News from Andrew 3

We have received a third letter from Andrew. Letters arrive on Thursdays because he can only mail out on Sundays. Thanks to all who have sent mail and kept him in prayer. It is a great encouragement to him. Also, Andrew will not be returning in October as first thought. He will be leaving for Pensacola, Florida after graduation weekend which will be September 28 - 30.

Here are a few excerpts from Andrew's letter:

"Today we had our first inspection... After much prayer and hard work (I'm in charge of 14 guys) I was one of five (out of 86) that scored perfect on the inspection. It included questions, posture, rack making, military bearing and dress. On Saturday, we were all marched down to that very same drill hall that you see on YouTube and were given our specific tasks. We are a staff division which means we officiate ceremonies, including color guard, band, etc. I am a side boy. I come out of one of two doors with some other recruits and stand at attention for about 15 minutes while the National Anthem is played. We will be doing about three ceremonies including our own." "You inquired about food. We had roast beef with mashed potatoes and gravy for supper. There is a large cereal, salad, and juice/soda bar, so there is always different things to eat. My division has taken an affinity to eating PB&J sandwiches. I like to eat them because they remind me of home. I eat a lot of p-nut butter." "Ah, evening time. The most wonderful time of the day, where one can lay back, read his mail, write a little, and have some quiet time. I was able to call you guys today, making today the best day at boot camp to date. Your voices were the most wonderful sounds in the world....Lately, we have been preparing for inspections: folding, pressing, stacking, studying, Very boring."

Thanks, Carla (Andrew's mom)

News from Andrew 2

We received a second letter from Andrew this week, followed by a phone call on Friday eve. He is doing well and wanted everyone to know how much he appreciates the letters and prayers. He will not be returning home at all after graduation from basic training, but will go directly to Florida. Here are a few excerpts from his recent letter:

" Mom, I am eating like a horse. Three full, bountiful buffet meals a day and I don't even have to do the dishes! (smile) I passed my 1st physical test today with 60+ sit ups, 50+ push ups, and a mile and 1/2 in 10:36, one of the top. I need to get better in everything though. I have settled into somewhat of a routine here. On Sunday night I was appointed to one of six section leaders. BOOYAH! Actually, I was dragged in. I am responsible for 14 young, sometimes rebellious recruits. Please pray for me as I get a beating if these guys screw up." "The prayers are much felt and appreciated. I can't think on one day since I've been here that the Lord hasn't done something for me or spared me in some way. As unique an experience like this is, it comes at a dreadful cost.....boredom, constantly and repeatedly carrying out orders that sometimes contradict each other. I mustn't complain, I only have about 7-6.5 weeks lift and there is a faint glimmer of light at the end of this tunnel. This is soundly pounded into my head everytime I look at the mirror and see my short hair. They shaved it right down but now it's up to about 1/4 to 3/8, so I'm pumped. The Navy has some very lenient regulations on hair length so I'm going to be able to go back to my old style. (smile)"

Other points of interest: Andrew passed his swim test, the water for drinking is terrible, and his first church service was "very refreshing and needed"

I will continue to post as news comes in. Andrew's mom

News from Andrew 1

We received our first letter from Andrew on Thurs. Aug. 16th. He wants all to know: "I AM DOING FINE." He also wanted a few excerpts from his letter shared.

" The time has finally come and I've been allowed to write one letter. It is Sunday August 12 and we've been given our first hour of liberty since we got here. However, we also need to iron." " My daily routine here is very predictable and sometimes quite boring. Rev. is at 6:00 A.M. and we make racks and clean the floor by hand. We march down to breakfast around 7:00 and then go about our day: march, PT, class, etc. I was placed into a "handpicked" division. When we got here we were all broken down into divisions and I was placed in a 900 division, 944 to be exact. They are specialty divisions with the highest ASVAB scores and best physical condition. We have "Hall of Fame" instructors that don't let us forget it. It is almost a miracle that I got to write this letter. There is my spiritual life which, I am thankful and glad to report has never been stronger. The Lord has been my Guide, closest Friend, Helper, Sustainer, and Deliverer since the day I walked through these doors. I have grown much not only be necessity but by the desire to grow closer to Him."

I will post any updates as they come. Continue to write to him. Andrew's mom

Andrew's new address

SR Peck, Andrew
Ship 06 Division 944
Recruit Training Command
3301 Indiana Street
Great Lakes, IL
60088-3127

All my bags are packed

Well, it's come to that time. Write to me when you get the chance and please keep me in your prayers. I am going out on this venture with every intention of returning not only as a U.S. sailor but a better man. This is to date the most monumental time in my short existence here on earth and I hope it won't be my last.

I have thought many times about why I am doing this and there are many reasons. First of all, there are tremendous opportunities to be able to further my education, there is the hope that I will be able to see some different parts of the world and there are great benefits. But most important to me is the fact that I will be able to serve my country and be able to carry that distinction with me throughout my life however long (or short) it may be. I love my country to death and despite of all her shortcomings, she is still a great nation.

So, with that being said, send mail, pray, and I'll hope to see you all very soon.

Andrew D. Peck