Naval Sea Cadet Corps

The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps is a nationwide youth development program dedicated to helping American youth achieve success in personal leadership. It is dedicated to empowering American teens, ages 13-17, with citizenship, team-building and character-strengthening skills through a multitude of hands-on opportunities. The Navy League Cadet Corps (NLCC) is a junior youth program for ages 11-13. About 300 Naval Sea/Navy League Cadet units operate in nearly every state as well as Puerto Rico and Guam, numbering about 10,000 youth. This civilian youth training and educational nonprofit program functions as a separate entity from the Navy League. Both programs are sponsored by the Navy League. The U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard support the Sea Cadet program. Membership in the Sea Cadet Corps provides teens with an opportunity to sample military life with no obligation to join any branch of the armed forces. However, should cadets choose to enlist in the Navy or Coast Guard, their Sea Cadet training often allows them to enter military service at an advanced pay grade. They are authorized by the Secretary of the Navy to wear Navy uniforms appropriately modified with the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps insignia.

Training Opportunities

Cadets gain a wide variety of skills contributing to their personal development and leadership, as well as the opportunity to explore different careers and receive specialized training. All newly enrolled cadets must first complete two weeks of summer recruit training at Navy and other military commands throughout the country. Some of the advanced courses available to cadets include medical training, airman school, leadership Academy, FAA Ground School and flight training, submarine orientation, SEAL Team training, amphibious training and other adventures that offer promise in choosing a future career. Cadets train aboard U.S. Navy and Coast Guard ships-from small harbor craft to nuclear-powered aircraft carriers as well as at military installations. New recruit training includes a two-week "boot camp" that demonstrates the importance and value of teamwork.