Who are we?
We are the
U.S. Naval Sea Cadets
“The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps (USNSCC) is a federally-chartered non-profit youth organization for young people, ages 10 through the completion of high school. USNSCC is comprised of two programs. Our senior program, the Naval Sea Cadet Corps (NSCC), is for young people, ages 14 and either a rising 9th grader or in 9th grade, through the completion of high school. Our junior program, the Navy League Cadet Corps (NLCC), is for young people, ages 10 through 13.
The objectives of the Sea Cadet program are to introduce youth to naval life, to develop in them a sense of pride, patriotism, courage, self-reliance, and to maintain an environment free of drugs and gangs, without any commitment to formal military service. These objectives are accomplished by using a nautical based theme and the core values of the US Navy – Honor, Courage & Commitment.
The wearing of U.S. Navy uniforms (modified with USNSCC patches) and hands-on, exciting training aboard U.S. Navy/Coast Guard ships and shore stations make us unique among all other youth programs. Cadets have regular opportunities to train with Active Duty and Reserve military personnel. We work with close cooperation with all branches of the sea services, we offer demanding and rigorous training designed to prepare youth for all walks of life, whether they choose to pursue military service or civilian life. During school vacations, cadets participate in one- and two-week training evolutions at U.S. military installations around the country where they learn lifelong skills and how to become leaders in their units, schools and communities. Currently there is 391 units located in 46 states (and in Guam and Puerto Rico), comprising of over 12,000 cadets.
Our cadet corps is run by an all-volunteer force. Cadets meet regularly with their local unit, participating in a variety of hands-on, outdoor training events, as well as community service activities.
The benefits of the program to America's youth are undeniable. Our program provides numerous benefits to its cadets – both tangible and intangible. Our cadets and alumni often cite the feelings of pride, camaraderie, respect and honor associated with their experience in the program. These immeasurable benefits are very important to us. They define us.
USNSCC promotes among its participants the value of an alcohol-free, drug-free and gang-free lifestyle. Through exposure to a unique team-centric, objective-based environment, cadets learn to demand the best from themselves and others.