NMCB 14 Conducts Field Exercise with Sea Cadets

By Yeoman 3rd Class Timothy Daughton, Navy Region Southeast Public Affairs

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- Navy Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 14 hosted Sea Cadets from all around the country to practice field operations at Naval Air Station Jacksonville (NAS JAX), July 22.

During their two-week drill period, NMCB 14 works with teenagers from ages 10 to 18, training them in everything from military ranks to proper communications and field patrols.

Sea Cadet Midshipman Rebecca Corley was in charge of the exercise command post while NMCB 14 Chief Equipment Operator Thomas Allen led a patrol of Sea Cadets on site.

"I have ambitions of working as a psychologist for the Veteran's Affairs Office when I graduate from college, and this experience has only strengthened that decision," said the 18-year-old Corley.

While standing post in a .50-caliber pit, 14-year-old Sea Cadet Chris Duran said, "They make every activity as realistic as possible for all of us."

According to Allen, many Sea Cadets report to NAS JAX with no prior experience in military bearing, but learn quickly what is expected of them.

"We work on a lot of building projects in the field, as well as combat training similar to what many Seabees are exposed to throughout their career. We want to teach them a 'You have to be fluid because flexible is too rigid' motto of life, which means to adapt to drop-of-the-hat changes," Allen said.

Sea Cadet Lt. j.g. James Thomas, commanding officer of training contingency for the Sea Cadets said, NMCB 14 requires at least a C grade point average from all Sea Cadets to participate in the program.

"After progress is shown or success is maintained, [the Sea Cadets] receive a ribbon which is worn on the uniform," Thomas said. "Our unit also educates our Sea Cadets on sexual harassment, proper wear of uniforms, and even general maintenance of Humvees."

Information about the units that work with Sea Cadet programs is available at www.seacadets.org. Information about Sea Cadet training location can be found at compass.seacadets.org.