My son just enlisted!

[Tulum_Moon]

He is my oldest and I am terrified. There is no Father or Sig other. I do not know how long he will stay state side, He WILL be sent to iraq. That has been made clear.
He just sprang this on me last night! He has not told me where he is heading for boot camp, he says he will write, He does not want any "Sheehanigans" as he calls them. My heart is braking! I have three young children who look up to him!He wants to be a ranger!!!!!!!!!! So I am thinking fort Campbell maybe?
Any way I have been up all night crying. He is suddenly so distant, like I dint matter anymore. He has a zombie like look in his eye and a dint think he can seem. Please think of us! White light prayers whatever you can do.
My heart is splitting in half!
If anyone has any suggestions or similar situations please feel free, good or bad.
Thank you all in advancer. I feel like they have stolen him from right under my nose!

[Swamp Rat]

1. hug

:hug:

[ScreamingMeemie]

2. I'm sorry Tulum...

My heart is splitting for you. :hug:

[Cerridwen]

3. another hug

:hug:

[acmavm]

Geez, that's terrible. Was there no sign he was thinking this

way or did this just come out of the blue? Did something happen lately like a breakup with a girlfriend or a fight with a very good friend?

I understand why you were crying all night. I would have as well. Thank God my son is only 14.

[pooja]

4. Putting out a prayer... good luck!!!!

[mmonk]

5. Ft. Bragg also has Rangers, I believe

unless things have been rearranged because of all the special forces there. I hope things work out ok for you and your son.

[Hissyspit]

56. Ranger camp is at Ft. Benning, GA, unless I'm mistaken.

Don't quote me.

[mmonk]

57. It may be

but I know the ROTC program at Campbell University near Bragg trains its officer candidates to be Rangers and the professors sent to teach are from Bragg.

[Hissyspit]

73. I teach at Campbell University on Fort Bragg.

And my father and brother went to Ranger school, so I'm pretty sure. I could call and ask them, but it's 3 a.m.

There are Rangers who teach at Fort Bragg and professors who teach Rangers at Fort Bragg. That's where they get the professors. Again, it's not something I pay close attention to, so don't quote me.

[cc488is]

81. The 75th Ranger Regiment

has three battalions: one at Fort Lewis, WA; one at Fort Benning, GA, and one at Hunter AAF, GA. While there are defintely Rangers assigned to Fort Bragg in staff jobs, there is no Ranger unit at Fort Bragg.

[EFerrari]

6. How old is he? That must be awful for you.

:(

[Tulum_Moon]

17. Just turned 18

;(

[EFerrari]

27. I have two grown boys. They went through a period where

they were also distant, as if they were shutting me out so they could listen to themselves better. It's was a tough time for everyone and I still remember how strange it felt. But, I guess they needed to do that to stand up on their own feet.

Hang in there. :hug:

[Wickerman]

7. Be proud of him

My sister has two in the military and and while she disagrees with the war she respects their choices. He's chosen to back up his beliefs - at least that is how it would appear to frame.

Hang in there, you are among friends.

:hug:

[maxsolomon]

62. he's chosen to back up his delusions

how many would make this choice armed with all the FACTS regarding this clusterfuck of a decade?

[Wickerman]

69. that's harsh

No reason to attack someone you don't know - particularly 3rd hand on an anonymous message board.

I have some respect for the kid. That doesn't mean I don't think he is wrong. I believe he is most likely mislead. BUT, in truth, I don't know a damn thing about the kid and what his personal path has been. I don't know why he joined the military.

When I look at my nephews I am proud. They don't agree with a word Bush says - they are aware of the facts, yet they still chose to serve. Much like their father, their grandfathers, and even their uncle Wickerman they felt a responsibility as a US citizen to give something back to their country. I won't call anyone who makes that decision delusional and believe its poor form to do so until you actually know something about the person.

:hi:

[maxsolomon]

71. probably not the proper thread to be so cynical, but

if you know you will be used as a military tool of the state, surrendering your will to the pentagon's command structure, and yet you disagree with the foreign policy of that state's leaders, and know the president is lying to your face as if you were a 3 year old, then why should i respect that decision?

my 18 year is barely mature enough to load her ipod, but she knows this is a pointless clusterfuck of a war with no bearing whatsoever on our 'freedom' or 'protection'. she has access to facts. she's read howard zinn.

why would you be proud for them to lose their lives, limbs, or kill innocent iraqis, or even insurgent iraqis, in this empire-bankrupting fool's errand? because it makes you feel better?

NO ONE should volunteer for this war crime. NO ONE.

[Wickerman]

72. You're right - its not the proper thread to be cynical. n/t

[NotGivingUp]

91. Agree entirely...none of this feeling proud bullshit.

[EFerrari]

116. That's not cynicism. Those are the facts. n/t

[lonestarnot]

74. Why would you as a moderator defend enlistees?

What good is there in fighting a bushit war? Do you forget who they are fighting for? It certainly isn't America to the tune of 5.9 bil a month, not to mention the damaged and wasted lives. Freedom on the march....hmmmmmf. There is not much this poor woman can do about the ignorance her child has committed and all you have to offer is "be proud of them?" WTF!

[Wickerman]

80. My being a moderator does not extinguish my right to be a human

and to empathize with what the poor woman must be experiencing. As I stated, we know nothing about the kid and his path in life. I offer be proud of "him". What, may I ask do you have to offer the poor woman?

[cc488is]

83. Well said

You made the only appropriate "offer."

[lonestarnot]

88. Oh I see.

[Name removed]

89. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[lonestarnot]

95. You also take a nationalists view upon first arriving at DU?

Not a good sign. Good luck here.

[Name removed]

102. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[lonestarnot]

105. I see your solicitation for ROTC recruitment on another thread.

Glory over guts is a piss poor ethic. Body counts are rising daily and you would encourage someone to pm you with regard to more information on ROTC. What the fuck is that and what are you doing here?

[Name removed]

110. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[lonestarnot]

111. You are soliciting recruitment! My comprehension is fine thank you.

I'm a vet and have been here a very long time so fuck that nonsense. No progressives do not belong in a war of fucking lies, nor do repiglicans. NOONE DOES! Your support is misguided.

[Name removed]

112. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[lonestarnot]

117. Why would you not discourage an enlistment rather than offer

further information re the entanglement?

[Name removed]

118. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[lonestarnot]

119. You talk in circles. Read your post to the other thread. I'm done

with you. Good luck here at DU, enjoy your stay.

[Name removed]

120. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Name removed]

122. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Name removed]

123. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[lonestarnot]

87. No one said you were not human, just questioning your

position on killing or be killed and what's to be proud of there? There is not much she can do, but this advise you give to be proud of this action sounds rather strange and questionable and rather nationalistic. I would offer that she try to get through the tragedy as best she can, remain in contact every chance she gets and turn to a higher persuasion for consolation.

[Wickerman]

100. I think we are roughly on the same page

save you attacking me simply for my job* description and your perceived notions of my ideas of "nationalism" based on my advise (sic) that she be proud.

I agree with the last sentence of your statement and would suggest that a parent is always proud of a child when they strike out on their own - even if they vehemently disagree with the choice.

*Disclaimer - I know it's not a job, it's an adventure. er, something like that. I hesitate to use the term "mod status" lest someone get their knickers in a wad supposing I was applying some higher plane to the position than mere pariah.

Peace, I am done with this discussion. This thread is not the place to prosecute the ethics of being a soldier in an unjust war. If you want to bitch about that, start your own thread. Again, I only say the woman should consider a continuing path of love and respect for her son in this trying time. And, be proud of him as all mothers are.

[lonestarnot]

101. I'm glad your done. I'm not. A Mother doesn't always have to be

proud of her child in every endeavor. We are on the same page about peace. It would be unwise of any mod to use their position. Thanks for the disclaimer. Peace.

[Midlodemocrat]

108. Just an aside, Wickerman wouldn't ever use his position

as a mod in a discussion. He is a person of tremendous integrity. He offered a differing thought than you did to this grieving mom. I happen to agree with him.

I am completely and totally opposed to the war as are you. I think Wickerman's advice is sound to this mom. I wouldn't want her to risk alienating him before he went into service.

She can be proud of who he is without supporting the war.

[lonestarnot]

109. Excellent point.

[Recursion]

90. Because the military does a lot more than invade the wrong country

For instance, they actually do defend our country, and our allies, and they do help out in disasters, and they are (though not enough of them) looking for Osama, etc.

[lonestarnot]

98. Ask Katrina victims how well they do in disasters. LOL

They can only do as they are told. The Commander in Chief is absent.

[Recursion]

92. Which reminds me...

my previous post reminds me, whatever people have said to the OP, that deployment to Iraq is hardly a given or a guarantee for this kid:

A) We still have substantial troop commitments in other parts of the world, including Europe, east Asia, and North America.
B) IIRC about 50% of first-tour soldiers cycle through Iraq at some point
C) As I said in an earlier sub-thread, it takes a long time to train a Ranger, something like 2 years; there's no way of knowing if we'll even still be in Iraq then.

[TahitiNut]

106. I agree. National service is, in the vast majority of cases, an honorable

... and democratic choice. Democracy is a "Do-It-Yourself" project, not a spectator sport. Entering into national service is an act of faith in our democracy - being in service to the People, who are soveriegn in a democracy.

It is the People who must wield control over their paid employees in government, including Congress and the White House, not the military. Anyone who's appalled at the behavior of some of the troops in Iraq, Afghanistan, or elsewhere has the option of replacing them - hopefully putting better "repreentatives" of our values in uniform.

The invasion and occupation of Iraq is an abominable war crime! At the same time, leaving the burden of military service on those most coerced into such service and those least able to perform such service honorably and still survive is mere cowardice.

As long as anyone in our 'democracy' must serve, then EVERYONE should share that burden.

[goddess40]

8. I'm so sorry

My son is 17 and I know those vultures will descend on him soon -

I'll keep your son in my thoughts!

[Biernuts]

9. Support him and his decision. If you raised a thinking, compassionate

son, he will make a good soldier.

Then contact your members of congrtess and insist that funding for our troops, things like pay and equipment, don't take a back seat to pork that have nothing to do with military readiness but that somehow end up in defense appropriations.

[dogday]

10. As a Mom of a soldier in Iraq for 10 months

All I can say is support him in his decision... As much as I want to pour my politics onto my First born, I don't... I figure he has enough to worry about.

Love him and listen to him... You may find he is going to need a shoulder to lean on, but will not ever tell you he needs it... Be there for him and you will support him more than you know....

Since my son is Army, I can't tell you about the Marines. I know Camp Pendleton in Paris Is, SC is one of the training camps for Marines....

[Tulum_Moon]

16. Thank you for all your support

I have been up all night while he sleeps like a baby, In his room that still has model airplanes and track trophies, and box's of Lego's.
Part of me wants to go pull down his shades and turn off his alarm clock! He seems to not be the boy I raised! Maybe he just wants to get way from Mommy. :cry: Maybe he has had it drilled in his Head that this is his duty. I know he waited and did it behind my back fir many reasons I will tell you later.
Gotta go get some sleep. I will check back in a few. I DO NOT want to miss that alarm going off and not get my hugs and kiss'.
Love you all thanks!
Tulum.
:grouphug:

[Recursion]

94. Really quick...

nice post, but since her son is going to be a Ranger, which makes him Army. To become a Ranger, he will need to go through basic training and AIT with an occupational specialty in combat arms (infantry rifleman is prefered). This can happen in any number of Army bases around the country: Ft. AP Hill, Ft. Sill, Ft. Leonard Wood, etc. Then he will need to apply for and be accepted to jump school in Ft. Benning. Finally, he will need to apply for and be accepted to Ranger school, also in Ft. Benning. After passing Ranger school, he will either join the 75th Ranger regiment, or be sent out to a "line" unit. In either case, it usually takes about 2 years to get that all accomplished during which time he is non-deployable.

On the Marine side, the two recruit training posts are in Parris Island, SC and San Diego, CA (all females go to SC; males are divided by which side of the Mississippi they enlist from). From there they proceed to the Schools of Infantry in Camp Pendleton, CA or Camp LeJeune, NC. Then, Marines with an infantry MOS (job) stay for more intensive infantry training, while non-infantry MOS's go to their assigned schools, generally on an Army base somewhere.

And thanks for raising someone who served the country!

[jody]

11. I understand your pain. Use it to fight a corrupt president and congress

that send troops to invade a country that has not threatened the United States.

[fasttense]

12. Sounds like he is angry and signed up to get even.

One of the reasons I signed up was to get even with a boyfriend who dumped me. Of course it made no difference to him. But it turned out OK for me because the country was not in an illegal war then. I would keep trying to talk to him. Show him that you care about him. Let him know you love him and are only interested in his welfare. Perhaps offer him an alternative to enlistment, perhaps college, or training or a good job. Even if he signed a contract, he can still get out as long as he hasn't been shipped to boot-camp.

[madokie]

13. Even though you don't like his decision from this point on be supportive

of him as it will mean a lot to him when it will matter most. You must be strong. If I remember right once the name is on paper there's no turning back. My heart cries out for you, as of yet I only have the experience from his perspective but I have two young Stepsons at the ripe age for these bush* wars. And I am scared shitless.

[Crankie Avalon]

14. Best of luck...

...but try to respect his decision. Don't let him know you think he has a "zombie like look in his eye." He may become less distant if you show you accept his decision even if you don't necessarily agree with it, and that is very important: You should try to be on the best terms possible with him before he goes away. The situation will be even worse for both of you if he goes away feeling estranged from you.

[bling bling]

Try to make the best of it.

This was your son's choice and you may disagree with it (all of us may disagree with it), but it's a choice he made for himself and I think you should try to support him. I made lots of choices my parents didn't like but nothing they could have done or said would have changed my mind. Just let him know how much you love him. That's really all you can do. And for the sake of your other young children, try to be positive and make the best of it. It won't help anybody in your family if you're fearful and sad.

:hug:

[pecwae]

15. I'm sorry to hear this

Of course you're heartbroken thinking of all the what-if's. I have lost an adult son and know the unrelenting pain such a loss brings.

All I can say is try to be supportive of him in any way you can even though this decision is a shock.

My thoughts are with you and your son.

[CBGLuthier]

18. I can NOT agree with those who say he made his choice

I do not want to comment specifically on your situation as it is a dificult one.

But I can not stand by and let some say that he made his choice and so be it.

He made this choice based on lies. Lies from (I hate typing this) his president. Lies from recruiters. Lies, lies and more damned lies.

His was NOT an informed choice.

Personally, if it were my child. I would do something a little bit drastic to make sure they don't or won't take him (or her).

Everything from claiming they are incredibly gay to maiming.

But, to be honest, I am not quite right in the head.

[NNN0LHI]

20. Threatening to cut them out of the will does the job most of the time

No "drastic" measures needed at all.

It just shows them how serious we are about it.

Don

[Tulum_Moon]

35. No I do not think I will go

"Owen Meany" in him. But the will thing would sound good if I had one to offer.

[NNN0LHI]

40. How about if Junior was going off to kill Canadians who didn't attack us?

Instead of Iraqis? Would you pull out all the stops then?

Don

[ProdigalJunkMail]

23. you got one thing right...

not being right in the head...maiming? are you serious? i pray that is a little hyperbole or something. if he is old enough to enlist he is old enough to know what is truth and what isn't...you have no right to say that he has been lied to...you know nothing of the situation and your post is pretty much disgusting.

sP

[CBGLuthier]

32. Did I not say I was not commenting on their situation

Work on that reading comp will ya.

[ProdigalJunkMail]

34. how 'bout you working on your composition

"I do not want to comment specifically on your situation as it is a dificult one.

But..."

See, that whole 'but' thing you stuck in there indicates that while you don't WANT to comment on their situation, you are going to any way. You said HE was lied to. HE was not informed. YOU would do anything up to and including physical harm to your own child to stop this from happening.

When your composition comes up to snuff, so will everyone's reading comprehension.

sP

[fed-up]

28. Bingo-right answer-I would do the same for my son who is almost 18 but

at least I have been exposing him to Bush's lies so he has no desire to become a part of Bush's illegal. immoral war for profit.

[dogday]

33. My son joined right after 9-11

was he wrong to want to support the country then, before we knew anything at all? Before the war? Was he wrong then to want to defend his country?

[Lisa0825]

41. I don't think that is what was meant....

Not that her son is wrong to want to do this, but that he has probably been lied to on so many levels that it can't truly be a sound decision.

Your son also went at a different time. While I have no doubt that there were lies told back then as well, it was a time in which we had been attacked, and many many people stood up and enlisted to protect us. But Iraq has nothing to do with that. Iraq was based on a huge pack of lies.

I think most people who sign up to serve their country do it for what the *feel* are the right reasons. It is a terrible shame when they are scammed into it however. I don't blame the soliders. I blame the *CIC.

[Balbus]

104. Your last sentence sums it up pefectly.

[TahitiNut]

107. Absolutely everything you say is common to EVERYONE in military

... service. Thus, only a draft with everyone eligible or unversal national service is an answer that's consistent with our democratic principles.

[LWolf]

19. From one mom to another:

:hug:

Love and light to you and your son.

[xchrom]

21. no suggestions and no advice -- but

my thoughts are with you.

this must be very difficult for you.

please take care -- and send our best thoughts to your son.

[mymomwasright]

22. This is a journey he has to go alone

I shocked my mom right before I graduated. Believed in the twisted "right way". I've been in almost 20 years. The only thing that softened my heart was being betrayed by the politicians. There are many others like us.
It's a noble profession. it's the "chicken-hawks" who make us look bad! I suggest hoping for the best and support his choice, maybe not his beliefs, but his choice.

[chefgirl]

24. I feel terrible for you, Tulum_ Moon

I can only imagine how your heart must be breaking, and I can only echo what another poster said. Be proud of him. He is choosing to do what he obviously thinks is his duty to his country. That can never be a bad thing.
It's time to stand behind your Democratic principles and support the soldier in your own home even though you completely oppose this war.

My son will be 18 in April, and his father served for 22 years in the Navy, and has consistently praised the benefits of serving in the military for at least one tour, so I know the fear you face.

I can't argue too much with his father's particular logic, either. I also believe that enlisting in the military and serving one's country teaches young men lessons they will never learn anywhere else. Because of that, and my son's age, I've had to give this issue some long, hard thought.

The conclusion I came to was that I basically had NO choice but to support him if that turns out to be his choice, and not let my feelings about Bush or his war, color my behavior toward my son. After all, if this was a time of peace, I would be more than happy and proud to see my son doing what he thought was his duty.

Plus, you DO NOT want him going to Iraq thinking that you are less than supportive of him. No shenanigans, right? Have a good cry, in fact have as many as you need, but when push comes to shove, show him a smile and a Mom who loves and believes in him, no matter what. It just might be the inspiration he'll need someday to do everything he can to come home to you.

Saying prayers for your peace of mind and your son's safe return.

-chef-

[etherealtruth]

25. Oh, gosh ...

I can only imagine your pain. I'm so sorry you are going through this. As with most others, I believe that your relationship with your son is what is important right now.

I am the mother of 2 sons (and one daughter); the oldest is 24 ... his personality and temperament is not one that would be drawn to the structured/regimented life of the military (he's a poet and an artist) ... My 10 year old, however, worries me ... I could see him romanticizing a military career.

[Greyhound]

26. Good luck to you both.

Did he give a reason?

:grouphug:

[Olney Blue]

29. My nephew is returning from Iraq this week- I really thought his going

there was an automatic death sentence for him, but it wasn't. I hope your
son can serve and stay safe like my nephew, and that perhaps Americans with common sense are now seeing that our troops deserve much more competent leaders.


:hug:

[michreject]

30. First things first

First thing that he will do is go to basic. He will then go AIT. This is advanced training. Usually about 8 weeks. Then on to jump school. This will be at Ft. Benning, in Georgia. This is a rough 3 weeks. Don't be alarmed if he doesn't contact you during this period. It was the hardest 3 weeks in my life but also the most exciting. If he's accepted into Ranger school, he will stay in Benning. Getting into this is not automatic.

Depending on how the Army grants leave time, this training cpold cover a year. I was give 30 day leave after jump school and another 30 day leave after AIT but before deployment overseas. Used up 2 years worth of leave time.:mad:

Things may be a little different, but not much. I got out in 72.

[BlueIris]

31. Lots of prayers for him and your family.

I think the best thing you can do is pray for his safety in any and every way you know how. You can come back here and post about his status whenever you like. We are here for you.

[Coyote_Bandit]

36. I've had several extended family members

serve tours in Iraq. None of them supported the war even before they went. And they each had their own reasons for joining the military or the guard.

Support your son and his decision and be there for him. Supporting him has nothing to do with supporting the Bush administration or this war effort. Don't confuse the two. And don't let your fear for his safety control your life. Invest your energy in your relationship with him - as opposed to worrying about events you cannot control.

[goddess40]

37. Hey mods how about a room dedicated to DU enlistees

and their family's and friends?

[Solo_in_MD]

38. You need to be supportive at this point

He has committed himself legally and IMO ethically. Find out where he is doing basic training and arrange to be at his graduation. Same for AIT. Keep in contact. Keep him in your prayers. Update us here as it warrants

[Singular73]

39. I thank him for his service.

[bonito]

42. I have respect for your son, my son enlisted also

But I also showed him the facts about this illegal administration and the secrecy about heat related injury's, depleted uranium, having to live with the possibility of killing someone, iraq never attacked us etc. His enlistment didn't start until induction. so if he sees the light and changes his mind to join under this law breaking president, he can do so.

[Vidar]

43. Very sorry to hear this.

[earth mom]

44. Wow, I'm so sorry!

Could you give us all some more details? Because I would like to know who taught him the word "Sheehanigans". I've never heard that before, but I don't like the sound of it. Is it too late for him to change his mind? Because if it were me, I would use whatever "Sheehanigans" I had to use to get him to change his mind.

I know my post isn't as P.C. as some and I almost deleted it, but you did ask for suggestions and I know I would kick myself later for not being honest or trying to help in some small way. But if it were me, I would fight it tooth and nail while there is still time.

Take care! Good luck and all the best to you both! :hug:

[true_notes]

45. I sent you a message.

I think you should read it. I did the same thing. I left home on surprise and my father wasn't too happy.

We're now stronger because of it because he realizes I went in for a purpose and I am now mature enough I know I met that purpose, so now it is time for me to go.

Take care guys
true notes

[elocs]

46. My nephew is 17 and is in boot camp at Ft. Benning.

He messed up in high school so bad that as a junior it was obvious that he would never graduate and there was no money for a private school, but they were able to get him into the Lincoln Challenge Academy, a free state school that is run by the National Guard. He did great and graduated in June and got hid GED there. Of course, given the atmosphere, he was determined to enlist after he got out, but I do think he had thought about it before. I warned him about the downside and about recruiter promises so he could not claim that nobody ever warned him, but he enlisted anyways. His mom did sign for him because he was determined to go in and showed no interest in actually going out and getting a job. I had told her in the past that the older he got, the more he was responsible for his own decisions and the less she could influence him.

So far, my nephew love boot camp, but then his time at Lincoln Challenge had prepared him for it. He is a small kid, but he came back from Lincoln Challenge 20 pounds heavier and it was all muscle. I warned him about it before he went in, but now I will simply support him as well as I can.
He won't be 18 until next February, so I am worried, but all I can do is to give him moral support and hope for the best.

[roamer65]

67. I give it about 1 year

and he will either say on the phone, or in email, or via snail mail, "Mom...you were right."

Apology, my reply is meant to the general topic posted.

[Generic Other]

47. Hugs to you

I know exactly what you are feeling. I was given a weekend's notice when my son enlisted. It was like a barb in the heart.

[nadinbrzezinski]

48. Be supportive

as to where he will go, depending on the breach of survive, but you can do a google search. The Army does not train recruits all over the place, neither does the Navy.

In fact, the NAVY has one boot-camp, and the Marines have two

For the army boot camp I think is Fort Jackson South Carolina. So do some research on it and surprise him by talking about this with him, and about the area.

Boot-camp will be very intense and end up with 72 hours of intense, survival, team work, et al training

Boot camp is about taking the civilian, destroying him and installing the soldier. It can and is a very frightening experience for both recruits and paretns... and any recruit that is not truly scared by week six... the DI is not doing his job. He can forgo all of this fun if he decides not to be inducted. That is your window if you choose to try to deter him. Some kids realize they don't belong in the army well into boot camp, and then it is too late.

reality is, he does not know what he is getting into, nobody does... and that Ranger school is NOT guaranteed either, unless they wrote it in the contract. He fails at any step of training and then the army can do with him whatever they want. from basic infantry, to cook. Failure includes getting injured in basic... and it happens and if it does, well they may just send him to basic infantry... and as is, he may want to be a ranger, but failure rates out of Ranger school are quite high... nothing to be ashamed off, not everybody is ready for the psychological games involved in operator training.

At this step, don't try any shenanigans though, whatever those are... be supportive, and be there for graduation. We support the troops, remember that. And when he goes to Iraq. at least they were honest, be sure to provide him with the things the supply chain ain't stii providing, such as toilet paper, batteries, some chow in the form of jerky, or canned fish. books, letters, those have their weight in gold, stamps, calls home.. so seat down and tell him, I am proud of you son for serving, and I will support you in your decision. Even if you do not agree with this war... support your son. Oh and don't expect him to write much... even if he says he will. Most troops, young troops especially, don't have that much time. From boot, absolutely, the DIs want to instill this in them, and actually write into the taring time to write letters home. But from the war zone, not really.

There is something else you should know. And you have to have this serious talk with him. Once he gets out of boot, there are plenty of companies out there who TAKE advantage of young troops and offer zero down insert Gordie here. Remember, he'll graduate with plenty of dough, especially for an 18 or 19 year old young buck. These are scams... serious scams, and the Army... they sometimes make an effort to tell them, but sometimes they don't. When you go to graduation you will see this check cashing places near the base, as well as the used car lots, zero down, even E-1 and E-2... This is coming from a wife to a Navy chief... so do be good and warn him about it.

Now This is a bitter pill to swallow, but his enlistment may very well be the best deterrent for your other kids to join. After all, it is quite possible that he will be speaking quite foul (out of uniform) of the CiC, at the dinner table, after his first tour. Many idealistic troops have come back quite the cynics... But as a parent, he needs you, even if he has grown distant all of a sudden.. I suspect there is a recruiter back there who does not want this warm body to leave, or you have serious differences about the war.

[chat_noir]

49. the example set by his "Command in Chief"

……….


WWW.AWOLBUSH.COM




DESERTER: THE STORY OF GEORGE W. BUSH AFTER HE QUIT THE TEXAS AIR NATIONAL GUARD http://www.glcq.com/bush_at_arpc1.htm















$10,000 reward was never collected

[PuraVidaDreamin]

50. Get a copy of "The War Tapes'

and try and view it with him. Significant
change in these soldiers after 16 month deployment
quite observable.

[Recursion]

51. I know it must be hard

But the sad fact is we need good men and women in the military now more than ever if we're going to keep the military from disintegrating completely. I know that doesn't help your anguish right now, but I'll send whatever positive energy his way I can.

On the "good" side, if he's going to be a ranger, he probably has 18-24 months from when he ships to basic training until he can be deployed anywhere, and even that is stretching it. Rangers aren't made overnight.

Also, as a final bit of trivia, remember that no matter what any recruiter says, until he's actually on the bus they can't make him do anything.

[pitohui]

76. this is a good post

we need good men and women in the military now more than ever if we're going to keep the military from disintegrating completely. I know that doesn't help your anguish right now, but I'll send whatever positive energy his way I can.

[NashVegas]

115. "we need good men and women in the military now more than ever"

Word.

[Snivi Yllom]

52. be proud of your son

.

[Nay]

53. Oh, my goodness, Tulum, I am so sorry. I can understand how

upset you are. A thousand hugs to you, and a mantle of good luck for your son.

:grouphug:

[barbtries]

54. i will

keep a good thought for you and your son

[annabanana]

55. There is a Veterans forum here at DU

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topics&forum=259

Maybe you will find some support there, too.

[aikoaiko]

58. My advice: tell him once that you don't want him to go and then support ..

...him. He's a young man making a brave choice. Of course, we don't want him to fight this war, but serving your country in the military is a brave choice (as are many others that don't involve going to war). I'm sure it was a difficult choice for him (it is even for the most right wing, pro-bush enlistees).

It sounds like he's already cutting you off because he doesn't want to hear what you have to say. I suggest telling him once that you don't want him to go, and then support him. Its now time for you to make your choices about the relationship you want with your son. Do you want to get letters from him while he's over there? Do you want to get a phone call from him?

Good luck.

[Recovered Repug]

59. I would just add this as of the '98 army.

If your son is going to be a Ranger, he's most likely infantry. That means Ft. Benning for Basic and AIT, Airborne school is also at Benning. I've got to disagree with an earlier post on one thing, when I went to jump school in '96 it was pretty much a joke. Ranger School isn't required to serve in a Ranger battalion, at least for lower enlisted. In fact, only E4(p) and above are allowed to go, unless that's changed. Lower enlisted have a course called Ranger Indoctination Program, also at Benning. From my understanding, it's 3-4 weeks long, but is rough time. Assuming he becomes a Ranger, I know there's a battalion at Ft. Lewis, WA, Ft. Benning, I'm pretty sure there's one at Ft. Stewart, GA, and I think also at Ft. Bragg, NC.

[OzarkDem]

60. So sorry to hear this!

You and your dear son are in my prayers. :hug:

[Arugula Latte]

61. Dammit!

I'm so sorry! :hug:

[lonestarnot]

63. Oh boy. Poor thing.

[Sammy Pepys]

64. Best of luck to him....n/t

....

[Janice325]

65. I don't have any children and don't know anyone in the military.

I don't have any advice to give, but am sending all of you and your family many hugs. :grouphug:
Sending positive, safe thoughts your way.

[stanwyck]

66. You're at the right place

DU helped me immensely through my son's two tours in Iraq. The support here makes an amazing difference.
Stay connected.
You raised an independent child. He's done what young adults have to do; he's separated himself into his own life.
Support him. Love him.
And keep coming back to us with your fear and anxiety.
The DUers here kept me sane while my son was in harm's way.
The love and understanding here is incredible.

[roguevalley]

68. is he old enough to do this? I am so sorry, honey. i just ache for you.

[NC_Nurse]

70. I'm so sorry!

My heart goes out to you. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
:hug:

[pitohui]

75. oh what can i say? hugs, be strong

it sounds like he feels this is a chance to prove himself and be a "man," i think you have to let him prove himself to himself

you say -- feel like they have stolen him from right under my nose!

to be honest i would feel the same way as you describe

i'll send white light and all good wishes

[Rainscents]

77. I'm so sorry.

Hug.:hug:

[orleans]

78. get him stoned--hae him smoke "the pot" before the physical

& hopefully they won't take him--

do what you can to not let him go (not at this time)

[NuttyFluffers]

79. i agree. actually, do a hair sample test. he might've done it already.

the residual trace markers should be present in the hair sample. i'd do it and send the info straight on up -- if he doesn't pass off clean of course. if he does pass off as clean i'd hot box the kid. screw this "free choice only for the kid" crap: he can choose to enlist, and i, as previously legal guardian can use my prerogative to stop him. simple as that. i would want him whole and alive, even if he hates me now and forever, than otherwise.

actually, see if you can smuggle some coke on him. it'd either get him in a nice bit of "safe" trouble, or endear him to some higher ups and get him a cushy landing. crack would just be bad, though, the preset criminal sentencing rather makes things icky. or you could dish out rumors that he's gay... if you got photoshop, it's always an option.

(yes boys and girls, i don't play nice when things are for keeps. if that hurts your sense of propriety, well, remember: in the grand scheme of things, no one who always obeyed propriety made the history books. so you can keep your slavery to fate and custom, or you can change things. your choice. and that boys and girls is free will working both ways.)

[michreject]

86. Are you serious?

see if you can smuggle some coke on him. it'd either get him in a nice bit of "safe" trouble, or endear him to some higher ups and get him a cushy landing. crack would just be bad, though

You're going to attempt to save him from something that YOU disagree with only to destroy his life forever. With a felony drug conviction= no financial help for school. No decent job.

I sure the op appreciates your help.:sarcasm:

[Zech Marquis]

82. I totally understand your feelings

Based on what * and his thugs have ben doing, I can completely understand how you feel about your son enlisting.For myself, I will be taking the Navy and Air Force officer exams this fall, and I debated for along time onhow I'd feel about doing *'s dirty work. But to be quite honest,I was against the mere idea of it. However, i don't want to look back and say that I didn't try. I'm looking at naval intel and informatin warfare for the Navy, and intel oficer for the air force.

The best thing you can right now is to let your son know that you'll always love him--if you try and last minute attempts to make him change his mind, you'll just be making an already stressful time for him even worse. Trust m eon this, going to any military boot camp for the first time is really hard to begin with...

[Name removed]

84. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[sweetheart]

85. sometimes people have to do things

Good luck to him in his ranger hopes. In future, with that military experience,
your boy could be a powerful champion of everything you love in politics, and maybe
he'll not see combat and be lucky.

[noonwitch]

93. Be proud of his wish to serve his country.

Of course you are worried and you love him. But he is free to make his own choices. His choice is a respectable one. You mentioned that your younger children look up to him-they still will look up to him.

When he does let you know where he is, make sure you send him lots of mail (cards, letters, maybe pay for a magazine subscription) and care packages. It's important for the military personnel to get stuff like that when they are serving in a combat zone. I hear in Iraq, baby wipes are what they all want. That and Koolaid packets.

[Commie Pinko Dirtbag]

96. Everybody who works serves his/her country.

And even lots of of people who don't, too.

[Name removed]

103. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Commie Pinko Dirtbag]

124. Yeah, lots of freeloaders.

- CEOs that get millions in appreciation for driving their companies into the ground
- 99% of Republican politicians
- 1% of Democratic politicians
- Oil companies
- Corrupt evangelists (but I repeat myself)
- Pseudo-artists that thrive on stupidity
- The Copyright Fascists (Demanding royalties for works of art made 90 years ago? Go fuck yourselves!)

I could go on forever. But even then, I'd only cover about 1% of the population.

I'm talking about the people who REALLY give their sweat and blood toward making a better country. (Whichever that country may be) Teachers. Firemen. Doctors. Scientists. Charities. Mailmen. Rescue people. Artists (those that don't suck). Hell, even some policemen.

[Name removed]

125. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[lonestarnot]

97. Idealism is grand isn't it. Too be youthful again would make

me scream. Reality well stated in "wish" to serve. You have a way with words.

[Name removed]

99. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[HarukaTheTrophyWife]

121. Umm...

"I will be a goof life expierience for him."

Yep, I can't disagree with that.

[goclark]

113. Prayers and more prayers

going your way today.

[NashVegas]

114. Be Proud, Be Supportive of His Decision

Your son has made a difficult decision - to serve and possibly risk his life for his country. He needs you to let him be who he IS, not who you want him to be.