1. The US Naval Sea Cadet/Leaguer Cadet Corps is a nationwide organization dedicated to providing American youth mental, moral and physical training through naval and related instruction with the objective of developing in them principles of patriotism and good citizenship, and of instilling in them a sense of duty, self respect, and respect for others. By their participation in this program, youth and adult leaders are able to sample military life and benefit from training with US military personnel aboard actual military bases, ships, and aircraft. They are able to go places and gain experiences at a minimum cost that are unavailable through any other organization. If you want to participate in this program, you must be fully supportive of this mission, and you must subscribe to the policies and procedures that govern our organization - they exist to maintain the integrity of our organization while ensuring for the safety of our youth.
2. We demonstrate moral courage and high personal integrity, and we promote socially responsible values and behavior. We are a drug-free organization, and we have zero tolerance for illegal drug usage. The use of tobacco products is not allowed by cadets, nor by adults in the vicinity of cadets. The consumption of alcoholic beverages is not allowed by cadets, nor by adults in the vicinity of cadets (with the possible exception being legitimate social gatherings where cadets are invited guests; e.g., the annual US Navy Birthday Ball). The use of profanity, vulgarity, or sexually-explicit words or gestures is not allowed by cadets, nor by adults in the vicinity of cadets. Civilian attire at Sea Cadet functions must be tasteful and appropriate for the occasion, and questionable words or markings on clothing are not allowed. Our behavior is always professional. The public display of affection will not be allowed at Sea Cadet functions, whether in uniform or in civilian attire.
3. Cadets and adults who are accepted into our squadron will learn leadership skills, but they must also be able to follow orders, directions, and procedures. Each is a member of our team and they will conduct themselves as a team player. To belong to our squadron, a cadet must want to belong. We are not a social recovery program, nor are we a baby-sitting service. To become a cadet and to remain a cadet, an applicant must not have a police record.
4. We show respect for ourselves, and we treat others with professionalism and respect. If your image of the military is based on views or experiences from before the turn of the century, you must leave the negative behaviors behind and open your mind to the "new Navy" if you want to participate in our organization. There is no place in this organization for hazing or harassment of any type. Yelling, screaming, inappropriate touching, or "in your face" behavior is not tolerated here. However, we use methods of discipline and instruction as effective learning tools. Because we emulate the military rank structure, promotions must be earned and positions of leadership are granted to higher-ranking individuals. It is therefore natural that junior personnel will be given more of the menial tasks, which will also help provide the incentive to work toward advancement.
5. We practice military courtesies and demonstrate military bearing. We show respect for ourselves and to others, and to our Nation and its flag. We render and return salutes with pride. The Secretary of the Navy has authorized the wearing of the US Navy uniform by Naval Sea Cadets, officers, and instructors with subtle modifications to indicate that we are the Naval Sea Cadet Corps. When we are on military ships and bases or amongst the public in our uniform we are ambassadors of our organization. From a distance or to the casual observer, we are the US Navy. Before earning the privilege of wearing our uniform each individual must demonstrate a basic understanding of military courtesies, uniform regulations, personal grooming requirements, and the proper wearing and care of this uniform. A failure of this will not only look bad for the individual - it could reflect negatively on the Sea Cadet Program and on the US Navy, and may negatively impact our ability to participate in future events with the US armed forces.
6. Membership in our organization will be a continual learning experience. It is not intended to be academically challenging or stressful, but a requisite knowledge of basic military requirements must be demonstrated before either a cadet or adult can be allowed to participate in meaningful unit activities. Cadets must complete Recruit Training before being eligible for any other training activities, and adults must complete a basic leadership course to qualify as a Training Escort Officer. We follow the military system of promotion and advancement, and cadets will continuously work toward completing the requirements for their next advancement. This is the method by which we maintain a rank-structure that emulates that of the US Navy. By design, this program is not intended to interfere with a cadet's school performance. Acceptable school performance and progress toward high school graduation must be maintained to remain a cadet.
7. There is no provision for an "ala Carte" membership in our organization, showing up only for the activities that suit a particular interest. You are either a member of the squadron, or you are not. Cadets and Officers are expected to arrive on time, and to remain for the duration of the drill or the event. There are naturally conflicts that may arise: school, church, work, community, and family events. We understand these and can accommodate them. Monthly weekend drills, other performances throughout the year, and fund-raising and recruiting events are all considered to be "All-hands" activities. Absences must be arranged before-the-fact, or have credible explanation provided after-the-fact. Our national headquarters inspects our Squadron and our records annually, and we are graded against other NSCC units throughout the U.S. One of the key metrics by which we are judged is attendance. Generally speaking, Cadets and Officers in this squadron must have at least 75% attendance to maintain membership. If you cannot commit to this, then perhaps you have too many other demands on your time and you should instead focus on those. Parents are encouraged to participate in our unit activities to a variety of degrees, but as a minimum they must ensure and provide for the proper participation of their son or daughter in our squadron activities.
8. Because of the uniqueness of the training evolutions which cadets participate in, specific physical requirements exist to ensure their safety and the safety of others: a history of asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, or sensitivity to food or insect stings is disqualifying. The use of a prescription medication on a regular basis, including the class of drugs used to treat ADD, or the diagnosis of ADD/ADHD or other behavioral problems is disqualifying. A periodic physical examination must be conducted and reviewed, certain height/weight requirements must be met, and a periodic physical fitness test must be satisfactorily completed to remain a cadet.
9. We are an all-volunteer organization. All of the officers and instructors in our squadron donate significant amounts of their personal time and effort, they incur costs, and they often make sacrifices in their personal lives to be here or to serve as Training Escort Officers, yet they receive zero pay. They are here because of their interest in the Navy and their commitment to America's youth. Please show them gratitude for what they do, and please be respectful of their time. Parents, please arrive promptly at or before the completion of squadron activities because our adult volunteers must remain present with your son or daughter until they are picked-up.
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