Training Continues
“Battle Stations”

This week marks Week Eight of boot camp, and your Sailor is entering the home stretch toward graduation. Let’s dive into what they’ll be up to!

Official Fitness Assessment and Maintenance Shape

Boot camp reaches a turning point this week with the arrival of the Official Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA). From the very first day, recruits have been relentlessly training for this moment. The long runs, intense cycling sessions, recovery days, and grueling PT sessions have all been designed to build their physical resilience and mental fortitude. Earning at least a “Satisfactory-Medium” score on the PFA is essential for graduation.

The PFA is a demanding test measuring core strength and endurance through push-ups, planks, and a 1.5-mile run. Success in the PFA is a major accomplishment and marks a critical step toward a fulfilling career in the Navy. Physical fitness will remain a cornerstone of their development throughout their service, alongside mastering the technical skills required for their specific Navy role.

The Culminating Event

Battle Stations is the ultimate capstone event at Navy Boot Camp, a grueling 12-hour test that tests everything your recruit has learned. This hands-on survival at sea exercise challenges recruits with realistic scenarios involving teamwork, seamanship, firefighting, damage control, and more. It’s a physically and mentally demanding experience that is challenging, exciting, exhausting, and above all, inspiring.

This is the final hurdle standing between recruits and the title of United States Navy Sailor. During Battle Stations, recruits must demonstrate mastery of critical skills independently—without instructor intervention. It’s a true test of resilience, discipline, and readiness, proving they are prepared for life in the fleet and worthy of wearing the Navy uniform.

I Am A United States Sailor

Once your recruit conquers Battle Stations, they’ll experience a truly emotional and motivating ceremony: The Capping Ceremony. This marks the official end of their recruit phase and their transformation into Sailors.

By placing the Navy ball cap on their head, they’ll declare to the world that they’ve earned the right to be called a United States Navy Sailor. It’s a powerful moment and the first time they’ll recite the Sailor’s Creed as a Sailor!

With this new title comes a significant responsibility. As Sailors, they’ll be expected to uphold the Navy’s Core Values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment, living up to the true meaning of “Shipmate.”

If all goes well during Battle Stations, your recruit might have the opportunity to grab a well-deserved meal and, most importantly, make a phone call home! This is often called the “I’m a Sailor Call,” a chance to share their incredible accomplishment with loved ones.

One Team, One Fight

Building on the teamwork established in boot camp, Sailors will participate in thrilling Damage Control (DC) Olympics. These simulated real-world scenarios test their teamwork,  firefighting, and athletic ability in a competitive and fast-paced environment.

Here, recruit divisions can earn the coveted Captain’s Cup Flag, which signifies their success as a team.

Graduation Preparation

Preparing for Graduation is an exciting time! There are some key things to remember as you begin to make plans and travel arrangements for this memorable event.

All guests attending graduation must be on the access list to pick up tickets. Tickets are picked up in person at the Navy Exchange in Burkey Mall’s Recruit Family Welcome Center. Graduation information can be found on the RTC Official website.

You Have Been Instrumental In Their Success

Remember, your unwavering support has been crucial in your Sailor’s journey. Be proud of them and yourself for getting them this far!

Your Sailor is almost ready to graduate and head to A School, where they’ll receive specialized training in their chosen Navy rating. Locations vary for A School, and you’ll soon find out from your Sailor where they’ll be stationed. Once they know, discuss post-graduation plans, including liberty (free time). You can write to them and ask about this.

Stay tuned in for more insights into Week Nine and beyond. 

Hooyah,

SgtMaj Paul Davis, USMC (Ret)