Summer training 2004. 2004 summer training is right around the corner, and as we have done over the last couple of years, we intend to promulgate the summer training plan for 2004 not later than end February, with hard copy in the mail. The first place you will see it is posted at www.seacadets.org/resources. Federal funding will once again be available to offset or cover most cadet training cost, much like last year. The grant for 2004 is $1.5M, an increase over 2003, 2002 and 2001. Cadet numbers have continued to increase and overall costs of training have also continued to rise. What this means is that even with the increase in grant dollars, we will be stretching those grant dollars as much as ever throughout 2004, and asking COTC's to continue to be particularly conservative in their spending. COTC's have all done a great job and we know they will do it again. The cadet deposit for 2004 will generally be $40 for one week evolutions and $80 for two week evolutions. Fortunately, the grant increase is allowing us to keep annual deposit increases at the very minimum. Firm deposit requirements will be included in the summer training schedule.

For cadets who perform multiple trainings over the summer, deposits for those trainings beyond the first training will remain as they were in 2003; $90 for one week trainings and $180 for two week trainings. What this amounts to, is that the first training for every cadet is subsidized and offered at the reduced rate while cost for second or more trainings are borne by the cadet. With this plan we expect to be able to provide all cadets the opportunity to train and still keep costs to a minimum. Forms for 2004 training, the funding of training, and the guidelines themselves will be very much like last year.

With regard to base access, we will work each opportunity with the particular base, and the COTC for that evolution….any special requirements will be passed to cadets so they will know how to report. Current ID cards, a ready sea bag, deposit money in place, physical fitness, and ready cadets will be the same prescription this year, just like last, for a successful summer. Think about what you will want to do so that applications can be submitted early. Early submissions will be particularly important this year as they always are. Competition for billets will be keen and quotas will go fast, so start thinking now.

For everyone, just like last year, be advised……. any and all of the evolutions scheduled will be subject to possible cancellation and relocation right up to the last minute….As we so well have come to realize, the world situation can change on a moments notice, and the alert status in effect on the report date will dictate whether or not the evolution is held as scheduled. Non refundable airline tickets are strongly discouraged. If flying, use refundable tickets!