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Paul N.

Paul N. is a retired U.S. Navy Cryptologic Warfare Officer who commissioned through Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Newport, Rhode Island. He started VeteranWiki to document his OCS journey week by week — and to share the practical, firsthand details he wished someone had told him beforehand. Now working in tech, he writes these guides to help the next group of candidates show up knowing what to expect. It's personal experience, not official policy — always confirm details with your recruiter or chain of command.

Staff Sgt. Jordan G. Kinal, Marine Corps Drill Instructor assigned to Officer Training Command, Newport (OTCN), Rhode Island
Sailors assigned to the Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Washington (SSN 787) inspect Port Angeles High School NJROTC students during
  • US Navy

MEPS Waiting Time: Why Your Recruiter Went Silent

3 years ago
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Learn why MEPS waiting time can stretch for months, especially with mental health waivers, and how to proactively follow up with your recruiter and NTAG.

Students in Officer Candidate School (OCS), Class 10-26, at Officer Training Command Newport (OTCN)
  • Veteran Benefits

Navy TLE: Before and After a PCS Move

3 years ago
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Learn how Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) works before and after a PCS move, and why it's separate from house hunting leave. From a retired Navy officer.

Sailors assigned to the Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Washington (SSN 787) inspect Port Angeles High School NJROTC students during
  • US Navy

College Degree Requirements for OCS Naval Aviator: What

3 years ago
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Learn what college degrees the Navy accepts for Naval Aviator OCS applicants and which degree path is recommended for success.

The first cadre of U.S. Navy JAG Corps students in Officer Candidate School, Class 10-26, at Officer Training Command Newport (OTCN)
  • US Navy

Navy Officer Commissioning for Army Veterans: What to Know

3 years ago
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A retired Navy officer explains how Army veterans with VA disability ratings can pursue a Navy officer commission through OCS, with advice on designators like Supply Corps.

Students in Officer Candidate School (OCS), Class 10-26, at Officer Training Command Newport (OTCN)
  • US Navy

Enlisting vs Commissioning: Following Your Own Path |

3 years ago
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Is it wrong to choose enlistment over commissioning? A retired officer explores family pressure, the value of enlisted roles like CTI, and why your personal happiness matters most.

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii — Crewmembers of the Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Carl M
  • US Navy

Supply Corps OCS Packet: Tips for GPA, OAR, and Weight

3 years ago
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Learn how to make your Supply Corps OCS packet stand out with strong GPA, OAR prep, and safe weight loss strategies. Expert advice from a retired Navy CWO.

Aviation Electrician’s Mate 2nd Class Luis Aguas, assigned to Navy Talent Acquisition Group Pacific Northwest
  • US Navy

What to Do When Your Navy Officer Recruiter Stops Communicating: A Step-by-Step Guide

3 years ago
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If your Navy officer recruiter has gone silent, you may need an officer recruiter transfer. This guide explains how to work with your NTAG to get back on track toward OCS.

Rear Admiral Lia M. Reynolds (center), Deputy Judge Advocate General, United States Navy, stands with the first cadre of U.S
  • US Navy

Naval Aviation OCS: Ivy League to Aviator Guide

3 years ago
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An Ivy League graduate's guide to naval aviation OCS: differences from the Naval Academy, training expectations, career progression, and transition resources.

Under the command of Captain Austin W. Duff, Commanding Officer, Officer Training Newport, 110 Students in Officer Candidate School
  • US Navy

POCR Board METOC: A SWO’s Guide to Transitioning to

3 years ago
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Thinking about a lat transfer from SWO to METOC? This article covers what the POCR board for METOC looks like, day-to-day life as an oceanography officer, and how to build a competitive package.

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) John Perryman tours the King Hall officer candidate dormitory
  • US Navy

Is Navy PAO Right for You? Competitiveness and Reality

3 years ago
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A retired Navy officer breaks down the competitiveness of the Navy PAO program, what recruiters often advise, and how to build a strong application.

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