The Sea Cadet Mission
The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps is
a nationwide organization dedicated to helping American youth realize
personal success and achievement through a nautically oriented training
program. Through Sea Cadet leadership, young Americans ages 13 through 17
develop interest and skill in basic seamanship and its naval adaptations,
while learning the value of patriotism, courage, self reliance, teamwork
and accountability.
The Aurora Division
is sponsored by the City of Aurora, East Aurora School District 131 (thru
the use of facilities), and the Aurora Council of the Navy League
of the United States, a nonprofit organization of U.S. citizens deeply committed
to the welfare of young Americans. With this sponsoring, the Aurora
Division is able to offer reduced annual dues and low cost summer
trainings to our cadets. The Aurora Division includes both Sea
Cadets and Navy League Cadets (ages 11 through 13). While many other units
are specifically Sea Cadets or specifically League Cadets, in the Aurora
Division they serve together. Cadets train aboard
U.S. Navy and Coast Guard ships and shore activities, and are
authorized by the Secretary of the Navy to wear Navy uniforms marked with
Naval Sea Cadet insignia. Over 300 Sea Cadet units are opening in
nearly every state as well as Puerto Rico and Guam, with some 9,500
members. Locally we participate in parades, color guards, marksmanship
training, fireman training, and other activities. We also work on community
service activities.
Membership in the Sea Cadets allows teenagers 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 advance paygrade. The Naval Sea Cadet
Corps affords equal opportunity for participation to all young Americans
regardless of race, color, religion or sex.
This program is
NOT for everyone. Those who join thinking it's playing "dress-ups" in sailor
suits, or join to lose weight, or join because they're forced into it by
parents or others, generally don't stay long. For those who want to learn
the core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment, and about Navy life, and want some discipline in their life,
this is an excellent program. The training opportunities for Sea Cadets are
tremendous, and are discussed on the next page.
