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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
JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii — Lt. Chris Rielage, training officer of the Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Carl M
  • US Navy

Green Card Holder Navy Enlistment: A Practical Guide

3 years ago
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If you're a permanent resident with foreign military and logistics experience, learn how to enlist, get advanced pay grade, and eventually become a Navy Supply Corps officer.

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

Care Package Navy: What to Send Your Deployed Sailor

3 years ago
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Learn what to include and what to avoid when sending a care package to a deployed Navy sailor. Practical advice from a retired officer, including banned items like vapes and Zyns.

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

Postpartum Mental Health Military: Support for Active

3 years ago
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Learn how active duty Navy members with severe postpartum anxiety and OCD can find temporary work accommodations, access mental health support, and navigate the military system while caring for their...

Officer Candidate School (OCS) class 03-21 students, at Officer Training Command Newport (OTCN), Rhode Island
  • US Navy

How Long & How Hard Is Navy OCS?

3 years ago
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Two of the most common questions about Navy Officer Candidate School are “how long is Navy OCS?” and “how hard is it?” I went through it, so here’s the honest answer to...

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

NROTC vs AFROTC Pilot: Which ROTC Path Gets You Flying?

3 years ago
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Comparing NROTC and AFROTC for aspiring pilots? This article breaks down pilot selection rates, deployments, and tips to maximize your chances of becoming a military aviator.

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

Reenlistment Decision Guide for Navy OCS Graduates

3 years ago
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Weighing reenlistment versus separation? This guide for Navy OCS graduates covers family factors, financial considerations, VA benefits, clearance jobs, Skillbridge, and getting sound advice.

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

No, Marines Aren’t Training at Great Lakes: What’s Actually Happening at RTC

3 years ago
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If you've seen Marine drill instructors leading recruits at RTC Great Lakes, you might think Marines are training with Navy recruits. The truth is those are NROTC midshipmen attending New Student...

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

Family Pressure Military: New Active Duty Parenting

3 years ago
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Advice for active duty parents facing family pressure over holiday visits. Learn to set boundaries, prioritize your wife and newborn's health, and embrace your new home as command central.

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

OCS Graduation Tickets: How to Get Base Access at Newport

4 years ago
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No physical tickets needed. Learn how your candidate adds you to the guest list, gate procedures, and health check requirements for OCS graduation at Newport.

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

Mental Health Support for Navy Spouses

4 years ago
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If your sailor is struggling with depression in A school, you're not alone. This guide covers mental health resources and support for Navy spouses during this tough transition.

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