Interesting Info on 900 Divisions

[SOBE,PIR 6/4/10 IT Mom, Italy]

I received this information from a seasoned N4M mom whose own recruit was in a 900 division, I think you'll find this info helpful and interesting too!

 

"all 900 Divs train on Ship 06, the USS Constitution. FYI: Here's an edited version of something I wrote to the 901 gals when they first signed into BC Moms:

..."Recruits are chosen for the 900 divisions based on several things such as ASVAB scores, previous ROTC or other leadership experience, musical or band experience etc. There are many non musical jobs. I would not go so far as to call them honor or elite, but there is a LOT of pride in being in a 900 Div. :-) Nothing they do during BC carries over beyond graduation though. I promise, PIR will be extra memorable for both you and your Sailor! :D

900's must work harder and more is expected of them! :) They not only have to learn everything every other BC Recruit has to learn, but they also have extra duties, as they are the division in charge of helping to run and perform in the PIR ceremony. Be aware, their time to write, especially as PIR gets closer, is sometimes short because of the extra practice time and study required. They must be good self managers and show initiative, drive and leadership."

Hope that helps the newbies understand better what your Recruits have gotten themselves into and what you can expect during and at the culmination of their 8 weeks. :)

 

"The PIR ceremony is conducted, with help, from the graduating 900 Div and two Jr. Divs in their 7th and 6th week of training. That's why you get a sneak peek at your Recruits in the videos and pictures posted by Moms returning from GL. :) Each incoming 900 div is assigned one of the responsibilities listed below, on a constantly rotating basis.

Ship Staff is in charge on PIR day. They greet and welcome the Officers and their distinguished guests as Sideboys, they play the role of "Body Snatcher" walking up and down the rows of Sailors, watching for and sometimes catching any Sailor about to or going down. (They lock their knees sometimes and pass out). They help the Navy Corpsmen in the back room, they Guard doors and perform a myriad of tasks behind the scenes and in front. It is their job to help make sure all goes smoothly. The Honor Guard Drill Team (they're the ones with the yellow ascots) also does a rifle performance at the beginning of the ceremony.

Flags does an incredible march perfectly timed and executed to the drum corps cadence. It is their job to present the flags for every state in the union. They are lined up by height, so the flow looks better, so your recruit will probably not get to carry their home state flag. They also honor those who have gone before by presenting the POW and MIA flags, as well as the US flag.

Triple Threat is comprised of those who are on that weeks' Jr. Rifle Drill team and all those who were chosen for their musical abilities. The Blue Jacket Choir performs the Nat'l Anthem, Anchors Aweigh (just try to get through those without a tear in your eye. I couldn't) and anything else they've been tasked with. The band plays at various time throughout the ceremony. The Drum Corps also marches and helps everyone else stay in step and keep time.

All together, it is an amazing effort, especially when you stop to consider how little time they have really had to prepare such a glorious presentation. You have every reason to be very proud of your 900 Div recruits Navy Moms! :-)