I asked this question yesterday and signed it "concerned mom". I got many helpful answers but also a few like the one from GodBlessAmerica who called me a "coward". My son is currently at AF BMT and will proudly do his duty. I am simply a worried mom who is trying to get information so I can have realistic expectations. I didn't expect such criticism.
2006-09-11 01:38:41 · 16 answers · asked by Anonymous in Politics & Government ➔ Military
first, whoever said being a concerned parent is cowardly, probably hasn't had the unique honor of getting to wear a uniform for this country. It's all well and good to call someone a coward when you dont have to fear for the lives of those close to you.
Second, being in the air force, i can tell you for fact that there's a very HIGH probability (as in, most likely) that your son will serve some time deployed. the current concept is that all people should spend one overseas assignment during their enlistment. Because the AF has already transferred to the expeditionary force concept, however, when he deploys he'll only be gone between 4 and 6 months. Even on top of that, AF is best known for taking care of its people, so you can continue to expect emails and the occasional phone call.
at any rate, if he's at BMT, he's still got tech school left to go. Who knows whats going to happen in the world in the months that he'll be at tech school? we could be at total piece or we could be in WWIII by then. it's hard to predict upsurges in deployments because we in the military just have to live with being ready at all times.
Ultimately, the military's primary concern is for the safety of its soldiers. Assuming your son has a good head on his shoulders, the air force will take good care of him.
2006-09-11 04:01:59 · answer #1 · answered by promethius9594 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The Air Force has what is called an Air Expeditionary Force (AEF) rotation. This is a twenty month cycle that all active duty members fall into. The time in theater is varied, but usually lasts about 5 months. Your son can expect to see Iraq at least once during his enlistment. Possibly more depending on his job. The best advice I can give you as someone who has been there is to hold it together when he leaves. It is a hard job and we know the risks. Your son does too. Bravo to him for still joining.
2006-09-11 02:46:53 · answer #2 · answered by Jennifer B 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The chances are just as good as any branch of the military. However, the Air Force bases are usually far enough away from combat areas that they are safe. Air Force can fly to a battle site where a majority of Army and Marine forces live in the zone. We thank your son for his service.
2006-09-11 01:47:11 · answer #3 · answered by sparkletina 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Most likely he will be deployed. Yea I know it sucks. My boyfriend hasn't been in the Air Force a year yet and he got deployed 3 wks ago. Most of the time the Air Force isn't directly in the combat zone, but of course no place is 100% safe there. Mine is guarding prisoners. Just support him no matter where he goes. Good luck.
2006-09-11 04:56:52 · answer #4 · answered by peds LPN 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
At the current time, very likely. With the situation around the world and the troops being rotated in and out of different countries he will most likely see duty in a foreign country.
Even after BMT he will probably be attending Technical Training of some sort.
Tell your son I said "Thank You".
Former USAF SSgt.
2006-09-11 01:46:44 · answer #5 · answered by Albannach 6 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Those who called you a coward should take their turn serving. It is part of your parental obligation, per se, to be concerned about your son. I would call you a coward if you WEREN'T concerned! As far as your son being deployed, chances are good, but better if he is in a needed MOS. Thank your son for me, and thank you for being a proud supporter.
2006-09-11 02:36:34 · answer #6 · answered by proud mom of 2 girls 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you can tell me what his job will be (it's called an AFSC -- Air Force Specialty Code) I can give you the average number of deployed days per year for that job. It's only an average and can depend on where one is stationed.
If he is going to ba a 2A3 and he gets stationed at Seymour-Johnson in NC, let me know. I'll keep an eye on him for you.
2006-09-11 01:47:37 · answer #7 · answered by Bake 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
He will probably get deployed at some point, but depending on his job he probably won't be in harms way. Plus the Air Force has the shortest deployments(4 months). Once he gets in he will probably WANT to go anyways.
2006-09-11 03:34:39 · answer #8 · answered by Curt 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Hey Mom:
LOOK at it like this. They are going to send him somewhere. He cannot just stand there in the lobby with his hat in his hand. He will probably get ofered two possible places to serve out his time. But, the assignment will come down based upon where they need people and what his specialty is. If his specialty is Security, he could go anywhere.
2006-09-11 01:47:33 · answer #9 · answered by zahbudar 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Don't let people get you down, be proud of your son, and you are allowed to feel scared or anxious. Being an AF wife I am always nervous my husband is going to be sent away. I don't think it is being selffish or not patriotic it is natural to be concerned for the ones we love.
2006-09-11 10:48:54 · answer #10 · answered by Dylansmom 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋