Experience Military Life Without Being in the Military-The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps introduces young adults to the military lifestyle. 

Cadets receive firsthand knowledge of what life in the Coast Guard and Navy are like, with no obligation to join the military at any time.

Cadets from the unit travel throughout the country and in some cases, Internationally, to participate in training and take advantage of fun and exciting opportunities, aboard Navy and Coast Guard ships, boats, and aircraft.

Other training takes place locally, at the Washington Navy Yard; aboard the USS Barry; at Naval Air Station Anacostia; and, at nearby Navy, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Air Force, Army and National Guard facilities.

The unit takes overnight field trips to more distant training locations in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic; performs Ceremonial Honor Guard services for military, patriotic, civic, and governmental organizations and agencies; enjoys fun social events and parties; and engages in community service to help make other people’s lives and their communities better.

Congressional funding, along with Coast Guard, Navy and other military services’ provision of  ships, boats, aircraft and facilities, enable the unit to access the assets and programs that comprise the core of our “hands-on” training.

Support from the Navy League of the United States and its National Capital Council provides our unit with vital funding and assistance, enabling us to concentrate on running an exciting, high-quality, year-round youth development program, led by select adult leaders, all of whom submit to a background check.

Our adult volunteer leaders are active-duty, reserve or retired military personnel; others are government workers; civic leaders and successful business people, all with a common interest in helping others.