Richmond, Virginia · Unit #053

About America Division

We are Unit #053 of the US Naval Sea Cadet Corps — the official youth program of the US Navy and Coast Guard — proudly serving young men and women in Richmond, Virginia.

Who We Are

A Proud Unit Built on Service

The America Division has been part of the Richmond community for years, developing young men and women into leaders of character through the proven structure of the US Naval Sea Cadet Corps.

We meet monthly at the Richmond Naval Operations Support Center, where cadets train alongside active military professionals, advance through naval ranks, and build skills and friendships that last a lifetime.

We are not a military recruiting organization. We are a youth development program — one that happens to use the structure, discipline, and values of the Navy and Coast Guard to bring out the best in every cadet who walks through the door.

America Division color guard in white dress uniforms with American and Virginia state flags in Richmond
Our Mission

Building Leaders of Character

"The mission of the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps is to build leaders of character by imbuing in our cadets the highest ideals of honor, respect, commitment, and service."

— Official Mission Statement, US Naval Sea Cadet Corps

What We Stand For

Our Four Core Values

These aren't posters on a wall. They're enforced daily through rank structure, peer accountability, and real expectations — the same values the US Navy has lived by for generations.

Honor

Doing what is right, even when no one is watching. Cadets are held to a standard of personal integrity in every part of their lives.

Respect

Treating every person with dignity. Rank is earned, and with it comes the responsibility to lead by example in every setting.

Commitment

Showing up. Following through. Completing the mission even when it is hard. Sea Cadets learn that their word is their bond.

Service

Contributing to something larger than yourself. From Wreaths Across America to Toys for Tots, our cadets give back to Richmond year-round.

Why Sea Cadets

A Different Kind of Youth Program

Most youth programs talk about leadership. Sea Cadets puts teenagers in actual leadership roles — with real responsibility over real people — before they're old enough to vote.

Cadets don't just attend. They advance. From recruit to petty officer and beyond, every step up in rank means more responsibility, more trust, and more opportunity to lead. The cadets who pour the most into this program get the most out of it.

And unlike school-based programs like JROTC, the America Division is open to all young people in the Richmond area — including homeschooled students, private school students, and anyone else ready to rise to the challenge.

America Division color guard marching at golden hour carrying the Sea Cadet Corps flag
In the Community

Richmond Sees Our Cadets

America Division cadets are a visible presence across Richmond, at ceremonies, community events, and acts of service throughout the year.

America Division cadet saluting at a fallen veteran's grave during Wreaths Across America at Richmond National Cemetery

Wreaths Across America

Each December, our cadets honor fallen service members by laying wreaths at Richmond National Cemetery.

America Division color guard in white dress uniforms with American and Virginia state flags

Color Guard

Our color guard represents the America Division at ceremonies, sporting events, and public gatherings across the Richmond area year-round.

America Division cadets holding Toys for Tots donations with smiling community members

Toys for Tots & Community Service

From toy drives to community partnerships, our cadets give back to Richmond all year long.

Ready to Learn More?

Whether you're a prospective cadet, a parent, or someone interested in volunteering — we'd love to have you come see what America Division is all about.

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