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Posted by A.S. on 8/5/2002, 4:20 pm

I had surgery on my neck 15 years ago. I have been trying to get a copy of the records, but so far I haven't heard a peep from the hospital. If for some reason I cannot obtain the records, could I be disqualified? I've not had any problems with my neck since the surgery.I'm anxious and ready to enlist, but I'm afraid that a lack of medical records will keep me from doing so.

Posted by Mike C. on 8/5/2002, 4:48 pm , in reply to "Medical records"

If there is no way for you to get the records you need, you will probably be examined by an Army doctor. If they determine that you can't process without those records, you will have to wait. Just keep contacting the hospital where the surgery was done and get in touch with the doctor that performed the surgery. They regularly keep copies of work they've performed. Just be a pest and hopefully they will get sick of you and find the records just to get you off their back. I would try to process anyway. What is the worst that can happen?

Posted by Stacey on 8/6/2002, 7:42 am , in reply to "Medical records"

If you have a recruiter, ask him to get them for you. Mine got all of my records, all I had to do was sign a consent form for him to get them.

Questions about promotions

Posted by Maynard on 8/5/2002, 4:33 pm

I'm going into basic as an E2, upon graduation will I be an E3 or is the only automaticpromotion to E2? Also at E4 does everyone have to be a Specialist before a Corporal ormight they skip one or the other? How long does it take to get to E4? And I heardsomewhere the Corporals are being phased out, is that true and why?

Re: Questions about promotions

Posted by Mike C. on 8/5/2002, 4:56 pm , in reply to "Questions about promotions"

I'm not sure why you will be an E-3 after basic, but that kind of promotion is usually automatic unless your commander puts in the paperwork to not promote you. At E-4 you can be made a Specialist, or a Corporal. You can be one or the other. Most units do not have a slot for a Corporal, so expect to be a Specialist before you would ever be a Corporal. Corporals are not being phased out, it is just that most units do not have many openings where a person can be a Corporal. They usually have to be a Specialist. You must remember that a Corporal and a Specialist make the same amount of money, just the Corporal is considered a noncomissioned officer whereas a Specialist is not. With a waiver of time in grade or one for time in service You could go from E-1 to E-4 in a year. It depends on your MOS, unit and command. I've seen people in the infantry make their Sergeant in 2 years.

I forgot to ask that

Posted by Maynard on 8/5/2002, 5:01 pm , in reply to "Re: Questions about promotions"

My MOS is Infanty, I was going to ask if infanty got promoted faster. Thanks.

Re: I forgot to ask that

Posted by Mike C. on 8/5/2002, 8:05 pm , in reply to "I forgot to ask that"

I'm infantry too. We do tend to get rank more quickly. Our promotion points are regularly low and we have the chance to attend more schools than most.

Re: I forgot to ask that

Posted by Dan on 8/5/2002, 10:10 pm , in reply to "Re: I forgot to ask that"

Yeah I've heard Combat Arms get promoted faster, I'm going into Artillery myself, so that's good news. If you're a specialist E-4, can you become a corporal or do you go straight to Sgt. E-5? And to be an NCO Cpl., do you need to attend PLDC?

Re: I forgot to ask that

Posted by Mike C. on 8/5/2002, 11:55 pm , in reply to "Re: I forgot to ask that"

You usually just go onto E-5. No, you can be a Corporal without PLDC. You just need PLDC to get ahead from there.

MOS-02T - Guitar Player

Posted by Jeff on 8/5/2002, 6:34 pm

I am interested in a few different MOS's and 02T sounds intriguing to me as well. I have played guitar on and off for quite some time, but never had any "academic" training. I was wondering how I could get in contact with anyone who knows what I should study in order to prepare for the "tests" that they will give to you to see if you even qualify to be a member of the band? Thanks in advance. Jeff

Re: MOS-02T - Guitar Player

Posted by Erika on 8/5/2002, 7:13 pm , in reply to "MOS-02T - Guitar Player"

Hey, I was interested in doing bassoon for my MOS. Getting into an army band is extremely tough (from what I have read and everyone I have talked to) Most people in the army bands have bachelors or masters degrees in that specific instrument. In order to do any band MOS you have to do an audition. At least a level 5 solo plus they have you do all the scales. Major, minor, harmonic minor, melodic minor and chromatic scales. I'm not saying you won't be able to make it, I just wanted to let you know what you would have to do. I was a voice major/bassoon minor while playing it for 10 years. My advisor and teacher from college said that I would have to practice my ass off and even though I was an excellent player, it might be out of my league. If you have your own guitar, prepare a couple of solos, at least grade 5 and make sure you pratice ALL your scales. If you don't know all of them, call a college and ask a private guitar teacher to just meet with you for like a half an hour and show you all the scales. They will have all the sheets for it and if you can read music and have the time and ambition, go for it. I didn't mean to bust your bubble, hope I didn't. Sorry. Good luck! Also, if you make it, you go to the Army Music school in VA...EXCELLENT school but it's a tough AIT. Especially if you haven't had much 'academic' music backround. Hope I helped rather than hurt! Let me know what happens!

Posted by Randal C. Jarrell on 8/5/2002, 6:48 pm

I am leaving for Benning on Sept. 17th.How is Laundry handled at Basic? Do you do your own laundry? If so, when do you get the time? Do other people do it for you? How do you keep your clothes seperate?Is laudry done often enough to where you don't have to rewear dirty clothes?

Re: Laundry at Basic

Posted by Mike C. on 8/6/2002, 12:18 am , in reply to "Laundry at Basic"

They have a laundry service. You will not have to wear dirty clothes. There will be a washer and dryer there in your barracks, but you will usually just use that for t-shirts, pt clothes, and underwear. They mark your clothes with a little number so that they don't mix it up with anyone else. You will use the washer at the end of the day. You will learn to use your time well for that kind of thing.

Re: Laundry at Basic

Posted by up in maine on 8/6/2002, 6:34 am , in reply to "Re: Laundry at Basic"

Hi there... the other person was right on... however people love to steal things... even socks and undies... you'll usually share a washer with your battle buddy or a couple of people from your squad... make sure someone is watching the washer/ dryer if you want to keep your stuff!! People will take anything!!!!!!!

Posted by al on 8/5/2002, 8:41 pm

I posted a question of changing of choice from europe to state side. Most of you replied...thank you... saying you all thought Europe was fun, but what are the opportunities like in Europe? Can I go to air assult school, air borne school...or even try out for the Special Forces?

Re: station of choice

Posted by Mike C. on 8/6/2002, 12:08 am , in reply to "station of choice"

You can try for all those things from Europe. You should request to go to Airborne right out of AIT since you will be there anyway. They have Air Assault instructors that will actually come to Europe and teach your whole unit. That's how I got my Air Assault badge. For Special Forces, they will give you the PT test and swim test there in Europe and then fly you to Ft Bragg for SFAS. In Europe, depending on your unit you will train with all kinds of countries. I went to French Commando School in Berlin. Learned urban assault tactics from the British Army, and did a weapon qualification with the German Army. You can go to Ranger school from there too. You will have chances to do all kinds of training. If you really want the fast trip to hardcore town, just inform your instructors at basic and AIT that you want to volunteer for Airborne and then Ranger school. If you get that far then go for SF. A friend of mine just left a position as an SF instructor to be a tactics NCOIC at West Point. He loved it. Take care.

Re: station of choice

Posted by RT on 8/6/2002, 9:55 am , in reply to "Re: station of choice"

That's right on about Germany (and other European assignments). You'll have all sorts of opportunities to compete and get badges, ribbons and awards from foreign armies also stationed there, as well as the armies of your host country. There are always friendship get-togethers for units, with lots of events and opportunities. You will love it! Mike was right about US schools also..many of them you can do right over there in Europe (except for Airborne). Even though units over there have slots for Airborne, there obviously aren't that many and the units have to pay for these slots out of their own money, so lots of competition. I would suggest trying to get that school at least before you go, that way you'll have no problems getting all your foreign jump wings when you get over (you obviously can't get foreign jump wings if you haven't gotten your own US qualifications done). Another thing about SF...every post has briefings every month just about where you can go, get briefed on what SF is all about and get the necessary paperwork started. My husband did that while in Germany and he was sent back and forth to all the schools he needed and everything worked out just great.

E-2/ E-3 before basic

Posted by Sara H. on 8/6/2002, 6:45 am

Hi... Can anyone tell me how to become an E-2 or E-3 before basic...??

Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic

Posted by Lize on 8/6/2002, 7:00 am , in reply to "E-2/ E-3 before basic"

One way is referring a friend. My recruiter says when I join up if there is someone joining up at the same time, he's going to put me down as theirs. So then I'd go in as an E-2. But my recruiter is really nice, lol. :D

E4 with 60+ college hours

Posted by John Forbus on 8/6/2002, 7:37 am , in reply to "E-2/ E-3 before basic"

Hi. I have a college degree, so I'll go in as an E-4 Specialist. I think you can also go in E-4 with at least 60 college credit hours. Good luck!John

Re: E4 with 60+ college hours

Posted by Mike C. on 8/6/2002, 10:26 am , in reply to "E4 with 60+ college hours"

John was a bit off. If you have over 60 credit hours you can come in as a PFC, not an E-4.

Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic

Posted by Sgt. Mike on 8/6/2002, 7:09 pm , in reply to "E-2/ E-3 before basic"

Sara:30 semester hours of any accredited college gets you E-2; 60 gets you E-3. Whatever you do, TRY TO GET THOSE 30 HOURS!!! The difference in pay between an E-1 and E-2 is the biggest raise you'll get until you make E-7!!! Over $200 every month, plus a jump start on E-3 & E-4. Take CLEP tests (I think 5 semester hours per test, and there are 6), AP tests, night & summer classes at a local junior college, even courses on-line (check John Bear's "Guide to Non-traditional Colleges). While everybody is excited about the big enlistment bonuses, the difference between E-1 & E-2 is $2500 the first year!!!

Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic

Posted by jen on 8/6/2002, 7:15 pm , in reply to "Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic"

do all courses have to be study courses? because I'm going to fit camp one hour 4 days a week during my senior year. Does that count too??

Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic

Posted by sgt. mike on 8/6/2002, 7:26 pm , in reply to "Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic"

If it's a formal PE class at an ACCREDITED college, it counts. Otherwise, no. (check a previous posting on what determines "accredited", but if it's a state supported school, it probably is). Some schools allow you to "challenge" a class and take a test for credit instead of the actual class. You can also get accelerated promotion for JROTC, Civil Air Patrol, referring a friend, or for being an Eagle scout. (Don't know if there's a girl-scout equivalent). But remember, that first promotion is the most important; an E-1 UNDER 4 MONTHS makes $1022.70; an E-1 after 4 months makes $1105.50; but an E-2 starts at $1239.30 (an E-3 makes $1303.50) Also, a lot of your other pay & allowances (like money to live off post, allowance for food) are dependent on your rank. Also, when you're shipped to a new duty station, your rank determines how much (in pounds) the Army will pay to have moved with you. Those tests aren't that hard; I took all 6 clep tests in one day. They cost about $80 each, but they quickly pay for them selves. And there are lots on on-line & correspondence courses. How long until you ship out?

Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic

Posted by SARA H. on 8/6/2002, 7:50 pm , in reply to "Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic"

WOULD BE INTERESTED IN ANY ON-LINE / CORRESPONDENCE COURSES! GOT ANY INFO ON THEM? THANKS!! I HAVEN'T ENLISTED YET... I AM JUST TRYING TO GET MYSELF PREPARED. THANKS FOR ALL THE ADVICE...

Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic

Posted by Mike C. on 8/6/2002, 10:16 pm , in reply to "Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic"

The problem with the correspondence courses is that you have to be in to register (you might try to register anyway...it can't hurt). Go to www.aimsrdl.atsc.army.mil/secured/accp_top.htm and try. Take care Sara!

Posted by TNS on 8/6/2002, 11:11 am

My recruiter mentioned to me that I am qualified for OCSEO for the National Gurad and I am seriously considering doing it, but the thing is my recruiter has never recruited to OCS before and didn't know a whole lot about it, and while he is gathering info I am getting more curious. I am wondering...do you have to go to AIT if you are going into the Guard with an OCSEO, or does OCS take the place of AIT?

Posted by ROJO on 8/6/2002, 11:18 am , in reply to "OCSEO"

There is a good website that is a message forum. you ask and answer everyone else's questions. It is http://www.armyocs.com/portal/index.phpMy understanding is that with OCS you don't go to AIT, but you go to btc and then just drill with the OCS class. After you are commissioned then you must go to OBC which is AIT for officers. The traditional OCS takes about 15 months depending on your state.

not messing up my bed

Posted by Jaye on 8/6/2002, 7:00 pm

ok this is what i planned to do when i get to BT. not sleeping IN the bed bu ON the bed.. would i get in trouble?? i know we don't have much time doing anything and i don't want to waste time so can i do that??

Re: not messing up my bed

Posted by Mike C. on 8/6/2002, 7:12 pm , in reply to "not messing up my bed"

I spent most of the time sleeping on my bed. Only on the nights when it was really cold would I actually get under the blanket and sheet. Don't worry. We would sleep in our PT uniform and that way it would take less time to make our bed. It is good that you are thinking about saving time. It is good to start now.

Re: not messing up my bed

Posted by JEN K. on 8/6/2002, 7:43 pm , in reply to "Re: not messing up my bed"

OUR DRILL'S WOULD COME IN AND CHECK IF WE WERE COVERED... THEY LIKE'S US TO MESS UP OUR BEDS'S

civilian clothes and makeup

Posted by Jennifer on 8/6/2002, 7:04 pm

i looked at the list on "what to bring" and I saw that we should bring civilian clothes (casual) what are they for? second questionI know for sure we're not supposed to bring make up to BT but for graduation i heard we were able wear a little bit of make up. how do we bring make up without getting in trouble if we want to wear it during graduation?

Re: civilian clothes and makeup

Posted by Mike C. on 8/6/2002, 7:18 pm , in reply to "civilian clothes and makeup"

Bring only an outfit or two of regular clothes. They are only for wearing to basic. You usually travel to your first duty station in your Class A's. You might get some time to wear them during AIT. It depends on your MOS. The make up thing is a good question. You will not need the make up during your training, but right before graduation, you will get you civilian bag back and will be allowed to use your make up. Bring just enough to use on the day of your graduation. That way you don't waste your make up.

boyfriend may be coming home from bct...help!!!!

Posted by lisa on 8/7/2002, 11:52 am

my boyfriend is at fort jackson and is in his 4th week of bct. his dad has ms and was put in intensive care because he has pnemonia. he is in critical condition and we contacted the red cross and they contacted him. he said that he would wait until today to see what his condition is and decide whether or not he should come home. if he does come back home will he have to repeat what he has already done in basic or start where he has left off. and will he still graduate on sept. 12 if he isnt home for very long? what does the army do about things like this? this will completely screw up our plans if he comes home. i would love to see him, dont get me wrong...but not under these circumstances. please help me!!!!!!!!!!

Re: boyfriend may be coming home from bct...help!!!!

Posted by Mike C. on 8/7/2002, 1:35 pm , in reply to "boyfriend may be coming home from bct...help!!!!"

Because he will miss more than 4 hours of training he will more likely than not have to start from the begining. At best, he would have to be moved to another class and therefore graduate much later. I expect that he would have to start all over. He needs to talk to his command. If it were me, I would go home and start again. I know that sucks, but it's his dad

Re: boyfriend may be coming home from bct...help!!!!

Posted by RT on 8/7/2002, 9:29 pm , in reply to "boyfriend may be coming home from bct...help!!!!"

It all depends on what part of BT he is in...I've worked with a soldier to get them home in situations like this and still kept the soldier in my company...If he is a motivated and quick learning individual, the drills can work with him to make certain classes and tasks up...but it does have to be a quick trip home, only a few days. I personally, never started a person from the beginning..if worse comes to worse and let's say the soldier misses too much of let's say rifle marksmanship, I would recyle him into a company that is about to start the week that he missed, NOT back to the beginning.

Posted by A.S. on 8/7/2002, 11:54 am

From reading previous postings I understand that each recruit is assigned a buddy. Does your buddy have to go with you everywhere?

Posted by Angela on 8/7/2002, 12:10 pm , in reply to "Buddies"

YES, everywhere you go they go, I suggest watching the History Channels' Basic Training show and you will see as I am seeing that they don't call them battle buddies for nothing.

Posted by guest on 8/7/2002, 12:34 pm , in reply to "Re: Buddies"

yeah... you really need to get to know your buddies like what his limits are and also try stay close. make sure you communicate well with your buddies that might prevent you from doing more pushup but atleast you get to do pushup together. and try to predicate your buddies and keep an eye on him, tell him where he screwing up.your just helping each other to make it. its a team effort.

Posted by chi on 8/7/2002, 12:46 pm

i goning off to ft. benn for BCT at the end of this month i want to know what kinda bank account you should have. of course i dont want the one that the army gives you because i dont want them to screw it up. also is there any washington mutual around that area? any info regarding banking account in army please let me know.

Re: banking account?

Posted by Angela on 8/7/2002, 1:17 pm , in reply to "banking account?"

I recently opened an account with Washington Mutual because they're better than B of A and I asked the person there where are there locations for Washington Mutual. Because I go to BCT in Ft. Jackson, AIT in Georgia, and station at Ft. Hood, TX. She reassured me that they are branches in those states, so if you are considering opening an account ask the person where are they located and stuff like that, . I would like to eventually phase out my B of A account altogether

Re: banking account?

Posted by Mike C. on 8/7/2002, 2:36 pm , in reply to "Re: banking account?"

You can just go to your bank and have them give you a direct deposit form to bring with you to basic. When it comes time to do your finance inprocessing, just give the 1099 (?) to the finance people. This way you don't have to change bank accounts at all. You will just use your ATM card where you finally get stationed.

MOS's ground vs. vehicle

Posted by Dean on 8/7/2002, 1:21 pm

I am going in to sign my contract in 2 weeks and I am torn on an MOS. I originally wanted to go in as Infantry 11B, But I would love to drive around in a humvee. What MOS deals the most with the HUMVEE? do tank operators drive them or is it a totally different MOS, an MOS of its own? thx

Re: MOS's ground vs. vehicle

Posted by Mike C. on 8/7/2002, 1:58 pm , in reply to "MOS's ground vs. vehicle"

There is not any MOS that makes driving a Hummer a certainty. A tanker will almost never use a hummer. If you choose infantry there is a better chance that you will use a hummer. I'm assigned as an infantry soldier and my vehicle is a hummer. My last unit however, was a M113 Armored personnel carrier. Your MOS means nothing when it comes to a vehicle. You might be made a driver of a 5 ton, or an LMTV, or and APC. It just depends on the unit you are assigned to. 19D Scouts use either a hummer or a Bradley. It is a good job with alot of pride amongst scouts. I would never take a non-combat arms job, but that is just me. Hope this helped.

Posted by Dean on 8/7/2002, 1:58 pm , in reply to "MOS's ground vs. vehicle"

How can I get overseas. I would to have it on my contract. Is it likely i'll get to go overseas if I just ask during my contract signing. If I do get to go overseas to I get any choice of where I go? I was originally think of going 11B airborne. Maybe Italy?

Posted by Mike C. on 8/7/2002, 2:20 pm , in reply to "Re: also, overseas"

Talk with your councellor at the MEPS when you go. Also talk to your recruiter. Tell him you want 11B, Airborne, and an assignment to Italy in your contract. Stick to your guns. They sometimes try to steer you to other jobs or just don't want to give you too much in your contract. Tell them if they can't give you what you want, then call you when they can. Don't let yourself be talked into something you do not want. Vincenza, Italy is beautiful. SETAF is a good assignment. (that is the airborne unit in Italy) They train regularly with different countries. You would get quite an adventure out of it. Just remember to stick to what you want. Afterall, you are signing up to give years of your life to the Army. The least you can do is get the job you want and an assignment you would want.

How soon could one leave for basic?

Posted by A.S. on 8/7/2002, 2:06 pm

In general, how long does a person have before he/she has to report for BT? Does everyone enter the DEP? Can you choose not to go the DEP route? I'm still a little confused about how all that works. Thanks for any information.

Re: How soon could one leave for basic?

Posted by Mike C. on 8/7/2002, 2:31 pm , in reply to "How soon could one leave for basic?"

You don't have to go into the DEP. It all depends on the job you choose and whether there are still openings for that training class still open. I had to wait for a few months because that was the first opening available for my MOS. My wife only had to wait two weeks. It just depends on your job and also whether you still have to finish school or the semester at college. Your recruiter will be able to find out for you.

can we change our bt date?

Posted by carlos on 8/7/2002, 2:32 pm

I'm scheduled to leave for basic training in January of 2003. I've already sworn in and the date is on my contract. Is there any way I can change it into the summer time or any other time

Re: can we change our bt date?

Posted by Mike C. on 8/7/2002, 2:43 pm , in reply to "can we change our bt date?"

You can get your date changed, but it is a pain to do. Your recruiter might not want to do it, or just can't do it. You have to have a legitimate and good reason for it. Talk to him or her and ask them what is possible. Ask him or her about getting a deferment until the summer.

Posted by Dean on 8/7/2002, 2:48 pm

I'm sorry for flooding the question board with a million questions a day but my recruiter is always too busy trying to "make the sale" with me, that I find it is hard to just sit down and talk with him and learn about my MOS I wish to sign up for. I want to do infantry 11B + airborne. I am curious to infantry life though. On a day to day basis. Are you sitting at a desk everyday wondering when you're gonna get some ftx in. Or are you digging ditches/bunkers everyday regreting your MOS. Is it a mixture. is it all at the base everyday. What I really want to do is get some good combat training, some good time with my gun and really turn into a soldier that can handle a hot situation if the time comes. Is 11B just nasty grunt work every day? is it "fun" hands on trainging, or "nasty" hands on training. Either way its my MOS no matter what, I just want to know what I'm getting into.also, given current events with warlords in afganhistan and Pres. Bush's position on Iraq's current regime, and his determination to overthrow it, how likely is it that Army 11B will see action if something errupts. Is the U.S.'s current war stradegies pretty much always Air raids and special forces and ground forces only = Marines, or will airborne most likely get in it as well. Don't get me wrong I do not want a war, but if it goes down, I wanna be there to help. Not at a base reading about the war through the newspaper.ok lst Q, is the 11B's weapon an M16a2 or a M4 Carbine?thx guys

Re: Infantry life 11B

Posted by Mike C. on 8/7/2002, 4:28 pm , in reply to "Infantry life 11B"

Infantry life is a bit of all of the above. There are plenty of days where you will wish you chose to be a personnel specialist, instead of an infanryman. I am an infantryman. I'm a reservist, but I'm assigned to an active duty unit at Ft. Hood, TX. You will spend quite a bit of time in the field working on infantry tactics, but you will also spend alot of time in garrison doing things that have barely anything to do with your job, like laying out all your equipment for inspections, or laying out tents and camo nets so your commander can do an inventory. It always seems to happen in the worst weather, or on the hottest day. You will spend time in your motor pool once a week working on any vehicles you might have assigned to you. Other days you will have classes on things like how to stay financially above water, or how not to get VD, or even how to get along with different races or ethnic groups. All this is besides the rifle ranges, grenade ranges, change of command functions, and details that you might be on. Training might be on night land navigation one week, and patrolling tactics the next week. I'm coming back onto active duty in a few months, and I'm going to have to go back to basic and AIT just to come in. I love being in the infantry so much that I'm willing to go through the rigors of basic and AIT again. It is a tough job that keeps you away from your family often and it qualifies you for nothing in the civilian world, but I could care less. I just like the fact that I'm in the infantry and not some cook or clerk. (granted, they will be able to get a job with their training and I'm qualified to do security guard work) Oh! In some units you are issued an M16A2, but many units are starting to get the M-4. If some big real world situation were to come up you have to just hope (if that is the right word) that your unit is one of the one's that is called. I sat out the Gulf War in Pennsylvania guarding vehicle parts. You just never know. My buddie was in the 3rd Ranger Bat and he jumped into Saudi Arabia the day after the war was over. You just never know. Our job is to fight wars. We just have to be ready in case we are called. There's not much else we are good for. Any other questions, let me know.



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Medical records Posted by A.S. on 8/5/2002, 4:20 pm 63.225.47.2 I had surgery on my neck 15 years ago. I have been trying to get a copy of the records, but so far I haven't heard a peep from the hospital. If for some reason I cannot obtain the records, could I be disqualified? I've not had any problems with my neck since the surgery.I'm anxious and ready to enlist, but I'm afraid that a lack of medical records will keep me from doing so. Re: Medical records Posted by Mike C. on 8/5/2002, 4:48 pm , in reply to "Medical records" 65.161.170.13 If there is no way for you to get the records you need, you will probably be examined by an Army doctor. If they determine that you can't process without those records, you will have to wait. Just keep contacting the hospital where the surgery was done and get in touch with the doctor that performed the surgery. They regularly keep copies of work they've performed. Just be a pest and hopefully they will get sick of you and find the records just to get you off their back. I would try to process anyway. What is the worst that can happen? Re: Medical records Posted by Stacey on 8/6/2002, 7:42 am , in reply to "Medical records" 152.163.188.194 If you have a recruiter, ask him to get them for you. Mine got all of my records, all I had to do was sign a consent form for him to get them. Questions about promotions Posted by Maynard on 8/5/2002, 4:33 pm 68.56.113.243 I'm going into basic as an E2, upon graduation will I be an E3 or is the only automaticpromotion to E2? Also at E4 does everyone have to be a Specialist before a Corporal ormight they skip one or the other? How long does it take to get to E4? And I heardsomewhere the Corporals are being phased out, is that true and why? Re: Questions about promotions Posted by Mike C. on 8/5/2002, 4:56 pm , in reply to "Questions about promotions" 65.161.170.13 I'm not sure why you will be an E-3 after basic, but that kind of promotion is usually automatic unless your commander puts in the paperwork to not promote you. At E-4 you can be made a Specialist, or a Corporal. You can be one or the other. Most units do not have a slot for a Corporal, so expect to be a Specialist before you would ever be a Corporal. Corporals are not being phased out, it is just that most units do not have many openings where a person can be a Corporal. They usually have to be a Specialist. You must remember that a Corporal and a Specialist make the same amount of money, just the Corporal is considered a noncomissioned officer whereas a Specialist is not. With a waiver of time in grade or one for time in service You could go from E-1 to E-4 in a year. It depends on your MOS, unit and command. I've seen people in the infantry make their Sergeant in 2 years. I forgot to ask that Posted by Maynard on 8/5/2002, 5:01 pm , in reply to "Re: Questions about promotions" 68.56.113.243 My MOS is Infanty, I was going to ask if infanty got promoted faster. Thanks. Re: I forgot to ask that Posted by Mike C. on 8/5/2002, 8:05 pm , in reply to "I forgot to ask that" 65.161.172.167 I'm infantry too. We do tend to get rank more quickly. Our promotion points are regularly low and we have the chance to attend more schools than most. Re: I forgot to ask that Posted by Dan on 8/5/2002, 10:10 pm , in reply to "Re: I forgot to ask that" 66.119.33.167 Yeah I've heard Combat Arms get promoted faster, I'm going into Artillery myself, so that's good news. If you're a specialist E-4, can you become a corporal or do you go straight to Sgt. E-5? And to be an NCO Cpl., do you need to attend PLDC? Re: I forgot to ask that Posted by Mike C. on 8/5/2002, 11:55 pm , in reply to "Re: I forgot to ask that" 32.100.98.66 You usually just go onto E-5. No, you can be a Corporal without PLDC. You just need PLDC to get ahead from there. MOS-02T - Guitar Player Posted by Jeff on 8/5/2002, 6:34 pm 164.109.144.148 I am interested in a few different MOS's and 02T sounds intriguing to me as well. I have played guitar on and off for quite some time, but never had any "academic" training. I was wondering how I could get in contact with anyone who knows what I should study in order to prepare for the "tests" that they will give to you to see if you even qualify to be a member of the band? Thanks in advance. Jeff Re: MOS-02T - Guitar Player Posted by Erika on 8/5/2002, 7:13 pm , in reply to "MOS-02T - Guitar Player" 24.161.47.95 Hey, I was interested in doing bassoon for my MOS. Getting into an army band is extremely tough (from what I have read and everyone I have talked to) Most people in the army bands have bachelors or masters degrees in that specific instrument. In order to do any band MOS you have to do an audition. At least a level 5 solo plus they have you do all the scales. Major, minor, harmonic minor, melodic minor and chromatic scales. I'm not saying you won't be able to make it, I just wanted to let you know what you would have to do. I was a voice major/bassoon minor while playing it for 10 years. My advisor and teacher from college said that I would have to practice my ass off and even though I was an excellent player, it might be out of my league. If you have your own guitar, prepare a couple of solos, at least grade 5 and make sure you pratice ALL your scales. If you don't know all of them, call a college and ask a private guitar teacher to just meet with you for like a half an hour and show you all the scales. They will have all the sheets for it and if you can read music and have the time and ambition, go for it. I didn't mean to bust your bubble, hope I didn't. Sorry. Good luck! Also, if you make it, you go to the Army Music school in VA...EXCELLENT school but it's a tough AIT. Especially if you haven't had much 'academic' music backround. Hope I helped rather than hurt! Let me know what happens! Laundry at Basic Posted by Randal C. Jarrell on 8/5/2002, 6:48 pm 66.69.193.160 I am leaving for Benning on Sept. 17th.How is Laundry handled at Basic? Do you do your own laundry? If so, when do you get the time? Do other people do it for you? How do you keep your clothes seperate?Is laudry done often enough to where you don't have to rewear dirty clothes? Re: Laundry at Basic Posted by Mike C. on 8/6/2002, 12:18 am , in reply to "Laundry at Basic" 32.100.98.66 They have a laundry service. You will not have to wear dirty clothes. There will be a washer and dryer there in your barracks, but you will usually just use that for t-shirts, pt clothes, and underwear. They mark your clothes with a little number so that they don't mix it up with anyone else. You will use the washer at the end of the day. You will learn to use your time well for that kind of thing. Re: Laundry at Basic Posted by up in maine on 8/6/2002, 6:34 am , in reply to "Re: Laundry at Basic" 65.235.137.89 Hi there... the other person was right on... however people love to steal things... even socks and undies... you'll usually share a washer with your battle buddy or a couple of people from your squad... make sure someone is watching the washer/ dryer if you want to keep your stuff!! People will take anything!!!!!!! station of choice Posted by al on 8/5/2002, 8:41 pm 198.81.17.162 I posted a question of changing of choice from europe to state side. Most of you replied...thank you... saying you all thought Europe was fun, but what are the opportunities like in Europe? Can I go to air assult school, air borne school...or even try out for the Special Forces? Re: station of choice Posted by Mike C. on 8/6/2002, 12:08 am , in reply to "station of choice" 32.100.98.66 You can try for all those things from Europe. You should request to go to Airborne right out of AIT since you will be there anyway. They have Air Assault instructors that will actually come to Europe and teach your whole unit. That's how I got my Air Assault badge. For Special Forces, they will give you the PT test and swim test there in Europe and then fly you to Ft Bragg for SFAS. In Europe, depending on your unit you will train with all kinds of countries. I went to French Commando School in Berlin. Learned urban assault tactics from the British Army, and did a weapon qualification with the German Army. You can go to Ranger school from there too. You will have chances to do all kinds of training. If you really want the fast trip to hardcore town, just inform your instructors at basic and AIT that you want to volunteer for Airborne and then Ranger school. If you get that far then go for SF. A friend of mine just left a position as an SF instructor to be a tactics NCOIC at West Point. He loved it. Take care. Re: station of choice Posted by RT on 8/6/2002, 9:55 am , in reply to "Re: station of choice" 68.70.110.154 That's right on about Germany (and other European assignments). You'll have all sorts of opportunities to compete and get badges, ribbons and awards from foreign armies also stationed there, as well as the armies of your host country. There are always friendship get-togethers for units, with lots of events and opportunities. You will love it! Mike was right about US schools also..many of them you can do right over there in Europe (except for Airborne). Even though units over there have slots for Airborne, there obviously aren't that many and the units have to pay for these slots out of their own money, so lots of competition. I would suggest trying to get that school at least before you go, that way you'll have no problems getting all your foreign jump wings when you get over (you obviously can't get foreign jump wings if you haven't gotten your own US qualifications done). Another thing about SF...every post has briefings every month just about where you can go, get briefed on what SF is all about and get the necessary paperwork started. My husband did that while in Germany and he was sent back and forth to all the schools he needed and everything worked out just great. E-2/ E-3 before basic Posted by Sara H. on 8/6/2002, 6:45 am 65.235.137.89 Hi... Can anyone tell me how to become an E-2 or E-3 before basic...?? Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic Posted by Lize on 8/6/2002, 7:00 am , in reply to "E-2/ E-3 before basic" 209.240.222.132 One way is referring a friend. My recruiter says when I join up if there is someone joining up at the same time, he's going to put me down as theirs. So then I'd go in as an E-2. But my recruiter is really nice, lol. :D E4 with 60+ college hours Posted by John Forbus on 8/6/2002, 7:37 am , in reply to "E-2/ E-3 before basic" 12.40.5.66 Hi. I have a college degree, so I'll go in as an E-4 Specialist. I think you can also go in E-4 with at least 60 college credit hours. Good luck!John Re: E4 with 60+ college hours Posted by Mike C. on 8/6/2002, 10:26 am , in reply to "E4 with 60+ college hours" 65.161.172.48 John was a bit off. If you have over 60 credit hours you can come in as a PFC, not an E-4. Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic Posted by Sgt. Mike on 8/6/2002, 7:09 pm , in reply to "E-2/ E-3 before basic" 205.188.208.166 Sara:30 semester hours of any accredited college gets you E-2; 60 gets you E-3. Whatever you do, TRY TO GET THOSE 30 HOURS!!! The difference in pay between an E-1 and E-2 is the biggest raise you'll get until you make E-7!!! Over $200 every month, plus a jump start on E-3 & E-4. Take CLEP tests (I think 5 semester hours per test, and there are 6), AP tests, night & summer classes at a local junior college, even courses on-line (check John Bear's "Guide to Non-traditional Colleges). While everybody is excited about the big enlistment bonuses, the difference between E-1 & E-2 is $2500 the first year!!! Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic Posted by jen on 8/6/2002, 7:15 pm , in reply to "Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic" 209.239.204.216 do all courses have to be study courses? because I'm going to fit camp one hour 4 days a week during my senior year. Does that count too?? Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic Posted by sgt. mike on 8/6/2002, 7:26 pm , in reply to "Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic" 205.188.208.166 If it's a formal PE class at an ACCREDITED college, it counts. Otherwise, no. (check a previous posting on what determines "accredited", but if it's a state supported school, it probably is). Some schools allow you to "challenge" a class and take a test for credit instead of the actual class. You can also get accelerated promotion for JROTC, Civil Air Patrol, referring a friend, or for being an Eagle scout. (Don't know if there's a girl-scout equivalent). But remember, that first promotion is the most important; an E-1 UNDER 4 MONTHS makes $1022.70; an E-1 after 4 months makes $1105.50; but an E-2 starts at $1239.30 (an E-3 makes $1303.50) Also, a lot of your other pay & allowances (like money to live off post, allowance for food) are dependent on your rank. Also, when you're shipped to a new duty station, your rank determines how much (in pounds) the Army will pay to have moved with you. Those tests aren't that hard; I took all 6 clep tests in one day. They cost about $80 each, but they quickly pay for them selves. And there are lots on on-line & correspondence courses. How long until you ship out? Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic Posted by SARA H. on 8/6/2002, 7:50 pm , in reply to "Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic" 65.235.137.131 WOULD BE INTERESTED IN ANY ON-LINE / CORRESPONDENCE COURSES! GOT ANY INFO ON THEM? THANKS!! I HAVEN'T ENLISTED YET... I AM JUST TRYING TO GET MYSELF PREPARED. THANKS FOR ALL THE ADVICE... Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic Posted by Mike C. on 8/6/2002, 10:16 pm , in reply to "Re: E-2/ E-3 before basic" 65.161.172.185 The problem with the correspondence courses is that you have to be in to register (you might try to register anyway...it can't hurt). Go to www.aimsrdl.atsc.army.mil/secured/accp_top.htm and try. Take care Sara! OCSEO Posted by TNS on 8/6/2002, 11:11 am 67.24.188.43 My recruiter mentioned to me that I am qualified for OCSEO for the National Gurad and I am seriously considering doing it, but the thing is my recruiter has never recruited to OCS before and didn't know a whole lot about it, and while he is gathering info I am getting more curious. I am wondering...do you have to go to AIT if you are going into the Guard with an OCSEO, or does OCS take the place of AIT? Re: OCSEO Posted by ROJO on 8/6/2002, 11:18 am , in reply to "OCSEO" 12.13.32.201 There is a good website that is a message forum. you ask and answer everyone else's questions. It is http://www.armyocs.com/portal/index.phpMy understanding is that with OCS you don't go to AIT, but you go to btc and then just drill with the OCS class. After you are commissioned then you must go to OBC which is AIT for officers. The traditional OCS takes about 15 months depending on your state. not messing up my bed Posted by Jaye on 8/6/2002, 7:00 pm 209.239.204.216 ok this is what i planned to do when i get to BT. not sleeping IN the bed bu ON the bed.. would i get in trouble?? i know we don't have much time doing anything and i don't want to waste time so can i do that?? Re: not messing up my bed Posted by Mike C. on 8/6/2002, 7:12 pm , in reply to "not messing up my bed" 65.161.172.188 I spent most of the time sleeping on my bed. Only on the nights when it was really cold would I actually get under the blanket and sheet. Don't worry. We would sleep in our PT uniform and that way it would take less time to make our bed. It is good that you are thinking about saving time. It is good to start now. Re: not messing up my bed Posted by JEN K. on 8/6/2002, 7:43 pm , in reply to "Re: not messing up my bed" 65.235.137.131 OUR DRILL'S WOULD COME IN AND CHECK IF WE WERE COVERED... THEY LIKE'S US TO MESS UP OUR BEDS'S civilian clothes and makeup Posted by Jennifer on 8/6/2002, 7:04 pm 209.239.204.216 i looked at the list on "what to bring" and I saw that we should bring civilian clothes (casual) what are they for? second questionI know for sure we're not supposed to bring make up to BT but for graduation i heard we were able wear a little bit of make up. how do we bring make up without getting in trouble if we want to wear it during graduation? Re: civilian clothes and makeup Posted by Mike C. on 8/6/2002, 7:18 pm , in reply to "civilian clothes and makeup" 65.161.172.188 Bring only an outfit or two of regular clothes. They are only for wearing to basic. You usually travel to your first duty station in your Class A's. You might get some time to wear them during AIT. It depends on your MOS. The make up thing is a good question. You will not need the make up during your training, but right before graduation, you will get you civilian bag back and will be allowed to use your make up. Bring just enough to use on the day of your graduation. That way you don't waste your make up. boyfriend may be coming home from bct...help!!!! Posted by lisa on 8/7/2002, 11:52 am 64.12.96.107 my boyfriend is at fort jackson and is in his 4th week of bct. his dad has ms and was put in intensive care because he has pnemonia. he is in critical condition and we contacted the red cross and they contacted him. he said that he would wait until today to see what his condition is and decide whether or not he should come home. if he does come back home will he have to repeat what he has already done in basic or start where he has left off. and will he still graduate on sept. 12 if he isnt home for very long? what does the army do about things like this? this will completely screw up our plans if he comes home. i would love to see him, dont get me wrong...but not under these circumstances. please help me!!!!!!!!!! Re: boyfriend may be coming home from bct...help!!!! Posted by Mike C. on 8/7/2002, 1:35 pm , in reply to "boyfriend may be coming home from bct...help!!!!" 32.100.98.167 Because he will miss more than 4 hours of training he will more likely than not have to start from the begining. At best, he would have to be moved to another class and therefore graduate much later. I expect that he would have to start all over. He needs to talk to his command. If it were me, I would go home and start again. I know that sucks, but it's his dad Re: boyfriend may be coming home from bct...help!!!! Posted by RT on 8/7/2002, 9:29 pm , in reply to "boyfriend may be coming home from bct...help!!!!" 68.70.110.154 It all depends on what part of BT he is in...I've worked with a soldier to get them home in situations like this and still kept the soldier in my company...If he is a motivated and quick learning individual, the drills can work with him to make certain classes and tasks up...but it does have to be a quick trip home, only a few days. I personally, never started a person from the beginning..if worse comes to worse and let's say the soldier misses too much of let's say rifle marksmanship, I would recyle him into a company that is about to start the week that he missed, NOT back to the beginning. Buddies Posted by A.S. on 8/7/2002, 11:54 am 63.225.47.2 From reading previous postings I understand that each recruit is assigned a buddy. Does your buddy have to go with you everywhere? Re: Buddies Posted by Angela on 8/7/2002, 12:10 pm , in reply to "Buddies" 216.202.13.3 YES, everywhere you go they go, I suggest watching the History Channels' Basic Training show and you will see as I am seeing that they don't call them battle buddies for nothing. Re: Buddies Posted by guest on 8/7/2002, 12:34 pm , in reply to "Re: Buddies" 63.194.209.40 yeah... you really need to get to know your buddies like what his limits are and also try stay close. make sure you communicate well with your buddies that might prevent you from doing more pushup but atleast you get to do pushup together. and try to predicate your buddies and keep an eye on him, tell him where he screwing up.your just helping each other to make it. its a team effort. banking account? Posted by chi on 8/7/2002, 12:46 pm 63.194.209.40 i goning off to ft. benn for BCT at the end of this month i want to know what kinda bank account you should have. of course i dont want the one that the army gives you because i dont want them to screw it up. also is there any washington mutual around that area? any info regarding banking account in army please let me know. Re: banking account? Posted by Angela on 8/7/2002, 1:17 pm , in reply to "banking account?" 216.202.13.3 I recently opened an account with Washington Mutual because they're better than B of A and I asked the person there where are there locations for Washington Mutual. Because I go to BCT in Ft. Jackson, AIT in Georgia, and station at Ft. Hood, TX. She reassured me that they are branches in those states, so if you are considering opening an account ask the person where are they located and stuff like that, . I would like to eventually phase out my B of A account altogether Re: banking account? Posted by Mike C. on 8/7/2002, 2:36 pm , in reply to "Re: banking account?" 32.100.98.167 You can just go to your bank and have them give you a direct deposit form to bring with you to basic. When it comes time to do your finance inprocessing, just give the 1099 (?) to the finance people. This way you don't have to change bank accounts at all. You will just use your ATM card where you finally get stationed. MOS's ground vs. vehicle Posted by Dean on 8/7/2002, 1:21 pm 131.252.245.37 I am going in to sign my contract in 2 weeks and I am torn on an MOS. I originally wanted to go in as Infantry 11B, But I would love to drive around in a humvee. What MOS deals the most with the HUMVEE? do tank operators drive them or is it a totally different MOS, an MOS of its own? thx Re: MOS's ground vs. vehicle Posted by Mike C. on 8/7/2002, 1:58 pm , in reply to "MOS's ground vs. vehicle" 32.100.98.167 There is not any MOS that makes driving a Hummer a certainty. A tanker will almost never use a hummer. If you choose infantry there is a better chance that you will use a hummer. I'm assigned as an infantry soldier and my vehicle is a hummer. My last unit however, was a M113 Armored personnel carrier. Your MOS means nothing when it comes to a vehicle. You might be made a driver of a 5 ton, or an LMTV, or and APC. It just depends on the unit you are assigned to. 19D Scouts use either a hummer or a Bradley. It is a good job with alot of pride amongst scouts. I would never take a non-combat arms job, but that is just me. Hope this helped. Re: also, overseas Posted by Dean on 8/7/2002, 1:58 pm , in reply to "MOS's ground vs. vehicle" 131.252.245.37 How can I get overseas. I would to have it on my contract. Is it likely i'll get to go overseas if I just ask during my contract signing. If I do get to go overseas to I get any choice of where I go? I was originally think of going 11B airborne. Maybe Italy? Re: also, overseas Posted by Mike C. on 8/7/2002, 2:20 pm , in reply to "Re: also, overseas" 32.100.98.167 Talk with your councellor at the MEPS when you go. Also talk to your recruiter. Tell him you want 11B, Airborne, and an assignment to Italy in your contract. Stick to your guns. They sometimes try to steer you to other jobs or just don't want to give you too much in your contract. Tell them if they can't give you what you want, then call you when they can. Don't let yourself be talked into something you do not want. Vincenza, Italy is beautiful. SETAF is a good assignment. (that is the airborne unit in Italy) They train regularly with different countries. You would get quite an adventure out of it. Just remember to stick to what you want. Afterall, you are signing up to give years of your life to the Army. The least you can do is get the job you want and an assignment you would want. How soon could one leave for basic? Posted by A.S. on 8/7/2002, 2:06 pm 63.225.47.2 In general, how long does a person have before he/she has to report for BT? Does everyone enter the DEP? Can you choose not to go the DEP route? I'm still a little confused about how all that works. Thanks for any information. Re: How soon could one leave for basic? Posted by Mike C. on 8/7/2002, 2:31 pm , in reply to "How soon could one leave for basic?" 32.100.98.167 You don't have to go into the DEP. It all depends on the job you choose and whether there are still openings for that training class still open. I had to wait for a few months because that was the first opening available for my MOS. My wife only had to wait two weeks. It just depends on your job and also whether you still have to finish school or the semester at college. Your recruiter will be able to find out for you. can we change our bt date? Posted by carlos on 8/7/2002, 2:32 pm 152.163.188.229 I'm scheduled to leave for basic training in January of 2003. I've already sworn in and the date is on my contract. Is there any way I can change it into the summer time or any other time Re: can we change our bt date? Posted by Mike C. on 8/7/2002, 2:43 pm , in reply to "can we change our bt date?" 32.100.98.167 You can get your date changed, but it is a pain to do. Your recruiter might not want to do it, or just can't do it. You have to have a legitimate and good reason for it. Talk to him or her and ask them what is possible. Ask him or her about getting a deferment until the summer. Infantry life 11B Posted by Dean on 8/7/2002, 2:48 pm 131.252.245.37 I'm sorry for flooding the question board with a million questions a day but my recruiter is always too busy trying to "make the sale" with me, that I find it is hard to just sit down and talk with him and learn about my MOS I wish to sign up for. I want to do infantry 11B + airborne. I am curious to infantry life though. On a day to day basis. Are you sitting at a desk everyday wondering when you're gonna get some ftx in. Or are you digging ditches/bunkers everyday regreting your MOS. Is it a mixture. is it all at the base everyday. What I really want to do is get some good combat training, some good time with my gun and really turn into a soldier that can handle a hot situation if the time comes. Is 11B just nasty grunt work every day? is it "fun" hands on trainging, or "nasty" hands on training. Either way its my MOS no matter what, I just want to know what I'm getting into.also, given current events with warlords in afganhistan and Pres. Bush's position on Iraq's current regime, and his determination to overthrow it, how likely is it that Army 11B will see action if something errupts. Is the U.S.'s current war stradegies pretty much always Air raids and special forces and ground forces only = Marines, or will airborne most likely get in it as well. Don't get me wrong I do not want a war, but if it goes down, I wanna be there to help. Not at a base reading about the war through the newspaper.ok lst Q, is the 11B's weapon an M16a2 or a M4 Carbine?thx guys Re: Infantry life 11B Posted by Mike C. on 8/7/2002, 4:28 pm , in reply to "Infantry life 11B" 32.100.98.84 Infantry life is a bit of all of the above. There are plenty of days where you will wish you chose to be a personnel specialist, instead of an infanryman. I am an infantryman. I'm a reservist, but I'm assigned to an active duty unit at Ft. Hood, TX. You will spend quite a bit of time in the field working on infantry tactics, but you will also spend alot of time in garrison doing things that have barely anything to do with your job, like laying out all your equipment for inspections, or laying out tents and camo nets so your commander can do an inventory. It always seems to happen in the worst weather, or on the hottest day. You will spend time in your motor pool once a week working on any vehicles you might have assigned to you. Other days you will have classes on things like how to stay financially above water, or how not to get VD, or even how to get along with different races or ethnic groups. All this is besides the rifle ranges, grenade ranges, change of command functions, and details that you might be on. Training might be on night land navigation one week, and patrolling tactics the next week. I'm coming back onto active duty in a few months, and I'm going to have to go back to basic and AIT just to come in. I love being in the infantry so much that I'm willing to go through the rigors of basic and AIT again. It is a tough job that keeps you away from your family often and it qualifies you for nothing in the civilian world, but I could care less. I just like the fact that I'm in the infantry and not some cook or clerk. (granted, they will be able to get a job with their training and I'm qualified to do security guard work) Oh! In some units you are issued an M16A2, but many units are starting to get the M-4. If some big real world situation were to come up you have to just hope (if that is the right word) that your unit is one of the one's that is called. I sat out the Gulf War in Pennsylvania guarding vehicle parts. You just never know. My buddie was in the 3rd Ranger Bat and he jumped into Saudi Arabia the day after the war was over. You just never know. Our job is to fight wars. We just have to be ready in case we are called. There's not much else we are good for. Any other questions, let me know.

			This page was last updated on: August 29, 2002