Blog
The Oldest Ratings in the U.S. Navy: A Deep Dive into History and Evolution
This is a deep dive into the the history and evolution of the first U.S. Navy Ratings (enlisted jobs).
February 16, 2025
Navy WESTPAC: Inside the 7th Fleet’s Power, Deployments & Future Warfare
WESTPAC deployments are how the U.S. 7th Fleet, based in Yokosuka, keeps a steady presence in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean.
February 16, 2025
Gator Navy: The Backbone of U.S. Amphibious Power & Modern Warfare
The Gator Navy is what makes the United States Navy’s amphibious fleet a reality.
February 16, 2025
Navy Bluenose: The Arctic Rite of Passage Few Sailors Achieve
‘Blue Noses’ might sound like a case of frostbite, but in the U.S. Navy, it’s a badge of honor.
February 15, 2025
Crossing the Line: Inside the U.S. Navy’s Legendary Shellback Ceremony
The U.S. Navy’s Crossing the Line or Shellback ceremony is an old tradition that marks a sailor’s first equator crossing, transforming them from a Slimy Pollywog into a Trusty Shellback
February 15, 2025
The ‘Devil Docs’ of the U.S. Navy: Battlefield Healers, Combat Brothers
A combat-tested Corpsman who earns the trust of his Marines is a Devil Doc. If Marines earned “Devil Dog” at Belleau Wood, Corpsmen earned “Devil Doc” by proving they could fight, bleed, and die beside them.
February 15, 2025
How Many Navy SEALs Are There? (Updated Estimates)
The Navy publishes limited headcount information for Naval Special Warfare. This guide explains the latest public estimates and what people mean by “Navy SEALs.”
February 10, 2025
DOPMA Quick Guide for Navy Officers
A comprehensive guide to DOPMA and Navy officer promotions, including promotion zones, selection boards, time in grade, grade ceilings, and what officers can do to prepare.
February 10, 2025
Navy SWO to FAO Tailored Community Transition (TCT) Program
Learn how Surface Warfare Officers can transition to the Foreign Area Officer community through the Tailored Community Transition program, including eligibility, timeline, training, and service obligation.
October 14, 2024
Navy College Program: Complete Guide
Learn what the Navy College Program is, how Tuition Assistance works, and how to use NCPACE, USNCC, Navy COOL, and other tools to earn education credits while serving.
September 15, 2023