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RTC Great Lakes graduates new divisions of Sailors almost every week, year-round. Exact dates depend on your Sailor's division, but Pass-in-Review week follows a consistent shape — here's the timing, the ceremony, the livestream, and how to confirm your specific date.
How Graduation Week Works
- Pass-in-Review (PIR): the graduation ceremony, held most weeks at the Midway Ceremonial Drill Hall, typically starting around 9:00 a.m. Central. Plan to be seated well before it begins.
- Liberty: after PIR, most new Sailors are released on liberty with their guests for a set window — see liberty after graduation for how that works.
What Time Is PIR, and How Long Is It?
Pass-in-Review typically begins around 9:00 a.m. Central and runs about one and a half to two hours. Arrive early — you'll need time for base access, security, parking, and finding seats before doors close. The ceremony includes the divisions marching on, the national anthem, remarks from the reviewing officer, and the moment recruits are recognized as Sailors.
Where Is PIR Held?
Pass-in-Review is held indoors at the Midway Ceremonial Drill Hall on Naval Station Great Lakes in North Chicago, Illinois. Because it's indoors, seating is limited — which is why your Sailor's guest list matters. Every guest 18 and older needs a valid government photo ID, and you'll need to be on the access list. See base access & the guest list.
How to Confirm Your Sailor's PIR Date
- The Commanding Officer's letter: mailed home early in training, it lists the graduation date, guest names, and the gate-pass password.
- Your Sailor: once training is underway they'll know their PIR date and can confirm any changes.
- The official RTC graduation page: the Navy publishes the weekly graduation schedule and updates it if anything shifts.
Can't Travel? Watch the Livestream
RTC Great Lakes livestreams Pass-in-Review on its official Facebook and YouTube channels, usually starting a few minutes before the ceremony. If you can't be there in person, that's the most reliable way to watch your Sailor graduate in real time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What day is Navy boot camp graduation?
Pass-in-Review is held most weeks at RTC Great Lakes, typically on a weekday morning. The exact day and date depend on your Sailor's division — confirm it using the Commanding Officer's letter, your Sailor, and the official RTC graduation schedule.
What time does Navy PIR graduation start?
Pass-in-Review usually begins around 9:00 a.m. Central and lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours. Arrive early for base access, security, parking, and seating.
How long is Navy Pass-in-Review?
The ceremony itself runs about an hour and a half to two hours. Add time before and after for getting on base, finding seats, and reconnecting with your Sailor afterward.
Where is Navy boot camp graduation held?
At the Midway Ceremonial Drill Hall on Naval Station Great Lakes in North Chicago, Illinois. It's an indoor ceremony, so seating is limited to guests on your Sailor's access list.
Is Navy graduation live streamed?
Yes. RTC Great Lakes streams Pass-in-Review on its official Facebook and YouTube channels, typically starting shortly before the ceremony — ideal for family who can't travel.