I remember right before our first couple of laps around freedom hall I responded to Comeaux as "chief" by accident. He said "Thank you for the promotion." Funny guy man.
One time in boot camp a bunch of random chiefs came into our compartment and started yelling. These few chiefs would do this every once in a while because they were not on push and would pretty much just get bored. The security watch accidentally called one of the chiefs “senior chief” and the chief responded with, “OH WOW! Thanks for reminding me… THAT I DIDNT MAKE SENIOR CHIEF!” Later that day we were joking about it and my RDC said he was never even eligible for senior chief. Probably the funniest thing I witnessed in boot camp.
My guy is nervous as all hell, explaining stuff like nail clippers as nail clippers. Don't get me wrong, he did a good job still, thoroughly explaining everything. Good guy.
Nail clippers were also used to clip "Irish pennants" from our uniforms. Of course, someone decided to change the nomenclature of those because they thought the Irish were offended. The only thing that offends us are phrases like "Last call!" and "We're out of beer."
There are some items which are identical to what I was issued back in 1986, but a lot of the stuff is much nicer and obviously better quality. Thanks to everyone out there serving our country. As a Navy retiree, I am proud to see there are still people willing to make the sacrifices that are part of Naval service.
The foot wear is what captured my attention. We were not allowed to wear white cotton socks beneath the black wool ones before getting those 80s era chuka boots. I ended up in the hospital when blisters loaded with bits of wool sent streaks of infection up the back of my ankle. Slept on my stomach with my heels out for regular inspections, like they were in uniform. For 20 years my feet were never the same. LOL!!!
@@melindajohnson3394 I wear size 12 shoes and when we went through basic issue, they didn't have any chuka boots in my size. I got to wear my civilian sneakers for most of bootcamp. Then a week before graduation my boots came in. They wound up screwing up my feet, so my company commander told me I didn't have to attend graduation if I didn't want to. This was a big relief because we had all been threatened with having our liberty revoked if we passed out during graduation. I didn't have any family coming, so I was happy to stay at the barracks and enjoy liberty afterward.
I too went to boot camp in 1986 (San Diego). Yeah the running shoes we had were very basic blue Nikes I think with a yellow Nike symbol. We did get issued actual swim trunks separate from the PT shorts and just wore regular white shirts for PT. We definitely did not get back packs. Kinda jealous.
The ditty box exchange room is what makes you realize that bootcamp is going to suck. I remember going in, being excited after watching all the documentaries, knowing not to step on the flags, feeling the adrenaline of the screams around you. No no no, stepping into that room, such quick pressure, people often misspell their own name.
I still have my ditty bag, safety pin, Bluejacket's Manual, Dress Blues and a couple command ballcaps from my time (1995-2001). Like Petty Officer Comeaux says, it's personal history. There's a story to be told with those things.
If I were to get bored & really dig deep within all of my stuff I’ve had over the years, I’m sure my basic training books & such are still there. As he said & most fellow military members can agree, it’s history.
It sounds crazy, with all the hygene products but damn, until you get to boot camp you never realize all the different people from around the world and around the country. We had a guy in my division who didnt have running water in his house, we had another guy from africa somewhere and he was shocked at everything we were issued. Makes you be glad for you had.
CYCOlogist You don't have to be a citizen to join the military. Many people that want to immigrate to the US will join the military to fast track their citizenship. It also allows them to come here on stable footing, depending on how long they serve. Their MOS can also open up many job paths once they get out. Lots of Kenyans, Somalian, Moroccans, and South Africans will become soldiers here to get quick citizenship.
@@cycologist7069 I think the point stands, though. A kid in my company was from the Virgin Islands and had no running water at home. When some of us had our wisdom teeth removed, he had to get about 10 teeth pulled and replaced with dentures.
MM2 Comeaux! Thank you for your support. He was my RDC during my bootcamp 2020. Dude was easy going but firm. He encouraged me to pass my swim qual and i am forever grateful to EN1 Clatfelter, MM2 Kitchen and MM2 Comeaux. DIV 119 Hooyah!!
He breaks it down like I break down my outfits for my friends… “look at this skirt, it has this little pocket and I can get my little ID there and my metro cards and my keys… really comfy”
Graduated Nov. 2021 This is 100% all that is required although around the week six time period it helped when we went to the NEX for getting slightly more supplies for both personal and academic use. I Loved Bootcamp, and I wish more get to enjoy those same memories.
Dad went through farragut, idaho navy base in ww2. He kept his bluejacket book all his life, for a depression era country boy from central Missouri it was very important. He pulled the book out when I injured myself with a hand saw at 8 years old and went to the 1st aid section, bandage me up and off to the ER for stitches. Granddad, his dad in ww1 went Great lakes training base.
Talking to my recruiter tomorrow and it’s been on my mind to enlist since my junior year and I feel that all the knowledge and videos people have put out and friends who went has helped a lot ease the nervousness about it. Looking forward to it honestly.
@@electroeric4321 It is jarring to go through that first night/day. It's meant to be for everyone. However it is livable, as is boot. Just keep your head on straight and relax when you can.
This video is very informative and brings back memories for me, too. My brother was career Canadian Army-he was RCR for 17 years and when I was a kid, he used to bring me home small items such as dog tags, camo stick, t-shirts, note books and stickers etc. He died in 2021 and I miss him a lot. Pro Patria, big brother❤️
Boy , LOTS of MEMORIES in THIS DOCUMENTARY for THIS 'OL SAILOR! In 1978 I enlisted in the NAVY in St. Paul, Minnesota, and was flown to Chicago, then put on a BUS and dropped off HERE! BOOT CAMPI went thru BOOT @ RECRUIT NAVAL COMMAND, GREAT LAKES, ILLINOIS. These exact rooms, halls and buildings. I was PROUD to serve my country then and now.
I went through Great Lakes back in the summer of 1999, almost 30 years ago. They get so much more than we were issued. We did not get a backpack and we had canteens. Its amazing how much things change in almost 30 years' time. I served from June 1999 until October 2008. I still have my stenciled seabag from those days. Its now my laundry bag.
God ditty box issue was the most hilarious experience and my favorite memory of bootcamp 🤣 Night of arrival is intense, everyone is scared and nervous and the RDCs are yelling at you. Petty Officer Pham, I will never forget you 😂😆 I wanted to burst out laughing so badly but you were screaming at everyone for not speaking up about getting the wrong size skivvies and making them wear it anyway 😂😂
There's no other experience quite like standing in front of an empty cardboard box at attention in your birthday suit with a few dozen other dudes getting screamed at.
@@marcchanel When we were in line waiting to go in the room for ditty issue. He was giving us the whole welcome reminder speech. “You assholes are in god damn f***** navy bootcamp! You wont eat, sleep, shit, piss or beat your dicks unless we say so!” 🤣 Finally we start filling in ranks in the room with our empty cardboard boxes on the table. Im about 2 recruits behind the door waiting to walk in, one recruit didnt go all the way down the line and stopped halfway, he was a bigger tall guy and the guy all the way at the end was pretty small. I hear him scream at the one who stopped half way “WHY THE F*** DID YOU STOP HERE?!? GO ALL THE WAY DOWN!! HES SMALL AS SHIT!!!” 😂😂🤣🤣 I cannot tell this story without laughing everytime. It was too hilarious
What division? I was in 120. We were one of the only three divisions in the training group that were in the Constitution. I think the rest were in the Arleigh Burke or some shit.
Back when I was in the Navy, we didn't get a lot of the items they show in this video, we did our workouts in steel toe shoes, things have changed, what they get now is much better, more comfortable
When I was in basic, we never used the bluejacket's manual. it was always our recruit training guide. Interesting to see how in the span of 7 years things changed so much. We were issued the BM but never used it. Just like, at the time, we had the blueberries, and we only used like 2 or 3 of 6 blue t shirts we were issued. We did laundry so often that we didn't need more than that. We also "cheated" during compartment inspections and did things like everyone removing everything not perfect in their racks and hiding it in the washers (i.e. recently quick folded t shirts, extra uniforms, etc.) EDIT: I like that they provide chapstick and lotion (the number of times my lips would crack and bleed I cannot count) but I'm genuinely curious if the razor and shaving cream is issued to all recruits now? When I was there you'd get that in initial ditty bag, and only as a male, females would be allowed to buy that stuff at the NEX on your first trip, but it wasn't "standard issue" ffor females at that point. I noticed something missing, which I don't remember if it was first issue, or passed out shortly thereafter, but that's the NEX card. Because of different socio-economic backgrounds, recruits were given a $150 NEX gift card (I think it was $150, might've been $100) so they could buy things from the NEX if needed, such as extra notebooks, more pens, more hygeine supplies, etc.
The chapstick surprised me too. Wished we had that when I was in. Also was envious of their shorts. We had the old paint them on type. Hated the things.
When I went through Army Basic Training, they took us to a AAFES Shopette that was set up with the CIF and they gave us brown undershirts, brown underwear briefs, green socks, athletic socks, personal hygiene items, and showers shoes. They informed us that these items would be deducted from our first paycheck. As a result, I got no pay on my first LES. Unlike the Navy, I was never reimbursed.
I’m pretty sure we were not reimbursed for initial uniform issue when I was in the navy, although we did get a small uniform subsidy once a year. Then again, it was a long time ago, so I could be remembering incorrectly.
When my uncle (British army ww2 ) after being a pow of the Japanese, received his backpay when the war was over, deducted was the cost of one Lee Enfield rifle....thank you for your service!!
I remember finishing Battle Station drenched, exhausted, miserable beyond comprehension back in the days. And yet at the same time, felt completely relieved and at ease. Moments later, after donning the NAVY ballcap, that was such an emotional and proud moment to just let out all emotions and sobbing uncontrollably knowing that I've EARNED it. This was in August of 2002, nearly a year after 9/11. The second happiest moment from boot camp was taking the train down to Chicago and just strolling around in Dress Whites with a couple of battle buddies during liberty weekend. That sense of freedom after being cooped up at Great Lakes for over 2 months in the Summer. To this day, I still believe downtown Chicago is the most beautiful city in the Summer. Just a few more years left then I call it retirement, stepping away relieved knowing full well that today's Sailors will capably stand the Watch. In the words of JFK when asked what he is most proud of, he said, "I stick out my chest, hold my head high and state proudly, 'I served in the United States Navy!" V/r EOCS 🎶 Anchors Aweigh! ⚓🎵
My dad was pre WW2 so I'm trying to imagine the ditty boxes back then and all that was involved certainly not like today. To all in the Navy active or retired, thank you all for your service and all thanks to those who served who are no longer with us.
Aside from nervous this guy seems almost giddy to explain his job, I might not agree with every war or intervention but they definitely give a lot of these guys something to care for.
What an improvement wearing tennis shoes throughout boot camp. Back in my day (80s), I think about half of my company came out of boot camp with at least shin splints, or in my case, stress fractures. Glad they're getting appropriate tools for what they're being asked to do. And we wore the classic blue dungarees! No type 3s. That was only seabees! Brought our own underwear, but were warned ahead of time: Get granny panties! Because on inspection day, you didn't want to be messing with thongs lol But WOW...way more stuff than we got! And a crazy amount of stuff to actually look after them, like water bottles.
2001 and earned myself the stress fractures. Had to drug myself up before my last doctor visit before battle stations itself. All the 800 motrin I saved from wisdom tooth extraction. It didn't last the entire night. 🦶😖
We were taught how to roll and fold clothes, pack a sea bag, pack a ditty bag, lace boots, make a rack, trim our nails, polish shoes, even take a shower as to waste the least time, etc. There were nine of we kids after adopting our cousins, so things had to run smoothly like on a ship!
But that is pretty much all for naught when you get on your first ship. And not to mention, because the navy considers this hazing and hurts feelings, you will never get to experience the enjoyable mail bouy watch, being told to get some relative bearing grease, or a bucket of steam, or 50 feet of waterline. And since the navy got rid of the boiler tech rate, you will never get to experience the always enjoyable 'BT' punch. Probably can't even tack on 'crows' anymore. You know, because of feelings.
I remember finding my dads Blue Jack manual when I was a kid. It was from the 1950’s. The pictures of the Navy planes were Hell Cats. I would love to see a current copy.
5:09 During my time at Great Lakes in 1992, we didn't get any water containers. If you wanted a drink, you had to wait in line for the water fountain (after getting permission to do so). 8:59 The black watch cap or the white dixie cap were the only two hats we were allowed to wear in basic. The black watch cap was the one we wore quite often. Yes, we wore that black knit cap in the middle of July while getting cycled and everything else. I got a ball cap when I got to the fleet. 15:36 As for paying for stuff, we were not allowed to carry money. Instead, we had to use paper chits that had a certain monetary value. At the end of basic, you turned them in and were credited for them. If a drill instructor thought that the company earned it, they'd let everyone go to the base commisssary for approved items.
To all people who don't know anything about the Navy, this is not what it is like. It's a lot worse. They yell at you and rush you big time to get your gear. But joining the Navy is definitely worth it.
goodness- when I went to boot, we didn't get HALF this stuff! It's net to see how things have changed, the things the Navy aded to make recruit's 'stay' more comfortable- I would have killed to have comfy shoes for PE, and all that swanky civvie heath and beauty gear! :)
"Comfy shoes" never thought I'd hear that. Those shoes gave me knee problems, and when I was able to wear my own shoes my run time went down two full minutes lmao.
@@preston4815 They let you wear your own shoes now? I had to go to medical where they told me i was developing tendonitis in my knees in order to get new shoes. Probably makes a world of difference.
@@iChandrian Yeah! I got to keep the Brooks I arrived in and wore those, they just made me put the go fasters I was issued in my rack for inspections and stuff.
39 y/o female covered in tattoos and I made it !! I ship out April 3 and all the videos I watched have saved my life! I can’t swim for sh*t, but I plan on just sucking it up and going for it. If I believe I can do it I will. I’m so thrilled I can’t wait! Thanks to all those who came before me. Ready for the journey!
Been putting a lot of content for Navy recently and I really appreciate that! I ship on 09/12. So all these videos have been helping me try and have a look from outside in and get in that mental state. Thank you very much.
Exactly what bro just said. Ngl if you a male don’t wear the tidy whiteys. The PT shorts have a liner in them just like swim trunks and they’re a lot more comfortable. You’re gonna have to where PT shorts under everything anyways.
Everything is different than when I went to RTC Navy boot camp in 1979. My unit was 3062 as a womens unit and we had a brother unit that trained right next to us. We were not issued backbacks, sweats, glowbelt at all. Guys had to PT on the grinder in their boots but us women got to wear sneakers. Very different. Loved my time in the Navy and went from E1 to E6. Still have 1 of my dog tags. Lost the other one. Made lifelong friends too
Very different than it was in 1976... We spent a half a day stenciling our names (first initial, last name) on everything but our socks. 3 pair of dark blue pants, 3 button down short sleeve (blue) shirts, 3 white t-shirts, 3 pair of 'tighty whitey' underware, 3 pair of black socks, one baseball style cap, 3 towels, 3 face clothes, one adjustable belt (not including the 'green slime' belt we wore until the last week of boot camp). One pair of boonies, one pair or those terrible white 'sneakers', the shower shoes, basically white flip-flops. 2 pair of black dress pants, 2 pair of white dress pants, 3 white dress shirts, one dress (black) jacket, one P-coat, one dress cap. I think that was all of it... 🤔 We did wear that key around our neck along with our dog tags. We never got any water bottle, which would have been nice on the grinder in Orlando. They get way more (cool) stuff these days. Do they still have to know their General Orders frontwards and backwards? We used the fingernail clippers often, but not to cut nails, for "Irish pennants"... lol
That was near exactly what I got too. Save that we did have one pair of smurfs as it was winter in the Great Lakes. They called irish pennants fuzz leaches when I was in though. Still find myself calling clippers ricky lawnmowers.
I love how the word "hygiene" has become a verb! Not knocking it. If I had to pester a bunch of young recruits to go clean their sweaty selves daily I think I would use that verb too.
I remember the show CPO Sharkey with Don Rickles as drill instructor CPO Sharkey. In the first episode, Sharkey is explaining to the recruits what is expected of them. He then pulls out a ditty bag and asks a recruit what he should keep in his ditty bag. "My ditties?" Of course, Rickles took off on him as only Rickles could do.
The smurfs have changed a lot since I went through. Had the big Navy seal on the back. And we had the supermarket sweep at the RTC NEX to get all of our hygiene stuff. Had like 10 mins to get everything on the list, if you missed any you couldn’t get anything until two weeks later. Fun days at RTC especially during the winter.
My night of arrival was july 21st 2022. I graduated september 30th and I remember at night of arrival we were in the dirty box room being issued all our stuff and following instructions on what to do. It was a big buff ass petty officer who was intimidating as hell yelling at us to move faster. One kid didn’t move fast enough putting all of his stuff into his seabag and he says “get your head out of your ass”, the recruit responds with “it’s already out sir”. The petty officer raised hell to say the least and brought him out to the hallway while yelling at him with a chief. Petty officer Comaux took over and his facial expression upon hearing the chaos outside was priceless.
I've had my dd214 for years and let me just say that I still despise the skivvies and the white socks they issued to me all those years ago. It is so abhorrent I should file with the VA disability for PTSD.
I really wanna see the boot camp for a coast guard rescue swimmer. i want to learn more about them and I feel like business insider is the best way to go about it. it would be awesome if you guys could make one!
Boot camp is the same for everyone, the tough part will start when they get to their A school. A number of brown water sailors went through Sonar school with me (1975), they got a much better deal.
Careful I was going to be a rescue swimmer but found out they close down their A-schools all the time in the coastguard. Now contracted to be a diver in the navy. Coastguard is awesome but the thought of being 3 years in before even going to A-school steered me towards navy
When I went through reception at Benning. we got issued our blue books and they made us read that nonstop cover to cover. And the stuff we got issued doesn't seem quite as nice as this and they seem to be getting way more. we had to do our own laundry and at times I went over a week without doing laundry because of how chaotic things were.
I still remember the day after I graduated bootcamp me and a shipmate went to the chow hall and a rdc who usually just cut the line got behind us this time as we were finally sailors it’s was small but it made the biggest impact to me, we was on hold for a few days it was weird still being at bootcamp but having graduated. Treated a bit better tho lol
They must have put some kind of stiffener in the laundry bags since I went through. Ours didn't keep their shape like that at all. Edit: Also, we didn't get any kind of a backpack. We had the seabag and the laundry bag to haul everything around in. Plus no fancy water bottle. Guard belts and a canteen. Also those fancy razors. We had single bladed disposables that you had to be careful not to cut your own throat with.
That was my time in too. My laundry bag was limp as a noodle. Sturdy though. If it wasn't the march to quarters would have had my kit strung out for miles that first night.
Orlando, vet here representing! We got dark blue "smurf" pt sweats. We had white tees wth a big blue N on the front and short shorts navy blue shorts with a white N. Women got to bring plain white panties. We had two sets. One we wore and one for inspections. We did not wear mens briefs. That is insane. We didnt get back packs. We had a green duty belt and a green canteen. We also wore green spats over the bottom of oud dungarees. Our ditty bag was white cotton laundry bag. I still got my blue jackets manuel. Mine has a white cover. Oh yeah, i was in an all female Company. The red ropes were CC Company Comanders. No stamp kit. We had stencils and a paint pen. Folks messed up stincils. I was careful, but the ones that messed up wore the messed up stinciled uniform all the way through.
Man, in AF basic ('87) we didn't get shoes (had to bring our own), no PT gear at all (PT was done in fatigues), no white socks (black only), no backpacks or water bottles, no garment bags, no hygiene items (had to bring your own or buy it) or towels (had to be purchased), no stationary. I feel I was shortchanged.
Right. Our water bottles were canteens, we had portfolios, no backpacks and Lackland lasers. PT was in BDU's and boots, no shower shoes. It is nice to see how things have progressed.
It's great that they give recruits so much, even if they get it deducted in their paychecks later. It helps a lot to those who come from bad financial backgrounds. I think that in my country it's not even half of those things.
When I was in we did not get even half that these new recruits are getting here. They also made us send the stuff we brought from home, home as it was not issued. Hated the skivvies as they were a size smaller than what you can get as a civilian.
It's crazy because in the federal prison my gang does the same thing as soon as you walk in and we know that you're in the same game will provide you with all of those same essentials. Basically to get you ready for war inside prison.
The way MM2 Comeaux described the boot camp skivvies is a fancy way of saying they're absolute trash. For anyone going into Navy boot camp, get comfortable underwear that you would actually wear everyday, keep the boot camp skivvies just for inspection purposes, and once you graduate boot camp, feel free to throw them away. Graduated May 31, 2019. Division 216.
Retired Navy veteran here (1999-2019). It seems alot had changed since I went through. We had ditty bag issue the night I arrived but we had stencil cards with a stencil pen instead of a stamp kit. It sucked trying to stencil all the items with this huge ass stencil card. The issued stencil marker was awful as well. It would have been nice to have that stamp kit when I was in. Also, Battle Stations was WAY different too. We had to divide the division into 4 elements that ran in ranks around RTC to each event with RDCs/facilitators in the front and in the back. The only way to get them to slow down was to sing cadence, and if you fell behind the rear RDCs too many times they dropped you from the nights events.
I entered boot camp in 1977. This all looks crazy to me. Gym shoes, (and even your choice of style?!), backpacks, suit bags, tshirts, locks to keep your valuables, (even the fact that you are allowed to have valuables), ball caps, chapstick, etc. My gosh, it’s all so fancy now. We even had to bring our own underwear to boot camp with us, although they told us what kind and how many of each.
@@CrankyPantss they issued me tighty whity underwear, but we were allowed to keep our own sneakers if they were in good condition. They seem to have it alot easier now than when we went through, that's for sure.
Was in that room a year ago, threw like 90% of that shit away, the boots socks got crusty ni matter how many times we did laundry. PT shorts are the bomb though, you can use em as shorts, pajamas, swim trunks, underwear, etc.
One thing I hated about this was that they would issue us a smaller size like we were in the 80's. They should of just let us pick out the size we need because it comes out of our check, they say issue, more like purchase.
What i put in my ditty box. Backpack, shoes, shirt, jeans, dental equipment, 2 iPads, 2 phones, 3 charging cables, power banks and jacket with wallet and keys.
@@richardlopez7983 I understand that, and thanks for the insight. My SEAL and Diver instructors gave me knowledge and insight on what bootcamp is really gonna be like.
I find it funny, because when I went to Boot in Great Lakes, we weren't issued a few of these things -- the backpack, sweats, those PT shorts and shirt, etc. -- and we also never got sneakers, we were issued our "Chucka" boots: heavy leather shoes with steel toes and heavy rubber soles. Also, the uniforms weren't those fatigues, we got the traditional Navy Dungarees (chambray shirt, with bell-bottom jeans, and our classic "Dixie Cup" sailor hats as well). I do remember getting my Sea Bag, as well as my first uniform issue . . . the best thing was the heavy Navy Pea coat, because while it was April when I first arrived in Great Lakes, it was still cold for a few weeks afterwards, and that thing was WARM!!! Kept me from freezing! Another funny thing, back then, the RTC Petty Officers weren't too concerned with hydration. We never got water bottles or even canteens. If we were thirsty, we had to wait until we were back at our barracks, or were permitted at whatever building we were at, and then we were allowed to "request" to get a drink from the water fountain nearby. Makes me just shake my head to see all the changes that have come in the Recruit commands since I joined up in 1988.
Glad to see the kids wear sneakers full time now (and good ones at that). We had so many recruits with tendinitis and even some stress fractures from marching/running around in steel-toe work boots that didn’t fit right.
@@jimwjohnq.public as my Chief once said while having us do a rain maker, "Pain is just weakness leaving your body." Now that I'm older I kind of miss my old boondockers and dungarees.
San Diego RTC July- September 1980. Co 160 Our athletic gear was white T shirt blue shorts white socks and Chuck Taylors. I still have my BJM from 43 years ago. We had to use Zest soap for all our body washing needs.
"They dont physically pay here, its taken out from their first check and eventually its put back in their check". Was that done so recruit would take care of their items?
oh man... a see through water bottle? The amount of times I filled my canteen up half way before PT because they would make us chug it after was too high... wouldnt be able to get away with that with these. LOL. Edit... OMG they are using that same notebook? I went through basic in 01 and we had that SAME notebook. Im sure I have mine in a tote somewhere. It had the 11 general orders, sailors creed, notes, and stuff I cant remember written down in it. Wow, talk about nostaliga. I guess if it aint broke dont fix it! lol and ocean breeze? Still? Really? I recently came across this stuff at a dicount store and popped the top to take a wiff. I was immediately transported to my time in the ship at basic.
I went to boot camp in 2005 and got some of the similar things, but a lot of the stuff has changed. Like Battle Stations being in a single building and not around the whole base.
Up in Canada at basic we got 2 duffle bags, ruck sack, barracks box, and laundry bag ALL full of crap, it was bananas, I member getting my helmet and being like "Okay this I might actually need!"
I remember right before our first couple of laps around freedom hall I responded to Comeaux as "chief" by accident. He said "Thank you for the promotion." Funny guy man.
He was cool asf. I knew I asked a dumb question because he would just do a about-face and walk away
When I was in back in 1989 in Orlando every single CC was a Chief or Senior there was no one below that.
nice🤣
Done so many times..
One time in boot camp a bunch of random chiefs came into our compartment and started yelling. These few chiefs would do this every once in a while because they were not on push and would pretty much just get bored. The security watch accidentally called one of the chiefs “senior chief” and the chief responded with, “OH WOW! Thanks for reminding me… THAT I DIDNT MAKE SENIOR CHIEF!” Later that day we were joking about it and my RDC said he was never even eligible for senior chief. Probably the funniest thing I witnessed in boot camp.
My guy is nervous as all hell, explaining stuff like nail clippers as nail clippers. Don't get me wrong, he did a good job still, thoroughly explaining everything. Good guy.
He's definitely camera shy but yeah he did a good job explaining.
MM2 Comeaux was my 2nd RDC and he was always shy and kept to himself lol
@@ripper1946 same here. “hey i don’t care” favorite saying
Nail clippers were also used to clip "Irish pennants" from our uniforms. Of course, someone decided to change the nomenclature of those because they thought the Irish were offended. The only thing that offends us are phrases like "Last call!" and "We're out of beer."
he called a lot of stuff “little”
“Big Navy in the front back” absolutely love this guy
Must be in military intelligence lmao he's great
I noticed that and was gonna quote it too
😂😂😂
You can see the pride in him when he talks about keeping the history going.
Love it.
this guy is the best. "they lil exercise", "they lil belt" everything lil. come and narrate all of the things in my life.
There are some items which are identical to what I was issued back in 1986, but a lot of the stuff is much nicer and obviously better quality. Thanks to everyone out there serving our country. As a Navy retiree, I am proud to see there are still people willing to make the sacrifices that are part of Naval service.
The foot wear is what captured my attention. We were not allowed to wear white cotton socks beneath the black wool ones before getting those 80s era chuka boots. I ended up in the hospital when blisters loaded with bits of wool sent streaks of infection up the back of my ankle. Slept on my stomach with my heels out for regular inspections, like they were in uniform. For 20 years my feet were never the same. LOL!!!
@@melindajohnson3394 I wear size 12 shoes and when we went through basic issue, they didn't have any chuka boots in my size. I got to wear my civilian sneakers for most of bootcamp. Then a week before graduation my boots came in. They wound up screwing up my feet, so my company commander told me I didn't have to attend graduation if I didn't want to. This was a big relief because we had all been threatened with having our liberty revoked if we passed out during graduation. I didn't have any family coming, so I was happy to stay at the barracks and enjoy liberty afterward.
I like those generic PX branded shoes. I used to wear those all the time growing up.
It's alot nicer from what we were issued in 1973. That's good stuff they are issued.
I too went to boot camp in 1986 (San Diego). Yeah the running shoes we had were very basic blue Nikes I think with a yellow Nike symbol. We did get issued actual swim trunks separate from the PT shorts and just wore regular white shirts for PT. We definitely did not get back packs. Kinda jealous.
The ditty box exchange room is what makes you realize that bootcamp is going to suck. I remember going in, being excited after watching all the documentaries, knowing not to step on the flags, feeling the adrenaline of the screams around you. No no no, stepping into that room, such quick pressure, people often misspell their own name.
I misspelled mine completely and had no idea how, guess I was just nervous lol
Dead of winter, my glasses broken from the going hot to cold from the plane at O'hare, arriving in that room 2300... yeah the pressure was on.
Try Marine Corps receiving week
I shipped my deodorant home. Lol
I still have my ditty bag, safety pin, Bluejacket's Manual, Dress Blues and a couple command ballcaps from my time (1995-2001). Like Petty Officer Comeaux says, it's personal history. There's a story to be told with those things.
Lowkey wish I still had my bluejackets manual
@@sugardaveyyepez134 I know it won't be "yours" but I'm sure you could still find a copy to buy.
If I were to get bored & really dig deep within all of my stuff I’ve had over the years, I’m sure my basic training books & such are still there. As he said & most fellow military members can agree, it’s history.
I went through in 2001, and still have most everything issued then.
Those are my exact service dates... ❤ shipmate.
It sounds crazy, with all the hygene products but damn, until you get to boot camp you never realize all the different people from around the world and around the country. We had a guy in my division who didnt have running water in his house, we had another guy from africa somewhere and he was shocked at everything we were issued. Makes you be glad for you had.
If he was from Africa, I'd think he lived in the States for a significant period of time before joining the Navy.
CYCOlogist You don't have to be a citizen to join the military. Many people that want to immigrate to the US will join the military to fast track their citizenship. It also allows them to come here on stable footing, depending on how long they serve. Their MOS can also open up many job paths once they get out. Lots of Kenyans, Somalian, Moroccans, and South Africans will become soldiers here to get quick citizenship.
@@cycologist7069 I think the point stands, though. A kid in my company was from the Virgin Islands and had no running water at home. When some of us had our wisdom teeth removed, he had to get about 10 teeth pulled and replaced with dentures.
Why the helll are we letting africans into the armed forces?
And then there’s the guys who came from stable homes but were apparently just never taught about maintaining personal hygiene
Ain’t no box like a diddy box
😭😭😭
I clicked on this video wondering if there was gonna be a diddy comment
😂😂😂
i knew this shit was gone be here 😂😂😂😂
💀💀
MM2 Comeaux! Thank you for your support. He was my RDC during my bootcamp 2020. Dude was easy going but firm. He encouraged me to pass my swim qual and i am forever grateful to EN1 Clatfelter, MM2 Kitchen and MM2 Comeaux. DIV 119 Hooyah!!
He was so nice!!! I had him during rom in 2021
EN1 Clatfelter was my brother div’s RDC!
I remember y’all I was 117
@@troytroutman7884 Hooyah 117
Clatfelter was first RDC, he was amazing, miss that guy.
He breaks it down like I break down my outfits for my friends… “look at this skirt, it has this little pocket and I can get my little ID there and my metro cards and my keys… really comfy”
Graduated Nov. 2021 This is 100% all that is required although around the week six time period it helped when we went to the NEX for getting slightly more supplies for both personal and academic use. I Loved Bootcamp, and I wish more get to enjoy those same memories.
What ship?
@@thiccboirook1246 I was in Ship:11 the Kearsarge
@@arick-sherman I was ship 6, uss constitution, what rate did you go?
USS Seawolf here!
Do they really make y'all wear those skivvys ?
Dad went through farragut, idaho navy base in ww2. He kept his bluejacket book all his life, for a depression era country boy from central Missouri it was very important. He pulled the book out when I injured myself with a hand saw at 8 years old and went to the 1st aid section, bandage me up and off to the ER for stitches.
Granddad, his dad in ww1 went Great lakes training base.
I was in Great Lakes, RTC in 2000. Helped me to grow up real quick! Good luck to all future Sailors!!!
Talking to my recruiter tomorrow and it’s been on my mind to enlist since my junior year and I feel that all the knowledge and videos people have put out and friends who went has helped a lot ease the nervousness about it. Looking forward to it honestly.
Great Lakes is a special place.
@@electroeric4321 It is jarring to go through that first night/day. It's meant to be for everyone. However it is livable, as is boot. Just keep your head on straight and relax when you can.
This video is very informative and brings back memories for me, too. My brother was career Canadian Army-he was RCR for 17 years and when I was a kid, he used to bring me home small items such as dog tags, camo stick, t-shirts, note books and stickers etc.
He died in 2021 and I miss him a lot. Pro Patria, big brother❤️
This guy seems like such a cool dude, explained everything really well.
Command of English not great.
Use of the word "little" is incessant.
Boy , LOTS of MEMORIES in THIS DOCUMENTARY for THIS 'OL SAILOR! In 1978 I enlisted in the NAVY in St. Paul, Minnesota, and was flown to Chicago, then put on a BUS and dropped off HERE! BOOT CAMPI went thru BOOT @ RECRUIT NAVAL COMMAND, GREAT LAKES, ILLINOIS. These exact rooms, halls and buildings. I was PROUD to serve my country then and now.
I went through Great Lakes back in the summer of 1999, almost 30 years ago. They get so much more than we were issued. We did not get a backpack and we had canteens. Its amazing how much things change in almost 30 years' time. I served from June 1999 until October 2008. I still have my stenciled seabag from those days. Its now my laundry bag.
God ditty box issue was the most hilarious experience and my favorite memory of bootcamp 🤣 Night of arrival is intense, everyone is scared and nervous and the RDCs are yelling at you. Petty Officer Pham, I will never forget you 😂😆 I wanted to burst out laughing so badly but you were screaming at everyone for not speaking up about getting the wrong size skivvies and making them wear it anyway 😂😂
There's no other experience quite like standing in front of an empty cardboard box at attention in your birthday suit with a few dozen other dudes getting screamed at.
I remember a Petty Officer Pham (went through there Jan-Apr 2022). He kept calling everyone “clown”. “CLOWN!”
Ah, y'all were in my training group lol
Petty Officer Pham said he would beat my ass haha
@@marcchanel When we were in line waiting to go in the room for ditty issue. He was giving us the whole welcome reminder speech. “You assholes are in god damn f***** navy bootcamp! You wont eat, sleep, shit, piss or beat your dicks unless we say so!” 🤣 Finally we start filling in ranks in the room with our empty cardboard boxes on the table. Im about 2 recruits behind the door waiting to walk in, one recruit didnt go all the way down the line and stopped halfway, he was a bigger tall guy and the guy all the way at the end was pretty small. I hear him scream at the one who stopped half way “WHY THE F*** DID YOU STOP HERE?!? GO ALL THE WAY DOWN!! HES SMALL AS SHIT!!!” 😂😂🤣🤣 I cannot tell this story without laughing everytime. It was too hilarious
What division? I was in 120. We were one of the only three divisions in the training group that were in the Constitution. I think the rest were in the Arleigh Burke or some shit.
Shipped out July 2020, a life changing experience. Good luck to everyone going through RTC.
Ayee. I got shipped off at the same time! July 3rd😭😭
@@Ann-by9bl oh really what’s your rate?
Cs😬😬
Army leads the way
@@503thekid cap
MM2 Comeaux! One of the best RDC out there! I always brag about him as my RDC. Always trust his process. 😌
Back when I was in the Navy, we didn't get a lot of the items they show in this video, we did our workouts in steel toe shoes, things have changed, what they get now is much better, more comfortable
When I was in basic, we never used the bluejacket's manual. it was always our recruit training guide. Interesting to see how in the span of 7 years things changed so much. We were issued the BM but never used it. Just like, at the time, we had the blueberries, and we only used like 2 or 3 of 6 blue t shirts we were issued. We did laundry so often that we didn't need more than that.
We also "cheated" during compartment inspections and did things like everyone removing everything not perfect in their racks and hiding it in the washers (i.e. recently quick folded t shirts, extra uniforms, etc.)
EDIT: I like that they provide chapstick and lotion (the number of times my lips would crack and bleed I cannot count) but I'm genuinely curious if the razor and shaving cream is issued to all recruits now? When I was there you'd get that in initial ditty bag, and only as a male, females would be allowed to buy that stuff at the NEX on your first trip, but it wasn't "standard issue" ffor females at that point.
I noticed something missing, which I don't remember if it was first issue, or passed out shortly thereafter, but that's the NEX card. Because of different socio-economic backgrounds, recruits were given a $150 NEX gift card (I think it was $150, might've been $100) so they could buy things from the NEX if needed, such as extra notebooks, more pens, more hygeine supplies, etc.
We had chit books to buy stuff in 88. Man how much better their stuff is these days! We didn't have half this stuff they get. ☺️🤗
Huh. I had the Bluejacket's manual back in 89.
@@DenaInWyo It's been in use, in some form, since John Paul Jones wrote the damn thing! When I was at basic, we never used it ourselves, idk why.
The chapstick surprised me too. Wished we had that when I was in. Also was envious of their shorts. We had the old paint them on type. Hated the things.
You get your eagle card as soon as youre done making your phone call letting your family know you made it
When I went through Army Basic Training, they took us to a AAFES Shopette that was set up with the CIF and they gave us brown undershirts, brown underwear briefs, green socks, athletic socks, personal hygiene items, and showers shoes. They informed us that these items would be deducted from our first paycheck. As a result, I got no pay on my first LES. Unlike the Navy, I was never reimbursed.
All these items issues are deducted from the recruit’s first two checks. Over $500.
I’m pretty sure we were not reimbursed for initial uniform issue when I was in the navy, although we did get a small uniform subsidy once a year. Then again, it was a long time ago, so I could be remembering incorrectly.
USAF basic first check was tiny due to all the deductions!
When my uncle (British army ww2 ) after being a pow of the Japanese, received his backpay when the war was over, deducted was the cost of one Lee Enfield rifle....thank you for your service!!
@@daffyd5867 still has the rifle I presume? That's super cool if so
I remember finishing Battle Station drenched, exhausted, miserable beyond comprehension back in the days. And yet at the same time, felt completely relieved and at ease. Moments later, after donning the NAVY ballcap, that was such an emotional and proud moment to just let out all emotions and sobbing uncontrollably knowing that I've EARNED it. This was in August of 2002, nearly a year after 9/11.
The second happiest moment from boot camp was taking the train down to Chicago and just strolling around in Dress Whites with a couple of battle buddies during liberty weekend. That sense of freedom after being cooped up at Great Lakes for over 2 months in the Summer. To this day, I still believe downtown Chicago is the most beautiful city in the Summer.
Just a few more years left then I call it retirement, stepping away relieved knowing full well that today's Sailors will capably stand the Watch.
In the words of JFK when asked what he is most proud of, he said,
"I stick out my chest, hold my head high and state proudly, 'I served in the United States Navy!"
V/r
EOCS
🎶 Anchors Aweigh! ⚓🎵
Diddy box
MM2 Comaux was my 3rd RDC in boot camp he was really encouraging and a funny guy im glad i had him as an RDC. HOOYAH 295!
Even talking about the Navy cap put him in his feels. Something so small but yet so big.
My dad was pre WW2 so I'm trying to imagine the ditty boxes back then and all that was involved certainly not like today. To all in the Navy active or retired, thank you all for your service and all thanks to those who served who are no longer with us.
Hillarious the Navy issue body wash is "Ocean Breeze" scented. I'm kind of shocked they aren't using bar soap.
Aside from nervous this guy seems almost giddy to explain his job, I might not agree with every war or intervention but they definitely give a lot of these guys something to care for.
What an improvement wearing tennis shoes throughout boot camp. Back in my day (80s), I think about half of my company came out of boot camp with at least shin splints, or in my case, stress fractures. Glad they're getting appropriate tools for what they're being asked to do. And we wore the classic blue dungarees! No type 3s. That was only seabees! Brought our own underwear, but were warned ahead of time: Get granny panties! Because on inspection day, you didn't want to be messing with thongs lol But WOW...way more stuff than we got! And a crazy amount of stuff to actually look after them, like water bottles.
2001 and earned myself the stress fractures. Had to drug myself up before my last doctor visit before battle stations itself. All the 800 motrin I saved from wisdom tooth extraction. It didn't last the entire night. 🦶😖
The tennis shoes are only until you get issued uniform and boots soon after. then its only for pt
We were taught how to roll and fold clothes, pack a sea bag, pack a ditty bag, lace boots, make a rack, trim our nails, polish shoes, even take a shower as to waste the least time, etc. There were nine of we kids after adopting our cousins, so things had to run smoothly like on a ship!
But that is pretty much all for naught when you get on your first ship. And not to mention, because the navy considers this hazing and hurts feelings, you will never get to experience the enjoyable mail bouy watch, being told to get some relative bearing grease, or a bucket of steam, or 50 feet of waterline. And since the navy got rid of the boiler tech rate, you will never get to experience the always enjoyable 'BT' punch. Probably can't even tack on 'crows' anymore. You know, because of feelings.
I remember finding my dads Blue Jack manual when I was a kid. It was from the 1950’s. The pictures of the Navy planes were Hell Cats. I would love to see a current copy.
excellent supply of essentials for new recruits! great care for people! the guy explained everything perfectly and intelligibly
I remember my Navy bootcamp of 2004. I hated bootcamp but it was a good experience. Thank God I'm not in the military no more.
We could make a video on shining shoes/ironing for the US Navy. When I served DECADES AGO most sailors were not trained in these areas.
I’m shipping out to RTC in 6 days. This was the perfect video to get me prepared to what I’m going to get once I get there. Thank you!
im going july 26
Videos ain’t gonna prepare you enough. Good luck!
It ain’t easy. It will break you. It’s meant to. But I promise you, you will be a better person after BMT. Good luck, future sailor. Hooyah!
OMG! Me too!! July 19 th right?
@@toplanegod8105 I go July 25th!
5:09
During my time at Great Lakes in 1992, we didn't get any water containers. If you wanted a drink, you had to wait in line for the water fountain (after getting permission to do so).
8:59
The black watch cap or the white dixie cap were the only two hats we were allowed to wear in basic. The black watch cap was the one we wore quite often. Yes, we wore that black knit cap in the middle of July while getting cycled and everything else.
I got a ball cap when I got to the fleet.
15:36
As for paying for stuff, we were not allowed to carry money. Instead, we had to use paper chits that had a certain monetary value. At the end of basic, you turned them in and were credited for them. If a drill instructor thought that the company earned it, they'd let everyone go to the base commisssary for approved items.
To all people who don't know anything about the Navy, this is not what it is like. It's a lot worse. They yell at you and rush you big time to get your gear. But joining the Navy is definitely worth it.
goodness- when I went to boot, we didn't get HALF this stuff! It's net to see how things have changed, the things the Navy aded to make recruit's 'stay' more comfortable- I would have killed to have comfy shoes for PE, and all that swanky civvie heath and beauty gear! :)
"Comfy shoes" never thought I'd hear that. Those shoes gave me knee problems, and when I was able to wear my own shoes my run time went down two full minutes lmao.
The Navy had to change the instruction on those shoes to let you keep your own personal running shoes because of how bad those shoes are.
@@preston4815 They let you wear your own shoes now? I had to go to medical where they told me i was developing tendonitis in my knees in order to get new shoes. Probably makes a world of difference.
@@iChandrian Yeah! I got to keep the Brooks I arrived in and wore those, they just made me put the go fasters I was issued in my rack for inspections and stuff.
It was a lot more than I got, and looked more comfortable too. Those PT shorts... ours you had to paint or sew on to wear them.
39 y/o female covered in tattoos and I made it !! I ship out April 3 and all the videos I watched have saved my life! I can’t swim for sh*t, but I plan on just sucking it up and going for it. If I believe I can do it I will. I’m so thrilled I can’t wait! Thanks to all those who came before me. Ready for the journey!
I just got my waiver accepted on Thursday! I should be shipping out within the next month. Good luck to you
@@nathanevans1733 see you in bootcamp! Good job to you!!
@@nathanevans1733 dont join the navy its a scam
How was it??
Been putting a lot of content for Navy recently and I really appreciate that! I ship on 09/12. So all these videos have been helping me try and have a look from outside in and get in that mental state. Thank you very much.
Bootcamp was easy don’t stress it have fun 🤣
Exactly what bro just said. Ngl if you a male don’t wear the tidy whiteys. The PT shorts have a liner in them just like swim trunks and they’re a lot more comfortable. You’re gonna have to where PT shorts under everything anyways.
Same! I'm in delayed entry right now till after school and this is mentally helping me and even my parents for when I leave.
@@Ace-br2yb yo I’m in delayed entry too until I graduate we should be good
@@alvinholland1678 aye! Hope it goes well for yah!
Everything is different than when I went to RTC Navy boot camp in 1979. My unit was 3062 as a womens unit and we had a brother unit that trained right next to us. We were not issued backbacks, sweats, glowbelt at all. Guys had to PT on the grinder in their boots but us women got to wear sneakers. Very different. Loved my time in the Navy and went from E1 to E6. Still have 1 of my dog tags. Lost the other one. Made lifelong friends too
The backpacks got me too.
Very different than it was in 1976... We spent a half a day stenciling our names (first initial, last name) on everything but our socks. 3 pair of dark blue pants, 3 button down short sleeve (blue) shirts, 3 white t-shirts, 3 pair of 'tighty whitey' underware, 3 pair of black socks, one baseball style cap, 3 towels, 3 face clothes, one adjustable belt (not including the 'green slime' belt we wore until the last week of boot camp). One pair of boonies, one pair or those terrible white 'sneakers', the shower shoes, basically white flip-flops. 2 pair of black dress pants, 2 pair of white dress pants, 3 white dress shirts, one dress (black) jacket, one P-coat, one dress cap. I think that was all of it... 🤔 We did wear that key around our neck along with our dog tags. We never got any water bottle, which would have been nice on the grinder in Orlando. They get way more (cool) stuff these days. Do they still have to know their General Orders frontwards and backwards? We used the fingernail clippers often, but not to cut nails, for "Irish pennants"... lol
That was near exactly what I got too. Save that we did have one pair of smurfs as it was winter in the Great Lakes. They called irish pennants fuzz leaches when I was in though. Still find myself calling clippers ricky lawnmowers.
I love how the word "hygiene" has become a verb! Not knocking it. If I had to pester a bunch of young recruits to go clean their sweaty selves daily I think I would use that verb too.
Remember when I was at Benning we were only issued two sticks and a rock, the rock we had to share with the entire platoon.
I remember the show CPO Sharkey with Don Rickles as drill instructor CPO Sharkey.
In the first episode, Sharkey is explaining to the recruits what is expected of them.
He then pulls out a ditty bag and asks a recruit what he should keep in his ditty bag.
"My ditties?"
Of course, Rickles took off on him as only Rickles could do.
Diddy box?
The smurfs have changed a lot since I went through. Had the big Navy seal on the back. And we had the supermarket sweep at the RTC NEX to get all of our hygiene stuff. Had like 10 mins to get everything on the list, if you missed any you couldn’t get anything until two weeks later. Fun days at RTC especially during the winter.
interesting! business insider's breakdowns are the best
My night of arrival was july 21st 2022. I graduated september 30th and I remember at night of arrival we were in the dirty box room being issued all our stuff and following instructions on what to do. It was a big buff ass petty officer who was intimidating as hell yelling at us to move faster. One kid didn’t move fast enough putting all of his stuff into his seabag and he says “get your head out of your ass”, the recruit responds with “it’s already out sir”. The petty officer raised hell to say the least and brought him out to the hallway while yelling at him with a chief. Petty officer Comaux took over and his facial expression upon hearing the chaos outside was priceless.
I've had my dd214 for years and let me just say that I still despise the skivvies and the white socks they issued to me all those years ago. It is so abhorrent I should file with the VA disability for PTSD.
I hated mine too. Certifiable torture to wear.
Some of these videos make it seem like it’s hell going through arrival night, it was really calm and so nonchalant
I really wanna see the boot camp for a coast guard rescue swimmer. i want to learn more about them and I feel like business insider is the best way to go about it. it would be awesome if you guys could make one!
Boot camp is the same for everyone, the tough part will start when they get to their A school. A number of brown water sailors went through Sonar school with me (1975), they got a much better deal.
Careful I was going to be a rescue swimmer but found out they close down their A-schools all the time in the coastguard. Now contracted to be a diver in the navy. Coastguard is awesome but the thought of being 3 years in before even going to A-school steered me towards navy
Petty Officer Comeaux was my RDC when I went through. Great guy. Very good at his job I was miserable lol
When I went through reception at Benning. we got issued our blue books and they made us read that nonstop cover to cover. And the stuff we got issued doesn't seem quite as nice as this and they seem to be getting way more. we had to do our own laundry and at times I went over a week without doing laundry because of how chaotic things were.
I still remember the day after I graduated bootcamp me and a shipmate went to the chow hall and a rdc who usually just cut the line got behind us this time as we were finally sailors it’s was small but it made the biggest impact to me, we was on hold for a few days it was weird still being at bootcamp but having graduated. Treated a bit better tho lol
They must have put some kind of stiffener in the laundry bags since I went through. Ours didn't keep their shape like that at all.
Edit: Also, we didn't get any kind of a backpack. We had the seabag and the laundry bag to haul everything around in. Plus no fancy water bottle. Guard belts and a canteen. Also those fancy razors. We had single bladed disposables that you had to be careful not to cut your own throat with.
The laundry bag in the video was new, it looses form after a few washes
That was my time in too. My laundry bag was limp as a noodle. Sturdy though. If it wasn't the march to quarters would have had my kit strung out for miles that first night.
Orlando, vet here representing! We got dark blue "smurf" pt sweats. We had white tees wth a big blue N on the front and short shorts navy blue shorts with a white N.
Women got to bring plain white panties. We had two sets. One we wore and one for inspections. We did not wear mens briefs. That is insane.
We didnt get back packs. We had a green duty belt and a green canteen. We also wore green spats over the bottom of oud dungarees.
Our ditty bag was white cotton laundry bag.
I still got my blue jackets manuel. Mine has a white cover.
Oh yeah, i was in an all female Company. The red ropes were CC Company Comanders.
No stamp kit. We had stencils and a paint pen. Folks messed up stincils. I was careful, but the ones that messed up wore the messed up stinciled uniform all the way through.
2:30 big navy at the front back 😂😂
Honestly...NAVY did a GOOD JOB...preparing these items....for the Recruits....(Awesome Video...Good for ANYONE intend to Enlist...in the NAVY)..
Man, in AF basic ('87) we didn't get shoes (had to bring our own), no PT gear at all (PT was done in fatigues), no white socks (black only), no backpacks or water bottles, no garment bags, no hygiene items (had to bring your own or buy it) or towels (had to be purchased), no stationary. I feel I was shortchanged.
Right. Our water bottles were canteens, we had portfolios, no backpacks and Lackland lasers. PT was in BDU's and boots, no shower shoes. It is nice to see how things have progressed.
Day 1 at the ditty box u gotta strip and put on the whitey tightey
I'm surprised they're getting name brand things. Love it.
HOOYAH Petty Officer, He was my 3rd RDC in bootcamp! 295 for life!-Fitz
It's great that they give recruits so much, even if they get it deducted in their paychecks later.
It helps a lot to those who come from bad financial backgrounds. I think that in my country it's not even half of those things.
Definitely, a lot of the stuff isn’t even considered necessary in other militaries, we’re just told to bring stuff from home
Why even charge for it
When I was in we did not get even half that these new recruits are getting here. They also made us send the stuff we brought from home, home as it was not issued. Hated the skivvies as they were a size smaller than what you can get as a civilian.
you would think since you're paying for it, they would give you clothes that actually fit.
I'm bent over at 4:41 in this video 😂 I was so stressed my first night that I forgot they recorded it
It's crazy because in the federal prison my gang does the same thing as soon as you walk in and we know that you're in the same game will provide you with all of those same essentials. Basically to get you ready for war inside prison.
SPORTS!!
The way MM2 Comeaux described the boot camp skivvies is a fancy way of saying they're absolute trash. For anyone going into Navy boot camp, get comfortable underwear that you would actually wear everyday, keep the boot camp skivvies just for inspection purposes, and once you graduate boot camp, feel free to throw them away. Graduated May 31, 2019. Division 216.
Retired Navy veteran here (1999-2019). It seems alot had changed since I went through. We had ditty bag issue the night I arrived but we had stencil cards with a stencil pen instead of a stamp kit. It sucked trying to stencil all the items with this huge ass stencil card. The issued stencil marker was awful as well. It would have been nice to have that stamp kit when I was in.
Also, Battle Stations was WAY different too. We had to divide the division into 4 elements that ran in ranks around RTC to each event with RDCs/facilitators in the front and in the back. The only way to get them to slow down was to sing cadence, and if you fell behind the rear RDCs too many times they dropped you from the nights events.
I entered boot camp in 1977. This all looks crazy to me. Gym shoes, (and even your choice of style?!), backpacks, suit bags, tshirts, locks to keep your valuables, (even the fact that you are allowed to have valuables), ball caps, chapstick, etc. My gosh, it’s all so fancy now. We even had to bring our own underwear to boot camp with us, although they told us what kind and how many of each.
@@CrankyPantss they issued me tighty whity underwear, but we were allowed to keep our own sneakers if they were in good condition. They seem to have it alot easier now than when we went through, that's for sure.
What would the stamp be used for?
Yup! BS was way different when i went through it back in 2000. Good times!!
@@isabellavalencia8026 The stamp would be used to put their name on their clothes and property.
Was in that room a year ago, threw like 90% of that shit away, the boots socks got crusty ni matter how many times we did laundry. PT shorts are the bomb though, you can use em as shorts, pajamas, swim trunks, underwear, etc.
Ours looked like 1970s basketball shorts. Shorter than most modern pairs of boxers. They still have the fake underwear sewn inside of them?
One thing I hated about this was that they would issue us a smaller size like we were in the 80's. They should of just let us pick out the size we need because it comes out of our check, they say issue, more like purchase.
What i put in my ditty box. Backpack, shoes, shirt, jeans, dental equipment, 2 iPads, 2 phones, 3 charging cables, power banks and jacket with wallet and keys.
DIDDY????
I remember marching around the barracks throwing each other’s skivvies on their racks. 😂
Thanks! Im shipping out in 6 days with a Special Operations contract. Go Navy!
Goodluck bro just know they don’t IT you guys cause they know y’all love it, they make y’all write essays instead. You’ll know what IT is real soon.
what rate?
@@richardlopez7983 I understand that, and thanks for the insight. My SEAL and Diver instructors gave me knowledge and insight on what bootcamp is really gonna be like.
@@andrewholmquist7478 EOD
I find it funny, because when I went to Boot in Great Lakes, we weren't issued a few of these things -- the backpack, sweats, those PT shorts and shirt, etc. -- and we also never got sneakers, we were issued our "Chucka" boots: heavy leather shoes with steel toes and heavy rubber soles. Also, the uniforms weren't those fatigues, we got the traditional Navy Dungarees (chambray shirt, with bell-bottom jeans, and our classic "Dixie Cup" sailor hats as well). I do remember getting my Sea Bag, as well as my first uniform issue . . . the best thing was the heavy Navy Pea coat, because while it was April when I first arrived in Great Lakes, it was still cold for a few weeks afterwards, and that thing was WARM!!! Kept me from freezing!
Another funny thing, back then, the RTC Petty Officers weren't too concerned with hydration. We never got water bottles or even canteens. If we were thirsty, we had to wait until we were back at our barracks, or were permitted at whatever building we were at, and then we were allowed to "request" to get a drink from the water fountain nearby.
Makes me just shake my head to see all the changes that have come in the Recruit commands since I joined up in 1988.
it would be a diddy box
😂
Oh ya that’s my 3rd Petty Officer Comeaux HOO YAH MIND GAMES he made me bear crawl up and down 5 flight up stairs miss him already 🤣
Glad to see the kids wear sneakers full time now (and good ones at that). We had so many recruits with tendinitis and even some stress fractures from marching/running around in steel-toe work boots that didn’t fit right.
Wearing steel toe boondockers that didn't fit right was par for the course.
@@jimwjohnq.public as my Chief once said while having us do a rain maker, "Pain is just weakness leaving your body."
Now that I'm older I kind of miss my old boondockers and dungarees.
@@jimwjohnq.public that was the problem. The navy didn't invest all that money to train recruits just to have them laid up with stress fractures.
San Diego RTC July- September 1980. Co 160 Our athletic gear was white T shirt blue shorts white socks and Chuck Taylors. I still have my BJM from 43 years ago. We had to use Zest soap for all our body washing needs.
"They dont physically pay here, its taken out from their first check and eventually its put back in their check". Was that done so recruit would take care of their items?
The Navy Peacoat is the best uniform item we have in the Navy. I’ve never been a big fan of Navy’s uniforms but the peacoat is 🔥
I miss mine. An incredibly useful thing to have and wear.
Thank god we had this guy to explain to us what a toothbrush holder, body wash, and shampoo were for. I was really struggling there for a bit.
You would be surprised how many recruits have no idea about them when they join. He was teaching as if teaching them.
oh man... a see through water bottle? The amount of times I filled my canteen up half way before PT because they would make us chug it after was too high... wouldnt be able to get away with that with these. LOL.
Edit... OMG they are using that same notebook? I went through basic in 01 and we had that SAME notebook. Im sure I have mine in a tote somewhere. It had the 11 general orders, sailors creed, notes, and stuff I cant remember written down in it. Wow, talk about nostaliga. I guess if it aint broke dont fix it! lol
and ocean breeze? Still? Really? I recently came across this stuff at a dicount store and popped the top to take a wiff. I was immediately transported to my time in the ship at basic.
YES!! THANK YOU!!! Ive been telling my husband for YEARS you can get dehydrated in the winter and we arent even in the Navy.
Wow! So much has changed since I went to boot camp! I wish I had that ditty bag / box.
I’m about to go to navy boot camp tomorrow! Now I know what I’m going to get from my ditty box
3:15 Correction. You're able to buy regular boxers only if your RDC allow you to.
And it stays in your A/B Drawer.
Wow Bootcamp has come a long way since I graduated from Great Lakes in 93 . So many more items now and stamps instead of cardboard stencils wow
I went to boot camp in 2005 and got some of the similar things, but a lot of the stuff has changed. Like Battle Stations being in a single building and not around the whole base.
Battle stations was fun as hell man. Running around in the middle of the night made it feel like we were at war. Lol.
It’s really lack luster than what it prolly was before.
Went through in 05’ as well div 136.
@@mikemoreno3914 221. Arizona was my Ship.
His voice is soothing & calm.
VERY well done, sailor. Good job.
Wish school had such a comprehensive kit of all the things you’ll need, down to labeling them as yours. Shopping for materials is hell!
No diddy
night of arrival was funny asf but I would never do it again, I graduated bootcamp last month bruh it went by so fast.
Not the diddy box
They actually are made for swim as well as pt. They are lined and have micro mesh pockets and are light enough to dry fast.
Up in Canada at basic we got 2 duffle bags, ruck sack, barracks box, and laundry bag ALL full of crap, it was bananas, I member getting my helmet and being like "Okay this I might actually need!"
Do u at least get better boxers than those ugly white world war 1 granpa boxers ?!