Types of Recruit Companies at Great Lakes NTC

Great Lakes Company Front, 1977. GGA Image ID # 219b502e44

Introduction

The article "Types of Recruit Companies at Great Lakes NTC" explains the different kinds of recruit companies at the Naval Training Center in Great Lakes, focusing on the differences between regular and special unit companies.

There are two types of recruit companies at Great Lakes—regular companies and special unit companies. Although both receive identical curriculum instruction as well as physical and military training, they differ most in their activities during evenings and weekends.

Regular Companies

A regular company will spend much of its free time practicing for competitive events—military drill, athletic contests and inspections—with the goal of attaining Color Company designation at Graduation Review.

Special Units

Special units have a similar program, with the exception of drill, but in addition they must spend many hours practicing and rehearsing for their performances at several reviews.

These units—Drill Team, Drum and Bugle Corps, Bluejacket Choir, State Flags, Honor Guard and Staff Units—also perform in parades and ceremonies in the surrounding civilian community.

End Result

Regardless of the type of company, however, the end results are the same—long hours, hard work and strenuous discipline—as civilians are transformed into fleet-ready sailors.

Key Points

• Regular Companies: Focus on drills and competitions.
• Special Units: Include specialized groups like the Drill Team and Choir.
• Common Goal: Transform civilians into disciplined sailors.

Summary

Great Lakes NTC hosts both regular and special unit recruit companies, each providing rigorous training to prepare recruits for Navy service.

Conclusion

Both types of companies ensure recruits are well-prepared for their naval duties.