As a parent of a 2011 Mid, it reassures me that so many of you are checking frequently to see updated pics. I nearly wore out F5=Refresh on my keyboard.
I, too, should have locked laptop away to try to get stuff done
Water, and the knotted string--exactly on target. Helps them keep track (and the DIs to keep track) of how much water they are drinking.
Dehydration=no joke. In 2011, a few mids went to the hospital due to it. There is so much going on, it is EASY to not notice your body's needs. It was hotter for 2011 kids, but temps can change.
Same thing in 2012, and now with 2013.
They WILL be on the lookout for the signs of dehydration. If you kid needs attention, there will be plenty of EMTs on board... you probably noticed A LOT of dark blue coveralled kids when you dropped your candidate off for Indoc. They are on duty the whole time. They take their responsibilities very seriously.
They will escalate cases to Patten (health clinic), and Patten will escalate cases to North Shore (hospital)... all as needed.
Yellow tags... wristbands/armbands/who knows WHAT method it will be this year... but, you may notice SOME mids wearing what looks like an airport luggage tag on their upper arm, usually with a yellow piece of paper inside-- it is a 'sick chit'. That Candidate is 'broken'
Actually, is medically excused from doing xyz. It could be a sprain, recovering from dehydration, whatever. The medical folks write up the restrictions, and the duration. It is what the Candidate needs. He is being taken care of. Don't worry. The DI's are very cognizant of what can/can't be done by that person.
Attitude is everything. Most candidates who have a sick chit are anxious to be returned to full participation. they don't want to be perceived as 'slacking off'. Rarely, some candidates can take advantage of the sick chit to avoid participating/shirk their responsibilities -- 'surfing the chit'. Everyone is pretty adept at spotting the abusers.
However, and this is important... NO ONE BEGRUDGES A CANDIDATE NOT BEING ABLE TO PARTICIPATE DUE TO GENUINE MEDICAL REASONS (especially when they can tell that they want to, and DON'T want to be left out).
Get better. It's a looonnnnggg marathon, and there will be plenty of opportunities to make it back up.
It is an exciting ride.
You have raised good kids.
They have a heart to test themselves for service.
They have the ability to adapt to new, stressful situations--which they are IN right now.
They will learn.
(now.. I've gone on long enough. Quick, hit F5 to see if they've posted new pics of your kid
)
. The company lists are given out by the Office of the Commandant and I'm sure once everything is in order, Band Co will be posted too. Don't fret!!
Now off to work.
