The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps has openings for a limited number of young people ages 13 to 17 to join the "crew" of Trident Patrol Squadron 65 and TS Minutemen. An introduction to the group will be at 10 a.m. Sun., May 7 at the Ventura VFW Post 1679, 3801 Market St., Ventura.

Adult volunteers, with or without military experience, are also needed, especially those with seamanship, aviation, administrative or fundraising skills. Interested adults are also encouraged to attend.

Youth interested in seamanship, aviation or the military comprise the corps. Cadet applicants must be crime-free, drug-free, physically fit U.S. citizens. Females are encouraged to apply.

The youth group was chartered by congress in 1962 as a civilian youth organization and receives federal funding. Cadets from Ventura and Los Angeles counties meet at NBVC Pt. Mugu one weekend a month from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. They have community service and color guard opportunities at other times.

Sea Cadets wear the traditional Navy uniform and can participate in summer programs, including: at-sea training with the Navy and Coast Guard, submarine orientation, field training, firefighting, medical training, search and rescue, and naval aviation. Reservations are required for the event and may be made by calling the squadron's Simi Valley hotline at (805) 526-9475.

For further information on the Naval Sea Cadet Corps, visit www.seacadets.org.