April 1st
A final letter before graduation. Sorry I couldn't write last week as had two big events on Monday and I spent the time getting ready. We had our final personnel inspection and our final compartment inspections. We passed both. On my third and final test I only got 4.8 (missed 2 questions) which was a little disappointing since I felt I did well. However I'm still the Academic Honor winner for our grad group (9 divisions total) so you and I get to hob nob with the special guests (officers etc.) after the graduation ceremony. The ceremony starts around 9am, you'll want to be there by 8am though so as to get the special seating for award winners families. The weather here has been all over the place, hot and cold with occasional thunder storms, so I've no idea what you should pack. I on the other hand, have the luxury of being told what to wear each day.
When you come you can bring me goodies but I can't take them back to the barracks, so no Costco bags of things. My next Navy check should be larger since I'm not buying uniforms for a while. I'm not sure what the restrictions will be for liberty weekend. We'll get a brief before you come.
As you asked;RDC's are Recruit Division Commanders, the Navy version of Drill Sergeant. Ours are great (yes, even with the occasional yelling) and I'll introduce them after graduation.
We have our final event 'Battle Stations' tonight. It starts around 8m and lasts for 24 hours. Lots of running, teamwork exercises (fire fighting, line handling, water survival, etc.) and no sleeping. Should be lots of fun!
Looking forward to seeing you and performing in graduation. And taking real hot showers in your hotel.
Until then, time to shine my boots.
Jeremy