Division of Naval Sea Cadet Corps organizing locally

The US Naval Sea Cadet Corps (USNSCC) is a national organization under the Department of the Navy and is dedicated to developing America’s youth by instilling pride, discipline, honor, courage, fidelity, and patriotism. Cadets gain these qualities through a nautically oriented training program that places an emphasis on leadership, accountability and personal responsibility.

The USNSCC offers boys and girls, ages 11 through 17, opportunities unparalleled by any other youth organization. During the summer, Cadets have the opportunity to train aboard US Navy and Coast Guard ships and at Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard shore installations across the country. Cadets receive instruction from, and work alongside, active duty and reserve military personnel. Cadets also have opportunities to train with international Cadet programs in Australia, Bermuda, Great Britain, Hong Kong, the Netherlands, and many other countries.

This program places an emphasis on developing camaraderie and committing to a team oriented atmosphere. Budget cuts by the federal government are having a direct affect to the youth participating in this program. In past years, Congress has provided funding for summer training opportunities that helps make this training affordable for the cadets and their families. This funding has been eliminated for 2013 and training costs will more than double for many of these educational opportunities.

To tackle this issue, the USNSCC (Osceola Division) has partnered with the Association Retreat Center (ARC), a Christian retreat center and Bible camp located near Osceola, WI to provide an alternate and affordable training option for cadets and their families. Sea Cadets will conduct Seabee style training at the ARC by constructing an obstacle course and providing various repair work to several of the ARC buildings and facilities. This project presents a very exciting opportunity as it benefits so many. The cadets will gain valuable skills, the ARC will have expanded services available and campers will have a challenging obstacle course to test their strength and endurance. It’s a “win win” situation, but organizers for the program need help! Fundraising helps ensure that opportunities for the youth continue.

Even though this program is under the Department of the Navy, there is no direct funding for the Divisions. The Cadets and their families are solely responsible for yearly enrollment fees, uniforms and personal gear. The Division also has to purchase any necessary other equipment they may need or use to train these young people. The ARC and Osceola Division are both 501c3 entities. A contribution is 100 percent tax deductible. If you have any questions, please contact: LTjg Lori Gorecki, USNSCC Commanding Officer 612-387-0002. Instructor Brad Struemke, USNSCC Public Affairs Officer 651-470-0864. You can also donate at the website http://www.razoo.com/story/Osceola- Division. “Youth of today will be tomorrow’s sailors, soldiers and airmen. These cadets could be the future defenders of our United States and you can have a direct impact.”