For many mothers, the military organization can be scary, intimidating, and confusing to navigate as the parent of a new Army recruit. The Armed Forces can feel strangely unfamiliar with an entirely different set of rules. CJ Sullivan shares her experiences as the mother of two National Guard soldiers before, during, and after basic combat training. Her familiarity with the pre- and post-enlistment activities spans over a fourteen-year period of time, and offers advice for the circumstances she has encountered in an effort to prepare you for similar events. Guidance along the maze of joining the Army is presented in a matter-of-fact approach through each step of the process. The chapters are filled with practical suggestions, keen observations, and even a few raw emotions mixed with a balance of encouragement and tough love for new Army moms. This book was specifically written for you, as the mother of one of our nation’s finest representatives, with a goal of helping you stay informed and building a better soldier from home.