Many veterans view their "Keel" as a badge of honor. It marks the transition through "the grind" of Great Lakes—a place known for its harsh Illinois winters and demanding physical standards. The yearbook is the physical proof of having successfully navigated the transition from "I" to "We." Finding and Preserving Yearbooks
: Recruits in their "Crackerjack" (blues) or "Whites," documenting their first official appearance as sailors. u.s.-navy-boot-camp-yearbooks-great-lakes
The U.S. Navy Recruit Training Command (RTC) at Great Lakes, Illinois, serves as the sole "quarterdeck of the Navy." For generations of sailors, the —often referred to as the "Keel"—serves as the definitive historical record of their transformation from civilian to sailor. These yearbooks are more than just collections of photos; they are cultural artifacts that document the evolution of naval training, social changes within the military, and the personal milestones of millions of Americans. The Purpose and Tradition of the "Keel" Many veterans view their "Keel" as a badge of honor
: From the traditional bell-bottoms to the introduction of the Navy Working Uniform (NWU) "blueberries" and the current Type III variants, the yearbooks serve as a fashion archive of military utility. Genealogical and Personal Value The Purpose and Tradition of the "Keel" :
: Located on-site at the base, preserving the local heritage.