MARVIN SHIELDS BATTALION
AUXILARISTS
Auxiliarists are given the title "Instructor". Instructors are not members of the officer corps, but are enrolled with application to National Headquarters. They teach classes, provide supervision, guidance, and leadership, as well as administrative and logistical support for the unit. Instructors are parents, family members, former cadets, active duty/reserve/retired members of the Armed Forces, or other interested people who want to work with our nation's youth. Thank you for considering spending your valuable time with our Marvin Shields Battalion Sea Cadets.
Join As An Adult
All applicants must be over the age of 21, possess good moral character, be drug free, and free of felony convictions.
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CONTACT
Reach out to our Recruiting Officer, ENS Laura Martis, to discuss your interest in our program. ENS Martis will speak to you about any questions or concerns before your shadow date.
ENS Laura Martis
618-925-2599
LMartis@seacadets.org
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SHADOW
Join us for a drill weekend to ensure that our program is a great fit for you. Meet other officers and our cadets. At this time you might start discussing some of the skills that you can bring to the unit and roles you might be able to fill.
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PAPERWORK
Download and complete registration paperwork HERE. You will need three references.
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A volunteer must be a U.S. citizen, free of felony convictions, possess good moral character, and be capable of communicating USNSCC values to cadets. Each adult will undergo a background investigation.
FAQ
What is the difference between an Auxiliarist and an Officer?
The Auxiliarist position requires no monthly commitment to the program or to the Officer Corps. Auxiliarists are not required to complete coursework and are not eligible for ribbons or awards. Auxiliarists like Officers must be U.S. Citizens, at least 21 years of age, and are expected to undergo a background check.
What is the USNSCC Officer Corps?
The NSCC Officer Corps is made of dedicated volunteers adult leaders, both civilian and military, who provide for the administration of all facets of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps. This includes the operation of local units to the operation of two-week summer training programs. Officers must be U.S. Citizens and be at least 21 years of age.
Will I have to undergo a criminal background check?
Yes. To ensure the safety and security of cadets, all NSCC adult leaders undergo a background check at initial enrollment and periodically at the discretion of NSCC National Headquarters.
I am a parent of a cadet. Can I be an NSCC adult leader?
Yes. In fact, a large percentage of NSCC adult leader are parents of current and former cadets. Involved parents are the lifeblood of the NSCC Officer Corps.
What experience is required?
The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps is organized along military lines; therefore, having military experience is a definite plus, but it is not a requirement. Experienced adult leaders and senior cadets will gladly help you become familiar with the military atmosphere. At most local units, volunteers are needed to instruct cadets in a variety of subjects, keep and maintain service records, keep track of cadet training, maintain unit supply, and recruit and publicize the program. As long as you are motivated and willing to help in the cause of promoting the positive development of youth, there is a place for you in the Corps.
Do I get to wear a uniform?
U.S Navy issued uniforms with appropriately modified with NSCC insignia are reserved for those in the Officer Corps, but Auxillarists are required to wear an alternate uniform while volunteering for the program.
Will I have to purchase my uniform?
In most cases, yes. Auxillarists will purchase their polo and slacks required for their position. In most cases, uniform purchases are income tax-deductible (consult your tax attorney for more information).
Will I have to undergo a criminal background check?
Yes. To ensure the safety and security of cadets, all NSCC adult leaders undergo a background check at initial enrollment and periodically at the discretion of NSCC National Headquarters.
Will I have to pay for my uniform?
In most cases, yes. Auxillarists will purchase their polo and slacks required for their position. In most cases, uniform purchases are income tax-deductible (consult your tax attorney for more information).
Do I have to be physically fit?
Yes. You must be physically fit and free from ailments that would prevent you from supervising youth and performing your assigned duties. You must also meet U.S. Navy weight standards to wear the NSCC uniform. Those who do not meet the weight requirements may wear an alternate civilian-style uniform.
Do adult leaders earn rank?
Auxillarists do not. Those adult leaders who apply for appointment to the NSCC Officer Corps will have the opportunity to earn rank. New NSCC officers are appointed by the NSCC Executive Director to the rank of ensign. The NSCC officer rank structure parallels that of the U.S. Navy. NSCC officers may promote through the rank of lieutenant commander. In order for NSCC officers to promote they must meet minimum performance, training, and time-in-service requirements. They must also contribute a minimum amount of volunteer service to NSCC summer training programs. NSCC officer rank is entirely honorary and does not have any relation to or authority and entitlements of actual military rank.
I can only commit a few hours a month. Can I still help?
Absolutely! We understand that there are many people who want to help but have busy lives, and giving up 20-30 hours a month to be a full time volunteer is just not feasible. Often all it takes is a couple of hours a month to help a unit sort uniforms, teach a class, chaperone a field trip and the like. The contribution of a few dedicated part-time volunteers can go a long way to accomplish the overall mission.
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