SOME PIR WEEKEND SUGGESTIONS

[Maureen62 Proudmomofasailor]

 

some suggestions for your PIR visit

 

Be there as early as you can-before 7:30 am. Wear dressy casual, nice jeans are fine. Wear comfortable shoes-you may have to climb bleachers and will be doing a lot of walking.

 

 Bring: photo ID, camera, binoculars, tissues, lint brush and tide pen, chapstick; hand lotion and a towel for your recruit to sit on while you are out enjoying Chicago after PIR and for you to sit on while you watch PIR, Don't forget an umbrella just in case. Watch your make-up when you hug him/her--he/she has to be very careful with their uniform, a  checkbook-for the photo packages(minimum pkg is ~ 140.00) and anything else you want to buy at PIR. At the hotel bring old clothes for your recruit to wear while at hotel (in case there is enough time for that so they can be comfortable.) REMEMBER though, In public sailors must remain in military issue clothes...even to swim

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I've read to take a shuttle if possible (even if you rented a car)-it'll bypass the long line of cars at the gate and drop you off at front gate…you’ll still have a good 15-20 minute walk but it is flat and you’ll see new recruits marching with their division flags. I don’t think my feet touched the ground during the entire time.. Sit at the top of the bleachers so you'll have something to lean against (besides some one’s knees) Try to sit across from where your sailor is and to the right that way you can see him/her better. There will be signs indicating where your Sailor’s division will be.

Bring their laptop and phone to hotel so they can catch up with their family and friends at home.

 

If you rent a car (and I suggest that you do) Google addresses: RTC, the airport, hotel, Navy Pier, Gurnee Mall, restaurants. Etc & write down the address. If you have a GPS.take it with you, if not rent one with the car. Don’t let them talk you into renting an EzPass (for the tolls) not worth it.

While you wait for your Sailor following graduation, MCPON Hall and eateries at RTC are available, or you may use your graduation parking pass to visit the USO, building 27 onboard Naval Station Great Lakes (Mainside). Parking is available outside Gate 1 adjacent to Mainside’s Visitors Center located on Sheridan Road. Walk through Gate 1 and proceed to the USO located on the corner of Farragut Avenue and Rodgers Street; escorts will assist. Snacks and drinks will be available on the second floor of the USO.

[rlouie-ship 09 Div301 PIR 9/10]

Thanks Maureen!! I'm printing this out

[iris - Wahiawa, Hawaii]

This is great Maureen. Thank you!