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Originally Posted by Bcahn836
In 16 days I ship out for Navy basic training, technical schools and my first command and the time has come for me to say my farewells and goodbyes to my fellow FIRSTERS. As some of you might already know I am going into the Navy for at least the next 6 years to serve my country and also further my education in computers and technology.
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Wow Brad, do you bring back memories! I served 5 years starting in 1972, so I could earn the G.I. Bill benefits and afford to go to college. Take full advantage of what that benefit can do to further your career.
You are starting an adventure that will be frustrating at times, but also very enjoyable and rewarding. You will visit countries that you will yearn to return to, but never will in your lifetime. Get some travel guides for the countries you will be stopping in, and find out about tours to their National Parks, or go visit cultural sites (architecture, museums, archaeology sites, etc.). It is great to completely immerse yourself in another culture and see how they live. From walking through the open air fish market in the Seychelles as the men brought their daily catch in, to taking a complete tour around the South Seas island paradise of Guam, to nearly falling off a 16 foot sea wall in La Reunion as I ate a picnic lunch, because someone said "Bon Appetit", and I heard the first words I understood in three days. Every port we stopped in was remarkable for many different reasons. Enjoy them all!
And when you have an opportunity, get back here on CD and post your travelogue. We'd love to hear your adventures.
Great Luck Brad!
Oh, yes, one more thing, tell them you want a
Tin Can!
(USS Southerland DD-743 and USS Fox DLG-33 -- both mothballed now)