Naval Station Great Lakes
Naval Station Great Lakes PCS Guide
Military Base History
Sailors and civilians stationed aboard Naval Station Great Lakes (NSGL) receive awards from NSGL Commanding Officer, Capt. Steve Yargosz, May 23, 2024. Opened in 1911, NSGL is the Navy’s largest training installation and the home of the Navy’s only Boot Camp. Located on over 1600 acres...
Naval Station Great Lakes was established in 1911 as the U.S. Navy’s primary training center for enlisted personnel. Its location near Lake Michigan in Illinois offered strategic access to transportation and water resources.
The base’s original mission focused on preparing sailors for fleet service, emphasizing discipline and technical skills. This foundation set the stage for its future growth and importance.
Major expansions took place during both World Wars as the Navy rapidly increased its ranks. In World War I, the station trained over 125,000 sailors.
During World War II, it became the Navy’s largest training installation, processing nearly one million recruits. The base added new barracks, classrooms, and support facilities to meet wartime demands.
Throughout the Cold War, Great Lakes adapted to new naval technologies and warfare requirements. It hosted advanced technical schools and specialized units, such as the Naval Hospital and Recruit Training Command.
The base played a key role in integrating the Navy by training the first African American sailors in the 1940s. This milestone marked significant progress in military inclusion.
Today, Naval Station Great Lakes remains the Navy’s only boot camp for enlisted personnel. It continues to provide vital training and support services.
The installation serves as a cornerstone of the local economy and a critical hub for the U.S. Navy. Since its founding, it has retained its original name with no major official changes.
Major Units & Training Programs
250501-N-LN782-2060 GREAT LAKES, Ill. (May 01, 2025) Rear Adm. David A. Faehnle, Commandant, Naval District Washington, presents a navy ball cap to a recruit on the pier of the USS Trayer at Recruit Training Command (RTC). Trayer, more commonly referred to as "Battle Stations," is the crucible...
Major Units
Naval Service Training Command (NSTC)
NSTC oversees all naval training for new recruits and officer candidates, ensuring the transformation of civilians into basically trained Sailors and future leaders of the Navy.
Recruit Training Command (RTC) Great Lakes
RTC conducts the U.S. Navy’s only boot camp, responsible for initial entry training and indoctrination of all enlisted Sailors.
Training Schools
Navy Recruit Training (Boot Camp)
Overview
This is the initial training course for all enlisted Sailors, focusing on physical fitness, seamanship, Navy customs, and basic military skills.
Course Length
8 weeks
Who Attends
New Navy recruits
Naval Military Training Instructors School
Overview
Prepares experienced Sailors to become Recruit Division Commanders (RDCs), who lead and train new recruits during boot camp.
Course Length
6 weeks
Who Attends
Selected enlisted Sailors
Arrival & In-Processing
GREAT LAKES, Illinois (April 18, 2025) Naval Station Great Lakes (NSGL) Commanding Officer, Capt. Stephen M. Yargosz presents a challenge coin to Fire Controlman (Aegis) 2nd Class Christopher Morgan, from Atlanta, assigned to Recruit Training Command, for his efforts in saving the life of a NSGL...
Welcome to Naval Station Great Lakes! Arriving at a new base is exciting, but preparation is key to a smooth start. Ensure you have all required documents and understand gate procedures before your arrival. For the latest updates and resources, visit the official base website.
Naval Station Great Lakes is accessed primarily through the Main Gate, located off Buckley Road. The Main Gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. All adults must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or a state driver’s license compliant with the REAL ID Act. Non-compliant IDs will not be accepted for entry. Expect 100% ID checks at all gates, and be prepared for random vehicle inspections as part of the base’s robust security posture. Family members and visitors must obtain a visitor pass at the Visitor Control Center before entering. Ensure all vehicle occupants have valid identification, and follow directions from security personnel at all times.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
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Birth Certificates for dependents
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Social Security Cards
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Vehicle Registration & Insurance
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Medical/Dental Records
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Housing Assignment or Application
Naval Station Great Lakes offers a robust sponsor program for incoming personnel. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining command or unit as soon as you receive your orders. You can also inquire through your command’s administrative office or by using the sponsor request form available on the base’s Sponsorship Program page.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, Bldg 525, located near the main entrance of the base. The Welcome Center operates Monday through Friday, 0730–1600. During in-processing, you will check in with Personnel Support Detachment (PSD), Finance, Housing, Medical, and your assigned unit. Most new arrivals complete in-processing within 2–3 business days, depending on individual needs and schedules. Bring all required documents to each appointment for faster service.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate, adjacent to the entrance off Buckley Road. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 0600–1800, and Saturdays, 0800–1200. The VCC issues visitor passes, handles DBIDS registration, and assists with guest sponsorship procedures. All visitors must be sponsored by an authorized base member and present valid identification.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Military spouse Valerie McNulty says the use of a GPS tracker placed in her household goods during her Family’s recent permanent change of station made national news headlines, and led to conversations with top Department of Defense officials about bettering PCS experiences.
When you receive PCS orders to Naval Station Great Lakes, act quickly. Notify your command and contact the base Transportation Office to start your move. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at Move.mil to schedule your Household Goods (HHG) shipment or Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY). DPS is your main tool for tracking and managing your move.
You may choose between a government-arranged HHG shipment or a PPM, where you move your items and may receive reimbursement. Ask the Transportation Office which option fits your needs. You are usually eligible for entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to cover short-term stays and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to offset moving costs. Check current rates and eligibility before you move.
Naval Station Great Lakes has unique resources for newcomers, including base guides and sponsor programs. Contact your sponsor early and review base-specific info to make your arrival smooth. Use official resources to stay updated on requirements and benefits.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you during travel.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid extra costs.
- Take photos of valuable items before packing.
- Label boxes clearly by room and contents.
- Schedule lodging early; local hotels fill up in summer.
- Contact the Transportation Office if you have questions about HHG or PPM options.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to schedule and track your move.
Check current TLE, DLA, and other PCS entitlements.
Get PCS checklists, planning tools, and relocation support.
Find base-specific info, arrival steps, and local contacts.