US NAVAL SEA CADET CORPS

[CAPLAW]

Is any CAP member a member of the USNSCC? Do they accept CAP Seniors and give them any type of wavier for promotion?

[sandman]

Former member here,

There is not a provision for reciprocal promotions into the USNSCC. Every member starts as an "instructor" without grade (or SMWOG if you will). Promotions are based on time in service and professional development. The caveat is that if you are appointed as a CO of a battalion/division/squadron then you can start as an officer O-2 or O-3 I think. The resources website has all the good stuff: http://resources.seacadets.org

Members with prior service (E-6 and above) may become instructors with WO-2 grade and may convert to officer grade at a later time. Time in service is required for higher appointment though. you can be a WO-2 for several years and then convert over as a ENS/LTJG/LT/LCDR depending on the amount of time spent in WO grade (essentially equivalent to normal TIG requirements).

LCDR (O-4) is the highest grade authorized for USNSCC. They do wear gold stripes instead of silver (CG AUX). the uniform is modified by adding USNSCC shoulder patches to all uniforms and a modified hat device.

Cadets can reach the rank of E-7 (CPO). No cadet officers. The Navy League is the sponsoring activity and is fully supported by the US Navy and US Coast Guard.

On the other hand, there is the American Cadet Alliance! They do offer a grade reciprocity for cadets and seniors (although you might have to take one grade lower than your current CAP grade). Seniors do have a professional development program for promotions that align with the active duty. Promotions require time in grade and professional development and grades are authorized up to O-7 (national commander-no one currently promoted to that grade though).

ACA has adult officers and adult NCO's. Cadets are only enlisted grades up through E-9. Programs are offered as Army/Navy/Marine cadets (and officers).

Hope that helps!

/r
LT