TOPHATTERSRONINST 3120.1
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CHAPTER 2 – ADVANCEMENT AND TRAINING
SECTION 1 – UNIT TRAINING
200. Correspondence Courses. Select unclassified Navy correspondence
courses are available to the cadets and adults at the unit level.
Certain mandatory courses are the “homework” cadets must complete for
advancement. Correspondence courses are found on the NSCC Homeport
under the training section. Grading of correspondence courses will be
graded using the Correspondence Course Management System (CCMS) at
http://courses.seacadets.org. CCMS is the only authorized grading
system for the NSCC. Top Hatters Squadron will have a Course
Administrator which will be the training officer. The commanding
officer may designate other officers authorized users to grade cadet
correspondence courses. Further information will be found in the
Correspondence Course Manual on the NSCC Homeport.
a. Cadets are required to complete 1 (one) correspondence course
per training year. Cadets may complete multiple correspondence
courses in a training year.
b. The following Navy correspondence courses are available for
selection for each paygrade:
(1) Advancement to E2 – BMR
(2) Advancement to E3 – Airman, Fireman, Seaman, Hospitalman,
and Constructionman.
(3) Advancement to E4 – Military Requirements for PO 3 & 2.
(Assignments 1 & 2)
(4) Advancement to E5 – Military Requirements for PO 3 & 2.
(Assignments 3, 4 & 5)
(5) Advancement to E6 – Military Requirements for PO1.
(6) Advancement to E7 – Military Requirements for CPO.
201. Unit Training Continuum. In addition to advancement
requirements promulgated by NSCC regulations, THS strives to maintain
its own rigorous training continuum to ensure the most knowledgeable
cadets in the corps. Each year a list of topics, learning objectives,
and frequency at which topics are taught throughout the year will be
published by a notice.
202. Physical Training. The CO will schedule physical fitness
training as a regular part of the units overall training program. The
physical fitness standards are listed on form NSCTNG 020. To augment
these standards the NSCC borrows heavily from the President’s
Challenge Physical Fitness Program. It is essential cadets are able
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to meet the rigors of recruit and other summer training evolutions.
Cadets scheduled to attend NSCC Recruit Training must pass the minimum
standards prior to the CO signing and submitting the Request for
Training Authority (NSCTNG 001) to the COTC. Cadets must be able to
pass the Physical Fitness Test prior to the completion of NSCC Recruit
Training. If failed, the cadet is required to “repeat” Recruit
Training the following year. Successful completion of Recruit
Training is required to attend any type of Advanced Training. NSCC’s
Physical fitness standards (and Navy’s swim qualifications) are at
Appendix 3 of the Training and Advancement Manual along with comments
regarding maintenance of a PT program at the unit level that
encourages daily activity.
a. Physical Fitness Test. PFT is a series of physical activities
designed to evaluate factors that enable members to perform
physically. Factors evaluated are:
(1) Flexibility via sit-reach.
(2) Muscular strength and endurance via:
(a) Curl-ups.
(b) Push-ups.
(3) Aerobic capacity via:
(a) Shuttle Run.
(b) 1-mile run/walk.
b.
Day of PFT
(1) Ensure drinking water is readily available at test site
and all members are well hydrated before and after PRT.
(2) Ensure environmental conditions (temperature, humidity,
storm conditions, etc.) are safe.
(3) Ask members about general health.
(4) Conduct exercise events after warm-up and stretching is
completed.
c. Command Fitness Leader (CFL) responsibilities. Prior to
conducting a PFT, the CFL and his/her assistants shall complete the
following:
(1) Navy’s Physical Fitness Assessment Checklist, which may be
found in pages 16-27 in Enclosure (10) of the OPNAVINST 6110.1H, note
that some of the items on the checklist will not pertain to NSCC
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operations. It is to be used as a guideline to ensure safety and
security of those involved.
(2) NSCTNG 020, NSCC Cadet Exercise Chart for each
participant.
(3) NSCTNG 015, Record of Swim Qualifications.
d. Presidential Physical Fitness Award. Per the NSCC Awards
Manual CH 4, the Physical Fitness Ribbon is awarded to NSCC/NLCC
cadets who distinguish themselves by excelling in maintaining physical
fitness standards. This award is granted to any cadet who meets the
required qualifying standards of the Presidential Physical Fitness
Award as outlined in the President's Council on Physical Fitness and
Sports Package available to the public each year. There are five test
items (with options for the basic items), which the cadet must pass to
qualify for the ribbon. To qualify, the following is applicable:
(1) The current test elements from the Presidential Physical
Fitness Award must be used.
(2) A certified instructor from the list below must validate
the test (observing another certified instructor in giving the test
can certify an instructor):
(a) Active duty staff at Department of Defense facilities.
(b) Designated active duty or NSCC PRT Coordinators at
NSCC training sites.
(3) THS shall, test cadets each quarter who would like to
participate in the voluntary Presidential Physical Fitness Test. Part
of NSCC Action Letter 01-07, Enclosure (2) this may also be awarded to
NSCC Officer, Midshipman, and Instructors.
(4) Using the star appurtenance system, a maximum of one award
per school year is allowed.
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SECTION 2 – INDOCTRINATION WEEKEND
203. Purpose. In the efforts of the recruiting and retention goals
of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps; THS shall hold indoctrination
(INDOC) weekends to host prospective cadets and their parents an
opportunity to gauge a future participation of the program.
204. Frequency. THS will host an indoctrination weekend three times
a year. One will be held in September, January and April. There will
be no indoctrination during the summer months due to advanced
trainings. Normally the INDOC weekend will be held on the first
weekend of the scheduled month. The indoctrination weekend schedule
may be changed at anytime by the commanding officer to meet
operational commitments and recruiting needs of the unit.
205. Content. Typical topics covered at INDOC weekend may be, but
are not limited to; military drill and formations, rank structure,
cadet advancement, introduction of NSCC goals and values and a
question and answer period. INDOC weekend is not an overnight event
and runs only during the hours of 0730-1600.
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SECTION 3 – INDOCDRINATION DIVISION
206. Policy. THS will maintain an Indoctrination Division (Indoc
Division) to place all NSCC cadets which affiliate with THS after an
indoctrination weekend. NLCC cadets shall be placed directly in NLCC
Division. Further direction about the indoctrination weekend will be
found in Section 2 of this chapter. The following polices will be in
place to govern the operation of the division:
a. Standards of Training. From the time a NSCC cadet affiliates
with THS, he/she will have approximately 120 days to complete the
Cadet Qualification Standard (CQS) THSEDTRA 101 and pass the final
examination. In addition to the above all INDOC cadets will need to
complete the BMR to transfer to the NSCC Division
207. Cadet Qualification Standard (CQS). The CQS, must be signed by
an individual by the rate of E-4 or higher. Once all sections of the
CQS are signed, the division officer will sign the completion of the
CQS. Each individual line must be signed in full. Each individual
signing the CQS must print their name and rate in full at the bottom
of each page signed.
208. Indoc Test. The Indoc Test consists of 50 multiple choice
questions and a watch log assignment. A passing score is 70% correct
on the questions AND 3 or less mistakes on the watch log. Both
portions of the test must be passed simultaneously to constitute a
passing score. The test is administered after completion of the BMR
and CQS. Additional requirements may be instituted at the Division
Officer’s discretion. The test is administered and graded by the
Training Officer. The test is created and revised by the Division
Officer. It is completed using the standard NSCC Answer Sheet to
record answers.
209. Advancement. While in Indoc Division, no cadet is allowed to
advance in rate. Upon completion of the requirements for advancement
from Indoc Division, the DIVO will recommend transfer of the cadet to
NSCC Division via the operations officer. Once the commanding officer
pproves the transfer, and notifies the admin officer, the Indoc
Division Officer will ensure the transfer is carried out in
collaboration with the NSCC Division Officer.
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SECTION 4 – ADVANCED TRAININGS
210. Purpose. The summer training program provides cadets with an
introduction to the Navy and Navy career fields, supported by
classroom and practical training in service specialties of their
choice. Opportunities to train at other service component bases and
stations as well as opportunities to train at maritime academies and
onboard NOAA ships, and with other maritime related or general
citizenship programs will also be provided. The training evolutions
will be promulgated to the field by the posting of a training schedule
for the summer months on the Compass website compass.seacadets.org in
early March of each year. The winter schedule will be available early
November of each year. Spring training may also be available, and if
so will be similarly advertised.
211. Requirements. THS cadets are required to complete 1 (one)
advanced training per training year. Cadets may complete more than 1
training in a training year.
212.
Training Categories
a. Recruit Training (14 Day Module). Recruit training is the
cadet’s introduction to military routine and discipline and is the
cadets first step towards advancing in the Sea Cadet Program. While
attending Recruit Training a cadet must pass a Physical Fitness Test
in order to receive credit for completing Recruit Training.
Successful completion of Recruit Training is required before attending
Advanced Training. To qualify for Recruit Training a cadet must meet
the below requirements:
(1) Be enrolled in the NSCC program a minimum of six weeks
prior to the start of Recruit Training. This time limit is
established to ensure proper enrollment, opportunity to get required
uniforms and opportunity to complete BMR requirements. If a new cadet
can meet all these requirements in fewer than 6 weeks, he or she can
go.
(2) Be age 14 prior to 1 September of the training year or be
a former NLCC Cadet who is age 13 and has successfully completed NLCC
Orientation Training scheduled by NHQ and is considered “mature”
enough by the unit commanding officer.
(3) Passed the Physical Fitness Test at the unit prior to
attending Recruit Training.
(4) Successfully complete the Navy BMR correspondence course
prior to reporting to Recruit Training. Although NSCC regulations
promulgate a minimum of specific chapters THS policy is that the
ENTIRE BMR SHALL be completed.
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c. Advanced Training Categories. To qualify for and receive
credit for advanced training (AT), cadets must first successfully
complete NSCC Recruit Training. Prerequisites will be noted in the
“Remarks Section” of the Summer Training Schedule and in the Summer
Training Guidance. IF the unit CO is uncertain they should contact
the COTC.
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SECTION 5 – NSCC ADVANCEMENT
213. NSCC Rate Structure. The NSCC cadet rate structure and
terminology generally parallels that of the Navy and Coast Guard, from
NSCC Seaman Recruit (E1) to NSCC Chief Petty Officer (E7 – NSCC only).
Cadets enroll as Seaman Recruits and advance through the ranks when
they satisfy promotion requirements.
214. General Cadet Advancement Requirements. The specific training
and academic requirements for advancement through the rate NSCC CPO
are indicated in the Advancement and Training Manual (ATM).
a. Cadets will not take a Petty Officer Leadership Examination
unless the following requirements are met:
(1) Completion of next paygrade correspondence course.
(2) Completion of the appropriate advanced training.
(3) Minimum Time-in-Rate(TIR) for the next paygrade. (Note:
The CO may authorize highly motivated cadets to test one (1) month
prior of the actual minimum TIR.) (For example, Cadet Jones will have
6 months minimum TIR during the month of October, the CO may authorize
Cadet Jones to take the appropriate Petty Officer Leadership
Examination during the September drill, providing all other
requirements are met.)
b. The Record of Cadet Advancement NSCADM 009 is used to record
completed correspondence courses, annual training, and advancements.
c. Cadets must complete an Advanced Training (AT) for advancement
to E3 through CPO. Advance Training’s will be listed on the Summer
Training Schedule. Cadets who successfully complete an advanced
training will be given credit for “one” Advanced Training, regardless
of the number of days.
d.
Cadets may “bank” up to three (3) advanced trainings per year.
215. CO Approval. Advancements are not automatic. After meeting the
required criteria advancements are subject to Commanding Officer
approval and may be held up for various reasons including, but not
limited to, disciplinary issues or failure to meet physical fitness
standards.
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SECTION 5 – NSCC ADVANCEMENT EXAM REQUIREMENTS
216. NSCC PO3 through PO1 Advancement Examination Guidelines. The
Petty Officer exams are derived from the current Petty Officer
Correspondence Courses. The exams are available from the Online Petty
Officer Test Site at https://testmanager1.com/usnscc.
a.
Test Procedures
(1) Once the cadet has completed the applicable PO
Correspondence Course and the cadet is ready to take the exam, the
cadet may request to take the exam via the chain of command only if
all other requirements for advancement are met.
(2) Grade the exam post the auto-generated email in the cadet
service jacket and annotate the Record of Cadet Advancement. IF THE
CADET DOES NOT PASS THE EXAM THEY MUST WAIT 30 DAYS! After 30 days,
return to the Online Petty Officer Test Site to create a new random
question test.
b. Unit Commanding Officer/Unit Test Administrator. You have the
responsibility for the proper handling, controlling and safe guarding
exam material. Additionally, when administering the exam every effort
must be made to maintain and protect the integrity of the exam.
(1) Select an appropriate location to administer the exam.
This location should afford the cadet adequate lighting and
ventilation. If more than one cadet is taking an exam, the location
should be large enough to maintain integrity of the exam. (Cadets
should not sit next to each other.) The location should be away from
the flow of traffic to minimize distractions.
(2) Destroy all scrap paper used by the cadet(s) during the
exam.
(3) Upon notification the cadet has passed the exam; annotate
the Record of Cadet Advancement (NSCADM 009).
c.
Exam Proctor
(1) Inform cadets that food; snacks and beverages are not
permitted in the exam room. This means NO EATING OR DRINKING
throughout the exam.
(2) Distribute the exam materials consisting of exam, answer
sheet, two pieces of letter size plain white bond paper and two
sharpened pencils to each cadet. Remember the cadet’s name appears at
the top of the exam.
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(3) Inform cadets how to clearly mark/circle their answer.
Cadets must print clearly. After erasing an answer make sure the new
answer chosen is clearly marked.
(4) Inform cadet(s) of the time given to complete the exam;
i.e., 3, 4, hours. Time from start to completion should be closely
monitored, and the as the proctor you should periodically announce the
current time and time remaining.
(5) Maintain silence and order throughout the period of the
exam. Maintaining exam integrity is paramount. Cadets should be
directed not to discuss the contents of the exam with anyone outside
of the exam room.
(6) At the end of the exam period, collect the exam and any
exam material.
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SECTION 7 – NLCC ADVANCEMENT
217. NLCC Advancement Requirements. The NLCC Training Syllabus is
the source document for NLCC cadets. The syllabus contains activities
and exams required for advancement. During the summer NLCC
Orientation and NLCC Advanced Orientation is available for cadets to
attend to augment the syllabus. Although this training is available
it is NOT a requirement for advancement. The table below indicates
the rate structure for NLCC cadets LC-1 through LC-6. The unit
commanding officer is the advancement authority for NLCC cadets
through all rates.
218. NLCC Transition to NSCC Requirements. Once a member of the NLCC
reaches the age of 13 transitions to the NSCC are not automatic.
Members of the NLCC who wish to transition to the NSCC must have the
following requirements completed prior to transition:
a.
Completion of the BMR.
b.
Recommendation by the cadet’s division officer.
c.
Reach the age of 13.
d.
Attain the rank of LC-4.
e.
Completion of NLCC Orientation.
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SECTION 8 – OFFICER ADVANCEMENT
220. Officer Advancement Requirements. Officers are required to
perform Escort Duty (EO) for a continuous period of 5 days in support
of summer or winter training for advancement. These duties coupled
with OPDs; Time-In-Grade and Time-In-Service are requirements for
advancement and promotion.
221. Officer Advancement Procedures. Top Hatters Squadron only
promotes officers who exhibit a high level of professionalism and
professional knowledge. The following procedures shall be followed in
order to promote to the next rank:
a.
21.
Appointment to Midshipman
(1) Applicant must be 18 years old and not reached the age of
Applicant must be a high school graduate.
(2) Applicants may be a former Top Hatters Squadron cadet
provided they have reached the rank of Petty Officer Third Class
(PO3).
(3) Cadets who inform the chain of command that they would
like to become a NSCC Midshipman, the CO may authorize the cadet to
take the OSMG prior to being discharged from the NSCC.
(4) Once the OSMG is completed the applicant will fill out the
appropriate NSCC forms for enrollment.
b.
Appointment to Instructor
(1) Applicants must be over the age of 21, unless a waiver is
requested through NHQ. This waiver is available to Navy Personnel who
are PO3 or higher at the time of enrollment.
(2) Applicant shall complete the OSMG after enrollment.
(3) After one (1) year as an Instructor, he or she may request
through the chain of command for promotion to Ensign provided all
requirements are met.
c.
Promotion to Ensign
(1) Must be 21 years of age.
(2) If the applicant is a Midshipman, three (3) months prior
to the applicant's 21st birthday providing all requirements are met,
may request through the chain of command for promotion.
d.
All other advancement requirements may be found in the ATM.
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TOPHATTERSRONINST 3120.1
28 Sep 13
SECTION 9 - DRILL TEAM/COLOR GUARD
221. Purpose. The purpose of this section is to provide guidance
governing the leadership positions involved in the functioning of the
drill team and color guard (DT/CG).
222. Military Training Instructor (MTI). The MTI is an officer
assigned and responsible to the duties prescribed in TOPHATTERSRONINST
3120.1, Chapter 1, Section 1.
223. Drill Team/Color Guard Commander (DT/CG). The DT/CG Commander
is a cadet by the rate of E-4 or higher responsible to the MTI for the
functioning of the DT/CG. The DT/CG Commander oversees the
instruction, training, coordination of events, and performance of the
DT/CG. The DT/CG Commander must be qualified in both drill team and
color guard. The duties of the DT/CG Commander are:
a. Commanding the drill team or color guard at their discretion or
in the absence of the assistant drill team commander, or assistant
color guard commander.
b. Ensuring the presence of themselves, assistant drill team
commander, or assistant color guard commander at an event.
c. Any additional duties prescribed by the MTI.
d. Delivering a muster report to the MTI both when planning an
event and 4-5 days prior to the event.
e. Ensure proper training and performance by the DT/CG, squadron
guide-on, squadron banner, and squadron drill and ceremonies.
224. Assistant Drill Team Commander (ADTC). The ADTC is a cadet by
the rate of E-3 or higher responsible to the DT/CG Commander for the
functioning of the drill team. The ADTC must be qualified in both the
drill team and color guard. The ADTC will command the drill team in
events.
225. Assistant Color Guard Commander (ACGC). The ACGC is a cadet by
the rate of E-3 or higher responsible to the DT/CG Commander for the
functioning of the drill team. The ACGC must be qualified in both the
drill team and color guard. The ACGC will command the color guard in
events.
226. Eligibility. Cadets wishing to join the DT/CG must meet the
following requirements, waiver-able by the MTI.
a. Advanced from Indoc Division if Sea Cadet or advanced to LC-2
if League Cadet.
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b.
Completion of Recruit Training/NLCC Orientation
c. Completion of THSEDTRA 104 for Drill Team and THSEDTRA 105 for
Color Guard.
d. Attendance of 75% of drill practices, including those during
the drill weekend, with or without an excused absence.
e. Have all uniform components issued and in good condition,
including BDU’s and Squadron T-shirt.
f. Be recommended by Division Officer
g. Have satisfactory standing in the normal path of advancement
227. Dismissal. Dismissal, or suspension, from the DT/CG may be
ordered at the MTI’s discretion. Receipt of a counseling chit
regarding a disciplinary infraction will result in 2 months suspension
for the DT/CG.
228. DT/CG Practice. The MTI may schedule a DT/CG practice on
weekends not falling on a drill weekend. Such practices will be no
longer than 6 hours in length and in the uniform prescribed by the
MTI.
229. Drill Weekend. DT/CG practices may be instituted during unit
training, sweepers, divisional study time, field day, and PT at the
MTI’s discretion during the drill weekend.
230. Performances. The DT/CG will perform drill and ceremonies in
accordance with MCO P5060.20 (Marine Corps Drill and Ceremonies
Manual).
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