<p>Hi all, Im new to this board, but Ive been lurking here for about a week now. Ive enjoyed reading your post about your loved ones at the Academy. </p>
<p>I have to mention that my son is in the Hellcat squadron and is doing vary well and Im fortunate to live in Colorado Springs and can see my son from time to time up on the Hill.
I want to tell all friends and love ones of the basic cadets of the Barbarians squadron, I got to see and talk to some of them over the last couple of days on their tour at Norad in Cheyenne Mountain AFB. I was told by the cadre it was one of their rewards for winning Honor Flight (Congrat!!!). </p>
<p>They looked awesome! I was floored by how professional they looked; DDO must have done them good. I just retired from the Air Force 3 months ago and I got to tell you all that the basics I saw made me swell with such pride for them and the hope they will make it through all four years at the Academy. Im sorry I dont recall the names of the basics I talked to, because I didnt want to get any of them in trouble with their new cadre, but if I see the last group coming through tomorrow I will memorize their names and post what a can tommorrow. </p>
<p>I believe this is a tough time for all, but more so for those who don’t live in Colorado Springs. I hope this helps anyone who know the great men and women of Barbarians squadron.</p>
<p>Welcome to CC. My guy was not in the group you saw, but thanks for keeping all of us posted on any more cadets you may come across.</p>
<p>Thanks USAFADad, very nice post. I welcome you as well and look forward to any insight you can share by being close by. Thanks!</p>
<p>I lurked here the majority of last year while my doolie was in prep school. The parents and kids on this site helped me more than they know in many ways. I remember when my son destroyed or lost his retainers. I followed the advice from this site and he was fixed up with a new pair pronto--no hassles. And that's just one instance.</p>
<p>You'll find it comforting here. And you will be in good company. :)</p>
<p>MarathonMon thank you - I to have gotten a great deal from information this site. My Basic also went though Prep last year (Bravo Squadron); I wonder if we crossed paths last year. </p>
<p>AFDAD2010 Im sorry about you son and his knee injury, my son hurt his foot during an intramural basketball game while still in basic training. He had to wear a walking boot for 3 weeks and missed two football games rehabing. I was so nerves that they were going to send him home. As for your son I have no doubt that if your son chooses to return next year he will be mentally and physically stronger than before and he will emerge as a true leader. Please keep us posted on rehab progress.</p>
<p>USAFADad,</p>
<p>I'm guessing you were referencing my son's knee rather than AFDAD2010's. Our names are too similar, I should change mine to something 2011. I picked him up at the airport last night. He's disappointed (we all are) but is in good spirits and no worse for wear. His knee is sore and stairs are a challenge, but he has his Dr's. appointment on Monday so we'll get started on whatever's necessary right away. One never expects these things are going to happen, just have to make the best of them when they do. Now that he's home and we have the full story, it seems it's a bucket handle tear to the meniscus rather than an MCL tear. I'm told that's a better diagnosis.</p>
<p>Thanks for the well wishes, and I'll keep you all posted.</p>
<p>USAFADad,</p>
<p>It's a good chance we did. My son was in Bravo too!</p>
<p>Yes, that's a much better diagnosis. Of the 8 knees in our family, I've lived through 2 torn ACL's. Your son will be fine. A torn miniscus is a much easier operation with a quicker recovery and easier rehab. I know it's still very disappointing but I wish you all the best. I know your son will be back next year even stronger!</p>