Choosing Your Duty Station as an Enlisted Personnel in the U.S. Navy
When joining the U.S. Navy, the concept of choosing your duty station is intriguing and often a source of interest for new recruits. After completing your training and school, you may wonder if there is a way to select the location where you will serve. This article aims to explore the possible scenarios and procedures associated with choosing your duty station in the U.S. Navy.
The Enlistment Process and Duty Station Assignments
At the completion of specialized training, such as Electronics Technician A school, you are given a list of duty stations to choose from. The assignment process typically involves a ranking based on your performance, with the highest-ranked candidates getting first pick from the available stations. For instance, in my experience, I was 15th out of 30, and I chose a billet on the USS John F. Kennedy due to personal connections and a desire to visit California.
Desirable Duty Stations and Ship Stations
Popular duty stations for enlisted personnel in the U.S. Navy are often located on west coast ships, as these are the most preferred. It is not uncommon for orders to be filled quickly for ships stationed near the west coast, especially for those desiring to visit places like Australia or the Philippines. However, east coast bases such as Norfolk, Virginia, also offer choices. I chose a destroyer out of Norfolk, and although it was not ideal, the opportunity to visit multiple European ports during a six-month cruise made for a memorable experience.
Changing Assignments Over Time
Second enlistments present a different landscape when it comes to duty station choices. After your first enlistment, the Navy typically sends you where they are most needed. However, once you have completed necessary training schools, you can begin to envision your next assignment and possibly make a request to the "Dream Sheet" process.
The "Dream Sheet" is a formalized request for duty station placement. While it increases your chances of being assigned to your preferred location, you must keep in mind that the needs of the Navy take precedence. The assignment process involves a detailed evaluation by a "Detailer," often a Chief Petty Officer or Senior Chief Petty Officer of the same rate as you. This official oversees the assignment of personnel to ensure that all ships and bases have the necessary personnel to operate efficiently.
Sea Shore Rotation and Career Development
The "Sea Shore Rotation" is a significant aspect of Navy career progression. Typically, after four years of sea duty, personnel have the opportunity to rotate to a shore duty assignment for two years. Within these two years, you can continue to develop your skills and potentially become more involved in decision-making processes. Six months before your rotation, you can submit your "Dream Sheet" and discuss potential assignments with the Detailer. Again, while this process offers more control over your career location, it is crucial to remember that the Navy's needs are always paramount.
Overall, while it is possible to influence your duty station choices to an extent, the Navy places a high emphasis on its operational needs. Nonetheless, by excelling in your training and maintaining a strong working relationship with your Detailer, you can significantly increase your chances of being assigned to a location that aligns with your career aspirations and personal preferences.