As a family, you've laid the foundation of character that has led your son, loved one or student to consider the Navy SWCC. Now, the Navy SWCC would like you to be involved in the milestones ahead, including the decision to enlist, Basic Crewman Training (BCT) training and active service as a Navy SWCC.
The decision to become a SWCC affects your whole family, and talking with your son, loved one or student throughout the decision process will be valuable for both of you. It will help you understand and prepare yourself for the realities and requirements of service. Here are some important next steps for you:
Be prepared: read the information on our website, and talk to other parents on the special Parents section of our forum. Make notes on the topics that are important to you. Use those notes and conversations as reminders during your conversations with your son, loved one or student.
We encourage you to listen. Find out why he is interested in becoming a SWCC. There are many reasons, and you can help them understand aspects of the commitment they may not have considered yet.
Stay involved as they learn more. Talk to your local Navy recruiter or SWCC Scout together, even if your son, loved one or student has already spoken with a recruiter. Feel free to call 888-876-7325 (888-USN-SEAL) for more information about becoming a Navy SWCC.
DISCUSSION TOPICS: QUESTIONS WILL HELP GUIDE YOUR CONVERSATION
58 WEEKS OR MORE | COMMITMENT
Becoming a Navy SWCC can be a life-changing decision, and it's perhaps one of the first adult decisions your son, loved one or student will make. Talking about it will help you understand his reasons for wanting to become a SWCC. He may have heard or read how Navy SWCC operate at the forefront of America's national security efforts, or how being a SWCC is considered one of the most challenging assignments in the military.
Here are several topics to discuss. These topics will help guide your conversation with your son, loved one or student.
Why is he considering the Navy SWCC?
Pride associated with the prestige and legacy of the SWCC
Protect our way of life
Serve with honor
Serve as a guardian to my fellow Americans
Defend those who are unable to defend themselves
Ready to take control of his future
Push his physical and mental limits
Live unconventional and out-of-the-cubicle lifestyle
What are his goals for the future?
Serving as a SWCC gives him a chance to make a difference
SWCC are forged by adversity
Skills learned in the Navy SWCC help men prepare for the professional world
SWCC are leaders on the battlefield and in their communities
The SWCC offer great opportunities to start or continue a college education
Has he spoken to a Navy Recruiter yet?
The Navy recruiters role and the SEAL and SWCC Scout Team is to support you throughout the decision process
Recruiters have information on SWCC requirements and BCT
It's important for parents to talk with a recruiter and the SWCC Scout Team as well
Recruiters know the roles of SWCC, both active and reserve
Can he make the commitment of service to the Navy?
Commitment to a team and hard work
Six years of training and service
Does the Navy offer college tuition assistance?
Sailors are given the opportunity and resources to pursue a college degree. The Navy College program helps Sailors achieve their education goals. Tuition assistance and the GI Bill make it possible to achieve a college degree with minimal out of pocket cost. Many SWCC have post-secondary education degrees. Find out more about the Navy's education assistance at the Navy College website. 
What benefits do the Navy SWCC offer?
Starting pay of up to $60,000
Bonuses for becoming qualified and for re-enlisting
Possible repayment of college loans
Extra pay for diving, parachuting and demolitions
30 days vacation per year
Medical and dental benefits
Retirement after 20 years
Tax free pay in combat zones
Tax free allowances for housing and food
Access to military facilities
Naval Special Warfare is a lifestyle rather than just a job or career. "The office" for a Navy SWCC transcends not only the elements of the sea, air and land, but also international boundaries, the extremes of geography and the full spectrum of conflict. There is no "typical day at the office" for a Navy SWCC. SWCC constantly learn, improve and refine their skills while working with their teammates.
What skills, abilities and qualities does he want to gain as a SWCC?
Build character and confidence
Develop countless individual abilities, such as physical and mental strength
Is he capable and willing to complete recruit training plus 58 weeks of intense Basic Crewman Training (BCT) training ?
BCT - Is extremely challenging, yet greatly rewarding
Motivation, determination and selflessness are key elements for success
Navy SWCC hopefuls should prepare for BCT with a local SWCC Mentor before leaving home
Recruits experience accelerated personal growth because of the example set by their BCT instructor
Is he prepared to live and serve as a SWCC in a foreign country?
SWCC may get deployed in any part of the world
SWCC are educated and prepared for all environments and cultures, including language training
When will you be able to see him?
Sailors may be authorized liberty (the Navy term for off-duty time) after graduation from recruit training. Go to the Navy's Recruit Training Command website for more information about graduation liberty.
All Sailors accrue 30 days of paid vacation, called leave, per year. Many Sailors graduating from SEAL training take leave before they report to their first duty station.
