 The center was activated on 1 October 1942, and the first batch of recruits arrived 10 days later to begin "boot camp" training.They came in busloads from transportation collection points at Havre de Grace and Perryville, Maryland.The recruits were given a battery of tests to determine their educational and skill levels, then trained in ordnance and gunnery, seamanship, fire fighting, physical training, and military drill.