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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
Charleston, SC (July 10, 2026) Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Atlantic hosted its annual Palmetto Cybersecurity & STEM
  • US Navy

OAR Reading Comprehension Tips for Navy OCS

2 years ago
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Improve your OAR reading score by training with real Navy instructions and using AI tools. A retired CWO shares proven study strategies.

A concrete batch plant stands in the foreground as crews install components for a second batch plant supporting Dry Dock 5 (P-209) construction
  • Veteran Benefits

Home Buying DMV: What Future Officers Should Know

2 years ago
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Considering buying a home in the DMV as a future Navy officer? Evaluate VA loans, house hacking, and the risks of withdrawing retirement accounts before taking the plunge.

Naval Surface Warfare Center, Port Hueneme Division (NSWC PHD) Technical Director Jeff Koe delivers opening remarks at the podium during a
  • US Navy

Joining Navy with Family: A Mother’s Journey at 26

2 years ago
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Joining the Navy at 26 as a married mother of two brings unique challenges and rewards. This guide covers financial, marital, and social adjustments for a family.

Canadian Members of RCN Halifax Class Frigate Regina (FFH 334) participate in Missile Firing Exercise during EX RIMPAC on July 16, 2026
  • US Navy

PhD vs Navy Officer: Which Path for an Intelligence

2 years ago
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Deciding between a DPhil at Oxford and a Navy Intelligence commission? This article weighs the tactical, financial, and career implications to help you choose the best route into the intelligence...

The frame of a parking structure begins to take shape at the site of NA1807
  • Veteran Benefits

Dual Mil Couple Savings: Where to Put Extra Cash After

2 years ago
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Learn where dual mil couple savings should go after maxing TSP and IRA: HYSA for near-term goals like a car purchase, taxable brokerage for long-term growth.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 2 conducts a change of command ceremony where Cmdr. Michael Hicks assumed command from Cmdr
  • Navy OCS Journey

OCS Preparation Resources: What You Need Before Day One

2 years ago
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Discover the top OCS preparation resources including Appendix B, the OCSINST 15301, and a proven 6-week fitness plan to excel at Navy Officer Candidate School.

The Space Physics Simulation chamber. A large vacuum chamber that can recreate plasma conditions in space to study basic plasma physics
  • US Navy

NROTC Anxiety About Leaving Home: Overcoming Fears

2 years ago
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Feeling anxious about leaving home for NROTC? You're not alone. Learn how to manage homesickness, build new friendships, and succeed at NSI from experienced alumni and a retired Navy officer.

USS Constitution leads the Sail250 Boston Parade of Sail, July 11, 2026. The Constitution is the oldest U.S. Navy warship still in service
  • US Navy

ASTB Preparation: Overcoming Math Gaps and BDCP After

2 years ago
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Practical advice for candidates with weak math/physics backgrounds on studying for the ASTB, plus guidance on BDCP eligibility after leaving NROTC.

From left to right, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) Fleet Executive Assistant Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class George Apav; Chief
  • Veteran Benefits

BAH for Spouses Separated: A Navy Guide

2 years ago
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BAH for spouses separated: how the allowance is based on your dependent's location, not your duty station. Learn about geobachelor life, requesting BAH for your spouse's address, and financial...

An MH-60R Seahawk, attached to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 77
  • Veteran Benefits

Financial Struggles After PCS: Resources for Navy Families

2 years ago
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Practical advice for Navy families facing financial hardship after an unexpected PCS, including counseling, TSP loans, Marine Corps Society loans, and home sale strategies.

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