Featured Cadet

Petty Officer Third Class (PO3) Karl Williams

Cruiser Milwaukee Division – Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin

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​Why did you join the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps?
"I’ve wanted to join the U.S. Navy since I was a kid. My dad, Jack Williams, heard about the Sea Cadets through Corry Hunter and encouraged me to join. It was the perfect opportunity to start receiving real training before enlisting."

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What has been your favorite experience in the Sea Cadets?
"My favorite experiences were definitely the Ceremonial Honor Guard Winter Training in Marseilles, IL, and the Combined Training at Fort Custer, MI. Both were challenging but incredibly rewarding. They pushed me and helped me grow."

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What do you enjoy most about being a Sea Cadet?
"The camaraderie. Being part of a team, learning real skills, and sharing those moments with other motivated cadets has been one of the best parts of the program."

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What accomplishment are you most proud of?
"Becoming a Petty Officer. It was a turning point. It gave me confidence and helped me develop as a leader. The discipline and leadership lessons I’ve learned here will stay with me."

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What are your plans after high school?
"I ship out to U.S. Navy Boot Camp at Naval Station Great Lakes in July 2025. I’ll be pursuing a career as an Electronics Technician in the U.S. Navy."

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What do you enjoy outside of Sea Cadets?
"Camping and fishing. I earned my Eagle Scout rank in 2023 and really value the skills and adventures I had throughout my time in Boy Scouts."

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Favorite Quote:
“On my honor, I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country.” ....from the Boy Scout Oath. That mindset has guided me through both Scouting and Sea Cadets, and I look forward to continuing that commitment in the Navy.

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Honors & Achievements:

• Promoted through all enlisted ranks to PO3 in under 18 months

• Completed Recruit Training, Ceremonial Honor Guard Training, and the Petty Officer Leadership Academy (POLA)

• Earned multiple service and merit ribbons, including Color Guard, Physical Fitness, and the NLUS Youth Medal (The Roosevelt Award)

• Completed over 160 hours of community service

• Active member of the Color Guard and Assistant Leading Petty Officer

• Passed the Teen Mental Health, Polaris, and PO3 Advancement coursework

• Participated in the Wisconsin Warrior Challenge and Veterans Stand Down

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From His Parents, Christine & Jack Williams:

“We are incredibly grateful to the Cruiser Milwaukee Division and its dedicated leaders and volunteers. The program has left a lasting, positive impact on Karl’s character and future. Thank you for the guidance, training, and mentorship you’ve provided. These lessons will last a lifetime.”

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​​​Cadet Williams exemplifies the highest standards of honor, courage, and commitment. From earning his Eagle Scout rank to rising through the enlisted ranks to Petty Officer Third Class in under 18 months, his journey reflects relentless drive and integrity. Whether serving with the Color Guard, completing advanced trainings like Ceremonial Honor Guard and POLA, or preparing to ship out to Navy boot camp this July, Cadet Williams leads by example. His leadership, dedication to service, and over 160 hours of volunteer work make him a standout among our cadets...and a reminder of what’s possible when young people commit to something greater than themselves.

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• "On my honor, I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country.” — Boy Scout Oath: These are words Cadet Williams lives by, and he’s carried that spirit from Scouting to Sea Cadets......and soon into the fleet.

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Do you have what it takes to stand with us? Step up. Suit up. Join the Sea Cadets.

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