RECRUIT TRAINING COMMAND
The Recruit Training Command (RTC) is where the excitement -- your adventure -- begins. It's here that you'll make your transition from civilian to military life.
Basic training or "bootcamp" is a nine-week indoctrination program under the auspices of our Recruit Training Command (RTC). Your training will be in Illinois, which is about 40 miles north of Chicago. Here you'll learn all the "basics" about living, learning, and working in the Navy.
Millions of men and women have received training at RTC since it's establishment July 1, 1911. In fact, during World War II, nearly a million men were trained at Great Lakes.
At RTC, you'll experience a busy schedule of lectures and drills on Navy history, traditions, customs, and regulations. You'll also receive instruction in basic military subjects, firefighting, deck seamanship, weapons and weapons systems, and safety. You'll also be completing forms, medical and dental exams, inoculations for protection from a variety of diseases, haircuts, and swim survival tests. This instruction is covered in a six-phase training approach.
After you arrive at RTC, you'll join about 84 young men and women who'll make up your recruit division. Besides completing all the classroom training, everyone must pass regular uniform, military drill, locker, and barracks inspections. You'll routinely drill with an M-16 rifle and of course, also work on physical fitness and military drill.
Keep in mind that recruit training isn't easy. The first three weeks are especially tough. You'll be faced with obstacles to over come and standards to meet. It's important to understand that you must satisfactorily complete all phases would mean a delay in completing the program. So, stay focused and motivated. This along with a positive "can do" spirit, will help you get through to graduation day.