I remember when I was in the army. First you're a civilian coming to basic training on a bus. You see people in PTs and ACUs. You get your PTs, it's not great though. Later on you go though you finally get your ACUs, but now you're comparing yourself with other soldiers who have finished basic training and have their berets. Then you're excited to get your beret.
At the end of the day these things aren't special and sometimes you dread them, but at the time they do feel like you've graduated from one stage to another, and it is a good feeling. It also serves as a reminder for when you see others going through the same thing. Reminds you of the work you did.