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1. What is the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps?

The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps is a program for young Americans, male and female, ages 10 through 18, whose objectives are to develop an interest and skill in basic seamanship and in its naval adaptations, to train them in sea going skills, and to teach them patriotism, courage, self-reliance and kindred virtues. Cadets train aboard the ships and shore activities of the Navy and Coast Guard, and are authorized by the Secretary of the Navy to wear Navy uniforms appropriately marked with Naval Sea Cadet Corps insignia. There are over 300 units in operation in almost every state of the union, as well as Puerto Rico and Guam, with over 10,000 young Americans participating. The Naval Sea Cadet Corps affords equal opportunity for participation to all American youth, without regard to race, color, religion or sex.

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2. How old must I be to join the Sea Cadets?

You are eligible to join if you are within three months of reaching your 13th birthday and have not yet reached your 18th birthday. Younger people (10 and 12 years old) may be eligible to join the League Cadets.

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3. What are the requirements of membership?

All prospective cadets must be a U.S. citizen, unmarried, enrolled in school, have parent consent and possess good moral character. Cadets must also be interested in the program and prepared to attend drills regularly. You need to be ready to have fun and be willing to learn new things.

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5. Must I buy my own uniform?

Uniform rental is part of the annual dues. If the cadet outgrows a uniform item, it can be exchanged at no charge. If an item is damaged or lost, the cadet will be required to pay for replacement. Upon leaving the division, the cadet must return the uniform in good condition.

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6. Will Sea Cadet training detract from my school work?

Not likely. The Stars and Stripes Division usually meets only two Saturdays per month, with optional activities and trainings varying. Instruction is designed to coordinate with your school work. Normally, training away from home is conducted only during the school vacation periods (i.e., boot camp, advanced training). Our experience is that the self discipline learned in the program carries over to the academic experience with cadet grade average going up one letter grade.

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7. What do the Sea Cadets learn?

They study a broad range of subjects. The key lessons are...
                                       ·Development of mental, moral & physical ability
                                       ·Development of structure & principles of patriotism
                                       ·Good citizenship
                                       ·Instills a sense of duty
                                       ·Develops basic seamanship
                                       ·Self respect & respect for others
                                       ·Classroom training - naval history, customs and traditions, seamanship,
                                                              navigation and similar subjects

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8. What are my chances for promotion?

Promotion within the Sea Cadets is based upon merit. Promising young men and women, upon fulfilling certain successive qualifications and requirements are given increasingly responsible positions and duties and are encouraged to develop qualities of leadership. We at the Stars and Stripes have Cadets who mentor recruits.

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9. Who instructs the Sea Cadets?

Sea Cadets are instructed by qualified volunteer adult leaders willing to devote their time and knowledge to this worthwhile activity. Adult leaders and volunteers may be members of the Naval Sea Cadet Corps Officer Corps.

The Naval Sea Cadet Corps Officer Corps provides adult leadership for cadets of the Naval Sea Cadet Corps (NSCC) and the Navy League Cadet Corps (NLCC). NSCC officers are dedicated volunteers who instruct cadets, operate units and escort cadets when participating in events away from their home unit. Officers may either be civilians or military (active, reserve or retired) who are knowledgeable of youth and interested in their training. Instructors are also recruited from active Reserve military commands and leaders within the community. Members of the Naval Reserve may qualify for drill credit and active duty for training orders (ADT) for participating in NSCC/NLCC activities. The NSCC does not require specific education or professional qualifications, but applicants with nautical/military experience are desired. NSCC officers are authorized to wear Navy officer uniforms (modified by the NSCC insignia). All NSCC officers are appointed by NSCC National Headquarters.

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10. Can I go to boot camp in the summer?

Yes. Newly enrolled Sea Cadets are required to attend a summer recruit training at a military "boot camp" located on military bases throughout the country. Having successfully completed recruit training, cadets may then participate in additional training in advanced subjects during succeeding summers. These training periods offer a varied program of activities in addition to valued instruction of a maritime nature. Thanks to partial Federal funding, the cost of these trainings is generally quite reasonable.

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11. Are Sea Cadets permitted to go to sea?

Yes. After completing recruit training and other required courses of instruction, many Sea Cadets can participate in advanced training aboard Navy and Coast Guard vessels ranging from small harbor craft to large nuclear powered aircraft carriers. Cost of successfully completed trainings is generally quite reasonable.

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12. Are there advanced training courses for Sea Cadets?

Yes. In addition to advanced training aboard naval vessels, Sea Cadets may attend advanced orientation courses, such as Airman's School, Music School, SeaBee Indoctrination, Underwater Demolition/Seal Team training, Submarine Orientation and other courses designed to prepare cadets for leadership, either within the Sea Cadet organization or in other fields.

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13.Are there travel opportunities?

Yes. Sea Cadets travel to training sites all over the country.. This will vary depending on which training courses each cadet selects, and are available at multiple times of the year.

Additionally, through the national Sea Cadet organization,outstanding cadets may be able to participate in the International Exchange Program in Canada, Bermuda, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, the Netherlands, and many other countries.

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15. Will I be required to join the U.S. Armed Forces?

No, absolutely not! We are not a recruiting organization!

Sea Cadets have no commitment regarding future military service. For those Sea Cadets who do decide to enlist in the Navy, Marines, or Coast Guard, prior Sea Cadet training may permit entry at an advanced pay grade.

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16. This sounds great! How do I go about joining the Stars and Stripes Division?

The first step is to attend and observe at one of our drills. Check our Calendar page to check upcoming drill dates. You can contact the Commanding Officer here for more information.

If you do come, we encourage a parent to stay and observe while the prospective participates (the prospect should have a lunch and adequate water with them).

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