What is the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps?
The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps (NSCC) is a youth program for young Americans, both male and female, age 13 to 17. The Navy League Cadet Corps (NLCC) is a similar program for boys and girls age 10 to 13. The objectives of both programs is to develop an interest and skill in basic seamanship and its naval adaptations, to train them in seagoing skills and to teach patriotism, courage, self reliance and kindred values. The Naval Sea Cadet Corps affords equal opportunity for participation to all American youth without regard to race, color, religion or sex.
What are the requirements for enrollment?
For enrollment in the NSCC, you must be 13 but not older than 18. For enrollment in the Navy League Cadet Corps a cadet must be 11 but not older than 13. Mature and motivated 10 year olds may enroll on a waiver from National Headquarters. Cadets must be unmarried, enrolled in school, have parental consent and possess good moral character. Because Sea Cadets train with active military units, there are strict medical requirements that can not be waived. Cadets must pass a physical exam similar to that for participation in high school sports.
Are there any costs associated with enrollment?
Yes. National Headquarters charges an annual enrollment fee of $50.00 for all Cadets. These fees go directly to NHQ and include the annual premium for the Sea Cadet Group Accident Protection Plan. The unit assesses each cadet $5.00/month for dues. This money goes directly to the unit and pays for uniforms and insignia. These dues may be paid monthly or annually. The unit will attempt to outfit your cadet with uniforms however we are not always able to provide every uniform item. In these cases, the cadet will be required to acquire that uniform item through outside sources. The unit will make every effort to assist the cadet with these purchases. A $45 Uniform Deposit ($30 for League Cadets) is required and will be returned if all uniforms are turned in when you cadet leaves the program.
There are also some costs involved with Local and Annual Training. These training fees are very reasonable considering they cover all costs associated with the cadet for the training period. In 2004, the weekend training fees ranged from $15 to $30 and the one and two week Annual Training fees were $40 and $80 respectively. These fees include all room & board.
Do I have to wear a uniform?
Yes, in addition to wearing the NSCC or NLCC uniform, all cadets are required to maintain personal grooming standards identical to those of the U.S. Navy.
What training will I receive in the Naval Sea Cadets / Navy League Cadets?
Training is varied depending on whether you are a Sea Cadet or a League Cadet. Sea Cadets are required to attend Recruit Training (Boot Camp) in their first summer of enrollment. This two week program prepares the cadets for Advanced Trainings they will do later in their Sea Cadet career. Recruit Training is optional (but highly recommended) for League Cadets and is a one week program. After completing Boot Camp, Sea Cadets will participate in Advanced Trainings with the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Corps each year. The programs vary but include Seamanship Academy, Aviation, Amphibious Operations, Shipboard training, FAA Ground School & Flight Training, Submarine Orientation, Medical Corpsman training and for those highly motivated and physically fit cadets - SEAL training. Marathon Division cadets who are motivated and show leadership potential are encouraged to attend the Petty Officer Leadership Academy offered at Regional Training Command - New England each summer. This is one of the finest leadership programs in the country offered to high school students. Sea Cadets will also participate in various local weekend training programs throughout the year. League Cadets may attend these local weekend trainings and Advanced Orientation for a week during the summer.
In addition to this, Sea Cadets are required to complete the various USN Military Requirements for each rate of advancement. Cadets will take the same correspondence courses that Navy personnel complete. League cadets study a less demanding program which emphasizes the basics of Naval History, First Aid, Seamanship and other related topics.
What about advancement?
Both cadet programs follow an advancement path similar to the Navy & Coast Guard. Cadets enroll as a Recruit and upon completion of all requirements may advance to Apprentice. From there, cadets continue to Seaman, Petty Officer 3/C, Petty Officer 2/C and Petty Officer 1/C. The most ambitious cadets may advance further to CHIEF PETTY OFFICER. This is the highest rate attainable in the Naval Sea Cadet Corps and this accomplishment is comparible to Eagle Scout. The Navy League Cadets advance through Petty Officer First Class. A commanding officer may select one PO1 who displays outstanding leadership, motivation and integrity to be appointed SHIP'S LEADING PETTY OFFICER.
Where will I train?
Training opportunities are very extensive in the NSCC and Marathon Division cadets have participated in a number of unique training programs. In the past 2 years, Marathon cadets have trained from California to Florida and as far away as Sweden and the Netherlands. There are also numerous programs available locally. Weekend trainings occur throughout the year aboard the USS Joseph P. Kennedy (DD-850) in Fall River and in New Hampshire with Atlantic Seabee Battalion.
Who will supervise my cadet?
Naval Sea Cadet Corps officers, midshipman and instructors provide leadership to Marathon Division and T/S Cape Cod Canal. NSCC officers can be either military personnel or civilians who have displayed a keen interest in the cadet program. All have received professional development training to build their leadership skills and knowledge of the cadet program. All adult staff are screened for suitability and must successfully pass a criminal background check both at the federal and local level. The majority of the Command Staff at Marathon / Cape Cod Canal have military, naval or professional educator experience. For more information, please refer to the STAFF page link.
What are the benefits of NSCC enrollment?
Not only will you experience adventures your classmates can only dream of, you will get a head start on joining the military or going to college. Depending on the rate you attain in the Sea Cadet program, you may be eligible to enter the military at an advanced pay grade upon completion of Boot Camp. Naval Sea Cadets are considered excellent candidates by the various U.S. service academies and ROTC scholarship programs. The NSCC has several college scholarship funds available to qualifying cadets. The Naval Sea Cadet Corps also provides some of the best leadership training available to high school age young people.
Do I have to join the military if I join Sea Cadets?
Absolutely not! Enrollment in the Naval Sea Cadet Corps does not oblige the cadet to any military service.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
CONTACT THE DIVISION'S RECRUITING OFFICER
