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 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 gender.
2. What are the requirements of membership? All prospective cadets must be a U.S. citizen, unmarried, enrolled in school and have a minimum of a C average, have parent consent, and possess good moral character. In addition, the individual must be interested in the program and be prepared to attend drills regularly. You need to be ready to have fun and be willing to learn new things.
3. What about medical exams? Applicants must successfully pass a physical examination very similar to that required of a regular Navy enlistee. Prior to attending Boot Camp, cadets must pass the Physical Fitness Test. Cadets requiring medication to control asthma are not qualified to participate in the program.
4. Will I have to pay dues? No. But an initial fee of $50 is needed for the Sea Cadet or League Cadet identification card. This card must be renewed every two years.
5. Must I buy my own uniform? Yes. The initial uniform expense will be approximately $100. When 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. It is requested that the cadet return any usable items back to the unit if they leave the program, although no funds can be returned.
6. When do we meet for training? Every Saturday morning during the school year from 0830-1300. We do not meet during the summer since most cadets are taking advantage of Sea Cadet summer trainings.
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 Spruance Division of the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps is sponsored by the Navy League of the United States and private donations (see Sponsorship page).
10. 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. Some Sea Cadet officers are veterans.
11. Will I go to boot camp in the summer? Yes. Newly enrolled Sea Cadets are required to attend a two-week (one week for League Cadets) 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. Thanks to partial Federal funding, the cost of these trainings is generally quite reasonable ($75/week). Cadets are responsible for travel costs and arrangements to trainings, but often times car-pooling can be arranged with other cadets.
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-week advanced training aboard Navy and Coast Guard vessels ranging from small harbor craft to large nuclear powered aircraft carriers. Cost of successfully completed two-week trainings is generally quite reasonable ($75/week for the first training of the summer for that cadet, and $150/week for each additional training of the summer for that cadet) thanks to partial Federal funding.
13. 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, Medical Training, Submarine Orientation and other courses designed to prepare cadets for leadership, either within the Sea Cadet organization or in other fields. Thanks to partial Federal funding, the cost of these trainings is generally quite reasonable (usually $75/week). The cadet is responsible for travel costs and arrangements.
14. 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 International Exchange Program in Canada, Bermuda, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, the Netherlands, and many other countries.
15. 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.
16. 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.
17. 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.
18. This sounds great! How do I go about joining the Sea Cadets? The first step is to attend and observe three of our drills on Saturday mornings. Our drill schedule is on the Calendar page of this website. If after observing three drills the prospect is still interested, they can pick up an enrollment packet to take home and work with their parents. When the application is returned, a parent will need to stay for approximately 45 minutes to an hour for a briefing on the program, our command philosophy, and our expectations of the members of our Division. Further, the Spruance Division reserves the right to deny enrollment to anyone the officers feel does not show the proper motivation and attitude for successful participation in the program.