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20 Questions about the Sea Cadets
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 11 through 17, 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
7,000 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.
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
(11 and 12 years old) may be eligible to join the NLCC.
3. What are the requirements of membership?
All prospective cadets must be unmarried, enrolled in school, have parent
consent and possess good moral character in addition to being interest in
the program and prepared to attend drills regularly. You need to be ready
to have fun and be willing to learn new things.
4. Will I have to pay dues?
Yes. The initial start up fee is $200.00 for Sea Cadets and League Cadets.
With a second and/or third child discount given per enrollment year.
Scholarships/sponsorships may be available to cadets in financial need;
contact the Commanding Officer to discuss this possibility.
5. Must I buy my own uniform?
Original issue is made from surplus US Navy uniforms at cost. Uniforms
may be exchanged throughout the cadet's participation in the program at
no additional cost. If the cadet leaves the program, they must return their
uniforms. The cost of cadets boots are not covered by unit.
6. Will Sea Cadet training detract from my school work?
Not likely. The Pentagon Division usually meets the 3rd weekend of
every month for during the year. 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 cadets grade
average going up one letter grade.
7. What do the Sea Cadets learn?
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 promotion should they decide to join one of the sea services.
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.
9. Who sponsors the Sea Cadets?
The Pentagon Division of the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps is sponsored
by the Navy League D Council, South Potomac Naval Support Activity Dahlgren,
and the American Legion.
10. Who instructs the Sea Cadets?
Pentagon Division Sea Cadets are instructed by certified teachers and by
qualified adult leaders willing to devote their time and knowledge to this
worthwhile activity. The Commanding Officer is LTJG Lana Perry.
11. Can I go to boot camp in the summer?
Yes. Newly enrolled Sea Cadets are required to attend a two week summer
recruit training at a military "boot camp" located on military bases 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
valued instruction of a maritime nature.
12. 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 two weeks advanced training aboard Navy and
Coast Guard vessels ranging from small harbor craft to large nuclear powered aircraft carriers.
13. What training is available aboard ship?
Sea Cadets are trained in basic seamanship, damage control, watch-standing,
firefighting and other nautical skills.
14. 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,
Sea Bee Indoctrination, and 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.
15. Are there travel opportunities?
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
and other overseas opportunities.
16. How are Sea Cadets selected for the Exchange Program?
Exchange cadets are selected on a merit basis. Each cadet must have an outstanding
record, as well as a good reputation within his home community.
17. Can Sea Cadets obtain summer employment?
Yes. Sea Cadets are permitted to choose a training period during the summer months
that will not interfere with summer employment arrangements.
18. Will I be required to join the U.S. Armed Forces?
No. Sea Cadets have absolutely 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.
19. What is the main purpose of Sea Cadet training?
While Sea Cadet units are organized along military lines, their main purpose is
to foster good citizenship and an interest and appreciation of our nation's maritime services.
20. How do I know what is going on with the unit?
Just keep checking our web site especially for the "Plan of the Month" tab.