USA: Recruit Division Commanders Visit Naval Station Norfolk

Recruit Division Commanders (RDC) from Recruit Training Command (RTC) Great Lakes, visited Naval Station Norfolk to train Hampton Roads Navy Counselors (NC) from various commands about what it takes for Sailors to become RDCs or instructors, July 19.

The RDC Roadshow aids in filling positions for RTC by emphasizing to, and educating NCs on, the benefits of the job and the screening process needed to become an RDC.

“Our main job is to teach people,” said Chief Gunner’s Mate Matthew Elliott, member of the RDC Roadshow. “You want to train them to the best of your ability, so that when they relieve you in the future, you know they’ve been trained properly. That’s why I’m so passionate with what I do here. I try to instill that in every single one of them.”

The Roadshow was initiated as a result of questions NCs had about the RDC program. There was also a personnel gap of more than 170 instructors for the incoming recruits. The commanders hope to fill those billets with the best the Navy has to offer with the training the roadshow is giving.

“The training was very beneficial,” said Master-at-Arms 2nd Class (SW/AW) Denise Contreras, a collateral duty NC. “The roadshow helps us to fill RDC billets with the best fit because they clarified many questions Sailors have when they visit the office. The selection process is tough to be an RDC, because he or she needs to be a model to all future Sailors. They need to be a perfect Sailor from top to bottom.”

Even with that pressure, RDC’s say the job is rewarding.

“The job can be challenging, but we like to say the juice is worth its squeeze,” said Senior Chief Aviation Machinist’s Mate Joshua Ford, a member of the roadshow.

The visit is part one of a two-part trip. The second half is slated for July 20 in San Diego. For more information on becoming an RDC contact your Command Career Counselor.

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Naval Today Staff, July 23, 2012; Image: US Navy