What is Bootcamp?

The Sea Cadet “Bootcamp” is the mandatory Recruit Training (RT) for all League and Sea Cadets. RT is the cadet’s introduction to military routine and discipline and is the first step toward advancing in the Sea Cadet Program.  Cadets spend nine days or two weeks at a Navy base, learning basic Navy subjects, elementary seamanship, basic damage control, and quarter’s maintenance.  Additionally, cadets participate in physical fitness training, drill basics, and following orders.  A cadet must pass the Physical Readiness Test (PRT) during training in order to receive credit for completing the RT. Successful completion of RT is required before the cadet is allowed to attend any other NSCC training offered anywhere (Advanced Training).  It is the unit Commanding Officer’s responsibility to ensure that cadets are prepared physically, academically, medically, and psychologically prior to attending RT.

What do Cadets Need?

Cadet must complete the required Basic Military Requirements (E-1) coursework in POLARIS. In Addition, the cadet must pass the unit PRT, have a medical exam no sooner than 30 days from the first day of RT and documented on the appropriate form, pay the appropriate fees, and have orders signed by the parent or guardian. Once accepted in the RT, a “Seabag List” containing all items needed, must be meticulously put together by the cadet. Please be advised that besides uniforms, there are a lot of everyday personal items that cadets need to purchase and bring to the RT. A recommended list of stuff to learn is detailed below. 

Stuff to Learn

Cadets are expected to have quite a bit of knowledge before arriving at the Bootcamp site. The list of items will vary depending on the Commanding Officer and the training site. It is advisable you memorize the following as you might be tested on check-in day:

How to Pack Your Seabag

Enlisted rates, Officer ranks & insignia of the NSCC

The phonetic alphabet

Your NSCC ID number

How to make hospital corners

Basic customs & courtesies (who & when to salute)

• You salute Officers of all services and NSCC only when YOU are wearing a cover, officers do not have to be covered.
• You NEVER salute cadets or enlisted members of the services. Note that Chief Petty Officers wear similar uniforms to officers, so you need to be CAREFUL when you look.

How to salute

Basic quarterdeck procedures

Quarterdeck – The area of the ship or training facility, commonly the entrance, set aside for ceremonial purposes.
Five Quarterdeck Rules
1. Do not be loud or sloppy in the vicinity of the quarterdeck.
2. Never appear on the Quarterdeck unless wearing the uniform of the day.
3. Never eat or drink on the Quarterdeck.
4. Never cross or walk on the Quarterdeck except when necessary.
5. DO NOT lounge on or in the vicinity of the Quarterdeck.

How to tell military time

Military drill

Tips for Success

• Move quickly, but never at the expense of quality.
• Try your hardest, even in boring and repetitive tasks.
• Upon arrival, learn the names, ranks, and titles of everyone in your chain of command.
• Address all staff cadets by their rank. Address all officers as “sir” or “ma’am”.
• Snap to attention when addressing any staff member, including staff cadets.
• Call attention on deck when any staff member (including a staff cadet) enters your cube.
• Never use the word “I” to refer to yourself; instead, use the term “this recruit”.
• Phrase questions in the form, “Sir, this recruit requests permission to use the head, sir”.
• Phrase answers to questions in the form, “Petty Officer, this recruit’s ID number is 1234, Petty Officer”.
• Show your motivation by sounding off whenever you speak.
• When “on the line” is called, put something on your feet, get (at least) shorts and a t-shirt on, secure loose gear, and stand at attention at the foot of your rack as quickly as possible.
• To help you get ready quickly each morning, lay out your clothes the night before.
• Never leave gear adrift
• There is an inspection of your bunk & birthing area each day while you are in classes, and gigs count against your division – not just you.
• Wear thick black socks or wear white socks under your black socks.
• Never let your bare feet touch the deck, ever. Always wear your shower shoes in the head, including IN THE SHOWER.
• Practice taking 60-second showers at home, and always wash from the top down.
• Do not eyeball people at attention: blink, swallow, & breathe.
• Do not lock your knees at attention – you will pass out.
• Keep hydrated – drink at least three full canteens each day, plus water at each meal.
• Bring your ID card with you everywhere, unless you are specifically instructed not to bring it.
• Ask your Recruit Division Commander for pow-wows at night to talk about how you can improve the division.
• Talk to your fellow Recruits if you are having a problem. They are your brothers and sisters.
• Help your fellow Recruits if they are having a problem. They are your brothers and sisters.
• Talk to your CC if you are having a problem that you and your fellow Recruits cannot fix. S/he is your big sister/brother and will help you out.
• Stay motivated – remember that this entire training is a test of your character. Do not give up on yourself.
• Motivate your fellow Recruits and help those who are not excelling in the training.
• Work as a team.