Naval Training Center, San Diego, CA

The Naval Training Center has been transformed into a urban village called Liberty Station. Music; "Sounds of the Sea" by the Norman Lubbock Choir, can be purchased on iTunes.

[@tonyswann4558]

If I am anything in this Life I owe much of it to the Navy, It was the single best thing I have ever done. Not Work, not College. I owe the Navy everything! I consider myself a strong person however, I got teary eyed as I saw what remains of RTC/NTC San Diego. It was were I became a Man and a Human being. The Base is hallowed ground and should be treated as such. Company 52, 1978. GO Navy!

[@mikejohnson4723]

Like I also say military life is in us forever, now like college who forgets after graduation.

[@haskellvanmarter5501]

Tony Swann Yes it a reminder of our youth. It was life changing. Great experience. It has been a great constant influence in my life. The. Navy said I was going to be a Boiler Tender. (BT) And they got it right, I’m still working in the same trade after all these years. The GI bill got me thru college, and yes I use the VA. I owe the Navy a lot. Heck the Navy raised me when my parents couldn’t. Lol. H.E. VanMarter Company 604 (NTC) Nov 3rd 1964. 64-68 BT-3. Thanks Navy !!

[@carterwest7807]

Well said shipmate! CTR2 C West Company 73-279

[@williamescolantejr5871]

ditto shipmate,CO 075 1985 stringers surviveors

[@dapc777]

~we all are a brotherhood~sisterhood in arms~did 3 years in the Navy and 36 years at the VA to once again serve those with medical care~in 2004 I met Gordon Mansfield, the Deputy Secretary of the VA who later became for a short stint the VA secretary~he was in the Tet offensive and sat in a wheelchair when he came to visit us at the VA~what an honor to meet him and to give him the right answers he wanted to hear about the budget at our VA as i was inventory manager the last 6 years I was there~this was accountability of the VA's budget and was honored to serve our people with fiscal responsibility~

[@williamrappe8371]

Found myself watching this, did not know why, but then remembered I was there 50 yrs ago. this Month. Sort of a Shame it is gone now, except for some of it. From there went to HM school and on to two tours in Nam, I am one of the Fortunate ones that returned and am still here. Thanks for the Video!!

[@ShichidanBB]

Wow, it sounds like you were there in 1967. That's when I was there. And, I assume by, "HM school", you mean Hospital Corps School...which is what I did as well. Small world... ;-)

[@paraisoat]

Please consider signing the petition to save the North Chapel from being turned into a retail restaurant. Thank you so much! Facebook page: facebook.com/savethenorthchapel/ Petition: www.ipetitions.com/petition/preserve-a-historic-san-diego-site-north-chapel

[@larryfisher7056]

@@ShichidanBB HCS in January 72 Balboa

[@lagunaflyguy]

Navy Corpsman that went FMF and likewise went to NTC and Class A school at Balboa.

[@jeffgessner9764]

8 weeks at RTC. Company 227 Oct.-Dec. 1984. And then NTC for 14 weeks of RM "A" school. I learned and grew so much as a person while there. I'll never forget this place..

[@xseabee]

I was there in 1966, 18 years old, immediately out of high school from the Eastern Colorado plains and had never seen the ocean. I was in Company 332. The USS Recruit TDE-1 was the first and last ship I was ever on. I was assigned to the Navy Seabees (Dirt Sailor).. And to steel the words of one on this site; "If I am anything in this life, I owe much of it to the Navy, it was the single best thing I've ever done." After three tours in Vietnam and one in Antigua, West Indies, I continued with what I learned and trained for in the Navy and added a degree in Industrial Construction Management leading to a very successful career and retirement. Unfortunately, the three years in Vietnam and firsthand contact with Agent Orange has finally caught up me. Still grateful to the Navy and the VA.

[@americanmilitiaman88]

I grew up in San Diego. My dad was a FC and I joined the navy as a EO seabees hoorah stationed in Gulfport MS

[@tonygilbert1841]

I loved my six years in the Navy. I was at RTC in 1984 in drill company 912 under Chief Bonoan. Lots of Filipino company commanders. We would ask each other if we joined the right Navy. Went to BEE school at NTC. Navy taught me electronics. I was an ET2. Thirty six years later I’m still working fixing electronics. My son left for boot camp August 27, 2020. I’m so happy for him and I am reliving many memories of my Navy days. GREATEST experience in my life by far!

[@charleshansen6928]

Thanks for checking in and the quality update Tony. Thanking you and your son for your service. I was a PH2 (photomate) when I got out after four years. Now volunteering at the USS Midway Museum as a photographer. Stop by and see us some time when you are in town.

[@timtoolman4125]

CO 905, 1987, I still have the full set of training manuals for FRED. Volunteered Subs made FTB2/SS before getting off of 6 year active duty tour.

[@teddymoore9511]

LMAO I was there Jan 86....I didn't know any Tagalog and understand what you mean.

[@osisai4155]

Company 035. From February 1984 to May 1984, got stationed in Point Loma later that year, served 22 years after lol

[@christianmayhew2617]

@@osisai4155 Company 050 Mar 84

[@leecoffman2594]

I was there in boot camp Oct 52----Jan 53. memories that I shall never forget. I still miss my time in the Navy and treasure the memories !

[@miltonacosta3132]

So much respect!❤🇱🇷🇲🇽

[@robertmanssen5261]

@@miltonacosta3132 And I thought I was old!

[@geronimogarcia2307]

@@robertmanssen5261 I went to boot camp at NTC in 1951. Co. 777. Chief Means was our CC. He was actually human after we graduated.

[@donclark4685]

I watched with tears of this GREAT Video.I joined the Navy in March 1967 during the you know what era.Its sad to see this place all but gone.To all Shipmates I salute you all!May God Bless you.

[@joescheller6680]

What company was you in . I was in 194 also started in March but can't remember exact date in 67. Lost all my stuff in house fire in 99 so no paper trail or pictures

[@jessedel6576]

Thank you for the video. I went to boot camp in RTC San Diego in May-August 1982, Co. 075 Div 2, Barracks 69N. Returned there as a Recruit Company Commander in 1989. What a coincidence that the first company I trained was in the same barracks I had as a recruit. Served 20 years... Every time I am in the area, I make it a point to drive to RTC/NTC and reminisce of my younger days..... Thank you, Navy!

[@chrismusso1610]

I remember marching over that bridge in Dec of 1989. The Navy was the best decision i made in my life

[@roccodonato4120]

Me too. I was there in June of 1990.

[@user-pi6ro7ye5q]

I marched across that bridge for the last time on 7 Dec. 1979. Sad that it's gone, but the last time I looked, my barracks was still there.

[@jameseaster9592]

Glad to see that someone remember those days. I'm doing well at my age. God bless.

[@jameseaster9592]

I pushed boots there 1969-73 and the again in 1979-82. Retired in 1984. It will always have a place in my heart.

[@edwardfleming5434]

You must have known my cc, CPO Livers. 1971

[@jackyandell2489]

I remember you Chief...i was in Co.525 1968 July..Sad what time has done to my memories at NTC. Did my A school there also..Chief Engineman Benson was our Co.Commander...Take care Chief..

[@kennethprice5628]

I was there as a boot in August of 1971, lots of memories

[@davis32508]

I am in the Navy stationed here in San Diego. I currently live in military housing located in Point Loma on the site that was once San Diego boot camp. It is very nice here and I am glad that they have incorporated some of the history of the old boot camp into the area here.

[@edwardpedley8813]

I was stationed at Point Loma from 1972 through 1974 aboard the USS DIXON, As37. Along side the USS Sperry As12. Great time in my life. Learned a lot from my experience there. Best of luck to you and your shipmates.

[@FoolsAmongUs]

@@edwardpedley8813 USS Dixon from 1992 to 1995 Decommissioning What a sad day

[@tonylittle8634]

What was the point of closing down RTC San Diego?

[@thesoultransferprotocol721]

I was there.....1990. Co. 211.....Had a blast. Great time in life....

[@paulanderson9407]

I was Company 229,Division 2 1990

[@roccodonato6236]

1990 Company 158. Under petty officer Tuwa (sp?) And petty officer Garrett. We didn't color. Lol. But gave it our all trying 😅

[@deanomaki]

Thank you so very much for this trip down memory lane.

[@chuckjohnson2564]

As we were getting into the bus for the ride to boot. A young woman spoke out and said this " Look at them , they all look so young. " I will never forget those word's and this was just after meeting that Chief in the airport who just finish chewing us all out . I went to San Diego on July 2nd 1971 Co. 209, some of the thing's that you will never forget like Make a Hole , you have time to lean you have time to clean , Hurry up and wait. Just glad to see that they left the never sail there , so Sad about the rest of N. T. C. Funny thing is that I never went on a ship for as I was a dirt sailor. We build, We Fight ,We party all NIGHT. Best time of my young life as a Seabee and I didn't even know it at the time.

[@raymaiden958]

Not sure how I found this video but it brought back memories I thought I'd forgot. I graduated NTC San Diego May '82 as a member of Company #053 under CC Cristobal. Then it was off to Lakehurst NJ for ABF A-School then ordered to the USS Kitty Hawk CV-63. The Naval Hymn continues to make me tear up. NTC SD was the foundation that I stand on today some 30+ years later. Bravo Zulu, shipmate!

[@charleshansen6928]

Thank you for your service Ray.

[@jonwilliams6900]

Only other reminder is Der Weiner Schnitzel on the other side of Rosecrans... where a sailor could get a cheap meal...

[@masonandmurphyliss9309]

I just visited "Liberty station " today for the first time since graduating company 094 May 1993. So sad to see it mostly gone . Camp Nimitz is 75% demolished . Preble field is still beautiful . U.S.S. Recruit is still in tip top shape . The rest has either been converted to retail stores or condos . a very surreal and sad experience to visit today .

[@masonandmurphyliss9309]

I posted a couple of short videos from my visit today

[@14598175]

Definitely surreal and creepy to see the barracks burned out and rotting like that. It reminds me of old Soviet Bases. I sure hope the snowflakes from the millennials don't steer us into the same fate.

[@jayrader5310]

9k.

[@williamescolantejr5871]

@@14598175 whats creepy or maybe worse is do the millennials even know the history of the place,and do some live there.

[@jessikat6692]

Company 233 San Diego 1985. Company Commanders were OS1 Labrador and OS1 Osala. I will never forget them and how the Navy paved my Life! It's amazing seeing this place. I have not been back to San Diego since leaving Bootcamp. I completed 20 years and Retired in 2005 Honorably. Amazing how time flies.

[@jonwilliams6900]

Tears my heart out...went to " A" School there in 1971...

[@thefuneralguy]

I went through boot camp co# 908 and a school 1973

[@mackydog99]

Went to "A" school also in '71 Machinery repair school.

[@carlv8168]

My dad, now age 95 trained here and graduated with Company 132 in May of 1947. He then attended "C" School for his Lithographer rate at Naval Air Training Command in Millington, Tennessee. He would go on to serve 20 years until retirement as an E7. The Navy took him to many duty stations throughout his career, but he would end up in San Diego, where he still resides. As kids and dependents in the 1950s and 1960s, we enjoyed many activities and privileges at NTC and other naval bases in San Diego, like the gym, swimming pool, bowling alley and theaters. Go Navy!

[@sdcheapshot]

Thank you for this very interesting comment about your father. This is what keeps this video alive and interesting. Thanking your father for his service and raising considerent children.

[@carlv8168]

@@sdcheapshot You're welcome.

[@worfdog442]

I went to boot camp in June '73, A school at Balboa Hospital then to Yokosuka Japan - USS Oklahoma City CLG/CG-5 several duty station then BACK to RTC/NTC as a Company Commander from Sept.'85 - April '88 ( Full circle) I retired in June '93. RTC holds so many memories, Prebble Field is "HOLY GROUND" to me. I can't say enough about the Navy and how it changed my look on life and the world that i saw while traveling, 3 around the world trips, it can't get any better. BRAVO ZULU

[@adrianpalacios4059]

I went to boot camp here 09/1991-11/1991 cannot believe how many years it's been. I was Division 8 Company 264 than went to A school in Millington for Aviation Machinist Mate.

[@roccodonato4120]

I was right before you. Company 158 CC PO2 Garrett and PO2 Tua. 6/1990-8/1990. Then Millington for aviation structural school. A school as AMS.

[@timebong8366]

@@roccodonato4120 I was in the middle of y'all company 107 graduated April 1991. Remember the first couple days in that crap holding barracks

[@roccodonato4120]

@@timebong8366 Lol! Who can ever forget *P* days! Black watch cap and stinky navy sweat pants and shirt. Line up at 0:430 and count off.

[@timebong8366]

@@roccodonato4120 yup it was crazy. Funny thing was i met my company commander on the USS danger RANGER cv-61 for it final ride I think his name was po Blankenship

[@edwardpedley8813]

I was here in 1970. Bootcamp was an experience that no one will forget. At 18 years old and just out of high school, nervous about what was going to happen. This time in my life taught me to grow up and join the ranks of responsible adults. The lessons learned here have carried me throughout my life. Now 70 years old I can say thank you for the opportunity to serve.

[@sdcheapshot]

Always nice to see these experiences written out as you have here. Thank you for sharing shipmate!

[@ralphcochran897]

Great memories from March 1963 when I walked thru and exited those gates a much stronger and better person.

[@tonypruitt8257]

Was there in 1974. "Crossing the bridge" was the greatest feeling in the world. Company Commander was Chief Christianson. I still find myself missing Vesuvio's pizza in downtown San Diego.

[@cheftomsd]

I'll second that, great pizza.

[@jimshaw5699]

I might add i was in Co 259 with the hardest CC there at that time BM1 Gerald Louden.What a great man. He made us respect that grinder something fierce I went back to see him after i transferred from a ship in Norfolk to a guided missile cruiser (FOX CG-33)in San Diego. 65 now,what memories..

[@13bcoffee]

Yep ... brings back memories. I was there in the late 1980s. I had stopped in San Diego awhile back and was shocked to see it closed and the gate padlocked. Well at least now the former training base has a new purpose. The former shipyard here in Philly also has been re-purposed. Although it is not a Navy base anymore, there is still a small amount of Naval activity there. Most of the base is now a corporate park. But it's still gratifying to visit and have lunch and see some old decommissioned ships including the carrier JFK. My civilian friends and family members have no idea the dedication that many of us have for our service branch. I wish I was younger and could do it again! LOL!

[@billman6364]

PNSY where I reported to my first ship, DDG2 CF Adams '83

[@mariom555]

Brings tears to my eyes to see it abandoned. Reported their for bootcamp in June of 1986. Boondockers!!

[@edwardfleming5434]

I don't miss that grinder though.

[@worfdog442]

I was a CC Billingsley GMG1 from Sept.85-April 88

[@howardelzey2760]

Company 080 January 1991. Everything I was a part of in the Navy is gone. RTC San Diego (gone), "A" School NATTC Millington, TN (AMS) (gone), Than onto VF-1 (decommissioned) at NAS Miramar (Now Marine Base) and did a West Pac with VF-1 on the USS Ranger (now scrap iron). Worked on F-14 Tomcats (gone)I feel old and I'm only 47.

[@edwardfleming5434]

I was stationed at the NavHosp Memphis 1973-74. It's long gone.

[@timebong8366]

@@edwardfleming5434 I was in company 107 graduated April 1991

[@ericschwarz9718]

I was their for boot camp back in 72. Sad that it has Goan to wast . Worm island was very skerry for me. Spent 6 weeks there. And then went over the beige to their side. For the rest of training. Total time of 12 weeks . Then went into the Seabees . I love the navy. My son was Seabee too. Grandauter . Is in the navy now. So thanks for the up date on the old base.

[@DanielTButler]

I graduated in June, 1993 as part of Company 105. RTC/NTC San Diego, will always have a special place in my heart. They closed it shortly after I graduated. Very sad when I heard the news.

[@paraisoat]

Please consider signing the petition to save the North Chapel from being turned into a retail restaurant. Thank you so much! Facebook page: facebook.com/savethenorthchapel/ Petition: www.ipetitions.com/petition/preserve-a-historic-san-diego-site-north-chapel

[@masonandmurphyliss9309]

Wow I was there when you were . I was company 094 !

[@cnn787-i9e]

Company 111, graduated July 1993

[@thorerik678]

I was there in early 1973, company 094. PO Kolbrak was the CC. We never saw much of him except when he showed up to tell us about his exploits down at the "Body Shop". Our RCPO was the guy who led us around. "Rout Step" he would yell as we walked across the bridge from "Worm Island" as it was called. Our first two weeks in the Navy. While there I kept wondering when we were going to be running the obstacle course, learning navy stuff like seamanship, knot tying, etc. I just remember watching a lot of TV with Jack Webb telling us about military stuff like how to resist the enemy if captured. You learned real quick that boot was an exercise in learning how to pay attention to detail and follow instructions and used simple things like folding your clothes and making your rack exactly to measure success. Pretty amazing that for a seven week wonder I did a 20 year career and am proud of it.

[@davidschmale3359]

I was in Company 351 May through August 1968. After another three months on Treasure Island in San Francisco Bay I was assigned to The USS Charles F. Adams DDG-2 in Charleston, SC and later moved home port to Jacksonville, Florida. We cruised from Halifax to Gitmo to San Juan, Charlotte Amalie, and Rosy Roads. then 8 months in the Mediterranean. Not tired of seeing the world, I saluted the Quarterdeck and the Ensign for the last time in April 1972 and drove my 69 Roadrunner from Charleston to Anchorage...

[@Guns_and_Outdoors_Channel]

Company 269, in 1991 with PO1 Viegas and Morris. In bootcamp I was the company's laundry petty officer. Lol. We would leave the company at the barracks and get to ride around RTC and NTC in the back of the truck. Lol. It was a welcome relief. 😃. I remember the hot days on the Grinder, Chow hall week, and humping across the bridge before graduation. Oh and the tear gas, how could we forget that. After that went to NTC for RadioMan A School and then went to the FFG-60 out of Yokosuka Japan. Will never forget! Thanks for the memories.

[@jimshaw5699]

So true Tony..I graduated in Dec 1975 after High School in Playa del Rey,Ca.A not so pleasant childhood,i became a man on this site.Cant help but tear up.No one except those that were here know what the experience was like...Fair seas my friend

[@daveaaron8209]

Sad. I went through boot camp there in 1985, never thought I’d miss it, but looking back those were some of the best times of my life.

[@DardanellesBy108]

dave aaron I was the Aug-Oct ‘85, how about you?

[@LloydCrumrine]

Company 294, May of 1964 ,It was all new, threatening , and exhilarating. I was the RCPO and learned my first lessons about the Military and leadership. I do consider it hallowed ground. It changed my life . I wish I could go back and see a graduation on the Grinder!!!!

[@truckerray7533]

I joined the US Navy in summer of 1987 after i had graduated from high school. I went to boot camp there at the base in San Diego, California from Febuary 1st 1988 & graduated on April 1st (April Fools's Day) 1988. I went from a teenage boy to a young Navy man with alot of training, knowledge, schooling in Co. #022, & ready to fight for & stand up for my country of the USA, state side & abroud! I served 4 yrs active duty service & 2 yrs in-active duty reserves, I did 3 over seas deployments, the last one which was there in the Persian Gulf War, Operation Desert Shield/Operation Desert Storm. I served aboard the aircraft carriers USS Nimitz CVN-68 & USS Constilation CV-64, I went to aviation training as a jet engine mechanic at the naval air base in Millington, Tenn for 4 months then I was stationed at NASNI (Naval Air Station North Island) in SanDiego, California. For me, it was sad to see the the US Naval Recruit Training Center San Diego close the gates many years later & now it is even sadder for me to see that this Naval Base has become a "small" town/comunity. I'll betchya 10 to 1 that 99% of the people there dont even realize as to what this base actually was nor do they even care! Salute to ALL my fellow shipmate warriors who went to this US Naval Recruit Training Center San Diego, California including my brother & my Uncle & a cousin. God bless our US Military of ALL branches of service Navy, Marines, Army, Air Force, & Coast Guard & God bless the USA!

[@nathandavis8142]

Co. 087 graduated Sep. 11 1992 24 years later my son graduated Navy Boot Camp. Great video long forgotten memories.

[@jrc0004]

Graduated in 1989, co. 241 CPO Espanta and PO 1st Class Perry. Great memories. My Dad (RIP) also graduated from there in 1967. I was born in Balboa Naval Hospital when my Mom and Dad were stationed at NAS North Island. I miss San Dog. Never a cloud and always 75.

[@doginwoods]

This was sent by a friend, a Master Chief, who I knew when my dad was in the Navy. I joined in 1977, and that Master Chief became my instructor at BT/A school at Great Lakes. I did not attend RTC San Diego. I was in RTC Orlando, Florida. But, to see these bases shuddered, and the pix of those souls who walked through those gates, is cool. So cool to see someone, has memories of something that made an impact in their life. I am a member of the USS Forrest Sherman foundation, which was my first ship. So, though I don't have those exact memories you guys do, I have some fond ones and can relate to this. What great times now, though I hated them then.

[@robertstorrie1707]

Being in the Navy in the mid 80's and going to NTC San Diego (My Hometown) while enlisted. It broke my heart when I was back down there about 2017 and seen what it was turned into.

[@53bigmikejones]

Thousands passed thru here and became Sailors. It is sad when they close such a historical place as this. I can remember 1972, Company 929 and all those hours spent learning, marching and the pride when we Passed in Review to join the fleet. Thanks

[@edwardweeden2834]

Edward T. Weeden, Staff RTC/NTC San Diego, 1973-1977. What a wonderful video. Saw where my old Division was. It is so good to see that some memories are preserved, while the remainder of the base looks so good. San Diego and the Navy did a "Bravo-Zulu" job here with Liberty Station!!!

[@sdcheapshot]

Edward Weeden Thanks. I was by Liberty Station yesterday and took some photographs from precisely where my barracks were in 1957. Memories still linger as I passed through the property. I live one mile away. Thank you for your comment. sdcheapshot

[@edwardweeden2834]

I retired to England after marrying a Brit! We visit every year, sometimes Summer and sometimes Autumn. SD looks a lot cleaner now than when I was on active duty. You who live there have done an excellent job!

[@samuelestigoy4219]

Joined in August 1986 COMPANY 933. Thank you So Much for Sharing. I'm RETIRED US Navy 😔

[@sdcheapshot]

Thank you for your service Samuel ! Two days ago I drove by Nimitz Camp and the the last of those yellow barracks had been leveled (including the one that I was in). It is gone now forever.

[@dougwoodley9704]

And thank you a million times over. Went through there in August of '65. Lots of fun memories in the U S N. Once again thanks a lot.

[@bangs4551]

I was at boot camp at NTC, San Diego in sum. 1963. U don't ever forget it--ur expeiences in the navy stay with u forever, I guess (I'm 76 now). After the navy, I earned an MA in Eng. & taught at a community coll. However, I consider my training in the navy more important to me personally than any degrees I got at college. This video brought events & characters back to me fm. long ago. Thx for posting the video.

[@wlanejr106b]

I went here in January 1976, CO 007. My life was changed forever by those 13 weeks of boot camp I have no regrets. It brought tears to my eyes to see the primary side as run down as it is. Go Navy!!!

[@wlanejr106b]

13 weeks. My mistake

[@jessebalboa4717]

Was at NTC from June 1993 to June 1994 with the BOOST program: Officer prep school for fleet sailors for USNA and NROTC. Ran all over that base and the bootcamp, although they had just pushed the last boots through in the summer of 93. Drinking age was 18 at all the military clubs on San Diego bases but we still spent our weekends in TJ on Revolution and on the beach in PB. It was the time of my life…

[@billman6364]

I still have my switchblade from TJ loved the beaches too drink all you want as long as its not in a glass. bootcamp co. 236 '83

[@Pitchithard]

Company 080 May of 1983. Remember this well . Was a great experience boot camp then the fleet saw so much, would do it all again.

[@michaelvasquez9677]

Why do I feel uncomfortable to that place of honor and tradition I went to boot camp being transformed into a place of tourism. It makes me uncomfortable. Like being in a church that had been desecrated

[@badasshiker9637]

At least there is something left of San Diego. Orlando was completely demolished and a "town" is located there now. They did set aside 55 acres as Bluejacket Park, but anything indicating the Navy was there was put there by the Central Florida Navy League.

[@nicholasricchiuti6003]

You are CORRECT!

[@earlphares9187]

The government made a big mistake closing NTC San Diego.

[@GP9railfan]

Exactly. This is depressing. We were one of the last companies to graduate there. March 1993, Co. 082 I feel old now…

[@albertbodt4954]

Fifty four years ago this October 18, I arrived at NTC San Diego. Stood on the spots at the reception barracks and filled out address cards to have my civvies sent home. Hit the rack at near midnight, and aroused from sleep by a trash can bouncing off the deck at 0300 hrs. We had 15 min to get dressed and fall in. Marched to the chow across the bridge to Camp Nimitz. We had 15 minutes to eat then fall back in for the beginning of the day, getting our seabag, uniforms, ditty bag, etc. Spent two weeks at Nimitz, which was basically a quasi quarantine to make sure no one had any comminicable disease that could spread to the entire base. After two weeks, moved the barracks on the west end of the base. After 3 weeks, became a color guardsman, had front of the line chit, could go virtually any where at any time as long as we had three of us marching together. I turned in my "piece", a WWI, early WWII Springfield rifle, and was essentially free to do as I wished. We went to daily CG "practice" but unless you were graduating that week, you sat around, reading, or polishing brass for the upcoming graduation. As long as you read your Bluejacket manual, you could pass the weekly tests. At Christmas 1966, we got two weeks leave to go home. then finished basic training on 13 Jan, 1967. From there to EM A School at North campus, until 14 May, then another 2 weeks leave before joining the fleet at NAS Alameda to catch the U.S.S. Coral Sea, CVA 43. The memories of NTC are etched in by mind forever until I am gone.

[@edwardfleming5434]

Only read the BJM while in boot camp, I don't recall ever reading it afterwards. Read the Handbook of the Hospital Corp cover-to-cover though.

[@jimcuthbertson2206]

What a Great Video! The memories rushed by like it was yesterday! The train ride down and getting there in the dark. The first meal in the Chow Hall still in civvies. Stenciling all of the uniforms with the longest name in my company. Becoming the RCPO. Believing that a BM2 Company Commander was more important than the President of the US. Never feeling prouder than leading a tight group of Sailors during Pass and Review! RTC San Diego January 1981 Company 012 was Awesome and the start of a great Navy career! GO Navy!!

[@thomasdaily4363]

Wait. Do you mean your BM2 CC ISN'T more important than the President??? I disagree.

[@sterlingburke7203]

@@thomasdaily4363 Definitely more important than this present President.

[@chuck876]

I was commisioned 1st drill company in 1984, company 901. I was a bass drummer. The 2nd half of boot camp was just rehearsing music for graduation. Our company commander was HT1 Harry Blemler. The base commander was Capt Guardella. From there, 4 weeks of airman apprenticship school, then to the USS ENTERPRISE CVN-65. A great time in my life. Proud to serve on the greatest carrier in the world.

[@wyateerp1]

Arrived around 2am January 5th ,1976. Company 005. CC BM1 Louden. Spent my entire enlistment after school in Millington Tennessee [AMH/AMS] at NAS Jacksonville Florida. not including 4 Deployments over seas. I miss it, and the comradery. AMH2 Scott. thanks for the memories.

[@joserizal1158]

lots of memories completed boot camp and graduated July 1968, company 321 and completed class A school August 1968.. 21 years of dedicated service

[@USSLKA-116]

JOSE RIZAL Thank you for your service! God bless you.

[@robertbrink2240]

Company 242 ,1964 in our racks at 0130 awaken at 0430 with night sticks on a trash can. An eventful start to one of the best things i ever did! No wonder i became an early riser for the rest of my life.

[@TAllyn-qr3io]

I did basic at RTC San Diego and was crack rifle RCPO in drill company. Graduated on 7 Dec and “that” in and of itself was an experience…I just maintained a permanent salute upon graduation ceremonies. Then I went across the street to FLEASWTRACENPAC for ST “A” school then off to Sub school (where it was determined that I had claustrophobia) and returned after reclassification for STG. Did BEEP at NTC San Diego and STG “C” school back across the street again. I now have inherited San Diego basic training books from every uncle during WW2. It is interesting that they looked, the base looked (for the most part) the same as when I was there in the 80’s. Tin Can Sailor!

[@dougpine9894]

I went to boot camp at San Diego in 1980, Company 090. Company Commander was R.R. Leslie, GMG1. I was sad to hear it was closing a while back. The barracks I was in are still there, Bldg 88. I also went to BE&E school at NTC. The BEQ I was in was torn down and is now a parking lot.Glad they kept the USS Recruit.

[@JGEE5273]

I was in company 071 and graduated from boot camp here on August 21, 1992. I even remember my two company commanders who were Petty Officer Dill and Petty Officer Garcia. It is so sad to see such a piece of history leave us. So many memories I still share with my family of this place. The video was great and helped to remember what this great training facility was all about.

[@timebong8366]

I graduated a year before u company 107

[@FoolsAmongUs]

@FoolsAmongUs 0 seconds ago 1984 ... CLASS 243 Start Date: 14 Nov 84 Exit Date 17 January 85 We missed all the Holidays. NOTEWORTHY DATE: Jan 1 1985 NO MORE BEARDS. -We did not recognize our own CC Who knew I would spend over 21 years in the U.S. Navy.

[@flagsin1965]

Company 193 of 1963. Spent two weeks messcooking as all training was frozen in place to deal with an outbreak of spinal meningitis. Went back two years ago, walked around Camp Nimitz and shot photos of the barracks building, mess hall and grinder, then spent about two hours in the Liberty Station development on the other side. The Navy threw about 80 teenagers from all over the country together and taught them some of the most important lessons of life.

[@sdcheapshot]

I passed by Camp Nimitz this morning. They are making an airport parking lot out of it now. Only the last two row of barracks on the Eastern side remain. Mine, from 1957, is still there but it's days are numbered.

[@haskellvanmarter5501]

Joseph Frederickson Yes the navy does a great job transforming young boys into great people . The training made a bid difference in my life. Thanks Navy. SanDiego. Co 604 (Nov 3, 1964- 1968) BT-3

[@yuvegotmale]

I arrived at NTC in Nov of 1968...ended up in company 811....after graduation went back to SD for BE and E class and then radioman school....have lots of great memories...have watched this video several times....thanks for posting

[@glenhamilton8375]

you were coming as I was going. Went to BEE school in Nov after graduation from NTC

[@calebhanson6970]

Caleb Hanson - Company 024 Division 6 Sept - Dec. 1989 3rd platoon leader. Company Commanders Newman and Lynch. Also Advanced Electronics school at NTC. Groton CT. for Submarine school, back to San Diego for BQQ5 sonar school, right across the street at ASW SD. Seeing all this brings back a flood of memories, and a couple of tears. I can't believe the old girl is gone.

[@Colorado68]

Boot camp 1985 - Company 919 Was there when they filmed Top Gun scenes and needed extra's in the background. Lot's of memories on that grinder. Went from USS Never sail to USS Never Dock (USS Nimitz)

[@DardanellesBy108]

Doug Porter Aug-Oct ‘85, Company 933. I never got to go on the Never Dock or the gun range. Had duty watch both times.

[@waynemorgan1577]

I was on the Nimitz from 84-86.. first on flight deck then OZ division..

[@williamescolantejr5871]

Doug Porter; was in boot camp co 075 apr85-june 85. I remember Tom Cruise's no show

[@troymills9437]

Arrived 01 JUL 80, Assigned to Company 157 with SK1 Springs. Graduated in late August. Then moved to other side of the base to Basic Electricity/Electronics (BE/E) school. Left RTC San Diego in December to go to ET 'A' school at Great Lakes. What a shocker that was! Sometimes I miss the Navy but can't fathom what my life would have been like if I'd made it a career.

[@davidt3531]

Best time in my life was when I was in the Navy (Best Job I've ever had).. RTC San Diego C0. 095 1993! Love you shipmates!

[@kobispencer]

1977 Company 093 Can't describe how bad this made me feel. It is like all of that history forgotten. Nothing remembered except by those of us who have been there.

[@randykinney1399]

man you all are bringing back alot of memories was at radioman school in 1981 for a-school was thier a few years i remember the old yellow buildings that was my barracks back then. it just brings back lot of great times miss it so much went to norfolk after A school and lasted almost 22 years when i retired with 4 daughters no boys and had my 5th daughter almost 8 years ago so man love watching the old videos of my life for 22 years ty all

[@charleshansen6928]

Half of all those "yellow barracks" are gone now and the last half, including mine, will be gone by the end of the year. Thank you for your comments shipmate. I now volunteer on the USS Midway Museum here in San Diego. Come on down and visit us.

[@paulgarner7395]

Thanks for the video, Charles. Great job of walking us through these memories and showing us how the areas are being used now.

[@sdcheapshot]

Thank you for your comment Paul. I live only a few miles away from the complex and I still enjoy reading the comments as they come in.

[@glenndavid6307]

Wow. Great memories of being a boot. Was part of co.951 flag and drill team ( graduated '86) i believe Pety officer 1st class Sewell was our instructor. Will never forget the experience. Thanks!

[@waynemorgan1577]

I was there in 83.. Dec-Feb.. no offense we called members of the drill team Chrome Domes.. Back then the band would bust out with the Budweiser song.. it was awesome..

[@hmdoc16]

Company 292; 1977. Every sailor knows RTC San Diego was the REAL boot camp. Should have closed Great Mistakes, no fleet there. Disneyland RTC was ok.

[@kennymacpherson9452]

Made me happy but a tear or two. I was there June 29th 1966, don’t remember company number but have info back in the states. After boot and on the training center went to dental tech school. Years later after being stationed at 32nd street, there I Am, was back in dental lab school. Thank you navy for the training I became a denturist from 1984 to 2014 and now retired in Mexico.

[@sdcheapshot]

Always nice to see these experiences written out as you have here. Thank you for sharing shipmate!

[@joygomez9772]

Cool video bring back a lot of memories 75 June the day I went in the boot camp scariest day of my life

[@terrywitkowski6937]

I enlisted in the USN in July 1964. I don't why, but I had a choice the 'Lakes' or 'Diego.' I picked 'Diego.' That was in the days of surfin', hot rods, beach girls and all that. Ha, Ha. I never saw any of that. Just grinders and barracks. I was in Battalion Juliette. Co. 394-64. I had flash-backs watching this flick....good ones. I still remember TDE-1 like yesterday. When I got my orders, I got orders to USS Coral Sea (CVA-43) and went right straight to the Gulf of Tonkin.

[@jonhicks7546]

Nothing had changed by 1984 !

[@mikejohnson4723]

I was on the Enterprise from mid 1977 to mid 1978. I know also what carrier or bird farm life is like.

[@vbbusch59]

Ruben Muego - Graduated Aug 1961..BMC Mancini, Company Commander...Vividly remember all these...wow I still remember those tough training days...day and night. Thanks for the memories..NTC will always remain in my memories and a special place in my heart....retired as a Chief...thank u Navy

[@stevefletcher5719]

Great documentary. Thanks for sharing. Attended boot in 1963.

[@MrRickonia]

What an OUTSTANDING memoir video production you have put together, @Charles! I have not been back to visit where I became a man for almost 48 years (1975) and plan to visit this summer. How many of you remember looking up at commercial planes departing Lindbergh International Airport every few minutes and thinking to yourself “One day, I’m gonna be ON one of those planes!” ? Being an 18-year-old in boot camp can be a rather traumatic experience with the culture shock, yet an exciting time when you realize that you’ve learned that if you can get through the brainwashing of “boot”, you can do practically anything in the world you set your mind to…what a liberating feeling to graduate and realize that there’s no going back to your childhood (not that you’d want to!). So, how many of you actually got creamed by a seagull waiting outside the chow hall at parade rest? I was fortunate enough to escape unscathed, but I think at least a handful of my company shipmates did not. I remember our “CC” (Company Commander) warning us not to feed the seagulls. Of course, it was a demerit if you were even caught sneaking food out of the chow hall, but I think most of us did it just to build confidence, not to mention the extra mental boost it brought in feeling like you were not completely brainwashed into compliance. Haha. I recall that they taught us to “Free-Step…MARCH!” while crossing the bridge (Prebble?? Bridge) so as not to build up a resonance and cause the bridge to weaken or fall. I remember the first time we were allowed to go to the NEX Mini-Mart (on Worm Island-the basic side, I think) to spend our well-earned paycheck. Of course, we had to march if there were more than two of us in a group. (2 or less had to double-time.) As a member of the Bluejacket Choir, we had to, or I should say “were privileged to” march to North Chapel each Sunday, starting the 3rd or 4th week, I think it was, to sing in the weekly Sunday service. The best thing about that was being able to mingle with civilians and partake in donuts. We were always on our best behavior though since you never knew who might be a “civilian-clothes” Officer or wife or daughter of an Officer. Still, the civilians were always quite friendly to the choir members, and it was a type of therapy from the weekly brainwashing since we got a sneek peek of “freedom” each week. I’m still trying to locate the organist, “Mr [James] Hansen”, and the Choir director, “Dr Williams” since it would be so much fun to see them again. Both are probably in their 80’s or 90’s, if even still alive. I was so glad that the real-estate developers did NOT turn the North Chapel into a restaurant, as previously discussed. So many people came forward to express their treasured memories of weddings and funerals there, and any Bluejacket Choir member cannot help but have burned in memories of singing all verses of the Navy Hymn (Eternal Father) as the closing song each service, right before Mr Hansen would deliver the most stimulating arrangement of some historical church tune. I also remember how right when you would least expect it while accompanying the choir, Mr Hansen would turn toward the choir and make a really weird look on his face just to try and get us to smile, but not missing a beat in his note delivery. That guy was one talented organist/musician. I’m also glad that they used many of the original NTC buildings to convert into the new shops and businesses. That will be special for those visitors who used to be stationed there. I remember when one of our shipmates broke his arm. We all knew the rules about casts being of their original color, so, like any good shipmate, the entire company signed his cast while he was sleeping. The next morning, the entire company was doing pushups and sit-ups with SR Gulliver calling the count. I wish I could get ahold of a base map with the names of the different buildings so I could see where the choir met for practices, the NEX Mini-Mart, and other buildings, many of which have probably been demolished. I was glad to see that the original concrete barracks are still standing. What would really be helpful is to get ahold of a list that shows which class numbers slept in which barracks building numbers by year. I think I can narrow my barracks bldg. down to 1 of perhaps 2 or 3, but my memory is just too hazy after 48 years. Little did we know at the time that the local San Diego Fire Department would one day be using for training the same barracks where countless recruits stood “Fire Watch” (while pushing a broom to stay awake)! How ironic! In parting, I wonder how many other recruits snuck out of their racks at night with a pen-light to look for their father’s WWII M1 Garand rifle serial number in the rifle racks! Or was it just me?? Haha. Good thing I never found it, or I may have run into some problems figuring out how to [legally] acquire it. 😊 Boot camp was hard work, but so much fun as well. It will be so good to visit after all these years to bring closure to the place that introduced me to becoming a man.

[@sdcheapshot]

Thank you for your comments MrRicksonia323! One half of the barracks on Camp Nimitz have been replaced with a hotel (Northwest of the chow hall) the other half remain as for fire fighter training. I live just over the hill from the area now and pass by there several times a week. On my anniversary every year I go there and walk the same steps that I did in December of 1957 when I first entered NTC as it was then. You might enjoy reading the many comments that have been posted to this video. Enjoy your visit to San Diego. Not far from this is the USS Midway Museum.

[@MrRickonia]

@@sdcheapshot , are you related to the "Mr Hansen" who was the organist at North Chapel for quite a few years? I'm trying to locate him, but have not had any success. I believe his first name was "Mr". haha...naw, seriously, I thiink it was James or Jim.

[@sdcheapshot]

@@MrRickonia Nope...not me. :(

[@tyronemarcucci8395]

My time there was from Aug 1960 through Jan 1961 with a 90 day stay at US Naval Hospital Balboa, CO's 443 and 629

[@electricalron]

I had graduated from RTC company 092 in April 1990. This was my bootcamp! I feel like royalty now after seeing this video. Unbelievable that base is no longer there. I had no idea. It was here where we all got our medical shots and I saw a guy have a seizure on the first morning at zero dark-thirty. What memories, wow. Thanks for posting this video, sadly.

[@paulanderson9407]

I was in Company 229,Division 2 1990 August to October.I have good memories of RTC and San Diego.

[@roccodonato4120]

Graduated there. Spent June, July and August of 1990 going back and forth over Nimitz bridge to chow. Also spent a lot of time doing pushups on the grinder. Got out in 1994 as a AMS3 PC3 Orion flight engineer stationed at barber's point Hawaii.

[@roccodonato4120]

@@paulanderson9407 Company #158 here. Graduated the month you were in your P days wearing your black watch cap and sounding off your number as dressed right. We may have been in that chow hall at the same time. Lol.

[@johnfitzsimmons326]

@@paulanderson9407Cool. I was Company 227 same time

[@williamrlujan4955]

Company 151 July-Sept 81. AH2 Ellescas was my CC. Went across the bridge to Apprentice Training. Was stationed on the USS Ajax AR-6 welded to the pier in 32nd ST. Went to BT A school in Great Lakes and stayed in "Snipes Castle". Stationed on USS San Jose AFS-7

[@DC-ug6xi]

Just turned 50. Did my basic here when I turned 18. Still remember my CO. Spencer. Always said I was effed Up as a soup sandwich...drop and give me 20..lol..I’m thankful I had the opportunity to be a part of this great organization..

[@dick8193]

Did my training at Great Lakes RTC in 1963.Good times!

[@nomoreprospecting]

WOW - So emotional -- came there Jan. 1980 left April 1980. Company 55. Peavy Company Commander, great guy! First Class at the time. My Father said: go into the service if you aren't ready for College, so I did. Things I remembered: Running around the track ( I did track in Highschool) but others throwing up, never understood that! Shining our shoes, stretching and calisthenics, marching over the Bridge, Singing songs inside the USS Recruit while inhaling tear gas, waiting at Parade Rest outside the chow hall and a sea gull pooping on my baseball bill. On the last week, being able to drink Beer on time off in the small business which was part of the whole NTC yellow structure and feeling freedom and a nice buzz. I left for my duty station (after fire training in Treasure Island) to the USS Midway in Japan Ships Company Flight Deck V-1 Division. After 4 years, back to the SF Bay area, worked at Thrasher Magazine, then for US Customs on the CA/Mex Border K-9. Now in N. San Diego (best place on Earth) and building Crytocurrencies (Cloudcoin.Global) (RAIDAtech.com) the future of Crypto. Hold ON!!!!!!!! It'll be a Financial RIDE!!!!!! Oh, forgot, joined the CA State Militia during Obama's time, kind of think NOW is the time to join a Militia!

[@sdcheapshot]

Nice comment Bryan...one of the very best! Roger that...San Diego is pretty good (I am a native) and live just over the hill (Point Loma) from the NTC/Liberty Station complex. Thanks a bunch for taking the time to write your then feelings!

[@bnt111269]

I was there in September of 1969 in Company 631.....this was a memory jogger and certainly took me back in time. I remember my Aunt Frannie coming down from San Francisco for graduation and going to the San Diego Zoo on "Boot" liberty with her. One of the most memorable things I remembered was celebrating my 21st birthday with a can of Coca-Cola in boot camp.

[@EarlFaubion]

Superb! Brings back a lot of memories.

[@budwoodman1716]

I was in Company 621 in 1967. Chief Fureh (I think that is how it was spelled) was our Company Commander. Believe it or not, I still have the 'boots' I wore as a recruit and the soles and heel STILL hasn't worn out yet. The tops are a bit worn, but the bottoms are still hanging in there.

[@MegaSmiley1213]

I’m a marine I love that place I was stationed there the summer of 1981 for Morse code school plenty of good memories

[@489back]

1970 Company 010. CC was MMC Cox. Returned to NTC for BE&E school before heading to Fleet ASW school for training on the MK111 Fire Control System. Many fond memories of my time at RTC and NTC. The destroyers I served on have been scrapped and now the bases I was trained at are going also. Fleet ASW school at Key West is also gone.

[@sdcheapshot]

I, the creator of this video, was there in Hilo, Hawaii, a Navy photographer, on vacation. You can see the KZbin video of that Tsunami damage searching my user name sdcheapshot. Small world shipmate! And a huge thanks for those photographic skills the Navy gave to me.

[@youfuckmywife6719]

Another photographer there that day was my ex girlfriend’s Father, Lee Allison . He grew up there . Later became a professional photographer and filmographer . He later was part owner of a helicopter tour company . In the late 1950’s, my Father and his best friend worked at the camera store on Kalakaua Blvd near the Royal Hawaiian Hotel . They had the bigger shop on Keeamoku Blvd. Where I went to Basic Training was Harmony Church at Fort Benning , Georgia . It was a small camp of WWll wooden barracks. Went back for the Ranger Rendezvous in the early 1990’s , it was torn down. As of 2018, ALL of Fort Benning has been torn down with new buildings . They shut down Ft. Knox and consolidated Ft. Benning To The Maneuver Center with Cavalry and Armor At Harmony Church . Now the Army will soon drop Benning and probably re name it after Medal Of Honor Recipient SFC Alwyn Cashe .

[@USSLKA-116]

Great memories! I was there from Jan 87 to Apr 87 due to med hold. Company 013 was my 1st company and I graduated with Company 055. Being stuck at Balboa Hospital for a month was no fun but I stuck in out and graduated. AO1 Merriweather and Chief Pescadero if you both are still out there....God bless you both!

[@Crazy-Horse-Tx.]

Wow, I was stuck on med hold as well. Balboa Hospital was nice , Nov 1990.

[@FaydsterTV]

I feel like the 70’s and the 80’s would’ve been the prime time to be in the Navy. So many films generated, so much interest. It’s a shame what it has become nowadays. 6 year veteran of the Navy, and now AD Army. Wish I could’ve seen the Navy in its heyday.

[@MrJearley6]

Late to this flight!!! Thank you this video!! I was station there in 1993!! Thank you!!

[@drivinFOOL357]

Co. 056 March 87 excellent video. I have added to my favorites and greatly appreciate you posting this and giving me a tour of the old RTC/NTC. I left in there and headed back east to join the fleet. I always smile when I think of those days, and I have to wonder what life might have been like if I had stayed on the west coast. Either way thank you for the memories.

[@jgrogan02]

Thank you for posting this wonderfull trip down memory lane...I went through Camp Nimitz in 1979, I remember at graduation on the main grinder by the chow hall,we all had our sea bags awaiting our order packets and plane tickets. Most of my company was shipping out to A-schools all over the place. My orders were to walk over the bridge and attend A-school right there in San Diego LOL. It seems I just couldn't get away from the U.S.S Recruit..I did eventually find my way aboard C.V 63 the Hawk

[@bananaking2782]

Lots of memories! Went back a few years ago showed my kids where dad started his Navy career. Company 168 June to August 1990. Planning on going back sometime

[@larryd9549]

I graduated from RTC in Mar 84 Co. 902 our CC was BM1 Franklin. I went through BE&E and IC A-school on the NTC side.

[@Katochloe]

This is terrific. Wonderful history and all the way up to the combined new uses of this historic place.

[@yuvegotmale]

I was in boot camp at NTC in November 1968..........Iam totaly amazed at the transromation.......some of the old is still there along with the new.......I would have never beleived that this would take place.....wonderfull

[@joshuadangos188]

What a trip back in time.I was there about 44yrs ago Boot Camp training.Co 004(dec 1972-feb1973)CC was Bm1 Ronald Hopwood.Our company was called Hopwood''s worms.After RTC,went to HM "A" Sch @ Balboa Hosp.The video is great,thanks for posting.RTC stay was not @ all pleasant during training but it became an indeliblle part of one's life history.Sad to see the old place go.Along with it are treasured memories of all those who shared a part of their lives in the place..good thing we have videos like this to use in travelling down memory lane.Thank you again shipmate!

[@ShichidanBB]

There are a LOT of us Corpsmen on here. I went to NTC in 1967, Class A Corps School in Great Lakes, IL, (go figure), FMSS at Camp LeJeune, NC, (go figure again), before Vietnam.

[@MrPup0007]

Yes I was there in Nov.1980 Co.283 under Chief Lovett, would never have thought I'd miss it so much. Did active duty at NAS Lemoore VFA-125 F/A 18 Airdale. CV-64 as well. I heard about the controversy about the Base design and just found out about it no longer being the Recruit Training Center. Hope to see some fellow shipmates that severed with me as well. Bless all who Started a New Life there as I.