Honor, Courage, Commitment: Navy Boot Camp

by John F. Leahy

J. F. Leahy chronicles the transition of eighty-one men and women from civilians to sailors at the U.S. Navy Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois. Granted unlimited and unprecedented access to the recruits during the fall of 2000, his examination of the unique American institution - popularly known as boot camp - offers a look into the hearts and minds of a group of young people who are a cross section of the nation. The work offers a unique view into the training experience of all recruits and sheds light on the differences between those entering the military services and the society they serve.

273 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 11, 2013

Reviews

[Denille · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for those with loved ones in boot camp at Great Lakes! This book covers everything from arrival to departure. Though many things have changed since the time this book was written, the author provides an inside voice to what daily life is like for recruits at the RTC. This is also the only detailed information I've been able to find on what Battle Stations actually consists of. Bravo Zulu J. F. Leahy! Well done!

[Bree H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I consider this a must read for anyone with family or friends heading for Navy boot camp. It's easy to read, engaging and informative. I'm sure things have changed since December of 2000 in regards to the physical aspects of RTC but the basics likely remain the same.

[Shelby A · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anyone curious about Navy bootcamp can get a good idea about it here. Although a few things have changed since the publishing of this book, new "ships", new PT facility, battle stations, firing range, etc.

[Krista · Rating 4 out of 5]

Granted this was ten years after I went to boot camp, and it's not set it Orlando, but it's an accurate portrayal. Would recommend to anyone who asks what boot camp was like.

[Michael Barker · Rating 3 out of 5]

It helped me understand what my son was going through this summer. Especially "Battle Stations".