Great Lakes | Week 9

Training Continues
“Graduation”

It’s time for graduation! While the excitement for a reunion is sure to be high, remember that your Sailor still has a few final milestones before officially becoming a United States Navy Sailor.

Continued Sailorization

This week signifies a crucial turning point for the newly minted Sailor as they press forward on their “Sailorization” journey. The demanding training persists, but this phase now concentrates on preparing them for their forthcoming assignments and adapting to the Navy’s way of life. It’s a packed week brimming with essential activities: learning about their upcoming duty station transfers, receiving official orders for their next assignment, and participating in team-building events specifically designed to foster teamwork and resilience.

Next Steps

Sailors will meet with their transfer clerks to determine the final details of their next duty station and receive their official orders. The Navy recognizes the importance of this step and often pairs new Sailors with experienced sponsors who offer invaluable support and advice as they prepare for the next step of their journey.

Preparing For The Future

Boot camp Sailor for Life focuses on preparing your Sailor for life beyond boot camp, equipping them with essential skills for a successful military career.

New sailors are introduced to the essential skills they’ll need to thrive in their careers. From staying organized and managing finances effectively to mastering time management, these skills will equip them to handle the demands of Navy life. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally, is also emphasized.

Boot camp also prepares Sailors for frequent relocations or permanent change of station (PCS), hallmarks of military service. They’ll understand what to expect when living aboard ships, and, importantly, discover the educational opportunities the Navy offers to help them advance their careers or explore their interests.

This well-rounded training ensures your Sailor is prepared for their technical training and the unique demands of military life.

United We Stand: The Power Of Comaradrie

The core of a strong Navy lies in its cohesive teams. Through coaching, mentorship, and events like Warrior Toughness, recruits forge unbreakable bonds with their fellow shipmates. This camaraderie isn’t just for show. Sailorization is all about building a cohesive Navy team. Through MyNavy Coaching, mentorship, and competitive events, Sailors forge strong bonds with their fellow shipmates, fostering a sense of camaraderie that will serve them well throughout their careers.

Preparing For Lifelong Service

This week, your Sailor will wrap up the Life Skills program, a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in their Navy career. Physical fitness remains a priority, ensuring they stay in peak physical condition. Additionally, they’ll receive briefings on liberty (free time off base) procedures.

Next Steps

Sailors will meet with their transfer clerks to determine the final details of their next duty station and receive their official orders. The Navy recognizes the importance of this step and often pairs new Sailors with experienced sponsors who offer invaluable support and advice as they prepare for the next step of their journey.

Graduation Ceremony

Graduation week culminates on Thursday morning with the official ceremony, celebrating all Sailors who conquered the challenging 9-week boot camp experience. The culmination of their journey: This formal event celebrates your Sailor’s accomplishment and the dedication of Recruit Training Command. Applause is highly encouraged to show your immense pride!

While not everyone can attend in person, a free live stream will be available on the Navy Recruiting Command Facebook Page for those who cannot attend. Only use the official Facebook page for Recruit Training Command; they always stream the graduation ceremony for free!

Following Graduation

Liberty following graduation will depend on your Sailor’s assigned duty station and “A” School location. Some Sailors may remain at Recruit Training Command for additional administrative processing, while others may transfer to Naval Station Great Lakes for nearby “A” School training. Sailors assigned to more distant schools may begin their transfer over the weekend.

Because schedules and liberty policies can change, families are strongly encouraged to visit the Recruit Training Command’s official graduation for the most current information regarding liberty, access, and post-graduation guidance.

Be sure to also communicate with your Sailor to understand their specific plans. “A” School is where they will begin developing the specialized skills required for their Navy career.

On behalf of all of us at Sandboxx, congratulations on reaching this incredible milestone!

Fair Winds and Following Seas,

SgtMaj Paul Davis, USMC (Ret)