This study sought to determine the extent of the Navy's problem with recruits who have deficiencies in the verbal English comprehension skills necessary to complete recruit training. English language comprehension skills, particularly verbal comprehension, of a cross-section of new recruits were assessed at three training centers--Orlando, Great Lakes, and San Diego. In addition, relevant biographical information was gathered and used to identify the type of recruit likely to have deficiencies in verbal English comprehension. The variables considered included race and/or ethnic background, educational background, place of birth, and first language. In addition to an explanatory introduction, the report describes the testing procedures, the kinds of biographical data collected, the results of the testing effort, and conclusions and recommendations. (Author/AMH)