Orientation...

Day 1 was scheduled to begin at 1pm. The plan was to see a few things before going to the USO, but... my body decided to sleep a few hours longer instead.

On the way out of the hotel, I decided to walk instead of waiting for the complimentary shuttle service... according to the internet, my destination was only about a half mile away. After being pointed in the right direction, I quickly realized the steep incline in front of me, but I continued to walk anyway. It was a beautiful day... about high 50's and I noticed that the people around town were bundled up in jackets. One would think I should have done the same, but I had on a long sleeve shirt and thought that would be sufficient. At this point, I needed to eat. Luckily for me, I noticed a little bit of home... a Subway sign. Of course, I was a bit disappointed when they didn't have spinach to sub for the lettuce as I normally do in CA. I knew I was pushing my luck asking for avocado, but I did it anyway. The sandwich specialist didn't really know how to answer me, but the guy in line behind me quickly stepped up and added, "It's not an East coast thing, I guess." Geez... ya think? lol Anyway, I proceeded to pay for my sandwich and was asked if I wanted a drink. I politely questioned the cashier if Raspberry Iced Tea was available. He responded, "No." I paid for a drink anyway and found Raspberry Iced Tea next to the normal fountain drinks. I called my daughter while I ate to share my experience. We both got a laugh out of it.

After arriving at the USO, I met Thomas, my new co-worker. and another employee headed to Dover, Delaware, to assist in dignified transfers. After being greeted by Human Resources, we had a USO Q&A session. I thought it was an open forum and kept answering the questions, but was politely told to give the others a chance. Later I met Gene, the recruiter who has been with me every step of the interview and hiring process. He shared pictures of my new home and workplace and reminded us of the rules of living as a guest on a military base.

Day 2 began at 9:30am and was filled with information from every department at the USO. Lunch was provided around noon. My favorite presentation was from Entertainment... found out that input is welcomed in finding new talent for the USO tours. Around 3pm there was a "March Madness" themed meet and greet where we had a chance to shoot hoops for prizes, eat an afternoon snack and talk with employees that were not involved in orientation. I won a prize for throwing the most missed baskets! lol Before we left, we took a group photo... I don't have a copy at the moment, but I will ask HR and post it later.