I had 100% guaranteed hard copy orders to great lakes as an RDC (Recruit Division Commander), or drill sergeant, for some of you weird branches .

The Dept. of the Navy has what is called HUMS orders (Humanitarian Service) which is most often used when immediate family members, who are terminal, need assistance and no other family is close by and available. It has a few other functions, lose of a spouse, unexpectedly gaining custody of a child, etc. And it may be part of the USA, USAF, or USCG, I simply don't know if they offer it. Regardless, I found out today my request was approved. I will be heading to Augusta next week to take care of my Dad.

First, I think this is an extremely generous thing the Navy did. They didn't have to. Remember that when we insult our services in the future for their decisions. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't question some things at work, but we gotta recognize the good with the bad. Second, I'm a bit torn because RDC duty was my dream job for 9 years and now I will lose that and wont be eligible, due to the way orders work, until at least the end of my next tour. Sucks, but that's just me being selfish. Lastly, this will put me at NIOC-GA for 12 months max. While I do not think I will be there that long, due to his prognosis, I still am considering asking the CO (Commanding Officer) there if I can extend that to a full 36 months. This would put me out of the Navy at 13 years, I have an incredible resume to join the Agency as a civilian, work 17 more years and still get GOV'T retirement. That's a decision I need to make in the next 3 months to 3 years. Lots to decide. I am afraid there is too much emotion going on right now to make a proper decision so I will wait until I can remove that emotion from the equation.

I'm gonna move into my Dad's house. Help him through his final months, weeks, whatever it may be. And then move on to Korea most likely. Gonna be a hectic few months but I am 100% thankful for the time. Truly thankful.

My wife is moving down to VA with her sister and this will likely mean the end of our relationship. Not because of what's going on with my dad, but it sort of served as a catalyst for us separating and going our own way, something which has been rearing its head for a couple years now.

I love you guys, appreciated the support you have been giving me and my family lately. Certainly the prayers. It's been rough lately, very sad time, very sobering. It makes me reevaluate what is important.

I'll update when I can and I hope to maybe be able to meet some of yall in the Augusta area if you can make it over for some BBQ, beers, shooting, hunting. Doesn't matter, my Dad (and I) like to host and see new faces.

James, glad to hear the Navy is doing this right. Back in my day you would have had to leave active duty and at best go into inactive reserves as you couldn't deploy.

I understood this post 100%, and as a dependent of a USN vet, I wish all of you well.

I’m happy this is working out for you, and I’m sure you will be a blessing to your Dad.

Mr. Otto, I'm glad to hear things are working out so that you can help your dad. It looks like you have a great follow-up plan as well.

At the same time, I'm sorry to hear about difficulties with Mrs Otto. Many of us have been through that; none of us would wish it on you.

Hang in there, sir.

Good that you’ll be able to be with your dad. Sorry about the circumstances.

I'm glad to hear that they rearranged your orders to let you spend some time with your Dad. I'm sorry you lost out on the chance to go to Great Lakes, but I think in the long run looking back you will value this a lot more.

I'm also sorry to hear about the situation with your marriage. That's hard, and I can only offer my condolences.

It sounds like you have some interesting career decisions coming up...will pray for wisdom as you make those. Stay well and make the most of the time with your Dad! Hopefully you still have some time to post here as well, as I enjoy your input on the board.

Your Dad is blessed to have you for a son.

Good luck with everything and best wishes for your dad, as well. I spend a lot of my time in the Augusta area, hunting out in the country.

I admire your positive attitude during this tough time. Stay strong for yourself and your Dad.

Fair winds and following seas my brother…

Enjoy the time you have left with your dad.

Shipmate, you are absolutely making the correct decision. Momma Navy has been in my wake, now, for just over a year and I used to express to my Sailors, “I will never get to go fishing with my Dad again.”

You will have some stormy days ahead and that is okay. Remember that the stress and emotions are cumulative and don’t hesitate to engage your Chain Of Command if or inevitably when you need a day or someone to just talk with.

Godspeed and Good Hunting!

Prayers for ya J. Wishing you the best. And the best with your Dad.

What a blessing it is to be able to share your Father’s last days with him. Praise God for that.

Of course it’s easier to see the big picture when you’re looking at it from afar.