Transformation: From Civilian to Sailors

This exhibit will examine how the former Navy Orlando Recruit Training Center (RTC Orlando) transformed raw recruits into highly effective sailors.  This process took place over an intensive eight week training period, commonly referred to as boot camp. RTC Orlando occupied roughly one half of the former Orlando Naval Training Center (NTC Orlando), which was located at present day Baldwind Park, Orlando.  Between 1968 and 1994, over 650,000 men and women graduated from RTC Orlando.  Using photo evidence and oral interviews obtained from former recruits and instructors, this exhibit will help show how this process unfolded and why so many recruits call this the most important time of their lives.