More than 890 recruits at Recruit Training Command (RTC) Great Lakes participated in their pass-in-review (PIR), becoming basically-trained Sailors, Feb. 1.

Training Support Center (TSC) Hampton Roads Commanding Officer Capt. Matthew Rick spoke to the recruits about what lies ahead in their Navy career.

"Our Navy family will take care of you and make sure you are educated and trained so you are well prepared to do your jobs in the fleet, meet mission tasking and return home to your loved ones,” Rick said. “The Navy understands that our greatest asset is our people – that is what makes our organization go. A ship, submarine or aircraft is just a hulk of steel and wires without the men and women who make up the crew who bring those objects to life and give them personality.”

Rick served as the reviewing officer for the ceremony and presented awards to the top Sailors during the PIR.

Following the ceremony, Rick met individually with six Sailors who earned awards and their families to congratulate them on their accomplishments and remind them to never forget the lessons learned during boot camp.

"Today is just one of your many steps you will take that make your parents and friends proud of you,” he said. “Your adventure has just begun, and I know some of you out there on the parade deck may have doubts about what your future holds as you graduate from Recruit Training Center, Great Lakes and head out for more training and onward to the fleet. Let me reassure you, you are the best and brightest beacons of freedom our country has to offer. You have a made good and honorable decision to serve and preserve the freedoms that our country enjoys. Your future is unlimited.”

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