BECOME A CADET
Through Sea Cadet leadership, cadets learn skills in basic seamanship and its naval adaptations, while also learning the values of patriotism, courage, self-reliance, teamwork, and accountability.
Membership in the USNSCC allows youth to sample military life with no obligation to join any branch of the armed forces. Should cadets decide to enlist in the Navy or Coast Guard, their training may allow them entry at an advanced pay grade. Historically, a number of Sea Cadets have received scholarships and appointments to military academies.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
In order to join the Naval Sea Cadet Corps (NSCC) or Navy League Cadet Corps, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Download this document to learn more about the Eligibility and Enrollment Requirements. Simply click on the .pdf icon below to download it.
WHAT YOU'LL DO - CADET TRAINING
League Cadet Training
The USNLCC training program is modeled after the Sea Cadet program, but is tailored to be age-appropriate. The training program is less arduous, but still includes a wide variety of training opportunities designed to give League Cadets exposure to Navy life.
Cadets can attend a one-week, away-from-home Navy League Orientation class. Cadets who complete orientation can participate in advanced training sessions such as classes in aviation, sailing, leadership, medical and adventure training.
Advanced Training
After successful completion of recruit training, Sea Cadets may choose from a wide variety of advanced training opportunities that are nationally advertised by USNSCC headquarters. League Cadets who complete orientation can also participate in specifically tailored advanced training sessions.
While recruit training is designed to familiarize cadets with Navy life and Navy-style discipline, advanced training focuses on military and general career fields and opportunities. It also serves to provide cadets with disciplined and interesting activities during the year.
Advanced training opportunities include special offerings, such as:
TRAINING SCHOOLS
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AIRMAN TRAINING (BASIC & ADVANCED)
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AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL TRAINING
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US COAST GUARD
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FAA GROUND SCHOOL
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CULINARY ARTS TRAINING
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MEDICAL TRAINING (GENERAL, FIELD, SURGICAL & DENTAL TECH)
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FIREFIGHTING TRAINING
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PHOTO JOURNALISM TRAINING
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CEREMONIAL GUARD
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SUBMARINE SEMINAR
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MARKSMANSHIP TRAINING
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CONSTRUCTION BATTALION (SEABEE) TRAINING (BASIC & ADVANCED)
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MINE WARFARE OPERATIONS TRAINING
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MUSIC SCHOOL
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SEAL TEAM TRAINING
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EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL TRAINING
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AMPHIBIOUS TRAINING
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PETTY OFFICER LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
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MASTER-AT-ARMS TRAINING (MILITARY POLICE/LAW)
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JUDGE ADVOCATED GENERAL (JAG) TRAINING
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SAILING SCHOOL
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SCUBA SCHOOL
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SEAMANSHIP TRAINING
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SHIPBOARD TRAINING
LIVE ABOARD NAVY & COAST GUARD SHIPS & SHORE STATIONS FOR TWO-WEEKS.
Travel Opportunities
The Naval Sea Cadet Corps also participates in an International Sea Cadet Exchange Program with several countries including Canada, United Kingdom, Belgium, Japan, The Netherlands, Hong Kong, and other countries in Europe and Asia. Each summer selected cadets have the opportunity to meet and train with their foreign counterparts.
Sea Cadet Recruit Training
After enrolling in the program, all Sea Cadets must attend a mandatory two-week recruit training session. These training sessions are taught at the Navy’s Recruit Training Command, at other naval bases or stations and at regional recruit training sites using other military host resources.The curriculum of this training is approved by the U.S. Navy and standardized at all training sites. Cadets receive 120 hours of instruction, with a focus on the Navy’s core values of honor, courage and commitment. Both tone and tenor of instruction are modeled after the Navy’s recruit training.
Please visit our Frequently Asked Questions page to learn more
WANT TO GET STARTED? HERE’S WHAT TO DO:
STEP 1: Fill out Contact Form Below.
Use the contact form at the bottom of the page. Be sure to include details about your potential cadet. You will then be contacted by a member of the St. Augustine Battalion staff who will provide you with some additional information about the program and schedule for our next drill. You can get a preview of the program by watching the Sea Cadet Video here!
STEP 2: Attend two drills.
Attend two drills, then the CO interviews the prospective cadet and parents and, in turn, you get to interview the CO. This program isn't for everyone and it is good to find that out at the very beginning. Being in the Sea Cadet Corps is not just “something to do” on the weekend. It takes a level of commitment and dedication that most young people do not understand and often fail to achieve.
BECOME A VOLUNTEER
Become a Volunteer - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the USNSCC Officer Corps?
The NSCC Officer Corps is made of dedicated volunteers adult leaders, both civilian and military, who provide for the administration of all facets of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps. This includes the operation of local units to the operation of two-week summer training programs. Officers must be U.S. Citizens and be at least 21 years of age.What is an NSCC Midshipman?NSCC midshipmen are adult leaders in training who are between the ages of 18 and 21. Normally NSCC midshipmen are former cadets who reached the rate of seaman as a cadet, former JROTC cadets, or members of the military who are not old enough to be an NSCC instructor or officer.
What is an NSCC Instructor?
An NSCC instructor is an adult leader who either has an interest in becoming an NSCC officer or who wants to dedicate his or her time to mentoring and training cadets. All persons applying to be in the NSCC Officer Corps are first enrolled as an NSCC instructor for a period of one year. After one year, instructors may apply for an appointment to the NSCC Officer Corps or remain an instructor. Instructor responsibilities are generally less than those of an officer.
Will I have to undergo a criminal background check?
Yes. To ensure the safety and security of cadets, all NSCC adult leaders undergo a background check at initial enrollment and periodically at the discretion of NSCC National Headquarters.
I am a parent of a cadet. Can I be an NSCC adult leader?
Yes. In fact, a large percentage of NSCC adult leader are parents of current and former cadets. Involved parents are the lifeblood of the NSCC Officer Corps.
What experience is required?
The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps is organized along military lines; therefore, having military experience is a definite plus, but it is not a requirement. Experienced adult leaders and senior cadets will gladly help you become familiar with the military atmosphere. At most local units, volunteers are needed to instruct cadets in a variety of subjects, keep and maintain service records, keep track of cadet training, maintain unit supply, and recruit and publicize the program. As long as you are motivated and willing to help in the cause of promoting the positive development of youth, there is a place for you in the Corps.
Do I have to wear a uniform?
Yes. NSCC officers, midshipman, and instructors are authorized by the Secretary of the Navy to wear the U.S. Navy officer uniforms appropriately modified with NSCC insignia. Auxiliary volunteers will wear the alternate uniform consisting of a specific shirt and slacks.
Will I have to purchase my own uniform?
In most cases, yes. NSCC adult leaders are authorized to purchase uniform items from U.S. Navy Uniform Shops on base (if they have access ) and the thrift store at NAS JAX. In some cases units have a supply of surplus/used uniforms that may be provided at no or nominal cost.
Do I have to be physically fit?
Yes. You must be physically fit and free from ailments that would prevent you from supervising youth and performing your assigned duties. You must also meet U.S. Navy weight standards to wear the NSCC uniform. Those who do not meet the weight requirements may wear an alternate civilian style uniform.
Do adult leaders earn rank?
Yes. Those adult leaders who apply for appointment to the NSCC Officer Corps will have the opportunity to earn rank. New NSCC officers are appointed by the NSCC Executive Director to the rank of ensign after completion of one year. The NSCC officer rank structure parallels that of the U.S. Navy. NSCC officers may promote through the rank of lieutenant commander. In order for NSCC officers to promote they must meet minimum performance, training, and time-in-service requirements. They must also contribute a minimum amount of volunteer service to NSCC summer or winter training programs. NSCC officer rank is entirely honorary and does not have any relation to or authority and entitlements of actual military rank.
I can only commit a couple of hours a month. Can I still help?
Absolutely! We understand that there are many people who want to help but have busy lives, and giving up 20-30 hours a month to be a full time volunteer is just not feasible. Often all it takes is a couple of hours a month to help a unit sort uniforms, teach a class, chaperone a field trip and the like. The contribution of a few dedicated part-time volunteers can go a long way to accomplish the overall mission.
Want to take the next step?
Please send us a note using the contact form below and indicate your interest in becoming a volunteer and one of our staff will respond accordingly. We appreciate your consideration of this volunteer opportunity.