General Knowledge

The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps is a youth program for young Americans ages 13 through 17, whose objectives are to develop an interest and skill in basic seamanship and in its naval adaptations, to train them in seagoing 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 Sea Cadet Corps insignia. There are some 350 units in operation in almost every state in the union as well as Puerto Rico and Guam, with some 6,000 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.

You are eligible to join if you are 13 years of age or have not reached your 18th birthday. Too young? Check out the NLCC section.

All prospective cadets must be unmarried, enrolled in school, have parental consent and possess good moral character in addition to being interested in the program and prepared to attend drills regularly

A medical examination similar to a high school sports physical is required for all cadet applicants to the Naval Sea Cadet Corps (NSCC) or Navy League Cadet Corps (NLCC). No one will be denied admission to the NSCC/NLCC due to a medical disability. Where a medical condition precludes full, unlimited participation, a Request for Accommodation (NSCADM 015) may be presented by the parent or guardian for review so the cadet may participate in NSCC activities to the maximum extent possible.

Adult applicants must be in good health commensurate with their age group and be free from any ailment or condition that would prevent them from satisfactorily performing their primary duty of supervising youth. NOTE: Adults not physically qualified to perform all duties may still participate with a waiver from NHQ considering the parameters of their expected contribution to the NSCC program.

Yes. The enrollment fee is presently $250 to join then $150.00 each year for re-enrollment until the cadet leaves the program.

There is also a $150 uniform deposit payable with the initial $250 enrollment fee.  This will be refunded when the cadet leaves the program and all uniform items are returned clean.

We have a supply of uniforms that are provided to cadets.  Our Supply Officer will make every effort to find all items, to include trading with other USNSCC units in the area.

However, sometimes there will be a need for parents to purchase boots or a specific uniform item we don’t have in our inventory.  Most of these can be purchased at a discount through Sea Cadet channels.

Not likely. Annapolis Division meets one weekend a month. Instruction is designed to supplement your school work. Normally, training away from home is conducted during school vacation periods.

They study a broad range of subjects. Some are designed to help them become better adult citizens, others teach them the importance of strong maritime forces. They also study naval history, customs and traditions, seamanship, navigation and similar subjects which would help their chances for a promotion should they decide to join one of the sea services.

Promotion within the Sea Cadets is based on merit, completions of coursework, training attendance, and most importantly, performance. Promising young men and women, upon filling certain qualifications and requirements, are given command positions and encouraged to develop qualities of leadership.

Most Sea Cadet units are sponsored by individual Councils of the Navy League of the United States, a non-profit organization of U.S. citizens whose objective is to support the U.S. maritime services and who are deeply interested in the welfare of young Americans.

Sea Cadets are instructed by naval personnel (active, reserve and retired), by Senior Cadets and by other adult leaders willing to devote their time and knowledge to this activity.

Yes. Newly enrolled Sea Cadets are required to attend two weeks of summer recruit training at Navy or Coast Guard “boot camps” throughout the country. Having successfully completed recruit training, cadets participate in additional training in advanced subjects during succeeding summers. These two-week training periods offer a varied program of activities in addition to valuable instruction of a maritime nature.

Yes. After completing recruit training and other required courses of instruction, many Sea Cadets can participate in two weeks advanced training aboard Navy and Coast Guard vessels ranging from small harbor craft to large nuclear powered aircraft carriers.

Sea Cadets are trained in basic seamanship, damage control, watch-standing, fire fighting and other nautical skills.

Yes. In addition to advanced training aboard naval vessels, Sea Cadets may attend orientation courses such as Airman School, Music School, Seabee indoctrination, Medical, SEAL Team, Submarine Orientation and other courses designed to prepare cadets for leadership, either within the Sea Cadet organization or in other fields.

Yes. Sea Cadets travel to training sites all over the country during the summer training period. Additionally, outstanding Cadets are selected to participate in the U.S.-Canadian Sea Cadet Exchange Program in Nova Scotia and British Columbia, as well as other countries in Europe and Asia.

Exchange cadets are selected on a merit basis. Each cadet must have an outstanding record as well as a good reputation within his/her home community.

Yes. Sea Cadets are permitted to choose a training period during the summer months that will not interfere with summer employment arrangements.

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

While Sea Cadet are organized along military lines, their main purpose is to foster good citizenship and an interest and appreciation of our nation’s maritime services: the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and Merchant Marine.