The Naval Sea Cadet Corps (NSCC) is for American youth ages 13 - 17 who have a desire to learn about the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and the Merchant Marine. The Navy League Cadet Corps (NLCC) is for boys and girls, at least 10 but not yet 14 years old, who are interested in the sea and ships, and our nation's seagoing services. The Navy League program is designed to introduce young people to maritime and military life, and to prepare them for later entrance into the Naval Sea Cadet Corps. Sea Cadets are authorized by the Secretary of the Navy to wear Navy uniforms appropriately marked with the Sea Cadet Corps insignia. The objectives of the Sea Cadet program are to introduce youth to naval life, to develop in them a sense of pride, patriotism, courage, and self reliance, and to maintain an environment free of drugs and gangs. Sea Cadet units meet or "drill" at their local unit weekly or monthly throughout the year.j A unit is structured along military lines and is headed by a Commanding Officer. Units may drill on military bases, at reserve centers, local schools or community centers. Sea Cadet units are organized as either divisions, squadrons or battalions. Divisions closely reflect the surface Navy, while squadrons and geared toward the field of naval aviation, and battalions reflect the Navy construction battalions (Sea Bees). Whether a division, squadron, or battalion, the local unit has one main purpose, and that is to foster team work, camaraderie and an understanding of the military command structure. Cadets are instructed by both Sea Cadet Officers and senior cadets through classroom and applied instruction in subjects such as basic seamanship, military drill and leadership. And most Sea Cadet regions throughout the country host weekend competitions where units compete with each other to test their seamanship and military skills. Local units will often participate in community events such as parades and fairs. They may also tour Navy and Coast Guard ships and shore stations, and participate in community service such as working in Veterans' Hospitals and organizing clothing and food drives. Membership Requirements In order to join the Naval Sea Cadet Corps, applicants must meet the following criteria: Be between the ages of 13 and 17; Must be a US Citizen; Be in good health; Be a full-time student and maintain satisfactory grades (2.00 "C" grade point average); Be free of felony convictions. | 
