many sparrows" (Jesus in Matthew 10:29-31, TLB) Dear God, help me to let go of worry and rest in the knowledge that Your will is a great gift. Help me to leave in Your control the things that are beyond my doing. Amen

said rrhwilson 2007.03.22 at 10:48:52 PDT

Hey y'all we promised Chelane we would start posting B Co's daily prayer and daily funny here, too. So here is the first daily prayer. Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co.

said rrhwilson 2007.03.22 at 10:48:27 PDT

Tinker- Wonderful news about the phone call. Sounds like the guys are doing GREAT!!!! Thanks for sharing. Have a wonderful day everyone. Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.03.22 at 09:58:39 PDT

Mike called me last night. we talked for several minutes and he updated me on a lot of stuff. 1st. YES, he want to go to the BBQ. He said there were lots of rumors going around about several BBQ's and I told him Co A's is real and he thinks its a cool idea. he said like in a week they were "supposed" to get a 8hr pass. he laughed. he said his Co has been doing extra stuff LOL... I guess many have been trying to sneak stuff in... Tobacco mainly he said.. he said it was all good though. He fired a missile the other day and hit his target on the first try and got the nick name "tank killer" he also said he did good with his riffle, despite some teasing due to a bad gun the first time around. He also told me about Gas Chamber day. He had to do it twice. the first time he had a cold and was coughing and kept coughing the mask off and sucking the gass in and final had his fill and had to get out and .... well got very insistive and they let him out. He said the second time was better. Chelane---Mike knows Philip. I told him to tell Philip to write you more than once every 27 days. Mike laffed and said he would mention it to him.

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.22 at 09:51:34 PDT

****** LOVE BUMP from B Co ********

said rrhwilson 2007.03.21 at 19:05:54 PDT

I'm going to post a military motivational quote for the day (I used to send one to my son Brandon with every letter I wrote...which was everyday): Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak, and esteem to all. – George Washington. ****Alpha Company, keep the posts coming...the more the better. The more information and support you can give to one another on a continual basis makes the world of difference. Here's the information and advice I'll give you for today (with many more to follow): When going to graduation make sure you leave EARLY so you get a good seat and don't get caught in the traffic jam at the checkpoint, leading to Sand Hill (where Turning Blue and Graduation takes place). Everyone have a good day. Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.03.21 at 10:24:24 PDT

Chelane - A week or so ago our Soldier, PFC Craig Haley, told us he had talked to your son about the BBQ after Craig had heard about it from another Soldier (I think it was PFC Hermanson who told him about it). So the word is getting out as you said it would. Really glad you got a letter from your son. Tink is right -- never feel selfish for wanting to hear from one of your children. Proud parents of PFC Haley, #115, A Co., 258.

said haley557 2007.03.20 at 15:12:37 PDT

NEVER feel selfish for wanting to hear from a loved one, ESPECIALY when it is one of your children. It's like a mothers right. LOL

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.20 at 10:08:47 PDT

Chelane - glad you got the words you needed to hear!!!

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.03.20 at 07:11:59 PDT

Sherree & Kimberly - First - Thank you for your support - especially you Sherree. I never put it into perspective in the sense of giving my son the independence to be self sufficient. I suppose that this is very true in the way I brought up Phillip. He is very independent, always has been, always will be I suppose. I was just being selfish and insecure and well… a mother. I'm over it now – mainly because I received a letter today (maybe that's the key - let everyone in the world know what you are feeling and just maybe you'll get a letter - worked for me anyway). According to Phillip the Company was issued an 8 hour pass last Saturday to go see an air show in Columbus. Phillip did not get to go.... Apparently there was a DS that had gotten Phillip and another Soldier mixed up and Phillip said that when he tried to let the DS know that he wasn't the right guy, and got his privileges taken away, got assigned extra duties, and was "fired". Now I don't know what he was "fired" from, but it really doesn't seem right that he should be reprimanded for trying to correctly identify himself. Oh well, what do I know – I'm just the mom.... Phillip did say that he has been addressed by at least 5 Soldiers in other platoons regarding the BBQ. So just maybe your Soldier has talked with my Soldier! Thank you again for your support. I appreciate more than words can say... HOOAH! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.19 at 21:09:12 PDT

Chelane1970.. I never expected to hear form Mike at all. The only reason I did in the first place is cause he had a conflict, that has been resolved. I received one letter with his address and a "few" words.... the next letter was two letters to his friends.. nothing from me... I then sent him a phone card and a pic, that got taken LOL... I received a letter thanking me for the "gear". Not one phone call to me yet... I did not expect it. I know he would rather talk to his friends, that is why I sent it. I just sent him off another letter telling him I am coming to GA and what was up. I included a msg from his puppy too LOL.... ask for his phone card number to refill it for him and told him to call me COLLECT!! if he did not want to waist the minutes on me ... again laughing... As close as Mike and I are, I have raised him to be completely independent and to stand on his own. That is why I did not expect much contact from him, even though "I" had planed to wright him a lot anyways. I know he loves me. Maybe you did a such a Great Job as his mom and raised him to be completely independent too. Just know if your heart of hearts, he loves you!!

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.19 at 11:58:21 PDT

Doodie6550 - I can see why you thought it was Cone as the entire name doesn't show up on here..the entire name I chose for this is ProudSister2PFCO'Neil. My name is Kimberly. My brother is 36 years old, from what he told me they refer to him as "grampa" lol. Please tell your son that I said thanks for the nice compliments about my brother. I hope your son is doing well and keeping strong. God bless!

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.03.19 at 08:58:36 PDT

Proud Sister, I wrote my son if he knew a Nilson because his battle buddy's sister was inquiring about him. He told me that Nilson was PFC's O'Neil's battle buddy. I didn't know your name but I said that your brother was in his 30's. He told me that his name was not Cone, by O'Neil and his battle buddy was 17 years old. My son said your brother is a great guy and respects him. PROUD MOM OF PV2, BENNY J. HERMANSON, #116, A Co., 2/58.

said doodie6550 2007.03.19 at 06:54:07 PDT

Chelane1970..My heart goes out to you as I can only imagine how you feel. I hope your son does contact you soon. I am mailing a letter out to my brother tomorrow and I mentioned that if he knows your son or knows of your son, to inform him that you are worried and to write you. I mentioned that I read your posts on the website so he knows how I heard. I hope that this will help you hear from your son real soon. I will of course let you know if my brother responds to that as soon as I find out. Take care. Keep your chin up. God bless. Be strong!

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.03.18 at 20:04:49 PDT

Hi everyone. Just checking in - sorry I've been away - I'm having a really hard time trying to stay "up-beat" and focused when I see all of these posting from families that have had contact with their Soldiers. I feel really happy for you all, however, I still have not heard from my son....day 27. I don't know or understand why he has chosen to distance himself from me - well yes I do its called "step" dad and "step" grandparents - nothing against any "steps" who are here - please don't take offense - its just the way it is on my end. I just keep praying for him, maybe he'll come around. Take care. Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58.

said Chelane1970 2007.03.18 at 17:59:24 PDT

Hello everyone. Received a phone call from my brother PFC O'Neil RN 124. He's doing great. He was chosen as a Squad Leader and he was one out of 6 from 129 soldiers chosen to shoot this tank weapon thing (forgive me for not knowing the correct name of the weapon). He was thrilled. He asked me tonight if I was posting things on this website. I told him yes, he responded that he found out because one of the soliders mother's told her son that "PFCONE (PFC O'Neil's Sister)" which is me had been posting here and that I mentioned that Nilson is my brother's battle buddy. :o) Word gets around doesn't it. Anyhow. I was quite relieved to hear my brother's voice again. Just uplifted my spirits that's for sure! Take care all of you. God bless our soldiers with strength, health and peace of mind during this training! HOOAH

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.03.18 at 16:30:31 PDT

hey gang, proud mother of Caleb A Carpenter of A Co. Just heard from him, he is doing wonderful. Received his strips and also was chosen Squad Leader. What a great accomplishment. We are so proud. He just loves it. Sorry I haven't posted for a while. Went back to work, (landscaping) and working long hours. Count us in for the potluck. I am going to say atleast 15. As far as the scarves and hats, is there a pix of what they look like. I think someone had said so once before. Please let me know. Praying for you all. HOOAH!!!!!

said raintree64 2007.03.18 at 03:59:02 PDT

I forgot to say if the boys just want to sleep, they can bunk at any of our places or lay around if we have some lounge chairs. I think there may be swings on some of the units as Uclee. If the Pot Luck/BBQ doesn't go over, the parents will just have to get together after the soldiers report back to their barrack by 8:00 PM that day. Somehow, we will have to celebrate our soldiers.

said doodie6550 2007.03.17 at 09:06:40 PDT

proudmom32, don't you think they would enjoy hanging around their parents and the parents of the other soldiers who had to go through that last week in a "chilled out" environment? After all, hanging with the guys and their families can be relaxing. But, again, it is the choice of our boys. I had suggested a flyer be posted as well as handouts, just in case. Maybe by the 12th week, we will know the mindset of our PROUD and STRONG SOLDIERS.

said doodie6550 2007.03.17 at 08:47:55 PDT

doodie6550 -- Yes, we have heard from Craig several times. We got two letters this week. He's a real talker so it must carry over into his letter writing. Sorry we didn't answer sooner - our internet was down. Glad you finally heard from Benny. It feels so good to get a letter doesn't it?

said haley557 2007.03.16 at 17:16:55 PDT

Thanks Lisa! I had not thought of that. I was just sitting here writing Mike and wanted to check in really quick. Glad I did. After reading, I am going to tell Mike I am coming, BUT! LOL, I am NOT telling him Joe & Jojo/Tom are coming with... I'll still have that, for now LOL.... I'm going to add to the letter.... "do you want" and see where he is at with it at this point in time. I will make it CLEAR to him that he does NOT have to go if he does not want to. We can go somewhere else too. Thanks again... sometime I get so caught up in this end of thing I forget that "They" are the ones that count here.

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.16 at 16:23:16 PDT

Keep in mind your soldiers may NOT want to go to the get together by the time it's all said and done...towards the end they start to get on each other's nerves and the last thing they want to do is 'hang out' with their battle buddies. Sorry to spoil things, but I want to prepare you. Once again, a lot can happen between now and graduation...they're going through a lot...especially the last 5 weeks when they go through AIT (OSUT). They will be sleep deprived and physically exhausted. Believe it or not the very last week which is called "RECOVERY" is one of the hardest weeks your soldier will have to endure. They have to CLEAN and INVENTORY EVERYTHING, from early morning until early morning with very little sleep. It is grueling and tedious work....but that's what makes them ARMY STRONG right?! :) Lisa, Proud mom of an American Soldier, Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.03.16 at 15:20:29 PDT

I would like to commend Chelane for coming up with the logo for our soldiers. Thanks for all of your support. BTW Thanks to Lisa for all of her creative ideas. PROUD MOM OF PV2, Benny J. Hermanson, A Co. 2/58

said doodie6550 2007.03.16 at 10:13:19 PDT

Hi everyone, we are drafting an invitation to the turning blue ceremony bbq/pot luck. Maybe we can send the invitation to our soldiers so they can pass them out. We could probably get a better count if they are in charge. As soon as we have the invitation finalized, we will post it on the website so you can print it and send it to your soldier. PROUD MOM OF PV2, BENNY J. HERMANSON, A CO/2-58

said doodie6550 2007.03.16 at 10:11:37 PDT

Chelane: We all know who is the most important person in their life is, but now that his friends have their address, it's a little bit of home for them. I just received a letter from Benny and he said not much has been happening, but I know he has been writing to his friends. They always know that Mom is there no matter what but they are being treated as men now and Mom is always in their hearts even if they don't write. Moms and Dads are exactly the same place in their hearts and they are in our hearts.

said doodie6550 2007.03.16 at 10:09:11 PDT

There are 9 weeks left til Graduation Day for the Soldiers! HOOAH! I'm counting down the days til I see my brother again. I've never looked forward to checking my mailbox until my brother started writing. Now, I check everyday with hopes that there will be a letter and when there is I experience the same feelings a child experiences in a toy store! Anyhow. Just thought I'd drop in to say hello to everyone, God's blessings to you all!

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.03.16 at 06:01:16 PDT

Don't get discouraged army family...right now the drills are breaking them down so they can build them back up...it's a lot of work and expectations. Some soldiers may be more tired then some, once they start receiving more priviledges you should hear from your soldier more. Hang in there! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.03.15 at 21:54:04 PDT

Don't feel bad Chelane... it been like 2 + - weeks since Mike got my phone card, and not one call to me LOL.

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.15 at 19:38:45 PDT

Well folks I'm at day 24 without any word from my son. He has been keeping in touch with his friends - I guess we know who is more important :(..... However I guess no news is good news (at least that is what I keep telling myself). I have an email going out to all of the families that is on the Family Contact List, however I am sending it to one family at a time in order to add the all of the information regarding the potluck and scarf and hat on one email... Be patient you will receive in hopefully soon. Hope everyone is doing well. Just think one day closer to seeing our Soldiers! HOOAH! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.15 at 19:20:40 PDT

YEAH!!!!!!!!!!, I got a letter from my son today. He also had time to write to his dad. His father called me to let me know Benny wrote him. For all those families who are coming down for the ceremonies, spring has sprung and gets the trees are finally getting some of their leaves and the bradford pears (sp?)are blooming white flowers which will turn into green leaves. The dogwoods are blooming pink flowers and it is finally looking bright. Can't wait until my son is in the blue phase. More privileges. Two more weeks. It still seems like we have "forever" before we get to hug and kiss our boys and show them how proud we are. I wonder how different they will be. I KNOW THEY WILL BE PROUD AND ARMY STRONG. Proud Mom of R116, PV2, Benny J. Hermanson A/2-58

said doodie6550 2007.03.15 at 16:26:12 PDT

Ooops sorry.... Battle buddy :-)

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.15 at 11:55:16 PDT

Ooops sorry.... Battle buddy :-)

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.15 at 11:54:54 PDT

Hi, is anyone's son the bunk buddy of Michael Bavington?

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.15 at 11:53:10 PDT

Hello A Co. I too check the messages pretty much daily. But with so many Co's going strong right now it's all I can do just to get to read. Let alone write a message. As Rhonda and Lisa said it should pick up the closer you get to graduation. And the idea of telling your boys to tell others hopefully will help. God Bless. A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.03.15 at 10:49:04 PDT

Just checking on the status of our Turning Blue Ceremony BBQ/Pot Luck. I know we have a lot of time but do not want to be scurrying around trying to figure out how much we will need for to honor our Army Strong Soldiers and Proud Parents. My husband had to go to Reno so we will go to Uchee next week to scope out the area.

said doodie6550 2007.03.15 at 09:42:51 PDT

Hi There: I too have been checking the website to see if we have any new members. I haven't heard from my son for a while, so I am a little down. My son is battle buddies with Craig Haley. Haley557 have your heard from Craig? Proud Mom of R116, PV2 Benny J. Hermanson, A Co., 58th Inf. Reg.

said doodie6550 2007.03.15 at 09:37:46 PDT

I'm checking in to say hello. I'm really enjoying all the behind the scene's emails on the scarf/hat slogan. Boy, you all are very creative!!!! I'M LOVING THAT!!!! Rhonda is right, don't worry too much about not hearing from everyone too much in the beginning as time progresses the posting will also increase and then it becomes quite the obsession. I feel honored to be along for the ride! Everyone have a wonderful evening! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.03.14 at 22:08:30 PDT

********* B Co LOVE BUMP **********

said rrhwilson 2007.03.14 at 18:46:51 PDT

****** LOVE BUMP ********

said rrhwilson 2007.03.14 at 18:46:15 PDT

Hey y'all! Don't worry, we did the same with the lull in the post at first. Sorta sputtered, but you need to keep up the chatter. This week we had more than a few drop in that had been watching for a while with out posting. Now they are coming out of the woodwork, so to speak. If it helps any, Connie and I met (she lives an hour away) and we decided to just make it work! I love all y'all. Keep up the spirits!! Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238

said rrhwilson 2007.03.14 at 18:45:46 PDT

Hi all! I told my son last week when I talked to him to let everyone know about the website. That we need more moms, dads and families to post. My wife and I are here as much as we can. Even at work where I have to watch my back to make sure the boss doesn't see me on the web. Proud Mom and Dad of PFC Craig Haley #115, A Co. 2/58.

said haley557 2007.03.14 at 15:06:13 PDT

Hi Back Chelane! posting has dwindled a bit. I log on many times a day to read, but am not always able to post... However... my boss goes to lunch at 2:35 <evil grin> .. I try to post at night too, but cant always get to the pc... So I can understand the lul, BUT ..... COME ON! LOL even a "hello" is a post and we know your still there :-)

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.14 at 11:41:08 PDT

Hi everyone! Just checking in to see if there has been any activity.... seems like we are dwindling in the frequency of our posts.... Have a great day! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.14 at 09:57:00 PDT

ProudSister, if there's no response from a loved one of Pvt. Nilson make sure to write your brother and have his battle buddy tell his family to find this website...so many families don't even know about it. The more everyone spreads the word all the better! :) Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.03.13 at 22:46:45 PDT

Thanks for the information..you are all wonderful. God bless the soldiers and their families and friends. A little more than 9 weeks left until we get to see our beloved and brave soldiers. HOOAH! Is anyone here the parent of Private Nilson? If so, that's my brother's battle buddy.

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.03.13 at 17:54:37 PDT

I got the pix :-) most of them anyways... I plan to get the rest as soon as I get a chance to sit down at the pc for a couple of hours. I "heard" thought I did??? that they were going to be selling them. if this is true, I do not want to cut in on anyone's profit, especially if it goes to better the boys or camp. I know I can not afford to buy, that is whey I got them from her. it does take time and you need a good graphic editor to manipulate the graphs format the Internet to the pc format.. gif or jpg ect. IF! they are NOT going to be sold, I can make for all :-) CD's are cheep and I got many on hand already. Also, I can program the CD to run auto if wanted... :-) I am a programmer by master and networker by minor. Internet falls between the two and I got a degree for that too LOL.

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.13 at 12:17:31 PDT

Here's a great quote of today: “For anything worth having one must pay the price; and the price is always work, patience, love, self-sacrifice-no paper currency, no promises to pay, but the gold of real service.” by John Burroughs. HOOAH! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.03.13 at 10:05:20 PDT

ProudSister, I'm not sure about the disc with these particular pics, but your brother can buy a DVD of his time in bootcamp that has a lot of these moments captured. My son Brandon bought his and we LOVE it and when he came home for the first time we threw him a Welcome Home party with friends and family and showed the DVD of boot camp and one of Turning Blue/Graduation. It was a HUGE hit. The Turning Blue/Graduation DVD can be purchased when you go there...it take several weeks to get because they mail it to you (keep in mind it's not 'individualized'...it's of everyone and you may not see a whole lot of your soldier...we got lucky Brandon was in his quite often). Lisa, Proud mom of an American Soldier, Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.03.12 at 19:49:29 PDT

Hello everyone. I am wondering if anyone knows if there is a way to copy or get a copy of the slideshow of these pictures on a disk? I would like to have it on a disc to give my brother, but can't figure out how. Maybe it's not possible..but I figured I'd ask just incase.

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.03.12 at 16:30:49 PDT

Hello everyone. I am wondering if anyone knows if there is a way to copy or get a copy of the slideshow of these pictures on a disk? I would like to have it on a disc to give my brother, but can't figure out how. Maybe it's not possible..but I figured I'd ask just incase.

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.03.12 at 16:30:42 PDT

Welcome Kelsey!! ... The scarf/hat.. I personally like the graph with the two guns on it.. AND the idea of putting "proud mom" too... Pot Luck! count me in! we will be 5, we hope...3 for sure at this point. I will be arriving on the 16th, early. I'm not sure if I will be able to get into my cabin before everything starts. If monies are being excepted, I'll gladly ship some to who ever is going to go shopping....which by the way.... THANK YOU! I'm easy going, and will go with the flow, so what ever everyone else decides, count me in :-)

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.12 at 12:46:21 PDT

Welcome aboard Kelsey and Family! Just want to check one thing... Are you sure your brother is A Co. 2/19 and not 2/58??? My son is PFC Phillip R. Connell #306 A Co. 2/58 so it’s a possibility that your brother and my son are in the same platoon. Be sure to confirm your brother’s Inf. Reg. You will find that there is a ton of information to be obtained at this site, not to mention support for your family and Soldier. If you don't see what you are looking for just post and someone will get an answer posted pretty quickly. Also I have a family contact list going for families of the Soldiers in A Co. If you and your family would like to be added to it please email me direct at: chelane_connell@hotmail.c om. There are a number of things going on and I would be more than happy to get you caught up to date.

said Chelane1970 2007.03.12 at 11:26:08 PDT

Welcome Kelsey!! This website is for A-Co 2-58, but feel free to ask questions...My son already graduated (F-Co. 2-58), but a bunch of us check the other sites regularly to see if anyone has any questions, etc. I don't think there is anyone doing a site and pictures for your brother's company that I know of...but please feel free to "chime-in" anytime on any of these sites...We are all in this together...One BIG Army Family!!! Proud Mom of American Soldier, Daniel J. Hogestyn. 5th Stryker Brigade, Fort Lewis, Washington. (Pam)

said hogestyn225 2007.03.12 at 11:20:29 PDT

Hi my name is Kelsey Johnson. Me and my dad, Keith, are sharing this username to keep in touch with all of you! After reading through most of these wall posts I was amazed by the support system that is channeled through here! My baby brother, Corey Keith Johnson, also known as RN #357 PV2 Corey K Johnson, is currently at Fort Benning (ACO 2/19). Words cant even begin to explain how proud me, my father, and the rest of our family is for all that he is doing for our country! We are so blessed! I just want to say that all of your soldiers are in my prayers, and I'm looking forward to speaking with all of you! Does anyone else on here have family of ACO 2 -19 graduating this may, i'd love to hear from you!

said KJohnson357 2007.03.12 at 10:44:20 PDT

hey everybody, Wanda here from Echo company! Thanks for everyones support & encouragement during Honor Hill & Graduation. Paul is now at Airborne training and will finish March 30th. But we will be at Alpha Company graduation. His battle buddy was recycled so we will be there to support him. Will be checking in occasionally to see your progress. I am now in "recovery" and will post more later on Echo. I posted my pics & have a few of Chaplain Rusack. Hope to have his address soon so we can all write him. It would probably be nice to write him before he heads to Ft.Campbell. Hooah, Wanda proud mom of Pvt.Paul Simons,Jr. Infantryman 121st Airborne,Ft.Gillem,Ga.

said PaulsMum 2007.03.11 at 21:42:48 PDT

Chelane -- I don't think we got the email on the pot luck either. Please try sending it to us again. We'd like to do all we can to help get this arranged. We have three different email addresses, so if you send it to all three, surely, we will receive it at one of them. haley557@hotmail.com, haley5574@hotmail.com, and sharon.haley@usdoj.gov. We also really like your original design for the scarves, etc. and we'd like to help out with that too if you need it. We are really looking forward to meeting everyone. We will be arriving Wed afternoon, probably around 2:30, and are staying at the cabins at Uchee Creek. Proud Mom and Dad of PFC Craig Haley #115, A Co. 2/58.

said haley557 2007.03.11 at 09:09:01 PDT

Chelane1970, love the Army Design! Let me know if we move forward with a keepsake. I received a t-shirt from Josh this week. . .Proud Army Mom on the front and Pvt Viol on the back. I love it! I've made reservation at Uchee, arriving on the 16th, I looking forward to meeting everyone. I didn't receive an email regarding the pot luck but Josh and I would love to join in. I'm not sure if his buddy Norman has a place to go, if he doesn't we will be inviting him to come with us. Have a great day everyone. . oh, and thanks for the update on the new pictures.

said ArmyMom229 2007.03.11 at 08:48:07 PDT

About the Pot Luck/BBQ, we can buy all the stuff at the grocery stores near the Camp. If we know what we are really going to cook and how many people will be there, then we can guesstimate what and how much will be needed.

said doodie6550 2007.03.11 at 07:12:33 PDT

Yes, try to send cards with the most minutes, or ones that can be recharged as Kim suggested. The soldiers often share their phone cards with buddies who aren't as fortunate as others, or with those that have run out of minutes. ***Chelane, I love the slogan! I hope you all get to hear from your soldiers tomorrow. Just think another weekend over means another week closer to graduation. HOOAH! Lisa, Proud mom of an American Soldier, Pvt. Brandon Jones...Fort Hood, TX 3rdBN, 1stID

said proudmom32 2007.03.10 at 22:16:41 PST

I'm sorry... there's that blonde mode again.... estimated 8 or 9 am on the 17th :-)

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.10 at 19:02:33 PST

Hi Chelane, I'm in for the pot luck. I'll be arriving ..est.. 8 or 9 am. will have a cooler with me to bring a perishable, or non perishables since I am driving. OR, if someone just wants money, I'm for that too. I'll go with the flow, what ever majority wants :-) ... Also, the Pic for the scarf on your site is Great! I like the two guns with the personalization around them.

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.10 at 19:01:21 PST

Hey everyone!! New pictures!

said haley557 2007.03.10 at 13:52:50 PST

Hey everyone - I sent an email regarding the BBQ/Potluck. Get back to me with any ideas and what-not. We still need to be working on ideas for the scarves and hats if anyone is REALLY interested... would make a great keepsake. My idea is posted in my profile pictures so feel free to look at it. Talk to you all later. Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING! (208) 682-9019 home number just in case....

said Chelane1970 2007.03.10 at 09:31:25 PST

1st, 700m @ $20.. Cool, Where? And.... Great Idea on phone card #. did'nt think of that, was just going to send a new card, but I will write him for the number, would be easier :-) ... Next, Pot luck? first I have heard, whats up? Finaly, Sorry, Ft. Hood is correct... I was typing from work and did not have the letter in front of me.

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.10 at 06:37:39 PST

Tink, are you sure it was Fort Boon because I couldn't find it when I googled it. Could it be Fort Hood, Texas?

said doodie6550 2007.03.09 at 19:10:03 PST

I'll talk to my son,PV2 Benny Hermanson, #116, A Co. 2/58, bunk buddies with PFC Craig Haley, about the pot luck dinner. I think he will love it since there will be food and it is a time to chill with families of his platoon. I bought my son a calling card for 700 minutes at BJ's for $20.00. My son already had bought a card and I suggested he lend it to some of the soldiers in his barracks.

said doodie6550 2007.03.09 at 19:09:08 PST

Hello all! We got a call from our son Craig tonight and they have heard about the pot-luck plans for Thursday afternoon after the Turning Blue Ceremony. Sounds like all the boys who have heard about it are interested and Craig said he would keep spreading the word. Proud Mom and Dad of PFC Craig Haley #115, A Co. 2/58.

said haley557 2007.03.09 at 18:44:19 PST

Chelane and other A Co family members. Whatever you do don't trust what their assignments say until they graduate. F-Troops assignments changed all the time. My suggestion is to not worry about it, what will be will be and it really doesn't matter when we know. As far as phone cards I think someone said a good place to get them for cheap was Sams Club and if you don't have a Sams card Wal-Mart. I don't think it matters just read the back of them different ones have different charges, and some are rechargeable. I kept the # so I could recharge it from home and he would just let me know if it was low. God Bless. A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.03.09 at 16:15:38 PST

Hello everyone. One more question here. Is there a certain type of phone card that the soldiers can receive? If not, does anyone recommend a certain type? I have no knowledge on calling cards and want to make sure I send him the correct or good kind. Thanks.

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.03.09 at 12:15:47 PST

Just a personal note... LOL.... I typed the message first.. and then it disappeared... I logged out and back in and it was gone?? So I retyped it ... not as good, was disappointed.... but clicked the "say it" on the new on and POOF, the original one is there ... Just want you all to know so you didn't thing I was a total loony, crazy .. ok, but not loony! LOL...

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.09 at 12:14:25 PST

I'm not sure why Mike knows his assignment, but I do know he joined with the sole intent of going to Iraq after boot camp graduation. Maybe that has something to do with it?

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.09 at 12:10:02 PST

not sure about being early for assignments, Mike went in with the sole intention of going to Iraq when he graduated, so that might have something to do with him getting him Assign.. already... his letters are short, but MOST welcome!

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.09 at 12:02:23 PST

Isn't it rather early for our Soldiers to be getting their assignments?? Also is there a site that will give you the different phases - what they represent and what is accomplished?? Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.09 at 09:30:34 PST

Ooooh is that how it works lol... Mike's chicken scratch can be hard to read, but well worth stumbling through it:-) Oh, and he also said that when he graduates, he has been assigned to Ft. Boon? TX.

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.09 at 09:23:34 PST

Tink, they just go out of the red phase and are now in the white phase. After the white phase, they go into the blue phase. After they achieve each phase, they get more privileges.

said doodie6550 2007.03.09 at 07:39:56 PST

Received a letter from Mike last night... To ME!! he got the phone card and stamps and thanked me for the "equipment" LOL.... He said they had just finished the "white phase"? and was getting ready for 2nd which included firing gun training. He's doing good and Likes the food too....

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.09 at 07:33:07 PST

Hello again to all of you. I have been experiencing the "miss my older brother blues". I never imagined how much I would miss him. I am married to a great man and have two beautiful children, however, there is a major void in my life right now because I don't have my brother to talk with on a daily basis. I always looked up to him and it's so difficult to not have his support here at home. (I told him I have the Irish Twin Seperation Anxiety Syndrome, he's only 10 1/2 months older than I am). I read someone mentioning their son is older than most of the soldiers, he's not alone..my brother is 36 years old!!! Some of the sargeants call him grampa! HA HA. I'm so proud of my brother! Just thought I'd share a little of my feelings too. God bless the soldiers and their families and friends!!! On another note, I still have not made any reservations anywhere because my mother prefers to wait until she hears from my brother before we do anything. I hope we can get a phone call from him again soon. He had tried calling me several times last Saturday and was unsuccessful...it made me so sad to hear his messages and know I dind't get a chance to talk with him. I'm beginning to ramble on here and I'm sure I've bored you all..so that's it for now. Take care.

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.03.08 at 12:31:20 PST

Thanks for the words of encouragement Sherree, Janice and Lisa. I just need to remember that we are one day closer to graduation!! Speaking of which - We should go over to E Co. today.... wish them well if you haven't already! Love to all - Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.08 at 06:41:58 PST

Thanks for the words of encouragement Sherree, Janice and Lisa. I just need to remember that we are one day closer to graduation!! Speaking of which - We should go over to E Co. today.... wish them well if you haven't already! Love to all - Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.08 at 06:41:38 PST

I relate to the 'blues'...I still get that way. However, there's a small light at the end of the tunnel because once your soldier graduates he will be able to call everyday if he wants to...and that'll help with the separation anxiety just to hear his voice on a regular basis. :) That's one of the great things about this website we all can relate to one another on so many different level...it provides such great support when we're feeling down, anxious, worried or just want to share in good news. STAY STRONG ARMY FAMILY...we're all in this together! Have a good evening. Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.03.07 at 22:05:28 PST

My son is a lot older than your sons so I have had the "empty nest" syndrome for a few years. I do miss my daily check in phone calls. I miss calling him when I am down, frustrated and just to hear his voice. He lived with us from November, 2006 until his enlistment date. He has all of his stuff from his apartment here so I get to use his 47 inch television when my husband is watching the other TV. I do go and sit on his bed and does his favorite dog, BOO BOO. Can't wait to see him and give him a great big hug. My life seems empty but that goodness I have my wonderful husband, Bill. He stabilizes me.

said doodie6550 2007.03.07 at 13:01:29 PST

Thanks for the times!! Mike was mostly independent, so I keep his door closed and I fool myself into thinking he is in there :-) I guess my first was the hardest, Mike, #202 is my youngest, which is making it a bit easier for me. I still cry a lot though, when I remember where he is and where he is going and why....

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.07 at 12:02:09 PST

Hey Tink - "Turning Blue" is around noon on Thursday - followed by enjoying the company of your Soldier until he has to return to base by 2000 hours. The graduation from basic and AIT is at 0900 on Friday. I would assume it is safe to say that camcorders are allowed. Have a great day... BTW is anyone else experiencing the "I miss my baby boy blues"? I personally am having one heck of a time with it right now... I even slept with my son's quilt last night (crying - sniff - sniff).... uuugggg. Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.07 at 10:27:10 PST

Sorry...Yes to the camcorders!!! Pam

said hogestyn225 2007.03.07 at 10:18:47 PST

Hi guys, I can tell you the times of our activities: Family Briefing at the Visitors Center on Thurs. morning at 10:00. Turning Blue Ceremony right after, at around 11:30. Then the Soldiers get a pass until 8:00. Graduation was Friday morning at 10:00. After that, some of the guys were able to spend the weekend with family, others had to report directly to their next assignments. Hope this helps...Proud Mom of American Soldier, Daniel J. Hogestyn. (Pam)

said hogestyn225 2007.03.07 at 10:18:06 PST

Hello All. I'm still here!! Got a question... I'm sure I have asked this before, but cant seem to locate the answers... that's that blond mode of mine coming up again :-) What time does the Turning Blue start on the 17th and what time does the Graduation start on the 18th AND last but not least... are we aloud to bring in camcorders? I'm guessing yes, but who knows for sure in 2007...

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.07 at 06:43:02 PST

Hi Everyone. Is it just me here these days?? Thanks for checking in on us here rrhwilson, Gabrielle2007, painpak and hogestyn225! Hope to see some of A Co. here pretty soon.... I'm getting kinda lonely. Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.07 at 06:36:07 PST

Guys, the clocks are NOT set at Alabama time at Uchee...They are all set at Georgia time...Hope this helps. Proud Mom of American Soldier, Daniel J. Hogestyn. (Pam) F-Troop Grad. last week.

said hogestyn225 2007.03.07 at 06:15:07 PST

Just a little note to Gabrielle's message. Uchee Crekk really isn't on the base. You actually exit the base to get to it. Although it does give discounts for graduating soldiers families and the rates are VERY reasonable. I think the latge cabin was just $45 a night. God Bless. A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim PS you also have lots of time to go off base and eat and do whatever you would like.

said painpak 2007.03.06 at 16:17:58 PST

OK A Co. Family - Where is everyone?? Hope you all have had a great day! Thanks Gabrielle2007 for all of your info! Nice to have people give assistance for us newbies. Hope to see some chatter here soon! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.06 at 16:17:02 PST

http://www.visitcolumbusga.com/directions.cfm visit this site for maps when you scoll down....

said Gabrielle2007 2007.03.06 at 14:02:03 PST

One thing Tim really appreciated was pre-stamped and pre-addressed envelopes.....{smile}

said Gabrielle2007 2007.03.06 at 13:59:33 PST

Those of you planning to stay on base...might want to consider NOT doing it, as your soldier may appreciate the time off base...if he is given a pass. You will have your soldiers with you after the Turning Blue ceremony until 8pm. {This was our experience at least} I would suggest researching where your soldier would like to eat...LOL.

said Gabrielle2007 2007.03.06 at 13:56:52 PST

HI ALL ~ MY SON TIMOTHY SHENBERG JUST GRADUATED MARCH 2ND FROM F-COMPANY. GOT OUR PLANE TICKETS FROM www.cheapoair.com and we STAYED AT COUNTRY INN AND SUITES AT EXT 12 IN COLUMBUS. The General Manager of the hotel actually grills out ribs that you can purchase right at the hotel. The visitors center is right across from the hotel. I recommend it as it's less congested and easy access to Interstate 185 which takes you right to Fort Benning. We ate at B. Merrells one night, went to Peachtree Mall and Cinema 15.....as my son just wanted to "chill" and watch a movie. We didn't purchase graduation photos....but we did purchase the dvd that they offer. Very proud mom of an American Soldier!

said Gabrielle2007 2007.03.06 at 13:54:28 PST

Y'all, one more thought before I turn in... E Co. will have their graduation this week. By now you know how important the support drill is to each company and to each of us. Be sure and take the time to post your thoughts and feelings to them at their site. The night they marched up Honor Hill y'all were there in full force. Let's take them all the way home! Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co.

said rrhwilson 2007.03.05 at 19:11:41 PST

doodie, that was so smart!! I did not even consider using Google Earth. You ROCK! Rhonda - Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co.

said rrhwilson 2007.03.05 at 19:05:52 PST

ProudSister2PFCCONE: I looked up on Google Earth how far Uchlee Park is from Sand Hill and it is approximately 20 minutes away. If you are trying to map it, start at Fort Mitchell, Alabama to Fort Benning, GA. I also searched to Sand Hill, Fort Benning, GA.

said doodie6550 2007.03.05 at 09:05:39 PST

Chelane1970: My son hasn't completed the Eagle Tower because of the weather last week. He told me that the calendar on the website is a just a template that gives you a general idea what is happening, but not necessarily what they will be doing during the designated week.

said doodie6550 2007.03.05 at 08:08:40 PST

Hi, ProudSister2PFCONE: I just made reservations for my husband and I at Uchee Campground. We will be staying a Park home. They did say they would charge my credit card for one day though.

said doodie6550 2007.03.05 at 07:51:02 PST

Thank you to all those who responded to my questions. I contacted Fort Benning Lodging, they will only make reservations up to 45 days in advance, so I was unalbe to make them now. I believe I will try to stay here, as my mother is all about convience and she wants to be as close as possible (as I mentioned before). Has anyone heard anything about this place??? If so, please let me know. Thanks again. Y'all are great! God bless the soliders and their families and freinds! HOOAH!!!

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.03.05 at 07:09:03 PST

Yes its me again.... I'M SO CONFUSED.... WHAT WEEK ARE WE IN?? According to the training schedule our Soldiers enter the NBC Chamber on the Friday ending week 2, and tackle Eagle Tower in Week 3. Phillip told me that they had already done the Tower exercised prior to going into the NBC Chamber... On the website it does indicate that the training calendar that it is a "template" so does that mean that they can re-arrange the order of the training lessons?? Thanks!! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.05 at 06:38:13 PST

Good Monday Morning Everyone! I hope you all had a fantastic weekend. I think we should have 5 days off and work 2....anybody else think thats a good idea?? :) I don't know what is on our Soldier's schedule for this week.... I wonder if it will be as entertaining as the "Q-tip" training. Anyway Have a great day! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.05 at 06:02:12 PST

Forgot to add, for those that want to stay at Uchee Park in the cabins here is the direct link for that site as well. * http://www.benningmwr.com/uchee31905.htm * Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.03.04 at 19:08:56 PST

Folks, here is what I have learned tonight. Uchee Park is on the west side of the Chattahoochee River which places it in Alabama. That is Central Time so the clocks will be off one hour. This is in the southwest portion of the base. Sand Hill, however, is on the northeast side of 185 & Hwy 27/280. I have not gotten a good judge on distance, but they appear to be fairly far apart. Once I get directions to and from both I will post them here. Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Bo

said rrhwilson 2007.03.04 at 19:06:39 PST

I've been posting on so many Company sites lately I'm not sure if I offered to send anyone who is interested my chronicles I wrote to my family/friends of my time at Turning Blue/Graduation...it'll give you some insight. If interested email me at ldpsport@aol.com and I'll send you the chronicle. ***Great new pics by the way. I still haven't had a chance to go through them all yet, but working my way...:) Have a great day and I hope you get to hear from your soldier today or soon. Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.03.04 at 12:24:29 PST

ABOUT LODGING----Another option will be to get a hotel around Exit 10 on Highway 185 (this is closest to Sand Hill...for graduation). However, I'm told that it's not the cleanest neighborhood... so check out hotels around Exit 7, the Holiday Inn or others that are around this location where there's a really nice Peachtree Mall, great restaurants and attractions. 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. Lodging gets filled up quickly, so make your reservations NOW. Good luck to all of you and a big HOOAH! goes out to all your wonderful soldiers. A very proud ARMY STRONG mom of PVT Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.03.04 at 12:16:08 PST

Columbus airport is about 15 mins to 20 mins away; while Atlanta-Hartsfield is about 1 hour and 45 mins give or take. I could take 2 hours depending on when your flight gets in and you are not in work traffic. Most everyone is going North on I-85 in the A.M., so traffic should not be a problem. The flights might be cheaper going into Atlanta. You can also try Montgomery, AL airport which is 85 miles west of Columbus, GA and should take 1 1/2 hours according to Yahoo Maps.

said doodie6550 2007.03.04 at 12:11:56 PST

Great questions...every single one of them! doodie6550- Yes, if you are marked down as the 'contact' for your soldier, you will be the one to receive a graduation packet. They don't send the packet out until it's almost graduation (about 3 weeks from grad). So DON'T WAIT for that paperwork, start making reservations for lodging soon because they will fill up quickly, and you can always cancel if they need should arise. ProudSister- There are LOTS of airports to choose from when flying to graduation. I guess I have a question of my own, where are you coming from? I flew in from Portland, Oregon and when to Birmingham, AL (which is just over 2 hours away from Fort Benning...I saved over $200 roundtrip (per ticket). Or you could fly into Mongomery, AL (almost the same distance away as Atlanta, GA...probably cheaper). Flying into Columbus is the most expensive. All the soldiers fly in and out of the Altanta airport. There is a shuttle that goes back and forth between the airport and Fort Benning every 15 minutes. However, you will definitely need a rental car...nothing is right there, you'll have to drive. As for lodging...you have many options. Uchee Creek Campground is where we stayed (I recommend getting a large cabin for $45 per night). It's actually 20 minutes away from Sand Hill (where Turning Blue and Graduation take place), but it's very nice...

said proudmom32 2007.03.04 at 12:09:43 PST

Ok, so here I am again with yet another question, better yet questions. I would like to know if anyone can fill me in with some info. regarding which airport in GA I should go to. Atlanta or Columbus??? Also, what is the travel difference to the base from both airports? Thanks for any input. :o) Saw the new pics of the soldiers! Only found a far shot pic of my brother..but it's better than none at all, so no complaints here! Also, does anybody know which place is the closest to stay at. I know several people are staying at the U...something or other, I'm not sure if there is a closer place than that one and if so what's the name and how close is it to the base? My mom is all about convience and being as close as possible to the place that's why I ask so many questions. :o)

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.03.04 at 11:02:07 PST

****************** ATTENTION GEORGIA MOMS ****************** If I have it right Connie (spaz_ga - Carrollton GA B Co), Wanda (paulsmum - Grayson GA E Co), Patti (preed9800 - Athens GA B Co), Pam (leeferd - Tifton, GA B Co) and I are all close enough to get together on a weekend for lunch. Is anyone here in GA? Is anyone up for that? What weekend? Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.03.04 at 09:37:06 PST

ArmyMom229, hello! "Turning Blue" is a ceremony that is held on the Thursday (15th ? in y'all Co.) before graduation on Friday. That is where the soldiers become infantrymen. It is customary that a family member or friend go down onto the field and pin the blue braid that signifies the infantry on their son, husband, fiance, etc. This is separate from Basic graduation on Friday and has more meaning to our soldiers. Rhonda - Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co.

said rrhwilson 2007.03.04 at 09:36:02 PST

Hello! I'm planning on flying in on the 16th and I keep hearing mention of "Turning Blue" what is that and what time does it start? Boy I'm glad you guys know all this stuff!! Also, I'm going to see if there's a cabin still available at Uchee and would love to pitch in on potluck or ??? Have a great day everyone!

said ArmyMom229 2007.03.04 at 08:09:53 PST

Haley557: My son, Benny J. Hermanson is in picture 1227 (you see his name on the back of his hat), near Gomez; and he is also in picture 1323 between Dowd and Dimon (you can only see Hermanso on his hat).

said doodie6550 2007.03.03 at 15:30:33 PST

A Co got a fill up! WooHoo! Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.03.03 at 14:54:23 PST

BOY I'M A LITTLE SLOW.....NEW PHOTOS WOOOHOOOO!!!! HOOAH A CO.!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.03 at 13:48:55 PST

Fourth – I am compiling a listing of the A Co. family contact information. If you would like me to include you and your family in the contact listing all you need do is contact me via my personal email, and then I will get back to you with the info that I will need. Very simple stuff, nothing incriminating so don’t be afraid… You may email me directly at: chelane_connell@hotmail.c om or by telephone at (208) 682-9019. Again welcome and we are pleased to have you with us. Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.03 at 13:33:10 PST

Hello chantalh430 and WELCOME!! This website is an absolute fountain of information and support so kick back relax and enjoy all that is to come! Just a few things to get you up to date: First - send lots of letters, be sure in encourage all of your family and your Soldiers friends to write (and visit this site too), it helps to keep them close to home. Include in your letters stamped envelopes and paper, (to ensure you get a letter I recommend self addressing a couple of envelopes :), and oh yea send a calling card. I posted earlier that so far the best place to get one is at Costco. We paid $20 for a 700 minute Verizon card - I don't usually buy them, but by comparison it seemed the best deal. Second - if you are going to the "Turning Blue" Ceremony which is on May 17th and the actual graduation from Boot/AIT on the 18th, I would strongly recommend getting reservations for accommodations SOON. It looks like quite a few of us will be staying at Uchee Creek. Contact info is: http://www.benningmwr.com and ph.706-685-3060. Great looking cabins at very reasonable prices. Book now if you are interested it looks like they are going fast. Third - by the grace of GOD we have been blessed with the wisdom of veterans to provide us guidance in this process: rrhwilson (Love Ya Girly!), painpak (Thanks for all of your guidance Darlin':) and the infamous proudmom32, who has so graciously offered to assist with scarves and hats for A Co. (Talk about GOD given Angels!), so if you have any questions that you need addressed just ask someone will be here in just a matter of time and be able to give you some feedback.

said Chelane1970 2007.03.03 at 13:32:13 PST

Hey guys, I didn't think when I posted about Chaplain, that it would get you guys upset...I feel really bad about saying something and getting everyone upset, so I apologize. Maybe there's a chance that we heard wrong or misunderstood something (smile)??? It's happened to me before, so let's hope I'm wrong!!! The guys from Echo will have to check for sure. There is no way that he would leave without having someone take over this LIFELINE!! We know that he checks the postings, so if he is in fact leaving, I'm sure he will post something. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers..we are here for you guys now, if you have any questions...Pam (F-Co Grad.)

said hogestyn225 2007.03.03 at 13:14:46 PST

chantalh430, Welcome. Just happened to drop in and saw your post. Chelane will probably be by soon to give you the official warm welcome. Glad that your son keep in touch! Before you send your son a package, please check with him or those on this site as to whether they can get packages or not. Some companies are allowed while others are not. If you send the package and the DS's do not allow it they and the whole platoon will get smoked (disciplined). Welcome aboard!! Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC #238 B Co.

said rrhwilson 2007.03.03 at 12:39:12 PST

***** LOVE BUMP *****

said rrhwilson 2007.03.03 at 12:35:14 PST

Hello y'all here at A Co. We just heard that Chaplain Rusack is being transfered to Ft. Campbell 101st in a few weeks. Someone from Echo said they will ask more next week when they see him at graduation... oh! graduation... so many weeks away. Hope all is fine with you Chelane, YOU ARE THE BEST! Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238

said rrhwilson 2007.03.03 at 12:34:47 PST

hello first timer here.my son is 430 pvt joshua vallaster a company,2-58th.I just wanted to say thank you for the great info.This site has helped me tremendously.My son is 18,the second oldest of four boys but the first to leave the home.I have to say he has been really great about writing to myself and his extended family as well,so i feel pretty fortunate there. Just wanted to share that Josh asked for something for razor rash,i sent him afta and nivea aftershave balm.But if anybody can suggest anything better please do.thanks again!

said chantalh430 2007.03.03 at 11:08:09 PST

doodie6550 craig is in picture 1350 he is on the end in the 2nd row holding his bag up by his face.Proud Dad of PFC Craig Haley #115, A Co. 2/58.

said haley557 2007.03.03 at 08:44:12 PST

Good Morning Every1! Thanks for the info on the Routing Numbers! Ok so where are all of parents of the Soldiers from platoon 3??? I'm all alone in this big ol' web world :( sniff.. sniff.. We are going to have SO much fun at Uchee Creek. I'm thinking BBQ/simple potluck?? Anyone interested? They have that great pavillion and I think it would be nice to utilize it... Maybe family day?? since the Turning Blue ceremony is so early on Thursday the 17th and My hubby, my mom and I are going to be coming in on the 16th we could decorate the pavillion with ballons and stuff. Using ARMY green colors. Everyone coming in early and wants to help out is welcome to jump on in there. Give it some thought. I'm not sure if the boys will want to head into town or just want to kinda kick back, guess we will have to get some feed back and see what we come up with. I'll take some time today and throw together some of Janice's ideas for the scaves and hats and get them mailed out. I know I still don't have some of the family contact info so if you haven't emailed me and want on the Army Family contact listing, and/or you want information on the scarves and hats that we may have made please email me so I can get you up to speed and keep you in the loop of things. BTW - We found that Costco has been the best place to buy calling cards. We paid $20 for a Verizon calling card with 700 minutes. Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.03 at 07:21:32 PST

Haley 557, can you tell me what the number picture he is in so I can see what he looks like. The only two pictures of Benny are 38 and 113 and it is the back of his head.

said doodie6550 2007.03.03 at 06:18:55 PST

Columbus does have an airport but as the other Mothers have said, it would probably be cheaper to fly into Atlanta and then drive to Fort Benning. It is about a two hour drive maybe less. I live about an hour and 1/2 from Fort Benning and the airport is about 20 minutes north of me. Sand Hill is north of the main entrance. I believe it is exit 1 (Cluster Rd). I think you still have to go to the main entrance to get a pass. You have to have ID (driver's license) and your vehicle registration. Does anyone know if we will get a package from the Army about what, when, etc. of graduation and turning blue ceremony and possibly a pass to get in.

said doodie6550 2007.03.03 at 05:56:22 PST

Sand Hill is where graduation takes place, which is on the outskirts of the main base... Kim, is this the one you were thinking of? Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.03.02 at 18:28:10 PST

Charlene 1970 you made me laugh with your son's comment about Pvt Camera. I could just hear it. Ok, this is going to sound dumb but where do I want to fly into? I know Columbus is closer to the base but I don't know if they even have an airport. Thanks for your help. I too am a PROUD ARMY MOM! Take care and you guys on the east coast stay safe.

said ArmyMom229 2007.03.02 at 18:25:38 PST

Hi All! I have rented a cabin for May 9th-12th, and I did notice on their website at the bottom of the page their are other links, and if you click on taxi services the have a list of amounts for the area's you need to travel. They also leave phone numbers so that you can verify how it works. My name is DEBBIE FROM B-CO AND JUST WANTED TO VISIT YOUR SITE AND SHOW OUR SUPPORT FOR ALL OUR SOLDIERS. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. 'PROUD MOM OF PVT MATT RITTHALER #440 B-CO 2/58 GRAD. MAY 2007

said dritthaler 2007.03.02 at 18:05:44 PST

Proudsister2PFCone, Yes you will definitely need to rent a car. NOTHING is close. Uchee Creek is techinically not on the base. It is I think about 20 minutes from there to the graduation site. There are actually 2 bases. The main base and the awe s--- can't think of what they call the other. I'm sure one of my other counterparts will chime in as to what it is called. Uchee Creek is on the out skirts of the main base and the ceremonys are on the other smaller part of Fort Benning. So you will need to keep your ID handy as you go in and out of the different areas. I hope this helps. God BLess, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim Oh wait, I think the other part is called Sand Hill.

said painpak 2007.03.02 at 15:47:19 PST

Chelane, how are you doing? The numbers are called routing numbers. The first number represents what platoon they are in (1,2,3 or 4) and the last two numbers seem to be assigned alphabetically. For example; Brandon Nicholes is #237 and Matt Parga-Manasse is # 238. At least that was our guess on how they get assigned. Interestingly enough, Matt and Brandon are 'battle buddies' so maybe the assign those the same way. Rhonda Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co

said rrhwilson 2007.03.02 at 15:35:19 PST

Hey doodie6550..Your son is bunk mates with my son PFC Haley #115. He said in his last letter your son Benny was a pretty good friend and was teaching him a lot about life. He said they watch out for each other. I'm so glad my son, Craig, has an older friend he can look up to. Hopefully, we'll get a chance to meet at the graduation ceremonies. Craig said he's the admin clerk for their platoon and they call him lawinzki -- for Monica lawinzki! He thinks that's pretty funny. Next time you write your son, tell him you heard from lawinzki's parents. Proud parents of PFC Craig Haley #115, A Co. 2/58.

said haley557 2007.03.02 at 15:28:25 PST

Hello again. Does anyone know how far this Uchee Creek place if from the base?? My mom seems to think we should just get a taxi from the airport to where we are gunna stay and doesn't want to rent a car. I think we should..but I don't rule the roost. So could someone just inform me how much I would be expected to travel from Uchee Creek to the base?? Thanks.

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.03.02 at 14:43:25 PST

Hey everyone - just a quick question..... What is up with the numbers?? (ie PFC Connell #306, Parga-Manasse #238, Carpenter #406, PV2 Hermanson #116) Does this signify the platoon or what? How are the numbers assigned? If there is any important info associated with the numbers let me/us know... Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.02 at 14:40:31 PST

Regarding what to send your soldier...it does greatly depend on the drill sgts. This is the first time I've heard that they can't get articles or pictures...but that must be what there drills are telling them. I'm sorry to say, looks like you are very limited in what you can send. Sorry for the confusion. Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.03.02 at 13:29:58 PST

Oh... stupid me... ProudSister2PFCONEIL, I was going to, but found I could not, so I did not send the magazeen with my letter. I just sent the phone card and a book of stamps.

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.02 at 12:01:42 PST

THANKS!! Chelane, I cancelled my Howard Johnson reservations and got the cabin! got the Med size that sleeps four AND it was cheaper then the queen at the HJ. I am SOOOooo excited! cant wait to get up there! to help anyone else... the cabins....I'm sure this has been said, but for anyone new, ProudSis.... Uchee Creek, http://www.benningmwr.com/uchee31905.htm phone number is 706-685-3060 ext 202 for reservations. Trick to calling I found.... they open at 9am est... but they don't always like to answer...or they are just that busy.. I called today... I pushed in 202 at prompt.... it said transferring.. it would ring and then go back to the prompt where I hit 202 again.. and again and again... I got through!! don't give up on the call! Reservations are from "09 hundred to 16 hundred" LOL I should be use to military time by now, but it still keeps me counting :-) Oh, the Med, sleeps 4 w/kitchen, bath, cable, Internet, heat and air.... all the comforts!

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.02 at 11:58:43 PST

Good Morning All - I hope all of you have made it through the storms over there on the Eastern side of the states. My heart goes out to all of those who have lost family or friends during this aweful time. May God be with you and comfort you... My son has stated that he is NOT to receive care packages, only letters and phone cards... I/we still have only received a total of 2 letters and 1 phone call. I am sending another letter in the mail today, and I have also enclosed a note for his Battle Buddy - PVT Caamara. I am also enclosing 2 calling cards on for Phillip and one for his Battle Buddy. Funny story, when I received my phone call from Phillip on the 19th of Feb. I asked him about his Battle Buddy and Phillip told me his name was Camara - PVT Camara... I asked Phillip what PVT Camara's first name was and he said "H@*L, mom I don't know - we go by last name 'round here." Then I heard Phillip say, "HEY DUDE WHAT'S YOUR FIRST NAME??" I thought that was pretty funny since they had been with each other for a week or better...Have a good day all and I'll be checkin' in on you. BTW - Reserve your lodging accommodations NOW.....Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.02 at 10:34:15 PST

Thanks to doodie6550 and proudmom32. I was informed from my brother he can not receive any newspaper items at all. My mom sent him a picture of a family member that was in the newspaper and he got in trouble for it. He said they aren't allowed to receive any newspaper pictures or articles at all and no mags either. I was just curious as to why some people were posting they were sending items I was informed the soldiers could not receive. Thanks for taking the time to clarify part of my confusion. Regarding the reservations..thank you for the information. I will def. be looking into that. :o)

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.03.02 at 10:09:31 PST

I agree with doodie6550, and to add to that, ask your soldier to ask his DS (drill sgt) if they can also get foot powder, foot gel soles, Advil, toothpaste, deodorant, cough drops...more than likely he CAN, but have him ask first and then after he gets the go ahead or not then send him these items mentioned above. Send LOTS of pictures, this was a common request from our soldiers when they were in boot camp several months ago. As to lodging....YES, I highly recommend that you book your lodging now because they fill up quickly. A lot of family stay at Uchee Creek Campground in cabins (that's where I stayed, and recommend it). Here's the information: http://www.benningmwr.com/ or ph.706-685-3060. This is the info. for Uchee Creek. No matter how many are going try to get the largest cabin available. The large cabin should run you about $45 per night...tell them you are making reservations for gratuation and you'll receive the military discount giving you this price. You will only have to put the first night's deposit down now and you'll have a cancellation date later on in case the need should arise that you won't be staying there. Good luck, Lisa Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.03.02 at 08:32:09 PST

ProudSister2PFCONE: THE FOLLOWING ARE THE MAILING PROCEDURES MAILING DO'S AND DON'TS You can send your soldier: Letters Pictures Newspaper and Magazine Articles Don't send your soldier: Magazine subscriptions Pornographic material Knives or weapons Drugs of any kind Cigarettes or tobacco Baked goods or packages Note: All mail will be delivered to soldiers, however, Drill Sergeants may have the soldier open packages to inspect them for contraband ititems. It is still up to the Drill Sergeant's discretion as to what they are allowed to receive. Send your brother stamps, self-addressed stamped envelopes with their return address, blank envelopes with their return address since it takes them time to write the information and time is short as it is for letter writing, you want to make it as easy and possible for our soldiers to write us or other family members. I believe you can send them phone cards and pictures. I have sent my son pictures of the family, friends and of course, our dogs. These pictures are just a little bit of home.

said doodie6550 2007.03.02 at 07:50:16 PST

Hello. I am the sister of one of the soldiers in this troop. I have a question regarding reserving rooms for graduation. Should my mother and I be reserving one now??? Any recommendations? I have gotten lost of letters from my brother and he says all we can send him is letters and nothing else, however I read that some of you are sending other items..I'm a bit confused as to what the regulations are and I do not wish to have my brother nor any other soldier penalized for sending something that shouldn't be sent. My brother also wrote about the Gas Chamber and my mother and I were horrified. God bless each and every soldier and their families and friends as well!!! Thanks for any info...I appreciate it.

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.03.02 at 06:57:54 PST

Armymom229...my son completely agrees with Josh. I remember Brandon's letter to us about the gas chamber and was horrified...he wrote that it makes your skin itch and feel like it's burning, your throat feels like it closes up and burns, lungs hurt and your nose is running and nothing you do can stop it. Quote"in small terms it feels like your drowning and being burned at the same time. Its quite the experience. I would def. do it again though." Brandon too loves being a soldier. And yes, send LOTS of calling cards, they actually end up sharing amongst others so everyone can call home (some aren't as fortunate as others to have calling cards). Glad to hear all your soldiers made it through okay. HOOAH! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of PVT.Brandon Jones (currently at Fort Hood, TX)

said proudmom32 2007.03.01 at 21:12:31 PST

Hi everyone! Josh said the gas chamber was like someone punching all the air out of his lungs and that a cigarette lighter was being held up to his eyes. . .the good news is it's over and they all did terrific. I received a letter from Josh today and he said he love's it there, he loves being a soldier! I asked if I could send him anything and he said all I could send was stamps and a phone card. It's good too hear from you guys, your an encouragement to our soldiers. God Bless.

said ArmyMom229 2007.03.01 at 20:41:06 PST

HI how is everyone doing? I received a letter today from greg he sounds good, he said he wants to come home that he misses his family.If he only knew how much we miss him.He said that the gas chamber was terible and that he never wants to do it again.HE said in his letter that he has to come home with us after graduation,that they were not going to pay for airfare. Guess it is a good thing we are able to go.

said barker65 2007.03.01 at 19:05:58 PST

LOL.... OK, ok... I'll be good LOL BUT it WAS a funny thought. I will not send a magazine... I did get his stamps today and will get them and his phone card off to him tomarrow :-)

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.01 at 19:03:08 PST

Hey Rhonda: So far we haven't had any storms just rain, but when you look at the radar map, it looks as though we are going to get some heavy storms from Alabama. There is a line of thunderstorms from Huntsville to south of Birmingham. I hope all those who came in for F Company's graduation enjoy tomorrow since it is suppose to be sunny and in the mid-60's. Today has not been a southerly welcome for all those who are visiting Georgia.

said doodie6550 2007.03.01 at 17:33:22 PST

Oh, forgot.. we have tornado warnings out here until 9:00 PM EST - I am in Alpharetta GA which is north of Atlanta - and the weather has been severe in AL. Usually, severe weather like this hits the State line and then plays out before it ever gets to us. It was a wet one for them today. Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.03.01 at 16:39:27 PST

***** LOVE BUMP *****

said rrhwilson 2007.03.01 at 16:36:35 PST

Howdy A Co! How are y'all doing? It is great to see the chatter over here! Hopefully, the DS will allow certain items like foot powder, gel soles, etc. will be allowed since it could be assumed that those would help the soldier not fill a want. Thanks to all that helped cheer E Co up Honor Hill. That must be quite a sight. Rhonda - Proud Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co

said rrhwilson 2007.03.01 at 16:36:17 PST

Tink: The foregoing notes are from the website, but don't forget it is up to the discretion of the Drill Sergeants what their platoon is able to have during the various phases of their training. Don't forget what Chelane said, don't want to get your boy in trouble as it may effect the entire company getting "SMOKED". If you have any questions about sending it, maybe it shouldn't be sent.

said doodie6550 2007.03.01 at 14:58:38 PST

TINK: THE FOLLOWING ARE THE MAILING PROCEDURES MAILING DO'S AND DON'TS You can send your soldier: Letters Pictures Newspaper and Magazine Articles Don't send your soldier: Magazine subscriptions Pornographic material Knives or weapons Drugs of any kind Cigarettes or tobacco Baked goods or packages Note: All mail will be delivered to soldiers, however, Drill Sergeants may have the soldier open packages to inspect them for contraband items.

said doodie6550 2007.03.01 at 14:55:45 PST

Tink: Family, parents and friends are strongly encouraged to attend Infantry training graduation ceremonies. Graduation ceremonies are held on Fridays at the following times. 1 April - 30 September 9:00am 1 October - 31 March 10:00am "Turning Blue" ceremonies are normally held the day prior to graduation around noon. Families may visit their soldiers during the "Turning Blue" ceremonies. Soldiers are normally given passes after the "Turning Blue" ceremony, but must return for the graduation ceremony. Formal graduation ceremonies are held on the "Class Grad Date" indicated below. All soldiers in a class will march in these ceremonies.

said doodie6550 2007.03.01 at 14:53:51 PST

Just a word of caution too... On the serious side.... Remember that anything your Soldier does that may get him into trouble, not only effects him, but also the whole platoon, do you really want your Soldier to not only be punished by the DS, but also by his Platoon??? Just something to be thinking about....Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.01 at 12:00:02 PST

I have to take it personally!!! I AM blone and *I* did think it was premade LOL

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.01 at 11:02:28 PST

Just incase we have some (blondes), powdered gatorade!! LOL, JK! I am also blonde so please don't take it personally!!

said painpak 2007.03.01 at 08:51:03 PST

raintreee, I have to tell you a funny story dealing with sneaking stuff in to them. We were able to send our boys foot powder, so Rory asked me to remove the powder and replace it with Gatorade. I didn't do it, I was too afraid of getting him into trouble. But, just the thought that these guys are so desperate that they would ask us to do these things for them tells you just how much they crave certain things. God Bless, a Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim PS, If you read the other Co's posts you will see that some of the DS's read these sites, so be careful what you write here. LOL

said painpak 2007.03.01 at 08:49:39 PST

Does anyone know what time the Turning Blue Ceremony starts on 5/17/07?

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.01 at 07:28:17 PST

Take as many as you want is the word I've heard. Its nice that you have all of the support from friends and family. So it looks like we will be neighbors at Uchee Creek. What dates are you there for? It would be nice to get aquainted. I'll bring the wine! Have a great day all! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.03.01 at 07:23:34 PST

Hello to all, received a letter from my son today. #406 Caleb Carpenter A Co. 2-58. HOOAH!!! By the sound of his letter he is doing great. His company is really strong, setting records, getting tasks completed on a timely matter. He is still craving sweets, and is giving me pointers as how to covertly sneak sweets to him. Little does he know, mom has aready met the task, and we will see if she is successful. Still complaining of shin splints, but is now wearing the tennis shoes that he brought from home. I have also secured 2 Lake Chalets, for graduation. I have asked before, as far as everyone knows there is no limit as to how many people you can bring? Got bless to all.

said raintree64 2007.03.01 at 05:29:52 PST

##### Is - p o r n - a forbidden word? wow...

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.01 at 03:37:48 PST

I received a letter from Mike yesterday.... when I opened it...... two letters to is friends? Nothing for Me :-(. I read the letters and the one to his Tom, the boy I am hoping to bring with, a nice letter like I should have gotten Soooooooooooooooo. Being the "mom" I am <evil grin> in both letters he asked them to send him "women" clearing thought..... So, I was thinking about getting him a hustler and sending it today with this phone card... when he opens it..... ALL his friends will see "his mom" sent him #####.... LOL.... just a thought at this point - still LOL - but what a thought......

said tink3rbel1 2007.03.01 at 03:35:30 PST

Hi all! I have just received a call from my mother and she told me that she has received a letter from my son. She read it to me and by the sound of Phillip's letter he sounded really upbeat and doing very well. He said that the gas chamber wasn't that bad, although some of the guys have had alittle more touble then others, but that is to be expected since we all have different tolerant levels. Phillip also seems to be enjoying the hand to hand combat training so that's a plus. Dont be so shy people chat it up alittle.... I'm lonely over here! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.28 at 20:30:22 PST

Yes, definitely a quiet night... What are your soldiers up to these days? Keep us posted on their training...we're with you all the way! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt.Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.28 at 18:57:24 PST

My but we've been quiet on this side of the board.... Hey our Soldiers need to know we are still here for them...HOOAH E Co. Kick some bootie up on that there hill!!! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.28 at 18:35:55 PST

Hello everyone,sorry I havent wrote in a while.Has everyone had a phone call? I have not,I have only received one letter, so I dont know If he is receiving our letters or not.Can we send goodies to our boys for easter? probably not.Proud Mother PVT Gregory Barker #102 A CO said

said barker65 2007.02.28 at 17:18:03 PST

Tink, I am looking forward to tonight! See you there! Rhonda Proud Mother of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co

said rrhwilson 2007.02.28 at 11:41:29 PST

Count me in rrhwilson, I'll be there

said tink3rbel1 2007.02.28 at 10:42:36 PST

Wanda told us about this prayer and she live in GA. She said 8:00 PM so I am guessing that would be EST. So if you are in TX it would be 7:00 and so on. Will let you know if this changes. Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.27 at 19:08:27 PST

Clarification. Just go to E Co's site tomorrow night at 8:00 - I am still finding out which time zone - and cheer them on! P.S. Ft. Benning is in two different time zones so you have to check. Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.27 at 18:55:31 PST

Chelane, Blue Card? Good question. Let me see what I can find out. How are you doing? I see you are still whippin' 'em into shape over here. HOORAH Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.27 at 18:22:50 PST

If you would be so kind as to post your thoughts here and at B Co site it would help me time wise. Thanks Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.27 at 18:17:39 PST

**************** HEADS UP *************** I have an idea. All the companies in the 2/58 will come out to cheer the men in E Co. up Honor Hill. Why don't we get all the companies here to go over to E Co site tomorrow night at 8:00 PM to post and cheer them on during that time? What say ye? Rhonda - Proud and Respectful Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238

said rrhwilson 2007.02.27 at 18:16:59 PST

No idea either!!!

said painpak 2007.02.27 at 12:34:10 PST

Chelane, I'm not sure about the Blue Card. Since Brandon hasn't had any difficulties we haven't had to check into that...or maybe he knew but never passed on the information. Maybe one of the other veteran parents can answer...I'd like to know as well... ???? Have a good day everyone. You're one day closer to graduation! Lisa Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.27 at 11:36:49 PST

*** Proudmom32 and rrhwilson *** I was talking to a girlfriend of mine who is former ARMY. She stated that the ARMY is considered a "kindler and gentler" ARMY now. She also said that Soldiers who are having a little more difficulty adjusting to ARMY life get what is referred to as "Blue Cards" which allows them a little more freedom for staying in contact with family. Do you know if this informaiton accurate? Just another one of my silly questions… Have a great day everyone! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.27 at 10:37:26 PST

Thanks wjetc...I wanted to send something to him, but he has not given me a list yet... guess the three items listed aren't to important to him, but I'm gonna sent them anyways. Especially the phone card :-) ***Chelane: I received a letter from Mike last night. short and sweet, but, Who is the parents with the "Rushin" soldiers? <Mike did fineticly write his name, but I forgot it> Reason.. Mike had Landry detail with him and he was telling me in his letter the the other soldier got done with his letter early so he was letting him do the Landry while he wrote his letter...sllllowly...he "lol"ed that.

said tink3rbel1 2007.02.27 at 09:53:47 PST

**** LOVE BUMP ****

said rrhwilson 2007.02.27 at 05:59:02 PST

Good morning A Co. Weather is beautiful again today in Atlanta GA! Currently it is 47 degrees rising to a great southern high of 70 degrees with infantry blue skies, limitless vision and hope. F Co is blessed with graduation this week. I am sooo happy for them. We, too, will be there soon! Rhonda - Proud and Respectful Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co.

said rrhwilson 2007.02.27 at 05:58:45 PST

Chelanel970 and the rest of ACO. make sure when you write your son's or financee or husbands that you tell them to write to their families with this website. It is a lifeline that I have never experienced before. don't send and food or treats. Lots of stamps, phone cards and pictures only.. Let me know how you make out? Love and prayers to your soldiers! Jeanine Proud Army Mom of Ed Bolen #301 Fco graduating in two days. And I am a WRECK!! Lol to all!

said wjetc 2007.02.26 at 23:54:42 PST

Also a word of caution about getting to come home after graduation...F Co is finding out that a lot of their soldiers are NOT getting to come home...also their orders have changed a couple of times and with graduation slated for this Friday a lot of them are still up in the air as to where they are going. I think a lot has to do with the 30,000 more troops needed overseas...this is only MY opinion and by no means a fact. That being said, it is my sincere hope your soldiers get to come home before going to their home base... Hooah! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.26 at 18:23:48 PST

Chelane, I've gotten three phone calls from Mike and no letters. AND I am shocked I get them LOL ... not that he don't love me, but he made it clear this was his decision and not mine. Which translates in my family as.... let you know AFTER the fact :-) He put in for a quick go..what ever the proper term is... and I found out two days before he was leaving, that he WAS leaving. he wasn't supposed to go until like end of march/April, but he did all his requirements and they took him early. ****Proudmom, that sounds right/better :-) I would expect him/me to pay for "vacations".

said tink3rbel1 2007.02.26 at 12:04:09 PST

One other thing I would like to add about getting a plane ticket for your son to come home with you. I also got one for Rory, he wasn't able to come home because he had Airborne training right after, but the airline we used said the ticket is good for one year from date of purchase. So we were able to use the ticket for Thanksgiving, we just had to pay the difference in flight costs plus I think $50. I hope this helps. God Bless, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.26 at 11:10:00 PST

Chelane, I know that you asked Lisa but I happened to check the website so I thought I would respond. While my son is currently training in A Company, my comments are based on my experience with my daughter when she graduated Marine boot camp 4 years ago. Your soldier should get some leave time after graduation which means that you can take them home with you and you are responsible for getting them there. The leave time depends on their next duty station. If they are immediately going overseas, they will have more leave time that if they are staying stateside. The Army will pay for their transportation to their next duty station, however they will need to know where they will be traveling from. Typically they will not find out their next duty station until graduation time when they get their travel orders. I am making a plane reservation for my son to come home with me from Fort Benning so that we can travel together. Once again, this is how the Marines worked and I can only assume that all branches of the military work in a similar fashion. Hope that helps.

said joesdad53 2007.02.26 at 10:29:06 PST

Lisa - Let me get this right, sorry if this sounds redundant - but if one doesn't know - then one should ask right? After graduation, if our sons are NOT continuing their military training at Fort Benning then their flights to their home base is paid for is that correct? When do the Soldiers find out where their home base is? How much time does your Soldier receive between coming home and being deployed to their next station? And finally would you recommend making flight arrangements from boot to home after graduation for your Soldier so that you can travel together? Hopefully this all makes sense… Inquiring minds… Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.26 at 09:30:16 PST

Lisa - Let me get this right, sorry if this sounds redundant - but if one doesn't know - then one should ask right? After graduation, if our sons are NOT continuing their military training at Fort Benning then their flights to their home base is paid for is that correct? When do the Soldiers find out where their home base is? How much time does your Soldier receive between coming home and being deployed to their next station? And finally would you recommend making flight arrangements from boot to home after graduation for your Soldier so that you can travel together? Hopefully this all makes sense… Inquiring minds… Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.26 at 09:28:25 PST

Send your son a couple of good pairs of gel soles, and that should help his shin splints...that was the recommendation from Brandon's doctor and pharmacist that I spoke to...and they REALLY did provide help when Brandon got them in his running shoes and boots. ** Yes, the ARMY will pay the airline ticket to their home bases, but if your soldier wants to come home and visit for lets say: Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc...then THEY have to pay...and don't be too shocked when you find out there really AREN'T any discounts...and military discounts aren't always available. Brandon stayed at Fort Benning for Thanksgiving because he found out a week prior that they could actually come home for four days...at that late notice the airfares were around $1000 (just for four days...), so we celebrated Thanksgiving when he came home at Christmas time for 12 days. ***Yes, book your lodging EARLY, you can always cancel at a later date if the need should arise... Have a wonderful day! Lisa, PROUD ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG MOM OF PVT. BRANDON JONES

said proudmom32 2007.02.26 at 08:16:20 PST

Hi all. I just made reservations at Uchee Creek for May 16th and 17th. There are some cabins left but they are going fast. If you tell them that you are coming for a graduation they will give you the discount rate. Thanks to Chelane1970 for the website address. Good luck.

said joesdad53 2007.02.26 at 07:16:08 PST

Welcome aboard ProudSister2PFCONE! You will find this website a lifeline to not only your Soldier, but to other family members asking many of the same questions that you may have. So far there is alot of valuable info posted so please read, and enjoy. It is a pleasure having you here! *** WOW raintree64 20 to go to graduation!!?? How WONDERFUL! It appears as though there is no limit to how many people can go according to previous posts. I think that if you are staying any lenght of time, you may want to get your reservations made for lodging ASAP. I am so glad to hear that you heard from your son... I'm still waiting. I still have had only 1 phone call and 1 letter... Doesn't my son love me anymore?? (just kidding)I'll be checking in alittle later. Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.26 at 07:01:36 PST

This is Shawn, proud mother of #406 Pvt Caleb A Carpenter of A-Co. We heard from our son last night. What a welcome relief to hear his voice. He sounds great. He loves it, did great with "1" pass thru on the gas chamber. Craving chocolate, and has shin splints bad. His commander has allowed him to wear his tennis shoes to run, but I had read that some one else was suffering with the same thing, and orthotics was sent. Can anyone make a recommendation for me. The other question that I have. It looks like there might be as many as 20 coming down to graduation. Is that ok, or do they have a limit as to how many can come? Thank you, and God Bless

said raintree64 2007.02.26 at 05:03:12 PST

Proudmom: you said "1) If you are trying to get the best airfare for your soldier to come home " ****** They, the army, do provide their way home, dont they? just checking to see if I need to get him a plane ticket too. Thanks!

said tink3rbel1 2007.02.26 at 03:36:11 PST

Proudsister- Yes, there will be LOTS more pictures posted throughout basic...The Chaplain is working hard right now posting all the pics for F Company who just completed FTX, but he'll come back around to A Company soon I'm sure. :) Keep checking back.... Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.02.25 at 21:45:58 PST

****I want to share some valuable information that will come in handy in the near future: 1) If you are trying to get the best airfare for your soldier to come home on GO TO THIS WEBSITE: www.bluestarmoms.org/airf are.html 2)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 (anybody UNDER 18 needs to check in as well so they get a pass, but no ID required). This will give you extra time to spend with your soldier before they board their plane. ***Good evening everyone! Lisa, PROUD ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG MOM OF PVT.BRANDON JONES

said proudmom32 2007.02.25 at 21:43:49 PST

Does anyone know if there will be any new pictures of A Co, Grad May 2007? It was so great to be able to see pictures of my brother PFC O'Neil, and I'd love to know if I should watch for more pics. God bless all the soldiers and their families too!

said ProudSister2PFCONE... 2007.02.25 at 21:07:16 PST

There are no reserved tickets or passes for Turning Blue or Graduation... you will have to stop at the Visitor's Center when first coming into Fort Benning and show them your ID, tell them why you're there, etc. There will also be check points...just show your ID...Mike won't know a thing! :) Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.25 at 20:30:16 PST

Hello! I found that my drive is 6.23hrs. I have priced a rental car to drive up. We reserved Howard Johnsons for two night and will drive back Early Sat. Even worked out the food :-) Have spoken to Mikes best friend Tom, who IS planning to come with us. So it looks like the trip is almost in the bag. Got a couple of questions *** on Friday, the 18 the cerimony starts at 9am..correct? Also, the "turning blue" on the 17th. What time does that start. And finaly... the big one..... Mike is not expectin us to come. I heard passes are required to get on base. how would I go about gaining these passes without Mike knowing I got them and are coming? Thanks!!

said tink3rbel1 2007.02.25 at 20:14:28 PST

Wow, I have had webshots withdrawls!!! Had to work the California Speedway for the Nascar this weekend and now I have to catch up on the emails. You guys are doing great!!! God Bless, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim PS, Mark Martin the driver of 01 the Army sponsored car got 4th or 5th. He did awesome. HOOAH, GO ARMY!!!!!

said painpak 2007.02.25 at 18:37:56 PST

Hey everybody. Just thought that if you haven't heard from your son this weekend, everyone survived the gas mask training. We were fortunate enough to get a phone call from #402 PV2 Berkheimer this evening .... a few cases of the barfs, one case of passing out, nothing worse. Good "fun", but they probably wouldn't volunteer to do it again.

said BerkDaddy 2007.02.25 at 17:54:53 PST

haley557 - You should have received the scarf and hat insignia via email.... if not click on my name below and view my pics. its in there! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.25 at 11:59:08 PST

I meant in the above statement that "I have received about 12 letters". Sometimes my fingers that twisted with my brain.

said doodie6550 2007.02.25 at 11:48:10 PST

Chelane: My son has been very good in writing me. He have received about 12 letters. He writes when he is on watch or just before lights are out. Of course, I write every day telling him what has been happening here. Even if it is the same ole stuff, at least he gets daily mail call. I also have sent his address out to his aunt, friends and cousins. I haven't heard if his father has written him, I hope he has taken the time just to send a letter. Communication is the only link we have and they have to each other.

said doodie6550 2007.02.25 at 11:47:08 PST

Chelane -- Were on your profile can we see the scarf and hot insignia??

said haley557 2007.02.25 at 11:03:12 PST

Well now I'm jealous... I have only gotten one letter, and one phone call, Oh well I guess I should count my blessing however many they are. My heart goes out to the Soldiers who have no one close enough to write to for whatever reason.... Lets remember to say a special prayer for them! BTW A Co. check out my profile, as I have posted a rough draft of the scarf and hat insignia for our group... Please get creative and put something together, or at least offer up suggestions... After all this is for all of us....Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.25 at 10:02:08 PST

Good Morning to you all! Wow...7 letters ArmyMom229, that's so terrific! I was also fortunate...my son wrote home often (however, he tried ducking every time the Chaplain came around for a photo op...grrr...he said he wanted to fly under the radar). I would email my family and friends when I got a letter so they are copied on emails...then put them in a special box to be kept forever. When my son has completed his military career I plan to put them in a book form for him to have as his Military Keepsake. The changes you will see in his letters at bootcamp I'm sure will truly amaze you...they go from I..I...I... to WE...WE...THE PLATOON...THE COMPANY... The maturity, pride and unified teamwork is what stands out for me. Everyone have a great day...one day closer to graduation! HOOAH!! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.25 at 09:44:13 PST

Chelane, the ** LOVE BUMP ** Is to increase A Co's postings and to let y'all know that B Co loves you and has you in our prayers. haha Funny you should mention the Love Shack. Our city and residents are now legally fighting a guy to try to keep him from opening up a Love Shack here in my area. The jokes flying around are too funny! Hope y'all have a great Sunday. Rhonda - Proud and Respectful Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse # 238 B Co.

said rrhwilson 2007.02.25 at 07:53:29 PST

Love Bump - Anything like Love Shack? LOL! Hi Everyone! Where the heck is spring?? Snowing big ol' flakes here in North Idaho. It is so beautiful! Welcome aboard Armymom229! I sent you a little info on our contact listing via the "friends invite" hope you got that ok. It explains that we have a family contact list and how to be added if you would like to stay in contact with other ARMY families in the A Co. (compliments of rrhwilson - Thanks Rhonda) - it's coming along nicely... if I remember to attach the silly thing! Also if you have any questions that have not been addressed in the previous postings, feel free to jot them down - Our seasoned veterans are WONDERFUL about providing the answers, or pointing you in the correct direction. TTFN - Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.25 at 07:43:04 PST

** LOVE BUMP **

said rrhwilson 2007.02.25 at 07:15:09 PST

Welcome ArmyMom229 Proud Mom of Pvt. Joshua Viol #229! Y'all, here is the speech given by the CDR at the graduation of D Co. in July '06. I believe CDR White articulated what is in our hearts. * http://www.blackfive.net/main/files/pdf_copy_7_july_graduation_speech_ltc_randolph_c1.%20White%20Jr..pdf * Enjoy. Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.25 at 07:14:56 PST

Hello everyone. My son, Pvt Joshua Viol #229 is in A Co, grad date May '07. It was so nice to see your comments! We're from Phoenix and I don't think Josh as gotten use to the cold, I had no idea we might be able to send somethings to our son's so thank so much for the tip! My son has written me 7 letters since he's been gone and each time I can tell my young man is becoming a man. I can't wait to see him on graduation day. God Bless you and your families.

said ArmyMom229 2007.02.24 at 20:21:25 PST

Thanks for the tips on the foor comforts, proudmom32. And thanks for everything else you've contributed here. We newbies aren't very bright (speaking for myself, of course). Chelane1970: all I can say is in my neck of the woods it has been a bitterly cold winter for the last 4-6 weeks, and we finally had a decent weekend day ... bright sun and seasonable temperatures. I for one took the opportunity to get out and enjoy the day.

said BerkDaddy 2007.02.24 at 17:10:11 PST

Golly where is everyone today?? Is it me?? Have I become OCD over this site?? Heaven help me! Hope everyone has had a great day! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.24 at 14:27:56 PST

Doodie6550, What a great idea of going down there! I am north of Atlanta so it is do-able. That way we can have an idea of where to go at graduation and not be stumbling around. Rhonda - Proud and Respectful Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co.

said rrhwilson 2007.02.24 at 14:19:45 PST

Chelane, this will be the only time they will go through the gas chamber...on to bigger and better things.... :)Would you mind sending me a Contact List? My email is ldpsport@aol.com. Have a great day...Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.24 at 08:54:41 PST

GOOD MORNING ARMY FAMILY!! WHAT A GLORIOUS DAY!! Well our Soldiers have officially made it 24 hours past the dreaded Gas Chambers...Does anyone know if they have to do it a second time? One would hope not. Any way this is to be quick I have a billion things to do... Just wanted everyone to know that I have gotten all of the info from everyone who has emailed me directly about the A Co. Contact List. If you have NOT received an email with the info, please shoot me notification. chelane_connell@hotmail.c om. Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.24 at 07:25:41 PST

There is a PX (small) near their barracks where they buy some stuff. I think they are suppose to go to it today to buy some stuff. I don't think they can go individually only as a company. My son has said there are several phases, white, red (one for the first week, second week). I think after the red phase, they may be able to get more things and make phone calls on Sundays. Did any of you get a response?

said doodie6550 2007.02.24 at 06:25:20 PST

Chelane1970- I'm not sure which video you are referring to...the one I was referencing is the BOOT CAMP DVD that the soldiers can purchase...which my son Brandon did for us to see. There wasn't alot of footage of Brandon but it was great to see what his platoon and company had to go through for all those weeks. It's definitely a keepsake that we'll have always... That being said...Here is a video that you all should see...because this will be your soldier in the very near future: https://www.infantry.army .mil/itb/, then click on the ARMY videos on the left. The soldiers standing along the roadside cheering the troops marching to Honor Hill just may have been your soldiers yesterday...F Company marched to Honor Hill and it's my belief that Companies A,B and C were out there cheering them...envisioning themselves doing that exact thing in the near future (make sure to check out the video) As for sending items: That's a little tricky because it seems it depends on the drill sgts from company to company. We were able to send gel soles, toothpaste, deodorant, foot powder, cough drops, Advil, etc. However, F Company was not. I would recommend writing your soldiers and asking them to make a list of dos and don'ts...their DSs should have already instructed them on what they can receive. For now...SEND PICTURES (lots of them) and news paper articles about current events and the sports section (this is REALLY POPULAR). If you are able to send items some of the ones I mentioned are A MUST HAVE...especially the gel soles for their boots and shoes (helps prevent shin splints) and foot powder because their feet get wet. Cough drops are like candy for them (especially since they can't have sweets), some of the favorite flavors were Rootbeer, Strawberry and Tropical Smoothie flavors...you should be able to find at Walgreens. I hope this helps somewhat. Happy Friday...I'm sure your soldiers did GREAT today and they'll have some amazing stories to tell you when they have a chance to call home or write. HOOAH! Lisa

said proudmom32 2007.02.23 at 21:15:59 PST

BTW BerkDaddy in "inviting friends" just click on the persons name (ie. Chelane1970) and towards the bottom of the page there will be a blue strip that states you are looking at so-n-sos profile and on the right hand side you will see a beige box that will say do you like so-n-so? Then just click on make friends. Pretty simple. Sometimes it takes a few days for people to get back to you though... Chat at you later! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.23 at 19:51:17 PST

BerkDaddy, according to my son, they do have access to ATMs for money and I am sure that the laundry facilities are right handy too. doodie6550 posted higher up that the following site provides a list of what our Soldiers can and cannot receive, however when I tried to access the site I came up with an invalid page. Here is the link just in case you have better luck than I did. https://www.benning.army. mil/itb. But be patient because I'm certain that one of our "veterans" will be around and able to provide an answer for us soon! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.23 at 19:43:36 PST

Does anybody have any idea how our sons acquire everyday basics .... I'm thinking things like toothpaste, etc.? We got a desperation letter a week ago asking for us to send laundry detergent. Sort of caught me off guard, but we sent it out anyway. I can imagine all sorts of situations .... living in the same unwashed clothes for two weeks (oh if that's only the least of his worries) ..... or maybe he was anticipating dirty activities to come.

said BerkDaddy 2007.02.23 at 19:14:40 PST

Hi Shawn - The larg cabins sleep (depending on how cozy you want to be...lol) - Large cabins sleep 6 $49.00 and thelake chalets sleep 8 $73.00, they are also equipt with kitchenetts and there is a grocery store near by if you want to save a little money and cook in. Tink - I don't see where you have posted anything on your son's rank name (other than Mike) and RN#. Please email with this info so that I can get the family info updated for your profile. Thanks! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.23 at 18:13:09 PST

Hi, this is Shawn, the proud mother of #406 Caleb A Carpenter of the A Co. Knowing that today was the gas chamber, I have thought about my son all day. Lord willing, he was one that held his head up high. Can anyone give me an idea how many people the big cabins sleep. I do believe that we will be bringing a caravan down. HOOAH!!!!! God Bless to all.

said raintree64 2007.02.23 at 17:23:46 PST

The Gas Chamber doesn't sound like a very easy lesson. Hope my son does well. He has been excited about all the lessons so far, but this gas chamber thing sounds closterphobic to me. I know I would freak when I think something or someone else has control over me. Has anyone heard how the land navigation classes went?

said doodie6550 2007.02.23 at 17:13:53 PST

Sorry for the duplication. Sometimes you hit the "say it" button more than you think.

said doodie6550 2007.02.23 at 17:10:36 PST

For those families who live close to Columbus, Georgia, you can visit the army base, just can't see But it is nice to see where our soldiers train. Sand Hill is off of the main base and all you need is your driver's license and car registration. You stop by the office on the left, show them you identification. They will give you a guest pass. After that, you are sent to another area, where they will scan your car and ask you a couple of questions. You then have access to alot of the base. The Army will give you a little map so you can figure out where you are going. You will know what you cannot pass as it will say authorized personnel only. We went down there a couple of weeks ago and it was nice to see where they were. Just food for thought. I might go down this weekend to see where by son's barracks are. I just have to look for a yellow mustang and the "House of Pain" sign.PROUD MOM OF BENNY J. HERMANSON, A Co., 2nd BN, 58th IF REG.

said doodie6550 2007.02.23 at 17:09:54 PST

For those families who live close to Columbus, Georgia, you can visit the army base, just can't see But it is nice to see where our soldiers train. Sand Hill is off of the main base and all you need is your driver's license and car registration. You stop by the office on the left, show them you identification. They will give you a guest pass. After that, you are sent to another area, where they will scan your car and ask you a couple of questions. You then have access to alot of the base. The Army will give you a little map so you can figure out where you are going. You will know what you cannot pass as it will say authorized personnel only. We went down there a couple of weeks ago and it was nice to see where they were. Just food for thought. I might go down this weekend to see where by son's barracks are. I just have to look for a yellow mustang and the "House of Pain" sign.PROUD MOM OF BENNY J. HERMANSON, A Co., 2nd BN, 58th IF REG.

said doodie6550 2007.02.23 at 17:09:51 PST

Tink: My husband said it would probably take you about 6 hours, and no more than 7 hours to go from Tampa to Columbus. You will have to go to I-75 and then cross over toward I-85. This is probably the only time you will have to under 75 mph or 80 mph. I have learned from driving in Atlanta, everyone drives at least 85 and right on your bumper. It seems that most everyone thinks they are on the Daytona 500 raceway. Do you have Google Earth? You can download it free. Plug in Fort Benning, Georgia, then go to Custer Road because that is where Sand Hill is. This will give you a bird's eye view of what the base looks like Some of the streets are known as Moye Road, 11th Airborne Div Rd. and 187th Inf. Reg. Street. You can make out the barracks, where the ceremony will be and where the reception area was. The reception area is off of 187 Inf. Reg. Street.

said doodie6550 2007.02.23 at 17:03:28 PST

Lisa, I have seen where videos are listed, but how do you access them???Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.23 at 13:31:22 PST

I can't wait to see the pictures that I'm sure the Chaplain will be posting soon of today's exercise... don't be surprised if your soldier says he went through the chamber several times...when watching my son's Boot Camp DVD there were a number of soldiers that had to go through MANY times...you have to leave the chamber with your head up, and gun out to the side..if not...go back. Good luck to your soldiers! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG momo of Pvt. Brandon Jones ***ps. my email is lpeterson@columbia.com or ldpsport@aol.com...you can email me anytime

said proudmom32 2007.02.23 at 13:21:41 PST

Note on Gas Chamber Day....Mikes Uncle Al, my brother, went through this in the Marines. He said by the time they opened the door to let them out his face felt like it was melting off. After the door was opened, they were ordered to walk out one by one slllloooooly… Al did not. He jumped the gun and ran…. LOL…. He had to do it all over again. Yes, I think that is funny... maybe cause it was my brother :-)

said tink3rbel1 2007.02.23 at 12:20:08 PST

nope tink - I don't have your info... email me so I can get it on our list to share! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.23 at 12:05:24 PST

Chelane, I dont know if I am on the list or not, I would home so, but just incase, I will email you so you so you have my em address.. For anyone else-- if ever needed--- tink3rbel1@yahoo.com. .....Mapquest --Duha. Thanks!!! lol

said tink3rbel1 2007.02.23 at 12:02:35 PST

Chelaine, what a joy it is to see A Co showing so much support for the men on this site. You are a blessing from God to A Co! Keep up the good work. We will be praying for your soldiers today and every day. I will send you my info. Rhonda - Proud and Respectful Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238

said rrhwilson 2007.02.23 at 10:49:34 PST

HOOAH A CO! Today is GAS CHAMBER DAY... So keep our Soldiers in your prayers today that everyone is able to make it through this ordeal just fine. I have received emails from some of you fine folks providing me with your contact info. I have added you to the A Co. contact listing and sent the info back. Thanks so much! Our list is still short, but coming along nicely. Again if anyone else wants to be added to the listing and you haven't contacted me via email (which is required in order to send you the updated contact listing) please reply to: chelane_connell@hotmail.c om. Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.23 at 09:45:59 PST

LOVE BUMP (This is to bump your postings up and let you know B Co is thinking of you)! We noticed that is seems that the number of pics that Chaplain Rusack posts is in direct relation to the number of post to a company's site. Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.23 at 09:29:30 PST

Hey y'all, this is Rhonda from B Co. Look at all the postings! Y'all are going great AND you even have Dads!! TINK, I live in Atlanta and the last time I drove to Tampa it took less than 6 hours. Those folks in FL love to do 95 on the I 75! haha We did not go 95 mph, of course. Mapquest says that it is 6 hrs and 23 mins from Tampa to Columbus GA and they are always way over the actual time to drive. Rhonda Proud and Respectful Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co.

said rrhwilson 2007.02.23 at 09:23:50 PST

Thanks guys, I will book for my family ASAP there are four of us coming so I suppose I should try and book a large one after ready recent posts. Cant wait! Proud sister of PVT. #412 Brian K. Fuller Jr.

said armyproud 2007.02.22 at 19:36:51 PST

WOW...LOL *****first..I have'nt asked/told his friends yet. I am hoping they could come with. *****Next..I know its worth the money--just need to get it in the first place ;-)*****I know I can get off work for a day, now two for driving, but not sure if I could get three days this time of year. I work for a student loan co and they are getting ready for, yep, graduations. *****I'm in Port Richey. Tampa is close enough..I guessed good than at 12hrs if it took you 11.

said tink3rbel1 2007.02.22 at 19:19:40 PST

Yes, you definitely should book as soon as possible because they do fill up quickly. They will give you a confirmation number and a date that's closer to graduation to cancel if the need should arise. Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.22 at 18:48:37 PST

Hi armyproud. I'm not sure how fast they book, but you can call. I made my arrangements with Angie. She was a real sweetheart. Hope you can make it at that time, we could have us a good 'ol time! PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.22 at 16:50:52 PST

Does anyone know if the cabins book quickly? Should my family and I look into booking as soon as possible?

said armyproud 2007.02.22 at 16:17:38 PST

Tink, you are just the bestest MOM. What a GREAT surprise?? I wonder how many tears will fall that day. They need us there for support and to let us know that they finally finished something they started. PROUD MOM OF PV2 BENNY J. HERMANSON, A. CO., 2nd BN, 58TH INF REG

said doodie6550 2007.02.22 at 16:15:21 PST

Checkout the following websites for the campground info: http://www.militarycampgrounds.us/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=97&Itemid=38#user_reviews AND http://www.benningmwr.com/uchee31905.htm (this website lets you look into the cabins and states the daily rate.

said doodie6550 2007.02.22 at 16:12:45 PST

Tink: Where are you driving from in Florida. When Bill and I drove from Tampa with a UHaul on the back of our Jeep, it took about 11 hours to get to Sharpsburg, GA which is an 1 1/2 North of Columbus.

said doodie6550 2007.02.22 at 16:08:48 PST

Tink: Where are you driving from in Florida. When Bill and I drove from Tampa with a UHaul on the back of our Jeep, it took about 11 hours to get to Sharpsburg, GA which is an 1 1/2 North of Columbus.

said doodie6550 2007.02.22 at 16:08:44 PST

PS. If you want to get an inside look at the cabin, click on my icon and go to Graduation album, there are some pictures of the cabin in there...

said proudmom32 2007.02.22 at 14:36:19 PST

Thanks Kim...I'm sure Diane will be very appreciative to get as many people to pray as possible. COUNT ME IN!!! ****TINK, It's worth the extra couple of dollars to get the large cabin if you can...there's a pretty big difference between the small verse the larger ones. I stayed in a small...Kim stayed in the large. I'm not saying it was bad...just that if I had to do it again I would definitly spend the $5 or so dollars more to get SO MUCH MORE comfort. :) Good luck, Lisa Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mo of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.22 at 14:34:50 PST

Hey everyone, His name is John.

said painpak 2007.02.22 at 13:53:04 PST

Hey everyone, We need lots of prayers for a C Co dad who is sick. His wife Diane says the doctors don't sound good. But, are going to recheck the tests in 4 weeks. His son's name is Eric and his wife is Diane Smith. I haven't gotten his name yet but I think we need to start now. God Bless, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.22 at 13:43:23 PST

Tinker, I was going to tell you the same thing that Chelane has. The cabins are very nice and very reasonably priced. Hey just a thought but your son is also making money now, maybe he would pay for it so you wouldn't have to sleep in the car. I hope you can work something out.....Joesdad, Because your son is doing National Guard I'm sure it is different. Thanks for the clarification!! God Bless, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.22 at 13:33:48 PST

Hey Tink - Just a quick note, there are 2 ceremonies, the "Turning Blue" is Thursday, and the graduation cermony is Friday. Keep in mind that Thursday is also family day too, so you would be able to spend the day with your son after the "Turning Blue" cermony (until 2000 hours anyway). I know that it would be an extra expense but... it would be worth it if you were able to attend both activities. And if you are taking 2 of your son's buddies have them buck up a few dollars, after all its only fair that they help out with the expenses. A small cabin at Uchee Creek will run about 35 per night (2 night min.), and will sleep up to 4 people. Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.22 at 13:23:38 PST

Hello everyone! Great to finally see the DADS come into play here!! Just a note for everyone posting - please attach your Soldier's RN# when referring to him in your posts...From painpak's info above we will be able to identify what platoons our sons are with, which will help others to connect with families that have Soldiers in the same platoon. Also has anyone started making reservations for lodging? I would recommend checking out Uchee Creek, http://www.benningmwr.com or ph.706-685-3060. That is where we are staying. Has great rustic cabins (with kitchenetts), great pricing and the area looks really pretty. Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.22 at 12:54:33 PST

Painpak, My son is National Guard. Unles he is going to be immediately deployed, he will be returning home. If he is going to be deployed, he will get some leave time. My daughter is full-time Marines and she went to Japan after her boot camp, but she got a 3 week leave prior to departure. I can't imagine that Army would be any different. Thanks for your reply.

said joesdad53 2007.02.22 at 12:44:49 PST

ok, so if I am to understand this Grad.... May 18 2007 = Friday .... at 9:00am ... Correct? ... I am driving up to GA from FL. I guess about a 12hr drive. I had plan to rent a car (unlim mil)and drive up. any advice for me on this venture? I cant afford to fly and If I stay over it will be in my car I will sleep BUT.... HE is ALLLLLLLLLL worth it. He doesnt know I am coming. He thinks my car (and right) wont make it. LOL.... what a surprise I hope to be for him!! since I am driving, I am hoping to bring his two bestest friends with me too.

said tink3rbel1 2007.02.22 at 12:29:22 PST

For those graduating in May, 2007, the ceremony will begin at 9:00 AM. Family, parents and friends are strongly encouraged to attend Infantry training graduation ceremonies. Graduation ceremonies are held on Fridays at the following times. 1 April - 30 September 9:00am 1 October - 31 March 10:00am "Turning Blue" ceremonies are normally held the day prior to graduation around noon. Families may visit their soldiers during the "Turning Blue" ceremonies. Soldiers are normally given passes after the "Turning Blue" ceremony, but must return for the graduation ceremony. Formal graduation ceremonies are held on the "Class Grad Date" indicated below. All soldiers in a class will march in these ceremonies.

said doodie6550 2007.02.22 at 11:51:11 PST

joesdad53, I hope you are right about him being able to come home with you after graduation. My son didn't, but he was also going Airborne. But, I know some of the families for F CO's boys aren't going Airborne but from what they have said won't be able to come right home after graduation. Good Luck, and God Bless. A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim PS, BerkDaddy, Wait To Go!!!!!

said painpak 2007.02.22 at 11:45:11 PST

joesdad53- That's a hard question to answer...it depends on what their orders will be. If they are staying at Fort Benning, they will have to go to their next station, report in and deposit all their belongings. This can take up to several hours, but there are no guarantees. I believe the times for the ceremonies change for winter and summer. I'll check it out and get back to you. Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.22 at 10:58:18 PST

I appreciate the advice and help from all who answered me. Does anyone know how long the actual graduation ceremony lasts on Friday? My son will come home with me after the ceremony, and we have a wedding to attend in our home state of PA on Saturday. So, we need to book the earliest flight possible after the graduation ceremony. Any information would be appreciated. By the way, I have been through this before as my daughter and son-in-law are both Marines. But, I am sure that there graduation ceremony differs from that of the Army. I can tell you this, you will see a difference in your son/daughter after their training.

said joesdad53 2007.02.22 at 10:44:59 PST

Thanks painpak. I got the upload thing working, but I have to say it's not real obvious where stuff ends up. I stumbled on the profile photo selection purely by accident. I guess I'll find out if I got it right when I send this. And thanks for the scoop on the roster number system. I knew Chris was in the 4th platoon, just didn't make the connection to the 4 in the roster no.

said BerkDaddy 2007.02.22 at 10:36:07 PST

Many Thanks! I will give it a shot. If all else fails, I can call my daughter "armyproud", or wife "armymomfuller" . From the looks of it, they figured it out before me. (as usual) Thanks again

said Briansdad01 2007.02.22 at 08:22:03 PST

OK Dads, I am going to do the best I can. First though let me point out something you may not be aware of, your boys are in the same platoon (4th)and by the number are very close and possibly know each other. OK how to change pictures. When you go to your page click on profile, there will be a spot that says upload photo's (I believe that's what it says). Click on that it will prompt you to choose files, click on that and your pictures from your computer should come up (at least that's how it worked for me). Once you have uploaded a picture it to your profile page it will appear on your icon. If you want to change it add more phot's and rearange them so the picture you want is the first picture. To get the pictures of your son's on your page there are a couple ways you can do it. The easiest is to bookmark them. When you see a picture from the Chaplains page in the top right corner it will say bookmark. Click on this and follow the prompts. Another way to copy pics from this site is same as bookmark only click on email to a friend, and email it to yourself. When you open the email you can right click on the picture and save it to a folder. I hope this helps. If you still need help feel free to email me at painpak@aol.com, I will give you my phone # and try walking you through it if we need to. God Bless. A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.22 at 08:08:22 PST

P.S. I also need to learn how to change the posting photo. The little man on the escalator, and the trash can don't seem to fit with the Army theme

said Briansdad01 2007.02.22 at 07:38:40 PST

Hi Mike, and everyone with A Co. Another proud dad here, but we are just coming up to speed with the web site, and communications in general. My son is Brian Fuller Jr. #412 A Co. 2-58 Infantry. We were glad to find that this experience now has more of a family feel to it. My e-mail address is: BFuller@howardcountymd.go v for the contact list or griffey881@comcast.net (the first one is best) My wife and I now truly have an "empty nest" as both kids are on their own now.......a weird feeling. Good luck to everyone, and thanks to Chaplain Rusack for the photos and support.

said Briansdad01 2007.02.22 at 07:34:34 PST

Hey everybody. Mike here, another parent just bursting at the seams with pride, hope, and enthusiasm for his son. My son is PV2 Chris Berkheimer, #402, A Co. 2-58 Infantry. Joesdad, I'm glad to see I'm not the only dad here. Reading down through all of the messages I started thinking that I might be in the wrong place. (And that is nothing against all you proud moms out there. You're the ones providing the overwhelming support here. But you know we guys just need to hang out together). I'm sure we'll hear from many more parents soon. I only just heard about this site two days ago when Chris included it in one of his letters. It's true none of them have enough time for writing and mail is a slower form of communications than we have grown accustomed to, so it will take some time for the word to get around. Anybody out there willing to give a newbie some help with changing the pic that attaches to these messages? I haven't found anything obvious yet. Chaplain Rusack, if you're out there we can't thank you enough for what you are doing. In our everyday lives pictures are one of those simple things we take for granted, but when you take your personal time these pictures and your ministry take on a whole new dimension. Chelane, thank you for taking time from your life to put together the contact list. There'll be a lot of work, even if only a fraction of the company responds. If anyone has a prayer request for their son, no matter whether specific or general, please don't hesitate to send it to my personal email - mberkheimer@verizon.net . Our sons deserve all of the support we can muster at this very challenging time in their lives.

said BerkDaddy 2007.02.22 at 06:05:19 PST

Joe also - I am putting together a contact listing for all of A Co. If you would like to be included in this please email my peronal email address: chelane_connell@hotmail.c om. Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR

said Chelane1970 2007.02.21 at 13:38:25 PST

Hey Joe Welcome aboard! There are actually 2 ceremonies that our Soldiers will go through and painpak has provided the following info: "The graduation goes like this, whatever your grad date is, that Thursday is family day and Turning Blue Ceremony(graduating to infantry men) this one is the most special, someone from your family will get to attach his blue infantry cord to his uniform, you can all go out there(everyone goes out to do this at the same time). This was the proudest moment I have ever experienced!! Then they will be released until 8pm that evening. On Friday is basic training graduation, this is a bigger to-do, but the soldiers care more about the Turning Blue Ceremony. When that is over depending on what your soldier is enlisted for it can go like this: If he is going Airborne then he will have to report to them right after graduation. They will inprocess then usually they are released for the weekend and have to report back sometime Monday. If they are not furthering there training at Fort Benning, then they may be released until their report date for whatever base and unit they were assigned. I hope this helps." Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.21 at 13:38:00 PST

My son is a member of A Co 2-58 as well. I appreciate the time spent in uploading the pictures. I am going to make some plane reservations, but I do not know how long the graduation ceremony lasts. I would like to fly out on Friday PM if possible but don't know if that will work. Can anyone give me any information. Thanks.

said joesdad53 2007.02.21 at 13:03:52 PST

How are you all doing over here? Gas Chamber this coming Friday...well that will definitely be an experience for your soldiers. My son provided quite a graphic description of it, but also noted that he wished they could do it again..."it was 'hella sick'" (which in his terms means great!) I'm sure the Chaplain will be taking pictures of this event. I know right now he's spending quite a bit of his time with F Company as they are just about finishing up their FTX and will be starting their march to Honor Hill in the next day.*** I see most everyone has learned how to mark their icon with a picture, but not many of you have albums yet. It's pretty easy...if you see you soldier in one of the pictures you can bookmark it and then post it to one of your albums. Have a wonderful day! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones PS>>>>Make sure to write your soldiers letting them know about this website and have them tell their buddies...so many families out there still don't know what a great lifeline this website provides...SPREAD THE WORD!!! :)

said proudmom32 2007.02.21 at 13:02:11 PST

This has been wonderful to be able to see on sons if only by far. At least when I saw PVT Brian Fuller Jr A Co 2-58 I knew he was good a mom can just tell. I too will be waiting for letters, calls or emails. I can hardly wait to hear the experience of the big wall. Our hearts, prayers and love are with all of you.

said armymomfuller 2007.02.21 at 10:21:30 PST

Thank goodness for this site! My family has been struggling with the very little contact that we have been able to have with my brother, PVT. Brian Fuller JR A Co 2-58. This site is a godsend that has made us feel like we can peek inside his world for a bit. My prayers are with all the families of our soldiers.

said armyproud 2007.02.21 at 10:04:37 PST

Good Morning All! Well Sorry I didn't get on here to post yesterday. For all of you in A Co. I need you to email me at: chelane_connell@hotmail.c om. I will need to get information from you if you would like to be on our family contact list. Raintree64, thanks for getting in touch with me. You should have an email from me already with the info that I need! BTW - PFC Phillip R. Connell #306 shared with me that he (his platoon) has gotten to repell from a 50 foot tower, (says that was pretty cool) and that this Friday they will be "going to the gas chamber", so lets be praying for our boys. And also, be patient when submitting a post. Just click the "say it" button once, it may not appear as though your comments have been added but rest assure they have. I'll be waiting patiently for those emails to start rolling in! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.21 at 07:26:32 PST

Wow! Did you all notice the videos on the other 2 companies. Maybe we will be so lucky! I did not mean to sound unappreciative of the photos that we do have. I know that I am lucky to get them. I just miss my boy! By the way if you are viewing this website with Netscape Browser, you should try with Internet Explorer. The difference is amazing!

said proudmomofA204 2007.02.21 at 04:33:24 PST

I finally received my first letter,he sounds like he is doing fine just a little tired.I made reservations today to stay at the cabins on base for graduation in may,can't wait to see him.Proud mom of PVT Gregory C.Barker,A CO

said barker65 2007.02.20 at 17:42:34 PST

I finally received my first letter,he sounds like he is doing fine just a little tired.I made reservations today to stay at the cabins on base for graduation in may,can't wait to see him.Proud mom of PVT Gregory C.Barker,A CO

said barker65 2007.02.20 at 17:42:34 PST

Graduation will be held at Fort Benning, Georgia. CHECK OUT FORT BENNING'S WEBSITE AT https://www.benning.army. mil/itb/. This website will give you a lot of information like the mailing format, graduation dates and what our soldiers are doing each week. My son is in A Co., 2nd BN 58 INF Reg. His gradation date is May 18, 2007. He will be in basic training for 14 weeks. I will not be able to see him until May 17, 2007. I believe E 1/50 Co. and E 1/19 Co. are also graduating in May, 2007. I think a picture of each company was taken. Maybe it will be uploaded soon. I am the proud mother of PV2 Benny J. Hermanson, A Co., 2nd BN 58th INF REG.

said doodie6550 2007.02.20 at 15:46:26 PST

Tinker, The photo's are taken by Chaplain Rusack on his own time and he gets them uploaded as much as I'm sure he can. We are very fortunate to have him as the Chaplain for 258, not all Co's are as fortunate so don't be upset when he doesn't get more uploaded, count your blessings that there are any at all!! As for graduation, it is in GA, Fort Benning. There is The Turning Blue Ceremony, that is on the Thursday of your grad date. This is when they get their Blue Cord signifying Infantrymen. Someone from your family if you are there will be able to attach this to his uniform, and this is the most memorable Proud moment I have ever had. After this ceremony they will get a pass for the rest of that day for Family day. Then Friday is the basic graduation, there is a bigger to-do for this graduation, but the boys say that Turning Blue means more to them. I hope this clarifies things a little better for you. God Bless. A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.20 at 13:25:14 PST

Yes, I agree with raintree64. We do need more pix... who or how do we get more uploaded? Oh, Also... reading all your chatter makes me ask... Is the Graduation in GA? Reson...I was under the impression it would be here, in Florida, when they got back... I'm now thinking I was miss informed????

said tink3rbel1 2007.02.20 at 11:58:31 PST

I am so glad to see these pictures. My name is Shawn, from Indiana, by Son is RN 406 Caleb A Carpenter from A Co 2-58. I find so much comfort in seeing his face. Nice to know that there are other families out there going thru the changes of not having our children at home. My prayers are with you and your sons and daughters.

said raintree64 2007.02.20 at 11:40:55 PST

I am so glad to see these pictures. My name is Shawn, from Indiana, by Son is RN 406 Caleb A Carpenter from A Co 2-58. I find so much comfort in seeing his face. Nice to know that there are other families out there going thru the changes of not having our children at home. My prayers are with you and your sons and daughters.

said raintree64 2007.02.20 at 11:40:53 PST

I am so glad to see these pictures. My name is Shawn, from Indiana, by Son is RN 406 Caleb A Carpenter from A Co 2-58. I find so much comfort in seeing his face. Nice to know that there are other families out there going thru the changes of not having our children at home. My prayers are with you and your sons and daughters.

said raintree64 2007.02.20 at 11:40:45 PST

I NEED PICTURES!!!!! Please post some new pictures. I have not received any letters from my son. The pictures let me know that my son is still living and still there. How will I ever handle Private Brady abroad????? Wow!!! Someone received a phone call. I thought that it would be 2 more weeks before they could call. I am carrying my phone with me everywhere. I do not want to miss a phone call. I read in another company about some AWOL soldiers! That is scarey!!!! I am mailing my son another letter today with a stamped self-addressed envelope. I feel like typing a questionaire where he checks yes or no. {are you enjoying boot camp? yes or no}LOL I know that they do not have much time, but I have always made time for him. DON"T Forget -MORE Pictures of our boys PLEASE!!!!

said proudmomofA204 2007.02.20 at 11:36:49 PST

I RECEIVED A CALL FROM PHILLIP!!! OOPS - I mean I RECEIVED A CALL FROM PFC PHILLIP R. CONNELL #306!!! LOL. Oh my I was soooo thrilled. My caller ID showed phone booth with a very different phone number attached so I was really excited to take that call. He sounds tired. Well of course he's tired... duh mom! He sounds like he's got a bug, but other than that really good. His voice was hoarse, but he said that they do A LOT of yelling, so that explains it. He told me that they have gotten to repel off of a 50 foot tower. That would scare the daylights out of me. Good thing I'm not in the army! LOL. Any way he told me he likes his "Battle Buddy" PVT Mark Camara, so Mom and Dad Camara, if you are posting (when you post) a big HOOAH to you guys. Hopefully we will get to chat soon. Thanks for the clarificaion on the cermonies painpak. Gotta run for the evening. Take care everyone, have a good night, and remember our guys in your prayers! Proud and Honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.19 at 20:16:28 PST

haley557, No the Uchee Creek campground is not close enough. You will definitely need a car. I'm not sure if there is any place you could stay that you wouldn't need a car. Besides when they get their pass you will want to leave the base..... And Chelane, There are two graduations. The first one is The Turning Blue Ceremony, this is where you will be able to go out onto the field and attach his Blue Cord, signifying he is an Infantrymen. After this ceremony is when they will get a pass to spend the rest of the day with their families. Then on Friday is basic graduation. They make a bigger hooplah for this one, but the guys say the Turning Blue means more. I hope this helps. God Bless. A Very Proud " Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.19 at 17:26:09 PST

Thanks rrhwilson for the UPS info.... My Nephew in-law just got over to Iraq. He went through Kuwait. His mom has not heard from him since he arrived there, Iraq, over a week ago. I will let you know more about how long contact takes as she does so we will have an idea on how long it might take to hear form them. I myself will feel better if I don’t here from Mike because that is the ways it is, rather than the dreaded unknown. -Sherree PS. My email is tink3rbel1@yahoo.com PPS…. Just got a phone call from Mike!!!!!!! It was short and to the point. BUT, I did get a question in…. Can you receive package of stuff… he said YES! So any ooops out there should be ok! I told Mike to make me a list and I would send him and his buds any thing they wanted that I could legally ship through the mail LOL

said tink3rbel1 2007.02.19 at 16:02:30 PST

We are the proud parents of PFC Craig Haley #115 A Co. 2/58 and plan on attending graduation in May. We understand there are cabins on base. Does anyone know if these cabins are close enough to all the activities where we won't need a rental car?

said haley557 2007.02.19 at 15:22:27 PST

OH MY GOODNESS!! Thank you so much Lisa! YOU ARE THE BEST! Ok gang lets get on it.... lets put together some ideas so that we can get the information to Lisa... If you have any ideas you can either post them here or to my personal email address: chelane_connell@hotmail.c om. We (Lisa and I) have a mutual ARMY friend that has sent me an email goes into detail regarding the story of the scarves and hats that Lisa has made. Its very inspiring so if you want in on it get in touch with me and I will email it to you! Proud and honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.19 at 14:14:16 PST

Chelane1970- You bet I'll assist with Alpha Company getting their own scarves and hats...it's an absolute honor! Right now I need to run a few errands. Here after a while I'll get you all the info and get you set up...most IMPORTANT thing about the scarves/hats is what they represent for YOU, YOUR COMPANY and YOUR SOLDIERS...so think of a slogan that you'd like to have embroidered on them...GET CREATIVE! I'll share some ideas if you run into a creative road block..but it's something that everyone should collectively think up.**** If anyone is interested I would gladly share my chronicles of Turning Blue and Graduation that I sent to my family and friends...it'll give you and idea what the events are all about. Just send me an email and I'll send it off to you, lpeterson@columbia.com or mcrash32@aol.com ***I'll post more later this afternoon and give you more detail about the scarves/hats. HOOAH to all your brave soldiers...I am so thankful and grateful for them and their serve to their country! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.19 at 13:30:19 PST

Hey all.... I have tried to invite the following to my "friends", but just the darken screen comes up. I have been able to invite others.... Do you know what is up with that?? Invited memeber who are "blocked" :sabby1570, kcater1, haley557, and barker65. If you are A Co. and I missed you I am sorry, please let me know. Anyonw else who wants to hop on into my friends feel free to do so! Proud and honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING! END OF #2

said Chelane1970 2007.02.19 at 12:43:27 PST

Hey everyone. I am the proud mother of #204 Private Logan Brady. He is also my only child. Yes, I have spoiled him and wrapped my life around him. Yes, I am going crazy with out him. Up intil last week he had never been away from me for over the amount of fingers that you have on your hands, but I know God will give me the courage that he and I need to get through this. I am looking forward to meeting all of you at graduation. I live in Belton, SC which is not too far away. I also want to know about the scarves. My email is rlemrick @anderson2.k12.sc.us

said proudmomofA204 2007.02.19 at 12:08:09 PST

Good Morning all and Happy President's Day! WOW I am so pleased to see new postings! This is such a blessing to be able to share this experience with others! Thanks for the heads up on the flight info Proudmom32. I was thinking of making fight arrangements for my hubby and myself through Columbus, but who can't use a few extra dollars in their pockets right especially if you are able to spend some of it on your son? And one other thing Proudmom32 about those coveted scarves I've been hearing soooo much about. I WANT SOME. Please feel free to contact my via me personal email so that we might be able to discuss what you have been doing...would be GREATLY appreciated. I know that I would like to either buy, beg, make, steal (just kidding about the stealing part! LOL), at least 5 of these little gems myself. So, if you wouldn't mind contacting me as to how I might be able to make them, or if you have time (I know so many things to keep up on especially with guiding us newbies) to make them for the A Co. I'm pretty sure once word gets out this could become something pretty good for you! Can't wait to hear from you! Melinda, this little journey has been pretty intense, but I am very blessed that my son wants to do his patriotic duty. So many young men and women these days shy away from responsibility. Hold your head high in pride Melinda, and your hands higher and the GOOD LORD will do the rest! Haley557, gruaduation cermonies are scheduled for May 17/18. The 17th our sons will have a pass and will be able to spend time with family (after of course some duties that will need to be complete), and the grad. cermonies will be held on the 18th. Rhonda, THANK YOU so much for all of your guidance, you are a doll! kcater1, Welcome aboard! Having the time of my life sharing all of these new experiences and meeting new "family". I am collecting info on the A Co. (thank you again Rhonda!) END OF 1..........Proud and honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.19 at 11:27:23 PST

I just wanted to say how thankful I am for this sight.Our family has looked these pictures over and over.Our son is #222 pvc kristipher Mooney.He called us last week and to hear his voice was a blessing. You would think he had been gone for months instead of weeks.God bless all of you.

said kcater1 2007.02.19 at 10:34:32 PST

Here's more information you may or may not know that I thought I would share with all the new companies: Basic is 9 weeks. At the very end they will have what is called Nick at Night (lots of TNT and explosives going off...) and they'll have to complete an obsticle course, which is at night (great fun I'm told :)). Once completed they will more than likely get a 36 hour pass, where they'll be able to leave base. When they get back they will start AIT. Be aware...There will not be much time for your soldiers to write you. They will be out in the field camping for a couple of days, learning reconnaissance and inside (close-contact) and urban terrain fighting. They will have many duties and not much sleep during this period. There will be one week leading up to FTX where they will gather ammo and equipment..then FTX (that is where they will be out in the field for a period of 5 or so days)...at the end of this they will march to Honor Hill where they will go through a 'rite of passage' and BECOME infantry men. The last and following week will be RECOVERY (don't fool yourselves, this is one of their worst weeks...they CLEAN and INVENTORY all supplies and equipment and get only a couple hours of sleep if they are lucky)..then GRADUATION! Once they reach week 8 time will really start flying by for them. There is no graduation for leaving basic at week 9...nor going up to Honor Hill (unfortunately). To give you a glimpse of what is to come here is a video of their RITE OF PASSAGE (it brought tears to my eyes and an overabundance of pride).. https://www.infantry.army .mil/itb/, then click on the ARMY videos on the left. Hooah! Lisa, Proud mom of an American soldier, PVT. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.19 at 10:15:14 PST

You are right...Columbus, GA is the closest airport...but the most expensive. A lot of people fly into Atlanta. There are also inexpensive shuttle rides that leave the airport every 1/2 hour to Fort Benning. I'm from the Pacific Northwest, and after lots of research I ended up flying into Birmingham, AL. It saved me over $200 roundtrip per ticket, and I only had to drive an extra hour... Another option to look at is Montgomery, AL, it's almost just as close as Atlanta. I hope this helps... Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.19 at 10:13:48 PST

I think Columbus, Georgia is the closest airport. Here is the website http://www.flycolumbusga.com/flight_info.cfm. After reviewing the website, it looks as though all the flights go through Atlanta's Hartsfield Airport. Atlanta's airport is about 2 hours north of Fort Benning down I-85.

said doodie6550 2007.02.19 at 08:35:33 PST

Greetings proud parents, My wife and I are trying to find out what airport we fly into for graduation.I know its a little early but I am trying to book the flight in advance so there wont be any problems when it gets down to graduation time. I am also trying to find a local hotel.For some reason Fort Benning is not comming up when I search for these things.If anyone can help,it would be greatly appriciated.Thanks,and God bless.

said smittysparents 2007.02.19 at 08:26:28 PST

Hello A Co. Here is a link to the Ft. Benning website showing the graduation dates. https://www.benning.army. mil/itb/ Rhonda - Proud and respectful Mom of #238 Matthew Parga-Manasse B Co, 2nd BN, 58th IN RGT.

said rrhwilson 2007.02.19 at 06:56:25 PST

Our son, PVT Craig Haley #115, is in A Co. Does anyone know the date for May graduation?

said haley557 2007.02.19 at 06:22:47 PST

Wow I think If gregory was my only son i would probably really be a mess. I have two more teenage boys at home, that helps alot.My son graduates in may and we will definately be there. Proud mom of PVT Gregory Barker A Co. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU AND OUR MILITARY.

said barker65 2007.02.18 at 17:07:47 PST

Wow I think If gregory was my only son i would probably really be a mess. I have two more teenage boys at home, that helps alot.My son graduates in may and we will definately be there. Proud mom of PVT Gregory Barker A Co. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU AND OUR MILITARY.

said barker65 2007.02.18 at 17:07:47 PST

Chelane....wait til you hit 1,000 plus posts!!! Patience is the name of the game! Worth it, though! Nancy, F Co Aunt

said Hotsley56 2007.02.18 at 14:05:20 PST

You know it would be great if these message came up newest at the top. Maybe we should suggest that to someone. Proud and honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.18 at 13:43:56 PST

Thanks for the info Rhonda!! I'll call Tuesday first thing. Proud and honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.18 at 13:37:22 PST

Boy I hope you are right doodie! Proud and honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.18 at 13:24:43 PST

The USPS has a program for military family members and friends to supply them with packaging materials to send packages to troops overseas. If you call 1-800-610-8734 and select option # 1, Ask them for the "Military pack" they will send you boxes, tape, packaging materials and labels. They will also give you an I.D. number so if your supply runs low, you just call them up and they'll send you more supplies. The materials take about four to ten days to receive. I Don't know if any of you have mailed any packages lately, but if you go to mail box etc., they will charge you for the box, tape, peanuts, labels and everything else the can think of! After a while, those charges start to add up! This is just FYI. I thought it was a pretty good deal and wanted to try and get the word out to anyone that didn't know about this program. The USPS also offers a http://www.usps.com/supportingourtroops/ page on their web site with links to guidelines for packing, addressing, and shipping items to U.S. troops. Rhonda

said rrhwilson 2007.02.18 at 13:23:15 PST

Hey Chelane1970, my son moved out when he was 22 but moved back this November, 2006 when he decided to enlist. He was a cook at some prestigous restaurants and has been cooking since he was 16. With some of the aches and pains, I think he wishes he had enlisted earlier when his body was in better shape. I guess this means your son is about 10 years younger than my boy. BTW-hugs and kisses are more prevalent as they get older. Wait until family day, I bet you will get some of those long awaited hugs and kisses.

said doodie6550 2007.02.18 at 12:21:37 PST

A Company.......Welcome to our ARMYSTRONG family!! Prepare for the ride of your life!! I am the proud Aunt of PVT Verne Yoder of F Co Grad March 2007. We are preparing to head for GA very soon and are soooo excited to see our soldiers again and to meet each other for the first time. Come on over to our site and visit. You will find a lot of info and support. We're all in this together. Blessings to you and yours. Nancy

said Hotsley56 2007.02.18 at 11:51:34 PST

WOW Janice!! Your son did get a late start didn't he? (did I read it right - 28 years old?) Did he live at home all that time? Just curious....My son was actually signed up 3 weeks before his 18th birthday. He asked me to sign for him for early enlistment because he had 2 buddies that were enlisting at the same time. Phillip also infomred me that he was going to enlist when he turned 18 anyway, and what is 3 weeks?? It was what he wanted, and even though I was reluctant to let him go, I had to becaue it is his life, it was what he wanted, and I couldn't shelter him for his whole life. As GOD would have it though, Phillip's enlistment was detained by about 6 weeks due to a minor unexpected corrective surgery. As for the hugs and kissed at night I guess you were lucky. After Phillip turned 15 it was all I could do to seek in a quick hug every now and again! LOL My how different people are! Proud and honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.18 at 09:09:11 PST

Okay, I am losing it. Chelane1970 is the Mom who has only one son like me not Melinda. Sorry Chelane1970

said doodie6550 2007.02.18 at 09:03:10 PST

oopppsss!!!!!!!! I meant my comments to be addressed to MELINDA. Sorry, Melina for calling you Marlene

said doodie6550 2007.02.18 at 08:50:48 PST

Hi Marlene, this is Janice, proud Mom of PV2 Benny J. Hermanson #116 A Co. 2/58. My son is a little older than a lot of the recruits. He just turned 28 on February 9th, the first day of basic. Like you, I have only one child and when he decided to join the Army, I wanted to first talk him out of it wishing he might change is mind. However, now that he is in the military, I believe the Military will mold a stronger character, belief in teamwork and eternal friends. I know that we all wonder where our soldiers' assignments after Basic and AIT will take them. Will their assignments be close to hope, will it be acrosss the sea but, wherever, it may be, we have turned our soldiers over to the Army and GOD. What better hands can they be in. All our children, now matter what their ages may be, are homesick so those letters and photos are our children's way off keeping the homefront close. Writing them letters, no matter how little you have to say, is like giving them a hug and a big kiss. At least, that is how I can get through not having my son around to kiss him on the head and those good night hugs.

said doodie6550 2007.02.18 at 08:49:13 PST

BTW - Sorry I missed yesterday. My intentions were good in trying to get here to post, but uuugggg, so many things to try and get done. Looks like spring may be here!! Yea!! (Sorry to those of you who are still shoveling out from the snow storms). My personal phone number, should any of you want it is: (208) 682-9019. My home address is: 12455 S. Hwy 3, Cataldo, ID 83837 And you may always email me at: chelane_connell@hotmail.c om I would love to get everyone’s info so that way when our family members have finished with the first phase of this journey we could still keep in touch for support. How many of you plan on attending graduation in May?? I would love to meet you all! Proud and honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.18 at 07:29:10 PST

Good Morning everyone! WOW LOOK AT US GROW!! Appologies in aadvance... Sorry for being long winded today.. * Melinda, I too struggled with my son's decision to join the ARMY (PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co.) however, I would like to share a few things with you that may help to put your heart and mind at ease…First let me say that all of the families here can identify with every emotion that you are feeling. For me – Phillip is my only child, so with Phillip choosing the military as his career choice, the only thing I could do is literally give him over to GOD. I pray for him and his safety and mental clarity to do his job well, as well as all of our Military personnel each and every day. Also, instead of focusing on the negative “what-ifs”, focus on the positive. Look at how much this experience will make our family members a stronger person physically, mentally and emotionally. I know that this experience will provide our loved ones with the opportunity to travel the world, to see wonderful places and meet wonderful people. Yes there will be challenges along with way, but there are in everyday civilian life as well. Bottom line is – this is the decision of our children, stand behind him and offer him all of the support you can. Be strong at heart, be supportive, and above all try hard to not to let him know how worried you are. If your son focuses on your worries, then he will not be able to do his job to the best of his ability. Matthew 5:9 says, “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called children of God”. And finally, even though this experience is difficult for us as parents, through this website are gaining new "family" through this journey. Essentially, we have the ultimate support group here, even though we don’t know one another, there are people here who love you and will be support when you need it, and I will keep you in my prayers! I'm too long so on to entry #2

said Chelane1970 2007.02.18 at 07:28:56 PST

Good Morning everyone! WOW LOOK AT US GROW!! Appologies in aadvance... Sorry for being long winded today.. * Melinda, I too struggled with my son's decision to join the ARMY (PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co.) however, I would like to share a few things with you that may help to put your heart and mind at ease…First let me say that all of the families here can identify with every emotion that you are feeling. For me – Phillip is my only child, so with Phillip choosing the military as his career choice, the only thing I could do is literally give him over to GOD. I pray for him and his safety and mental clarity to do his job well, as well as all of our Military personnel each and every day. Also, instead of focusing on the negative “what-ifs”, focus on the positive. Look at how much this experience will make our family members a stronger person physically, mentally and emotionally. I know that this experience will provide our loved ones with the opportunity to travel the world, to see wonderful places and meet wonderful people. Yes there will be challenges along with way, but there are in everyday civilian life as well. Bottom line is – this is the decision of our children, stand behind him and offer him all of the support you can. Be strong at heart, be supportive, and above all try hard to not to let him know how worried you are. If your son focuses on your worries, then he will not be able to do his job to the best of his ability. Matthew 5:9 says, “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called children of God”. And finally, even though this experience is difficult for us as parents, through this website are gaining new "family" through this journey. Essentially, we have the ultimate support group here, even though we don’t know one another, there are people here who love you and will be support when you need it, and I will keep you in my prayers! I'm too long so on to entry #2

said Chelane1970 2007.02.18 at 07:28:49 PST

Melinda, I think it is safe to say that all of us Mom's had a real hard time at first. A lot of sleep was lost and that odd feeling would not go away. Some of the feelings are obvious; your son is in the Army where they shoot real bullets, he is away from home and in the control of people you don't know (my son is older so that had already occurred), you know they are being tested like they have never been tested before. But I have come to the conclusion that a part is accepting the fact that now it will be my son protecting me, not me protecting him. That is a normal transition at some time in our lives, but going into the Army causes it to occur at a much earlier age and time line than is natural in our society today. In spite of the logic, I felt just like you. Having a place to talk to the other parents is a God send! And it does get better! There are still moments, but the duration is not as long. I'll bet at graduation we completely forget we even felt this way. Take care and please come here often.. it is a lifeline during this time. Rhonda - Proud and Respectful Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co, 2nd BN, 58th IN RGT

said rrhwilson 2007.02.17 at 18:13:00 PST

http://www.benningmwr.com/ or ph.706-685-3060. This is the info. for Uchee Creek. No matter how many are going try to get the largest cabin available. God Bless. A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.17 at 16:45:20 PST

My Name is Melinda, I Am A Proud Mom of PVT Greg Barker of A CO.I am thankful for Chaplains site so I can see pictures of my son. I am having a real hard time dealing with this I hope it gets easier. What website can i go to to make reservations for the on campus cabins. Barker Mom

said barker65 2007.02.17 at 08:54:08 PST

Janice, There a lot of other hotels and motels around the base. At exits 7 and 10 and I am sure others. I can't help you with which ones they are, I think one of them was a marriot, but I'm not sure. I think the website www.infantry.army.mil/itb / has a link to hotels around the base. I hope this helps..... And as far as a site that tells you what your soldiers can and can't receive, I would wait and ask them either in a letter or when they phone. We were able to send our soldiers cough drops but only 2 bags at a time, and other Co's mom's said there boys were only allowed letters. I think a lot of it is up to the drill sergeants. So just becareful you don't want your soldier resenting you because you got them and possibly his whole squad in trouble. God Bless. A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.17 at 07:50:25 PST

sabby, how old is your son and is this the first time he has been away from home? Your attitude seems so positive! I'll be he has that in him, too. Let us know how he is doing. Rhonda - Proud and respectful Mom of Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co, 2nd BN, 58th IN RGT.

said rrhwilson 2007.02.16 at 18:22:07 PST

Hello all, y'all are getting on so well over here! Janice, I bet they see that all the time with mags, etc. Don't worry. Things will go well. Interesting on the sweets. Can you elaborate? I think I get the idea but not sure. My son wrote he was eating three meals a day and mentioned vegetables and salad. What's up with that? Rhonda - Proud and respectful Mom of Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co, 2nd BN, 58th IN RGT.

said rrhwilson 2007.02.16 at 18:21:00 PST

Hello everyone My son is PVT Branden Casto A Company 2/58. Branden is having a rough time in Boot Camp. I hope he is OK and gets through this experience a better person.

said sabby1570 2007.02.16 at 18:11:41 PST

There is a website that tells you what you can and cannot send to your soldier. The website its https://www.benning.army. mil/itb/. At this site you can see the training schedule. You can see when your son will achieve each week. Click on the "Training" button under the Training Orientation right under the ITB History. On the calendar you can click on each class to see what they want to achieve. You can also see what they have to score in each of the divisions to pass. It looks as though Graduation day will start at 9:00 AM. PAINPAK are there any other hotels close to Fort Benning, GA. Since I am close, I might just start out early that day,but it my behove me to stay in Fort Benning. WARNING TO ALL THE MOTHERS OF A CO./2-58, PLEASE BE SURE YOUR SOLDIERS ABSTAIN FROM ANY SUGAR (DESSERTS) DURING THE RED PHASE (THE FIRST THREE WEEKS) THIS CAN PROVE TO BE EXTREMELY "EXERCISABLE".

said doodie6550 2007.02.16 at 16:32:45 PST

Chelane, I don't know where you have looked for lodging, but a lot of the family members stay at Uchee Creek it is on the base and very reasonabe. I think I paid 45 dollars a night for a large cabin. I will tell you as many of your family that wants to go, can go. There is no limit. Only your affordability. The graduation goes like this, whatever your grad date is, that Thursday is family day and Turning Blue Ceremony(graduating to infantry men) this one is the most special, someone from your family will get to attach his blue infantry cord to his uniform, you can all go out there(everyone goes out to do this at the same time). This was the proudest moment I have ever experienced!! Then they will be released until 8pm that evening. On Friday is basic training graduation, this is a bigger to-do, but the soldiers care more about the Turning Blue Ceremony. When that is over depending on what your soldier is enlisted for it can go like this. If he is going Airborne then he will have to report to them right after graduation. They will inprocess then usually they are released for the weekend and have to report back sometime Monday. If they are not furthering there training at Fort Benning, then they may be released until their report date for whatever base and unit they were assigned. I hope this helps. God Bless. A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.16 at 15:57:06 PST

Good Morning everyone!! My what a splendid day we have! (in my neck of the woods anyway - Northern Panhandle of Idaho). I received a letter from PFC Phillip Connell A Co. 2/58 yesterday. It was the first contact I have had from him since I turned him over to Uncle Sam on Jan. 30. He informed me that his letter was short as he only had time to give me his address, and to let me know that he was doing well. Praise GOD! I don't think I have ever been so happy to receive a letter before. In my letter to Phillip I did enclosed some stamped envelopes and stationary, but that is all I sent so hopefully our sons will not get the whole platoon into trouble by receiving these things from home. Anyway, does anyone know how the graduation ceremonies work?? I would love to go; however I am unsure how many family members travel to take part in the ceremonies. I have also been looking at flight and hotel information and it looks as though the overall expenses for the trip would be about $1200, does anyone know if there are any package type deals that may be available for lesser money? TIA! chelane_connell@hotmail.c om. Proud and honored mom of PFC Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.16 at 11:24:25 PST

Hi doodie6550... I was thinking about sending stuff too, but was not sure if they had restrictions or not.... Thanks, I would not have guessed that they did, but one never knows...

said tink3rbel1 2007.02.16 at 10:14:33 PST

Hi Ladies, I just realized I made a big error. I sent my son his subscription of a magazine along with paper, pre-addressed envelopes and stamps. I just hope I do not get my son, PV2, Benny Hermanson, in trouble. I wonder if you can just send the magazine without the cover and just cut out the articles? I am waiting for the third week (red phase)because they will be able to call us on Sunday. I miss talking to him even if it was just for a minute. The websites do keep us somewhat connected. I hope Tinker will take front and center to A Co 2/58. If anyone wants to send me an e-mail personally, my e-mail address is jgillies49@comcast.net. I see you are in the Georgia area. We live in Sharpsburg, GA, just south of the airport. Fort Benning is about 1 1/2 away, We drove there last Saturday. Sand Hill is just north of Fort Benning off of Closter Road. My son said their barracks are in tne "House of Pain" and usually a yellow mustang is parked in the lot. The soldiersprofile.info shows 2-58, but that is for the graduating class in 2006. Hopefully, this will be updated to show our boys.

said doodie6550 2007.02.16 at 08:25:03 PST

Hi Ladies, I just realized I made a big error. I sent my son his subscription of a magazine along with paper, pre-addressed envelopes and stamps. I just hope I do not get my son, PV2, Benny Hermanson, in trouble. I wonder if you can just send the magazine without the cover and just cut out the articles? I am waiting for the third week (red phase)because they will be able to call us on Sunday. I miss talking to him even if it was just for a minute. The websites do keep us somewhat connected. I hope Tinker will take front and center to A Co 2/58. If anyone wants to send me an e-mail personally, my e-mail address is jgillies49@comcast.net. I see you are in the Georgia area. We live in Sharpsburg, GA, just south of the airport. Fort Benning is about 1 1/2 away, We drove there last Saturday. Sand Hill is just north of Fort Benning off of Closter Road. My son said their barracks are in tne "House of Pain" and usually a yellow mustang is parked in the lot. The soldiersprofile.info shows 2-58, but that is for the graduating class in 2006. Hopefully, this will be updated to show our boys.

said doodie6550 2007.02.16 at 08:25:03 PST

I'll check em out, see what the chatter is.... Thanks!

said tink3rbel1 2007.02.15 at 18:44:24 PST

Tinker, it sort of started that way with us. It seemed important that someone was there to welcome them and get the talk going. Just like at any other social gathering. Keep watching... they will come. And they will come with questions and looking for a support line. If that is not hear for them they will leave. If you look at the other companies sites, some have it working well and others do not. It is all in what you put into it that determines what you get back. Please think about heading things up here and we will stay at your back until it takes off on it's own! You can always email me personally at acomputerwiz_nerd@yahoo.c om. Rhonda Proud and Respectful Mom of PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse #238 B Co. 2/58

said rrhwilson 2007.02.15 at 18:34:56 PST

Hello back to all. Glad to see you all being part of this, but where are all the Co A folk? I counted like 4? including me... Advise from others.... Is this normal? that parents wait to join in after they receive their letters with the website on it? Just shocks me that I only count 4 from "A" Co. and our boys have been there 15 days as of today. I miss mine boy everyday!! -tink3rbe1l AKA Sherree

said tink3rbel1 2007.02.15 at 12:08:54 PST

WELCOME Sean and Tonya, PROUD parents of PVT Michael Richard Smith.A Company 2-58 aka SMITTY! God Bless you and your son! If you need anything do not hesitate to post or come to one of the other sites (I am partial to B Co and can be trusted to be completely unbiased. hahahaha). Rhonda - Proud and respectful Mom of #238 PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse B Co 2/58.

said rrhwilson 2007.02.14 at 18:51:01 PST

Chelane, Janice, Sean and Tonya - In B Co we found it to be a big benefit if a few took it to "lead" the group by welcoming new folks and answering questions. Undoubtedly, you saw it in all the groups - that a few took the lead. If you feel this could be a good fit for you just take the ball and run with it. Without people like the ones (Lisa, Suzi, Pam, etc) we would not have gotten started nor know what to do, but once we caught on... well, it has been a ball since then! I encourage you to try it! Rhonda - Proud and respectful Mom of #238 PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse B Co 2/58.

said rrhwilson 2007.02.14 at 18:47:54 PST

WELCOME Chelane the PROUD and honored mother of PVT. Phillip Connell #306 A Co. Grad May 2007! God bless your family and your son! Happy Valentines day, too. If you need anything do what Pam, Lisa, Suzie, et al said... either post here or at one of the other company websites. Rhonda - Proud and respectful Mom of #238 PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse B Co 2/58.

said rrhwilson 2007.02.14 at 18:42:41 PST

GO SMITTY!!!! We are the proud parents of PVT Michael Richard Smith.A Company 2-58.My name is Sean, and my wife is Tonya. Michael is our first of 4 children and the first to leave home and join the military, so we are new to all this.Michael is a very headstrong dedicated and loyal young man.We are extremely proud of Michael and all of our fine soldiers. Thank you Chaplain for all your hard work.

said smittysparents 2007.02.14 at 13:56:34 PST

OK Chelane1970, First question, When you go to Chaplain Rusacks page to get to this site, instead of clicking on A Co. there are a lot of other Co's listed. Click on F Co. grad date March 07 same as you do for here. Second question, To bookmark photos of your son, when you find a picture of your son, to the top right of the pic. is a little bow with different things you can do. Click on bookmark and the photo will be put on your page under bookmaeks. To put other pictues on your page you can send the pics. of your son to yourself via email from that same box where it says bookmark. Once you send them to yourself right click on the photo, save it to a folder, then on your page there will be a place that says upload photos, click on that it will say browse click on that and you should be able to find the pictures in your own album. Click on which photos you want on the page. Once you have uploaded some photos to your page the first one in line will be the one that is your icon. If you want to change that click on rearange photos and whichever one you want as your icon put it first. I hope this helps. Good Luck, A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim PS, the poem was from a mom in F Co I beleive.

said painpak 2007.02.14 at 11:12:49 PST

Happy Valentine’s Day Everyone! Just thought I would check in and see if I could get some help navigating this website. Jeanine indicated yesterday that I should be able to access her FCO site, but I don’t know exactly what FCO is or how to access it. Also something trivial I can’t figure out, how do I get a pic. on my profile?? Oh and one last thing … thanks for making me cry proudmom32!! Awesome poem – please thank your Battle Buddy for me. Again if anyone could lend any advise on how to navigate this site please email me direct if you would like. chelane_connell@hotmail.c om. I would welcome any and all contacts, after all we are all in this together. Proud and honored mom of PVT Phillip Connell #306 A Co. 2/58. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.14 at 09:37:05 PST

Hi, my name is Janice Gillies and I am the proud mother of PV2 Benny J. Hermanson - A Co. 2/58. This site is great as it gives you a link to our sons, husbands and brothers while they are away. I would like to thank Chaplain Rusack for posting the pictures of our soldiers showing each step our soldiers take during basic traning. It is also a great site to interact with other family members of the soldiers in A Co. or any other company. I have been able to speak with my son during the reception period and once after he was assigned to A Co. Everything is going well. I have to thank the Drill Sergeants for getting our guys into shape and working as a team.

said doodie6550 2007.02.14 at 09:02:48 PST

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY EVERYONE!!!******My very own Battle Buddy, Kim Payne sent out an email of a Soldier Mom's Prayer that I wanted to make sure everyone got to read: God Bless my son as he falls to sleep, I pray this night the peace to keep. When he wakes to start the day, I pray that love will lead the way. If there's danger and if there's strife, Please send Angels to guard his life. Keep him safe and free from fear, Bless my soldier and keep him near. Until he's home, until he's safe, Bring peace to our hearts and strength to our faith.

said proudmom32 2007.02.14 at 08:20:42 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 know I'll never again be one of the families at airport security saying their tearful farewell..spread the news, it will come in handy someday... It also gives you more time with your loved one before they depart and a little more privacy.... Proud Mom of Warrick #154. (Judy)

said BYNES61 2007.02.13 at 16:38:09 PST

Just wanted to give you guys a website where you can get military pride stuff, such as sweatshirts, t-shirts, mugs, etc. It is www.cafepress.com, When you go there click on military, then army. God Bless. A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.13 at 13:20:35 PST

Chelane1970 this is Jeanine my son is graduating March 2, 2007. You should visit our FCO site. we have over 1200 posts!!! You will see all the figuring out we had to do amongst ourselves. alot of times not hearing anything from your soldier. the not knowing is the hardest. so, if you get time take a peak. Maybe towards the end it will give you hope and you will be in our shoes real soon! Good luck and keep in touch. From one Proud Mom to another. Mother of Ed Bolen#301

said wjetc 2007.02.13 at 10:55:12 PST

Here's a suggestion for the days of letter writing you have entered with your guys. Send them self-addressed, stamped envelopes and even fill out their return address for them. Send paper along as well. They have to buy all that if you don't provide it for them. They often have very little time to write and having these things readily available from you can make the difference of how many letters you will receive. Proud mom of F-Co PVT Verne Yoder #456

said yodahmom 2007.02.13 at 10:47:30 PST

Hello! My name is Chelane, and I am the proud and honored mother of PVT. Phillip Connell #306 A Co. Grad May 2007. This is my first military experience and I am learning that with every passing day there are so many things to be thankful for, and this web page is now at the very top of the list! I am sending out a HUGE thank you the Chaplain for providing us some kind of visual contact with our loved ones. I am so proud of all of our men and women who have dedicated their lives to protect our way of living and the freedoms that this mighty nation has. I would love to share experiences with other military families so please don't hesitate to contact me. I know I will have many questions and welcome the shared information that you can provide. GOD BLESS OUR MILITARY AND LET FREEDOM RING!

said Chelane1970 2007.02.13 at 10:21:16 PST

WELCOME! A-CO. I'm the mom of an F-Co soldier grad Mar 07. We are in this military experience together! You'll discover it is a wild, wacky, wonderful world! You got questions? Somebody will have the answers! Your soldier will have a number assigned to him and the first number in the sequence will be 1,2,3 or 4. That will identify which platoon he is in. As people sign in here and give the numbers of their soldier you will know who is represented from each platoon. Proud Mom of F-Co PVT Verne Yoder #456

said yodahmom 2007.02.13 at 07:03:46 PST

A big HOOAH welcome to the families of A Company. My name is Lisa, the very proud mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones (formerly of C Co. 2/58 Nov.06 grad, #324). You will soon come to realize that even though it was your soldier who signed up to be in the military...you too will take this journey with him. Welcome to the crazy train...what a ride (journey) you'll have, and we'll be along to help provide any support you may need; through all the highs, lows, dips and turns! I'm looking forward to getting to know you and your brave soldier!!!! Hooah! Lisa, Proud ARMY STRONG/FAMILY STRONG mom of Pvt. Brandon Jones

said proudmom32 2007.02.12 at 22:13:52 PST

Hi I am the Proud Mom of Warrick #154 from F Co. that will graduate March 2nd... 16 short days away...(whose counting) Your guys are looking good...the Chaplains photos are great and you can download and order prints... many have an album started for them... This is an awesome web site with more information than you will ever receive in the mail or find on the web. Please post and say hello and introduce yourself.. and if you have any questions please post them and I know someone will help you out... usually if you have a question, so do other people so you can post here and someone I know will answer.. Please Thank your Sons for their brave service to our Country. ***It seems like yesterday that our guys were running down that road... I remember how lost I felt...Having a foot in the civilian world and one in the military is a tough one but this connection makes it so much easier.... My only advice is Write as often as you can to your guys...phone calls will be next to non-existent and your letters will help him get through some of the toughest days... Mail Call is the highlight of their week.. They will never forget the support you give them. Welcome... Judy, Proud Mom from F Co.

said BYNES61 2007.02.12 at 21:09:13 PST

Welcome A-Co, my name is Terri and I'm the proud Aunt of PVT Joshua Detwiler in C-Co graduating April 2007. This site is wonderful, a big thanks to the Chaplain for taking the time to put this together. Visit our C-Co postings for a lot of great information about graduation, places to stay and great support. God Bless Pround Aunt of PVT Joshua Detwiler C-Co

said pvtdetwilersaunt 2007.02.12 at 20:16:10 PST

Welcome A Co. My name is Kim, my son is Ranger Rory Payne, previously of C Co 2/58 grad date Nov. 06. As all our Army Family counterparts have already told you this site will become part of your everyday life for the next 11 weeks. If you have any questions there are a number of wonderful Mom's, Dad's, Aunt's, Fiance's, and Wives, of these terrific American Soldiers that can and will find the answers for you. So please if you need anything just ask. We have become an Army Family Thanks to the wonderful site Chaplain Rusack has started for us. You will laugh, cry, and Thank God everyday because of this site. So again Welcome and God Bless. A Very Proud "Army Strong" Mom of Ranger Rory Payne, Kim

said painpak 2007.02.12 at 20:13:57 PST

Hello family and friends of Co.A! My Name is Barbara i am the proud wife of PV2 Thomas buck #302 Co.B!! Welcome to the Army family! We are so happy to have you! You will come to find this as a life line.. Like alot of us have. you will find yourself checking this website for new pics everyday! Godd Bless the dear Chaplain for this page.. I don't know what I would have done without it and all the wonderful people Ihave met especially RHONDA!! God Bless that woman!! Shes got a big heart! Barb

said ArmyWife2007 2007.02.12 at 18:32:21 PST

Welcome A-Co grad May 07. This is an awesome site and truly a lifeline to your loved ones that are away from home. My son PVT Thomas Folmar is in C-Co grad April 07. If you have questions please leave them on this site and someone or several someones will help you out. Please feel free to visit our sites B, C & F-co's ROCK. Susie, PROUD ARMY MOM OF PVT THOMAS FOLMAR #115.

said zuzu1117 2007.02.12 at 18:20:07 PST

Hello tink3rbel1!! Welcome to the UNITED STATES ARMY. Army Strong. Family Strong. I am Rhonda Wilson mom to #238 PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse B Co 2/58. You have probably noticed all the different companies that Chaplain Rusack post pictures for. My son is in B Co. Grad May 2007. Please visit our site. You will find that we all can talk to and interact with each other. This has been a true lifeline for the families!!! Maybe you can encourage the families that visit here to do the same. If you have any questions post here or at B Co's site and you will get an answer! ***Thank you so much for what you and your son are doing for our country!*** Rhonda - Proud and Respectful Mom of # 238 PFC Matthew Parga-Manasse B Co. 2/58

said rrhwilson 2007.02.12 at 18:04:01 PST

Thats *MY* boy in there!!!!

said tink3rbel1 2007.02.12 at 16:28:16 PST