| Navy Boot Camp Graduation is the day when | | | | families. After an initial fifteen second "I'm here" call, |
| Recruits have their first Pass In Review (PIR) as new | | | | communication shuts down for several weeks. There |
| Sailors in the United States Navy. It is a day much | | | | is the occasional letter sent when Recruits are |
| anticipated by Sailors and their family. With only a | | | | allowed time to write on Sundays. And there might |
| couple of exceptions, PIR is held on Fridays in | | | | have been a phone call or two. But the end of |
| Freedom Hall, a large building on the Recruit Training | | | | graduation marks the first time that Sailors and |
| Command side of Great Lakes Naval Training Station. | | | | families have seen each other for weeks. |
| Graduating from Boot Camp is an occasion for pride | | | | After the ceremony is over, most of the time Sailors |
| in accomplishment. A Sailor at PIR has successfully | | | | have a whole weekend with their families - although |
| completed eight or nine weeks of Boot Camp, | | | | they usually must report back to their ship (barracks) |
| including the final test of Battle Stations. From the | | | | at night. During this time, they must stay in uniform |
| moment the huge doors roll up, guests are treated | | | | and abide by a strict set of rules of behavior. Despite |
| to an impressive array of military excellence. | | | | this, Sailors are free to go to the Mall, or go into |
| Graduating Sailors wear the dress uniform - white or | | | | Chicago. Many choose, however, to lounge around a |
| blue according to the season - and display the | | | | hotel and have the luxury of a long - and private - |
| accomplishments of their division to the reviewing | | | | shower. |
| Officers and visitors. Special 900 divisions also | | | | During the weekend of PIR, families - especially |
| perform special music and a special flag display. At | | | | parents - often remark on the huge change they see |
| the close of the ceremony, there are remarks by a | | | | in the new Sailor. There is a sense of self confidence |
| special speaker. And then "Liberty" is called. | | | | and assurance. And there should be. Only the best |
| For most guests, the whole graduation ceremony is | | | | make it through Navy Boot Camp. Only the best |
| spent trying to spot 'their' Sailor, and waiting for that | | | | have what it takes to become Sailors in the United |
| moment of liberty. When a recruit ships to Boot | | | | States Navy. |
| Camp, he or she is allowed very minimal contact with | | | | |