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Boot Camp Terminology

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The following is some Navy terminology used mostly in boot camp; however, some of the terminology is also used aboard ships and at shore commands. Other Navy terminology found in Navy Tutor may also be used during boot camp.

The only remaining Navy boot camp is at the Recruit Training Command (RTC), Great Lakes, Illinois. RTC is beside Lake Michigan so it gets very cold there in the winter.

  • A-ROC. The Assignment Recruit Petty Officer who is the second in command (after the R-CPO) when the RDC is not present.
  • ASMO. An assignment memorandum used to set a recruit back in training.
  • BS. This stands for battle stations, which is the final test of endurance, strength, and teamwork on the way to becoming becoming a "United States Sailor." Recruits endure 24 consecutive hours of obstacles that may face them once at sea. The test takes place aboard the Recruit Training Command’s USS Trayer, a shipboard simulator.
  • BCG. These are boot camp glasses issued to recruits who need glasses. They are also known as Birth Control Glasses since they are unattractive, large, black plastic, rimmed glasses with small lenses that make you look like a dork.
  • BZ. Stands for “Bravo Zulu,” which means, "Well Done"
  • Captain's Cup. A field day or sporting events, during which the divisions compete against each other for bragging rights.