Shipping Out; a guide to Boot Camp
United States Navy
Preparing for Boot.
First, you need to know the Sailor's Creed. "I am a United States Sailor. I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States, and I will obey the orders of those appointed over me. I represent the fighting spirit of the Navy, and those who have gone before me to defend freedom and democracy around the world. I proudly serve my Navy Combat Team with honor, courage, and commitment. I am committed to excellence, and the fair treatment of all." Memorizing the Creed is a big part of starting your Navy career.
You'll also need to know your General Orders. There are 11 General Orders of a Sentry. You will often be asked a random general order, that you must repeat word for word to your superior asking. Failure to do so can result in punishment. Memorizing your general orders is not only important for your job, it also shows dedication. Memorize these before you ship out, and your superiors will be impressed.
Finally, you want to memorize your rank and recognition. If you call a Senior Chief a Petty Officer, you're going to have a bad time. If you call a Petty Officer a Senior Chief, you're still going to have a pretty bad day. Memorizing rank and recognition will impress your superiors, but not knowing it will turn them off forever, virtually eliminating a chance at a leadership position.
So there you go, Sailor's Creed, General Orders, and Rank and Recognition. If you learn these things. Basic will go by much smoother for you. Be prepared to be yelled at, be prepared to be homesick, be prepared to be tired. Most of all though, be prepared to graduate, earn the title of United States Sailor, and wear it with pride for the rest of your life.