"The Quarterdeck of the Navy"

 

Just like boarding a ship, the base has been called “The Quarterdeck of the Navy” as your Navy starts here!!

 

Since the first group of recruits reported for training July 1, 1911, more than 3.5 million Sailors have started their Navy careers right here in northern Illinois. Their experience in “boot camp” transformed them from civilians into Sailors, and it is an experience that continues to be a source of pride for all who have earned the right to wear the uniform of a United States Sailor. Naval Station Great Lakes is the largest military installation in Illinois and the largest training station in the Navy. 

 

The dept. has two stations with over 30+ members.  We provides the base with fire suppression, Emergency Medical Services at the BLS and ALS levels and also has technical rescue and hazardous materials teams and technicians. Great Lakes is one of the busiest bases in the Navy with over 4,500 emergency calls a year.  Great Lakes FD is part of the Mutual Aide Box Alarm System (MABAS) Division 4 of Lake County and the state of Illinois.