County Commissioner Lynn Coker asked the Brookings City Council on Oct. 13 to support a new U.S. Navy Sea Cadets unit based in Brookings and announced volunteer leadership training sessions on Oct. 17 at the Brookings Library.

Coker described the national Sea Cadets program as a youth leadership and character-building program for ages 10 to 17 that provides training in leadership, seamanship, maritime safety, STEM and civic service. She said cadets train alongside active-duty Navy and Coast Guard personnel and participate in field exercises, aviation and medical training, shipboard life and occasional international exchanges.

"This cadet development program builds confidence, discipline, leadership and, of course, teamwork," Coker said. She said statistics she has seen indicate roughly half of cadets go into military service while many others pursue education and careers in public or private sectors; she also said a high percentage of cadet graduates go on to additional training or education.

Coker said the program will require local volunteer leadership and outreach to port authorities, schools and trade groups. The first leadership training orientation for prospective volunteers is set for Oct. 17 in the River Room at the Brookings Library; two identical sessions are scheduled, 10 a.m.–noon and noon–2 p.m.

Council members expressed support and encouraged volunteers to attend the upcoming sessions. The county has provided outreach materials to city staff and offered to report back to the council after initial activities.

Why it matters: Supporters said the Sea Cadets could offer structured mentoring, civic engagement and career pathways for local youth in a community with maritime heritage.

Next steps: Interested volunteers were invited to the Oct. 17 sessions; county staff will follow up with the city and return with progress updates.