Can You Choose Where to be Stationed in the Navy?
When considering a career in the United States Navy, one of the primary concerns for many potential recruits is the location of their assigned duty station. Will I be stationed on the East Coast, West Coast, or somewhere in between? Can I choose where I go? These are all valid questions, and in this article, we’ll provide a direct answer to help you make an informed decision.
Direct Answer:
While the Navy does offer some flexibility in terms of duty station selection, it’s not entirely up to you to choose where you’ll be stationed. However, there are certain factors to consider and ways to increase your chances of getting stationed in a specific location. Let’s break it down:
- Initial Basic Training: Upon enlisting, you’ll attend boot camp (Basic Training) at the Naval Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois. From there, you’ll be assigned to your first duty station.
- First Duty Station: Your first duty station is typically determined by your rate (job) and the Navy’s needs at the time. You may not have a say in the location, but you’ll have the opportunity to apply for future duty stations through the Navy’s Officer in Charge of Distribution (OICD) process.
- OICD Process: The OICD process allows sailors to submit a list of preferred duty stations for their next assignment. While the Navy can’t guarantee placement at your preferred location, they do take your requests into consideration.
Factors Affecting Duty Station Assignment:
Several factors influence the Navy’s decision when assigning sailors to duty stations. Here are a few key ones:
- Job Specialty: Certain jobs, like aviation mechanics or nuclear engineers, require specialized training and may be assigned to specific bases.
- Naval Force Structure: The Navy’s organizational structure, including fleet requirements and resource allocation, plays a significant role in determining duty station assignments.
- Fleet Realignment: Changes in the Navy’s fleet structure, such as ship deployments or base closures, can impact duty station assignments.
- Sailor Preferences: While the Navy can’t guarantee placement at your preferred location, they do consider sailor requests when making assignment decisions.
Ways to Increase Chances of Getting Stationed in a Specific Location:
While the Navy can’t guarantee placement at your desired location, there are ways to increase your chances:
- Apply for Special Programs: Certain programs, like Cryptologic Technicians (CT), Aviation Maintenance Administration (A) School, or Nuclear Power School, may have more flexibility in terms of duty station assignments.
- Choose a Job with Greater Flexibility: Jobs like Supply Administration or Human Resources might have more opportunities for transfer or relocation.
- Be Flexible: Being open to different locations and assignment types can increase your chances of getting stationed in your preferred location.
- Network: Building relationships with senior enlisted personnel or officers in your desired location can help you learn more about the duty station and potential opportunities.
Duty Station Categories:
The Navy categorizes duty stations into four main groups:
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Land-based | Stations on land, such as bases, depots, or administrative offices. |
| Sea-based | Stations on ships, such as aircraft carriers, destroyers, or submarines. |
| Air-based | Stations related to aviation, such as air stations, airfields, or aircraft carriers. |
| Overseas | Stations located outside the United States, including foreign ports, bases, or ships. |
Conclusion:
While the Navy does offer some flexibility in terms of duty station selection, it’s essential to understand the factors influencing assignment decisions. By choosing a job with greater flexibility, applying for special programs, being open to different locations, and networking, you can increase your chances of getting stationed in your preferred location. Remember that the Navy’s needs come first, and duty station assignments are subject to change. Stay flexible, stay informed, and you’ll be well on your way to a successful Navy career.
Additional Resources:
- Navy Personnel Command: www.npc.navy.mil
- Navy Careers: www.navy.com/careers
- Navy Fleet Structure: www.navy.mil/foia/docs/fleet_structure.pdf
By understanding the factors affecting duty station assignments and taking proactive steps to increase your chances of getting stationed in your preferred location, you’ll be better equipped to navigate your Navy career and achieve your goals.
