El Toro Battalion,
located in Irvine, California, is a proud unit of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps (NSCC). Originally established as the Trieste 2 Division, we transitioned in 2004 to honor the legacy of the men and women who served at the historic El Toro Air Station. With a rich history of excellence, we continue to provide a high-quality youth program for the Orange County community.
Our mission is to inspire discipline, pride, motivation, self-reliance, and self-respect in our cadets. Through engaging training evolutions and a structured learning environment, we prepare young individuals for future success, emphasizing personal growth, leadership, and teamwork. El Toro Battalion is part of the NSCC, a program for youth ages 13 and older. We are active year-round, hosting monthly weekend drills and exciting events. For details, please refer to our Unit Calendar and Plan of the Month (POM).
Younger cadets, ages 10 to 13, can join TS Vammen (Training Ship Vammen), which is part of the Naval League Cadet Corps (NLCC). This junior program is designed to provide moral and physical training while introducing cadets to seagoing military traditions, community service, and citizenship. TS Vammen helps younger cadets build a strong foundation in discipline and teamwork, preparing them to transition seamlessly into the Naval Sea Cadet Corps at age 13.
Both NLCC and NSCC programs are supported by NSCC Adult Volunteer Leaders, who are 18 years or older and play a vital role in mentoring cadets. Leaders are attached to specific NLCC and/or NSCC units, regions, or Headquarters, and they help implement the policies and procedures set by the NSCC’s governing body, the Board of Directors.
At El Toro Battalion and TS Vammen, we are committed to shaping tomorrow’s leaders while preserving the values and traditions of naval service. Join us to embark on an incredible journey of growth, learning, and camaraderie!
Per Ardua, Ad Alta – “From adversity, to the stars”
