Featured Cadet
From Cadet to Leader: The Journey of GSM2 Zachary Baltutis, USN
Cruiser Milwaukee Division
From his very first day in the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps – Cruiser Milwaukee Division, Zachary Baltutis had one clear goal: be ready for the Navy and its challenges. That preparation carried him from a brand-new recruit to Command Chief Petty Officer of the division - and now to Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Mechanical) Second Class aboard the USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG-81).
Starting the Journey
Zachary recalls his first drill as “a feeling of a new beginning - something unknown but exciting.”
Early trainings, like Master-at-Arms school, sharpened his teamwork, communication, and attention to detail. Rising to Command CPO was a turning point:
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“Achieving that helped me realize I’m capable of so much more than I expected. It prepared me for larger leadership roles and taught me to really understand those I lead - to know where they come from and how they work so I can help them become better leaders.”
The Sea Cadets also gave him a clear grasp of the Navy’s chain of command and structure, making fleet life far easier to navigate.
Mentors & Influences
One of the most impactful figures in Zachary’s development was GMC Schmidt.
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“Being prior Navy, he gave me great advice and tools that helped in my career. He prepared me for what to expect when I joined and even introduced me to the Goat Locker when I was up for CPO. GMC was a great mentor who taught me good leadership practices and principles.”
Prepared for the Fleet
That foundation paid off. By the time Zachary reached the fleet, he was already comfortable with discipline, structure, and leadership responsibilities.
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“I now operate off the very principles I learned from the USNSCC.”
His preparation was obvious from the start. Even in boot camp, his RDCs were impressed that he could perform all drill movements flawlessly on day one.
Life in the Navy
Today, Zachary serves aboard one of the Navy’s most advanced guided missile destroyers, supervising the forward engine room and serving as the engineering department’s Safety Technician - overseeing more than 70 personnel. His work keeps the ship mission-ready and the crew safe.
The Navy has also taken him far from home:
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“Being able to see nine different countries in just three years is one of the coolest things ever.”
Advice to Cadets and Parents
For those considering the program, Zachary is direct:
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“This is one of the best opportunities to grow. Even if you don’t join the military afterward, it will help you in life. The training, the experience, the teamwork - it’s all worth it.”
His message to future sailors is equally clear:
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“Definitely do it. The benefits far outweigh the cons. You’ll be stronger, more resilient, and more prepared for whatever comes next.”
Service & Pride
For Zachary, service is both an honor and a calling:
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“To do my work and know I’m protecting my country’s safety and freedom is one of the best feelings in the world. I plan on serving the full 20 years. Nothing beats the camaraderie, the complexity, and the passion of my work. I wouldn’t have advanced so quickly without the USNSCC.”
Interested in following in Zachary's footsteps?
Join the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps – Cruiser Milwaukee Division and start building the skills, leadership, and confidence that will serve you for life.
Contact Us: crmilwaukee@gmail.com
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