About this Unit
NAVY BRIG GREAT LAKES, officially known as Naval Consolidated Brig Great Lakes, is a United States Navy correctional facility located at Naval Station Great Lakes in Illinois. Established in 1989, the brig serves as a regional detention center for pretrial and post-trial confinement of Navy personnel, as well as members of other branches when necessary. The facility is recognized for its comprehensive correctional programs, focusing on rehabilitation, discipline, and the safe custody of detainees. Over the years, NAVY BRIG GREAT LAKES has played a crucial role in upholding military justice and supporting the readiness and good order of the U.S. Navy and its sister services.
Historical Facts
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Oldest Continuously Operating Navy Brig: The Navy Brig Great Lakes, located at Naval Station Great Lakes in Illinois, is the oldest continuously operating U.S. Navy correctional facility, having opened in 1911.
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Support for Recruit Training: Its location at the Navy's only boot camp means it primarily supports the training command, housing recruits and sailors facing disciplinary actions.
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World War I and II Activity: During both World Wars, the brig saw a dramatic increase in use, detaining thousands of sailors for offenses ranging from desertion to insubordination.
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Historic Building: The original brig building is a red-brick structure, which has become a historical landmark on the base, reflecting early 20th-century military architecture.
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Rehabilitation Focus: The Navy Brig Great Lakes has long emphasized rehabilitation, offering counseling, education, and work programs to prepare detainees for return to duty or civilian life.
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Notable Escapes: Over the decades, there have been a handful of escape attempts — most notably in the 1940s, when several sailors tunneled out, only to be quickly apprehended.
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Integrated Operations: The brig works closely with legal, medical, and chaplain services, providing a multidisciplinary approach to detainee care and discipline.
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Modernization: The brig has undergone several modernization efforts, especially in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, to meet evolving standards of detainee rights and security.
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High-Profile Inmates: Over its history, the brig has housed several high-profile sailors, including those involved in significant military scandals or crimes.
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Symbol of Navy Justice: The Navy Brig Great Lakes is often seen as a symbol of the Navy’s commitment to upholding discipline and justice within its ranks, playing a key role in military law enforcement for over a century.
