As a parent of a child who has been to Millersburg twice, I have to say they do a wonderful job with the volunteer personnel they have. Please keep in mind, the people who donate their time to staff this facility are not paid, they volunteer time out of their lives to work with our children. Perhaps, if more parents with military experience would step up to the plate and volunteer 3 to 6 weeks of their time in the summer, there would be a lot more organization.
Parents please know that the photos are a bonus. The camps were originally designed to have you child attend and the only communication be for you to write your child and your child to write you. In past summers my son wrote over 7 letters. In packing list is also paper/envelopes/stamps and you could preaddress and prestamp envelopes for your child as proactiveness. This is a military designed program not an activity fun camp. We are to allow our kids the few / several weeks they have here to concentrate on what they are being taught and to lead and learn on their own as young adults. In past years there were no phone calls and there was no photo blog. We should be ok with letting them grow on their own for a couple weeks.
Tara, there's a good chance the weather has not cooperated. We live in the Midwest and have one storm after another (three in less than 7 hours at one point). I've been watching the weather in the Millersburg area, and they just got hit with a thunderstorm. From the looks of the last two sets of pictures, the kids are out in the fields.
This is a military camp for our children to experience the fine attributes that a military life has to offer. The camp has a defined mission statement. As such there are rules,guidelines and accountability set forth for our children's welfare by the commanders on the ground. It's easy to be a armchair quarterback and critic when your not in the game. I have not heard from my child but I know without reservation that earning the title of Cadet is an accomplishment that will impact his life forever. Pictures are great but we did not sign up for a modeling camp.
Well said Bobby...I just hope the staff who monitors/manages this blog realizes there are extremely appreciative and understanding parents who support what they are doing for our children. I'm hoping the current issue on the board doesn't lead the staff to not post any more pictures so as not to upset any more parents. I look forward to the pictures whether my son is in them or not. It's a treat to see what he did on a particular day. Of course...seeing him is a very lovely bonus. :o)
Dawn, there's a chance the photos aren't posted yet. Photos are not posted on a daily basis, it's more along the lines of when they have time during rec time or after lights out. If they are following last years' model, the OCS's are managing the blog. They have many duties aside from classes and have very limited time. If your child is in Military Adventure Camp, you might want to look on that site. Sometimes the pictures get posted there before they show here. Hope this helps!
a. This camp is operated entirely by volunteers, many of which have radically modified their lives and professional careers by moving to Millersburg. Most of us that are "full-time" operate the program, as well as manage a full career above and beyond USAC duties. All we ask for is a bit of appreciation.
b. We've had nearly 300 young people come through our gates this year. Dozens upon dozens of "thank you's" and lots and lots of gratitude. There are, indeed, some organizational issues. We have seven - yes, seven - adults who had stated they would be with us, and that didn't happen. Programs such as this are highly dependent on the American Volunteer spirit, which is a rare commodity these days.
c. All photos are shot random. We do not, cannot and will not chase down each and every recruit or Cadet in order to ensure that their face is online. Frankly, the time invested in this blog is monumental. We do it so that families and friends can see what's happening throughout the various programs.
d. Barracks life is part of military life. If you've not served, then that may seem odd. Making beds, standing inspections, studying general orders is all a part of Basic Training. In turn, the Cadets have rappelled, been on the Obstacle Course, qualified on the Marksmanship Range, learned squad tactics and much more. This isn't "Military Disney Land." The program is designed to give a **realistic** view of basic training, which includes both the exciting and mundane.
e. There has not been a curtailing of field time for the Basic Leaders' Course, until today, due to thunderstorms. They were out at Blue Licks State Park yesterday. You have to remember that training is based on a "Crawl, Walk, Run" approach. We don't just put a bunch of green Cadets into a field environment without providing sufficient training and preparation.
f. 2LT Land manages this blog as an additional duty, above an beyond dealing with the parents of over 150 young people. He is also the primary drive for any medical issues that come up. He, like the rest of the staff, has been at it for 18+ hours daily for the past two months, both during camp and ramping up to the first day of training. We have about six more weeks ahead of us. As one of the few full-time folks, there's more on his plate than most young people can handle. With that said, if you have an **emergency** situation, then you are welcome to call me personally at (352) 514-4222 24 hours a day.
g. The staff doesn't have time to read this blog. I just happened to because a concerned parent emailed me. If you are not happy, I'm sorry to hear that. However, I also know from 34 years of doing this, that some folks are never happy. I had two parents during check-in last weekend that I invited to leave, with their recruit, due to arrogant and unruly behavior. There's not need for such actions, especially when dealing with a staff that works so hard for YOUR sons and daughters. Any "alternative" programs are likely going to be on a military school, and much less like Basic Training, and much more for entertainment. If that's what you want, I can appreciate your preference; however, that's not what we provide.
I had the privilege of watching 126 recruits from 22 states, seven countries and one U.S. Territory, as they earned the title "Cadet" on 10 Jul 10. Most were thrilled, some were exhausted, some didn't want to stay for BLC, and others enrolled for additional programs. We're not going to make everyone happy, no matter how hard we try. This Saturday, 63 young people will complete the Basic Leader Course. The following weekend, we'll have 29 Cadet Rangers and 55 new Cadets, provided they all make the cut.
Watching those young people salute smartly during the National Anthem, or standing taller during graduation, or crying as they "show momma some love," is what keeps me in this. Never, under any circumstances, would I order that photos not be published because of some negative comments. Many of my staff and I have worn a uniform in the service of our nation so that people CAN have different opinions.
With that said, it's easy to complain...it's much harder to do. If anyone would like to step up and have an impact on some incredible young people, please feel free to contact me at joseph.m.landsr@armycadets.org .
My son is at BCT camp for the 1st time. I got a phone call after breakfast on Monday from someone (I forget the guys name) asking if my son had issues with eating at home. Later that evening, I got a call from the same gentleman saying that he had talking with my son more, and it came out that he was homesick. He had started to eat alittle and basically they told him he isnt leaving because he was home sick. I agreed with that decision. I got a phone call again on tuesday morning, letting me know that my son was now eating, seemed very motivaed and was doing great now. I am very greatful for the phone call Tuesday morning to let me know the progress that my son had turned around.
Lastnight, I got 30 second phone call from my son saying "I'm here, I'm fine, I'll see you at graduation, Love you". He had no emotion in his voice and it was very unlike my son. I hope it was just that it was a script of what he was allowed to say, and I am anxiouly waiting for a letter from him to be reassured that he is really okay.
"I'm here, I'm fine, I'll see you at graduation, Love you"
That is part of the "Safe Arrival Call" script. The "Love You" part is optional. ;) We have to get 55 young people through that call in about 30 minutes, so it's intentionally to the point. Again, a reality of Basic Training.
The next call is 2-3 days prior to graduation. Calls are almost always after 1900 (7 pm) during "Canteen" time.
I think I know which RCT is your son. He's a very picky eater. I'm told he's doing fine now.
Thanks for the reassurance. I was pretty sure he would adjust, and if not, I thought I'd get another call. I'm very glad I got the call Tuesday morning telling me he was doing fine.
As a parent of a child who has been to Millersburg twice, I have to say they do a wonderful job with the volunteer personnel they have. Please keep in mind, the people who donate their time to staff this facility are not paid, they volunteer time out of their lives to work with our children.
ReplyDeletePerhaps, if more parents with military experience would step up to the plate and volunteer 3 to 6 weeks of their time in the summer, there would be a lot more organization.
Parents please know that the photos are a bonus. The camps were originally designed to have you child attend and the only communication be for you to write your child and your child to write you. In past summers my son wrote over 7 letters. In packing list is also paper/envelopes/stamps and you could preaddress and prestamp envelopes for your child as proactiveness. This is a military designed program not an activity fun camp. We are to allow our kids the few / several weeks they have here to concentrate on what they are being taught and to lead and learn on their own as young adults. In past years there were no phone calls and there was no photo blog. We should be ok with letting them grow on their own for a couple weeks.
ReplyDeleteTara, there's a good chance the weather has not cooperated. We live in the Midwest and have one storm after another (three in less than 7 hours at one point). I've been watching the weather in the Millersburg area, and they just got hit with a thunderstorm.
ReplyDeleteFrom the looks of the last two sets of pictures, the kids are out in the fields.
Looking forward to RANGER graduation. I bet they will all be ready for some relaxation, and their favorite foods.
ReplyDeleteThis is a military camp for our children to experience the fine attributes that a military life has to offer. The camp has a defined mission statement. As such there are rules,guidelines and accountability set forth for our children's welfare by the commanders on the ground. It's easy to be a armchair quarterback and critic when your not in the game. I have not heard from my child but I know without reservation that earning the title of Cadet is an accomplishment that will impact his life forever. Pictures are great but we did not sign up for a modeling camp.
ReplyDeleteWell said Bobby...I just hope the staff who monitors/manages this blog realizes there are extremely appreciative and understanding parents who support what they are doing for our children. I'm hoping the current issue on the board doesn't lead the staff to not post any more pictures so as not to upset any more parents. I look forward to the pictures whether my son is in them or not. It's a treat to see what he did on a particular day. Of course...seeing him is a very lovely bonus. :o)
ReplyDeleteDawn, there's a chance the photos aren't posted yet. Photos are not posted on a daily basis, it's more along the lines of when they have time during rec time or after lights out. If they are following last years' model, the OCS's are managing the blog. They have many duties aside from classes and have very limited time. If your child is in Military Adventure Camp, you might want to look on that site. Sometimes the pictures get posted there before they show here. Hope this helps!
ReplyDeleteFolks: Be clear on a couple of things:
ReplyDeletea. This camp is operated entirely by volunteers, many of which have radically modified their lives and professional careers by moving to Millersburg. Most of us that are "full-time" operate the program, as well as manage a full career above and beyond USAC duties. All we ask for is a bit of appreciation.
b. We've had nearly 300 young people come through our gates this year. Dozens upon dozens of "thank you's" and lots and lots of gratitude. There are, indeed, some organizational issues. We have seven - yes, seven - adults who had stated they would be with us, and that didn't happen. Programs such as this are highly dependent on the American Volunteer spirit, which is a rare commodity these days.
c. All photos are shot random. We do not, cannot and will not chase down each and every recruit or Cadet in order to ensure that their face is online. Frankly, the time invested in this blog is monumental. We do it so that families and friends can see what's happening throughout the various programs.
d. Barracks life is part of military life. If you've not served, then that may seem odd. Making beds, standing inspections, studying general orders is all a part of Basic Training. In turn, the Cadets have rappelled, been on the Obstacle Course, qualified on the Marksmanship Range, learned squad tactics and much more. This isn't "Military Disney Land." The program is designed to give a **realistic** view of basic training, which includes both the exciting and mundane.
ReplyDeletee. There has not been a curtailing of field time for the Basic Leaders' Course, until today, due to thunderstorms. They were out at Blue Licks State Park yesterday. You have to remember that training is based on a "Crawl, Walk, Run" approach. We don't just put a bunch of green Cadets into a field environment without providing sufficient training and preparation.
f. 2LT Land manages this blog as an additional duty, above an beyond dealing with the parents of over 150 young people. He is also the primary drive for any medical issues that come up. He, like the rest of the staff, has been at it for 18+ hours daily for the past two months, both during camp and ramping up to the first day of training. We have about six more weeks ahead of us. As one of the few full-time folks, there's more on his plate than most young people can handle. With that said, if you have an **emergency** situation, then you are welcome to call me personally at (352) 514-4222 24 hours a day.
g. The staff doesn't have time to read this blog. I just happened to because a concerned parent emailed me. If you are not happy, I'm sorry to hear that. However, I also know from 34 years of doing this, that some folks are never happy. I had two parents during check-in last weekend that I invited to leave, with their recruit, due to arrogant and unruly behavior. There's not need for such actions, especially when dealing with a staff that works so hard for YOUR sons and daughters. Any "alternative" programs are likely going to be on a military school, and much less like Basic Training, and much more for entertainment. If that's what you want, I can appreciate your preference; however, that's not what we provide.
I had the privilege of watching 126 recruits from 22 states, seven countries and one U.S. Territory, as they earned the title "Cadet" on 10 Jul 10. Most were thrilled, some were exhausted, some didn't want to stay for BLC, and others enrolled for additional programs. We're not going to make everyone happy, no matter how hard we try. This Saturday, 63 young people will complete the Basic Leader Course. The following weekend, we'll have 29 Cadet Rangers and 55 new Cadets, provided they all make the cut.
Watching those young people salute smartly during the National Anthem, or standing taller during graduation, or crying as they "show momma some love," is what keeps me in this. Never, under any circumstances, would I order that photos not be published because of some negative comments. Many of my staff and I have worn a uniform in the service of our nation so that people CAN have different opinions.
With that said, it's easy to complain...it's much harder to do. If anyone would like to step up and have an impact on some incredible young people, please feel free to contact me at joseph.m.landsr@armycadets.org .
COL Land
My son is at BCT camp for the 1st time. I got a phone call after breakfast on Monday from someone (I forget the guys name) asking if my son had issues with eating at home. Later that evening, I got a call from the same gentleman saying that he had talking with my son more, and it came out that he was homesick. He had started to eat alittle and basically they told him he isnt leaving because he was home sick. I agreed with that decision. I got a phone call again on tuesday morning, letting me know that my son was now eating, seemed very motivaed and was doing great now. I am very greatful for the phone call Tuesday morning to let me know the progress that my son had turned around.
ReplyDeleteLastnight, I got 30 second phone call from my son saying "I'm here, I'm fine, I'll see you at graduation, Love you". He had no emotion in his voice and it was very unlike my son. I hope it was just that it was a script of what he was allowed to say, and I am anxiouly waiting for a letter from him to be reassured that he is really okay.
"I'm here, I'm fine, I'll see you at graduation, Love you"
ReplyDeleteThat is part of the "Safe Arrival Call" script. The "Love You" part is optional. ;) We have to get 55 young people through that call in about 30 minutes, so it's intentionally to the point. Again, a reality of Basic Training.
The next call is 2-3 days prior to graduation. Calls are almost always after 1900 (7 pm) during "Canteen" time.
I think I know which RCT is your son. He's a very picky eater. I'm told he's doing fine now.
Thanks for the reassurance. I was pretty sure he would adjust, and if not, I thought I'd get another call. I'm very glad I got the call Tuesday morning telling me he was doing fine.
ReplyDelete