Our son just arrived wednesday night, 6-26, at Great Lakes, he is going in with a contract of Air Crew, Will he be in a different division? I have read that they are in 800 division but cant seem to find it now. He will also just be turning 18 before PIR, how do we celebrate his birthday when we get there. This is so new to us, any info would be helpful to us. Thanks
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A division starts with 88 recruits who live and train together. It's important to note the division number as it is part of the mailing address for your sailor. Recruits graduate (PIR) as divisions and you will use that number to help find your sailor at PIR. There are three sequences of divisions number at RTC: 800-series divisions are the divisions for the special warfare candidates, and include SEAL candidates, SWCC, and several other classifications. 900-series divisions are the performance divisions, and includes three types: the Band/Bluejacket Choir/Drill team, otherwise known as "Triple Threat" (the musicians, singers, and drill team), the "Sticks" (those who carry the state flags), and the Ship Staff/Honor Guard. All other divisions numerically start at 001 at the beginning of the fiscal year and are numerically consecutive until the next fiscal year starts. Thus division 001 is placed in TG 01. Division 801 is the first 800 Division and Division 901 is the first 900 division and they continue with consecutive numbers as well until the next fiscal year as do the lower number divisions.
Each division, except the 800-series and 900-series divisions (unless there are 2 of them in a TG), train with a "Brother Division". Brother Divisions are two consecutive divisions beginning with an odd number (001-002 or 231-232 for example).
Hello. 800 divisions are for Special Ops. SEALS, SWCC, etc... He will be in a regular division unless they put him in a 900 division which are the performing divisions. Band, choir, flags etc.. If he mentions to them he has any marching experience, they may ask him to do that.
As far as his birthday goes, celebrate as you wish AFTER PIR. Take him out to dinner somewhere and get him a cake! As far as gifts go, something small. Maybe a new watch. G-shock watches are very popular with sailors. Keep it a black one.
My son was also Aircrew. He flew out of O'Hare to Pensacola. Normally they fly out the next morning..early.