Every command has a spouse of a sailor designated as the ombudsman. The ombudsman is a liaison between the command and the sailors’ families. He or she is an incredible resource in navigating all things Navy. Here are a few facts about ombudsmen: It is always good to save the ombudsman’s contact information just in [...]
While some states continue to reopen businesses and lift travel restrictions, many are experiencing a new in-flux of COVID-19 cases. Here in Washington state, face masks are required 24/7 in public. For the Navy, the latest guidelines restrict sailors, for the most part, to work and home. We've heard every command is slightly different with [...]
With the dread of every underway comes the excitement and anticipation of homecoming. Whether it was a short underway or an extensive deployment, you might have spent days, weeks or months dreaming of what that reunion might look like. Your expectations vs. reality might not always match up, and that’s okay. For the spouses who [...]
I was incredibly nervous to move cross-country from Groton, CT to Silverdale, WA. My husband was returning to sea for the first time since we had children, and I was moving thousands of miles away from the Northeast, my home of the last 20 years. But the scenic views, surprisingly good weather, and a multitude [...]
As of May 29, 2020, Kitsap County began Phase 2 reopening for restaurants and eateries. Businesses now have the option to open at 50% occupancy, and can only serve groups of 5 or less. Restaurants can continue to offer curbside services only, as well. Here are a few places to try when you decide to [...]
So, what does a day in the life of a sailor look like? With so many different roles and responsibilities, it should come as no surprise there’s not one schedule to fit all. Morning For my husband, a typical day begins with him waking up between 5:30-6:00am. The morning meeting typically starts around 7am or [...]
I thought my first permanent change of station (PCS) story would be more along the lines of how I prepared myself and my two small kids for the big move from CT to WA, with all my tips and tricks to follow. For me, this was a BIG move. I had spent the last 20 [...]
The Navy has quite a few programs in place to assist families, however they can be difficult to find more information about. Speaking from experience, utilizing these support networks already in place can really make or break a tour.
The submarine life comes with it’s own vocabulary, for this we know! There is quite a learning curve. Here is a breakdown of the rank and boat job hierarchy to better your understanding of what means who. The names at the top of the diagram- CO, XO, COB will be the names you hear most [...]
