Sea Cadets from the Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Fort McHenry Division and Training Ship Constellation, took part in a maritime exposition in Baltimore, May 17.

The Maritime EXPO at National Maritime Day, hosted by the Baltimore and Chesapeake Steamboat Company, is just one of the many activities available to cadets.

"We provide compelling life-changing programs that instill the values of teamwork, discipline, camaraderie and service through our passionate all-volunteer force and our partnerships with our nation's armed forces," said Ensign John Holt III, executive officer, Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Fort McHenry Division and Training Ship Constellation.

The Fort McHenry Division and Training Ship Constellation currently drills one weekend a month at the Navy Operational Support Center in Baltimore.

The division benefits from a close partnership with NOSC Baltimore. This relationship enabled the division to grow from ten active cadets to more than forty in just over a year.

NOSC Baltimore provides the division with an active-duty liaison. Additionally, the commanding Officer of the division is afforded the opportunity to attend the NOSC's commanding officer's brief every month.

"The strong support provided by the NOSC has given the cadets the opportunity to experience fun and engaging drills that are directly related to the growth and success of both units," said Holt.

Drill weekends consist of classroom training, close order drill, personnel inspections, counseling, martial arts, physical training, and watch standing. The division has many trips planned throughout the year that include overnight stays on ships, STEM Expos, joint drills with neighbor units, and museum visits.

While cadets are not required to join the armed services upon graduation, they do so at high rates. Every year a growing number of cadets choose to either enlist or pursue officer-commissioning programs.
Attrition rates of former cadets prior to their completion of obligated service are very low compared to non-cadets who join the military. Contribution to a lower attrition rate means a reduced cost to the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard.

According to former Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead, each cadet that enlists saves the Navy more than $14,000 in life-cycle training costs.