Of the 6 training commands I experienced in my 20 years of naval service, San Diego NTC, Pensacola NTTC Corry, Great Lakes, Ft. Gordon, Norfolk and Dam Neck, this was easily the worst one. To say that morale was kinda low would be like saying that an aircraft carrier is kinda big. Everyone, from students to instructors, were treated miserably. The only saving grace for my 2 times being here for school, in December 1986 - September 1987 and again from January 1990 - May 1990, was going to all the pubs outside the back gate (Circus Pub, The Anchor Pub, Rick's, etc.). However, all of those businesses are now gone and nothing but an empty field remains. I can't even imagine how bad it is now with nothing but the lousy on-base club as a release valve. Only a hole like Great Mistakes could actually make a place worse now than it was 30 some odd years ago.

Tradition, Honor, and integrity are core values that run deep at Great Lakes. If you get the chance to take a tour, do it. See where America's front line is trained and developed. This place is special.

I enjoyed serving here. And, am grateful of other folks whom have served in every branch of our Armed Forces. Likewise, very fortunate to have a member of the greatest generation still here with us in my family who served in the Navy in the South Pacific. World War II that is... Wish I had been in the Medical Corps, oh well. Great way to pay for University. Pick your A school and insist on it by not only squaring your gear away but also those nearby... GO NAVY!

I can't understand why this isn't 5 stars across the board. I was there in January 1990 for boot camp. it was freezing, and all I remember is having to shovel snow at 3am. seen many a sailors slip on ice, and get knocked out. good times; I couldn't believe all the deer I seen on the base, plus the cool ham radio club station they had. met my first and only X wife there. look forward to joing the Navy again, and going back there after I retire at age 65.

My son graduated 8-23-13, and our entire family went to cheer him on. The Naval Station was beautiful and well maintained; I was not allowed to take photos of the grounds, so I wouldn't expect one to be posted any time soon. We live in KY, and most of us couldn't be gone from work for more than a day or two, so we drove up. I had reserved a room at the Holiday Inn Gurnee Convention Center, and the accommodations were nice. We left on Friday at about 7:00 pm, it took until 10:00 pm just to get out of the Chicago city limits. I was very glad we got to spend the day with my son, however I would not recommend to anyone to drive up one day and come back the next. Other than that, anyone with someone graduating from basic training can expect a good experience.

I Always get professional care from the different departments. Parking garage usually has few spots available so veterans are using this facility often .this is a view from 2nd floor waiting area - very modern & relaxing !

Faithful And Trustworthy Not To Mention There Dedication To What They Absolutely Love Being Apart Of The US Navy

Great place! Learned a lot and enjoyed it! Very well maintained. It will change your life forever whether you're staying an extended time or short time. US NAVY, you rock!

Fourth of July concerts were the best times of my life

I intrust my son and you would not let me get him medical attention. As a Marine Corps Veteran, I never encountered this in my years of service.