About this Unit
**NRC Orlando (Company 62)** served as a key Navy Recruiting Company located in Orlando, Florida. Established to support Navy recruiting efforts in the southeastern United States, Company 62 was responsible for processing, training, and preparing recruits for entry into various Navy programs. The unit played a vital role in meeting Navy personnel needs during periods of increased enlistment, particularly in the late 20th century. NRC Orlando gained recognition for its commitment to excellence in recruit training and its contribution to the overall mission readiness of the United States Navy.
Historical Facts
• Naval Training Center Orlando: NRC Orlando (Company 62) trained at the Naval Training Center (NTC) Orlando, Florida, which operated from 1968 to 1995 as a key U.S. Navy boot camp and technical training site.
• Company 62’s Formation Year: Company 62 typically refers to a recruit company formed in a specific year or training cycle, with each company following a unique but rigorous training schedule.
• Women in the Navy: NTC Orlando was one of the first training centers to integrate female recruits (WAVES) into its programs, making Company 62 potentially part of early co-ed training history, depending on the year.
• Disney World’s Opening: When NTC Orlando opened, Walt Disney World was also being constructed nearby, making “Disney leave” a popular liberty for recruits after graduation.
• Graduation Traditions: Company 62, like all companies at NTC Orlando, participated in a formal Pass-In-Review graduation ceremony, a proud milestone for recruits and families.
• “The Grinder”: The main marching area at NTC Orlando was called “the grinder,” where Company 62 would have spent countless hours drilling and preparing for inspections.
• Company Commanders: Each company, including Company 62, was led by a seasoned Company Commander, often a Chief Petty Officer, known for their tough but transformative leadership.
• Training Curriculum: Company 62’s training included firefighting, seamanship, weapons handling, physical fitness, and naval customs, forging strong bonds among recruits.
• Mascot and Guidon: Each company at NTC Orlando had its own guidon (flag) and sometimes a mascot, which fostered pride and competition between companies like Company 62.
• Legacy After Closure: After NTC Orlando closed in 1995, many alumni from Company 62 and other units have maintained connections through reunions, online forums, and veterans’ organizations.
