Can’t believe my son’s leaving for the BAD PLACE this month. I’m going to Pendleton to be with him when he leaves. Thanks to this site(!!) I got him and all the Jews in his Company camoflage kippas (not that many!) which he gave out, found them Stars of David. There’s only 9 in his entire Company!

He’s at Services tonight. He’s scared now about going. I hope this helps him. He can’t tell me what he’s going to be doing!

I’m sick with fear all the time. There’s no help for it I guess!

To be honest, I am impressed that there are 9 others. They will be in my thoughts and prayers. As we say- may you and yours be inscribed in the book of life for a happy and healthy (and safe!!) new year. Shana tova. I f you want to pm me, I would be honored to send packages and correspond when they are “over there”.

I’m a beginner. My son reports for basic training on May 20 to Ft Knox. I don’t know if he will seek out other Jews or just try to blend in. I am overwhelmed by my emotions. How do you manage? Any tips? Looking for friends and happy to be one.

My son actively sought out other Jews. All bases have services for religion. He can find out where the Jewish services are. It really helped Ari, I think it gave him support and gave him a sense of individualism. He also found a Temple in the area, they were wonderful to him, “adopted” him. It was great for him on holidays, he always had somewhere to go.

I was also overwhelmed. When Ari was at Pendleton he was 2,200 miles from us and I sure felt helpless. But there’s plenty you can do to help him!

Please, feel free to email me. I went through just about anything you can imagine. Good and bad. My son’s discharged now and home but I still keep in contact with other Marine moms and will be happy to share info. You’re NOT alone and there’s lots of things you can do for your son, to make him feel better, AND yourself!
Theresa