Built to
Lead.
The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps develops young people ages 10–17 through hands-on military training, real leadership, and a lifetime of opportunity.
Milwaukee
Open Enrollment
More than a program.
A launchpad.
A Real Edge in Life
Sea Cadets can gain advanced military rank, scholarships, and letters of recommendation that set them apart from their peers before graduation day.
Real-World Skills
From marksmanship to robotics, navigation to CPR — cadets leave with skills they use for the rest of their lives, whether they pursue the military or not.
Leadership That Transfers
Learning to lead under pressure, manage a team, and take responsibility — these habits don't stay in uniform. They follow our cadets into college, careers, and community.
Something for everyone.
For Students
Real adventure, real training, and experience that actually matters — in the field and beyond.
- Seamanship, navigation & marksmanship
- Aviation, STEM, and robotics programs
- Earn rank and lead your own team
- National training trips & summer camps
- CPR, First Aid, and water safety
For Parents
A structured, drug-free program supervised by background-checked adults — building the character colleges and employers respect.
- Background-checked adult volunteer staff
- Mentored by active & retired military members
- Builds teamwork, discipline & responsibility
- Safe, supervised environment every drill
- No prior military experience required to volunteer
- Free uniform provided to enrolled cadets
For Donors
Your contribution goes directly to equipment, scholarships, and training for Milwaukee-area youth who need it most.
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit — fully tax-deductible
- Fund scholarships for underserved youth
- Sponsor travel to national training events
- Corporate sponsorships with recognition
- Every dollar invested stays local
- Transparent annual impact reporting
Real cadets.
Real results.
Every cadet brings a different story. Every cadet leaves with something in common: they're ready.
"To do my work and know I'm protecting my country's safety and freedom is one of the best feelings in the world."
"When asked for a 5, she always delivers a 10."
"I wasn't sure what to expect. Then I watched my son stand at attention during his first ceremony."
Leadership, service,
adventure.
Watch what a typical drill weekend looks like for cadets of Cruiser Milwaukee — from morning muster to evening colors. This is where young people find out what they're made of.
Watch on YouTube →Every dollar
stays local.
Cruiser Milwaukee is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Gifts fund equipment, travel, and scholarships for Milwaukee-area youth.
Your gift in action
Covers one cadet's materials, workbooks, and consumables for a full month of training.
Outfits a new cadet in the service uniform they'll wear with pride at every drill.
Gets one cadet to a regional or national off-site training they couldn't attend otherwise.
Fully sponsors one cadet's residential summer program — a week-long experience that changes lives.
Ready to join
the crew?
Takes about 2 minutes. We'll reach out within 48 hours to answer any questions.
Come see a drill weekend in person — no commitment required. Bring the whole family.
Complete enrollment paperwork and receive your uniform. First drill is free.