Wearing the uniform of the United States Navy Sea Cadets is a privilege extended to our cadets and adult volunteers. It is an honor that reflects the trust placed in us, and it comes with the responsibility to act with professionalism, respect, and integrity at all times. Because our cadets may be indistinguishable from active-duty Sailors, and adult volunteers in uniform may appear similar to commissioned officers, it is important to remember that when we wear the uniform, we represent not only our unit, but the U.S. Navy as a whole.
All cadets and parents are expected to be familiar with Sea Cadet uniform regulations. Uniforms should be worn with pride and kept clean, neat, and properly maintained. Grooming standards must be followed, as our appearance reflects both the Naval Sea Cadet Corps and the United States Navy. Leaders at all levels play an important role in ensuring grooming and appearance standards are met. Hair, grooming, and personal appearance while in uniform must present a neat and professional image. The focus is on appropriate grooming that complements the individual while maintaining uniformity, discipline, and a professional military appearance.
Cadets in uniform are expected to conduct themselves with maturity and respect, maintain proper bearing, and interact courteously with others. Standing tall, being mindful of behavior, and showing respect are essential parts of wearing the uniform correctly.
As prescribed for drills, training and other work party events. Members may wear the NWU while commuting to and from events, including all normal task and associated stops. The NWU is not a liberty uniform. Do not wear NWU when business attire is appropriate or when participating in social events ashore. Authorities may further restrict wear within their geographical limits. The Georgia division will issue 1 setup of type III uniform to cadets. For any summer and winter training, if additional uniforms are required, these can be issued on loan basis.
Dress Blues are the formal uniform worn for special occasions that show pride and respect, such as: Award ceremonies and promotions, Parades and public events, Inspections and official Navy visits, Holiday observances (Memorial Day, Veterans Day, etc.) Graduations, change-of-command, or formal unit photos.
They’re not worn at every drill -most training days use working uniforms or PT gear – but when Dress Blues come out, it’s a big deal. It’s a chance to look sharp, stand tall, and represent the Sea Cadets with honor.
Dress Whites are the crisp, formal summer uniform worn for special occasions that call for a sharp, professional appearance, such as: Summer ceremonies and promotions, Parades and public events (especially in warm weather), Inspections and official Navy visits, Formal unit photos, change-of-command, or special guest visits.
The good judgment of leaders at all levels is key to enforcement of NSCC grooming policy. Hair, grooming, and personal appearance while in
uniform shall present a neat, professional appearance. The primary considerations are a neatly groomed appearance for the hairstyle and the
type of hair that the member has.
Refer to the manual for full details for both male and females on hair standards, jewelry, tattoos, body art, and make-up.
General Principles
- Uniforms must always be clean, pressed, and in good repair to present a sharp military appearance.
- Proper care extends uniform life and ensures passing inspections.
- Store uniforms on sturdy hangers; avoid overcrowding closets.
- Specific Care by Uniform Type
- Service Dress Blues (wool jacket/trousers): Dry clean only – never machine wash. Request “military creases” from the cleaner. Store inside out on a good hanger to preserve shape.
- Summer Dress Whites / Service Dress Whites: Machine wash (gentle cycle) or dry clean. Avoid bleach (it yellows fabric). Iron inside out with a pressing cloth (e.g., pillowcase) and spray water for sharp creases.
- NWU Type III: Machine wash and dry. Cover (hat) can go in the dishwasher top rack, then air dry.
- Dixie Cup / Covers (white hats): Scrub stains with toothbrush and dishwasher soap paste; rinse. Run through dishwasher (upper rack) with white vinegar for shine. Air dry on an upside-down bowl to hold shape.
- Shoes/Boots: Polish regularly with black polish; remove dirt first. Lace properly (inside to out). Keep heels/edges touched up.
For a few quick tricks, go to the tutorials page 🔗 Uniform quick tricks
PT gear is required for all physical training activities and anytime the CO directs.
While the unit provides the initial Welcome Kit, PT gear (first 2 months), and Type III uniform upon advancement, some additional or optional items are the responsibility of the family. We do have some items in our inventory that has been donated by previous cadets. We do make these available if parents/cadets are open to accept donated items – many families save money this way! We keep required purchases minimal and can offer guidance on affordable sources.
- Socks – white and black
- PT shoes – typical comfortable shoes for running and exercise
- Type III boots
- Dress shoes
- Crewneck white t-shirt for the dress blues and/or dress white uniforms
- Crewneck Cayote brown t-shirt for the type III uniform
- Uniform Condition
- Clean and lint-free?
- Properly pressed with sharp creases (no “railroad tracks”)?
- Buttons secure and fastened
- No visible stains, wrinkles, tears, or loose threads, or pet hair
- Cover
- Correct cover for the uniform
- Clean and in good condition
- Worn properly (not tilted or crushed)
- Hair does not interfere with the fit
- Patches, Ribbons & Insignia
- All patches are attached securely
- Patches placed at the correct height
- Ribbons straight, centered, and in correct order
- Devices and insignia are properly aligned
- Nothing missing, crooked, or upside down
- Grooming standard
- Hair within regulations
- Face clean-shaven (if required)
- Nails are clean and trimmed
- No unauthorized jewelry or accessories
- Footwear
- Correct shoes for the uniform
- Clean and polished
- Socks correct color and length
- Laces tied and tucked
- Final Check
- Name tape/name tag visible and correct
- Required items packed (cover, belt, ribbons, etc.)
- If you’re not sure — ask before drill, not during inspection
PT gear: PT gear can be purchased from Vanguard online only. If you search on Facebook, the company usually has a promotion code available to save some money. Most cadets only purchase the sweatpants/sweater when they are going for winter training. It is not mandatory. Here is the link to the online store 👉 Vanguard.
Crewneck tees: The WHITE crewneck t-shirts can be purchased at a variety of stores, like Walmart or Target. The CAYOTE brown is a specific color, and not all stores sell these. Most parents buy these from Amazon.
Boots for Type III uniform. The boots are recommended. You may purchase these from somewhere else, but they must match the same particular style.
🔗Option 1 or 🔗 Option 2 or 🔗 Option 3
Dress Shoes: The shoes are recommended. You may purchase these from somewhere else, but they must match the same particular style.
Approved Dress Shoes:
🔗 Option 1 or 🔗 Option 2 or 🔗 Option 3