Tips/comments my experience

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Permalink Reply by Hank Carlozzi Jr. on August 16, 2011 at 5:26pm

Our son's PIR was Aug. 12th also. We also flew into Midway. We stayed at the Quality Inn in Waukegan, very nice, fridge and microwave and a fold out bed for his brother. They also had a free shuttle to the base for the PIR, which we took. While we had heard that getting onto the base could be a hassle with security and seaches, from what I saw there seemed to be no problem. We arrived at about 7:05 AM and saw no long lines, at least at the gate that we were at, it was right next to the drill hall, if we were to do it over we would drive. The ceremony was very nice just about 1 1/2 hour some quick hugs and pics and then the long wait (about 3-4 hour) while he processed out and checked in to his new ship, his A-school is at Great Lakes. We met him at the main gate and went to dinner. He was able to take his cell phone and laptop with him to his new room which will make keeping in touch much easier. On Sun. we were able to drive on the base to the NEX and get him his new insignia and a NEX gift card and my wife hit the clearance rack for some navy T shirts. Am considering going back when he gets out of school for that graduation but it will depend on how work is. Also Liberty Restaurant in Libertyville has very good food and if you go with your son or daughter in uniform he gives a very good discount. There is also a coupon in the map at the Naval Museum for the Liberty Restaurant. Also in the town of Volo there is a neet car museum that if they are in uniform no charge for them.

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