Title 14 › Subtitle SUBTITLE II— PERSONNEL › Chapter 23— PERSONNEL; ENLISTED › § 2317
An aviation cadet is a special enlisted rank in the Coast Guard. Under rules the Secretary sets, civilians may enlist and current enlisted members may become cadets with their consent. Except in war or a Congress‑declared emergency, at least 20% of cadets each fiscal year must come from qualified enlisted members. A cadet must sign a written agreement to accept a commission as an ensign in the Coast Guard Reserve after finishing training and to serve at least 3 years on active duty; anyone under 21 needs a parent or guardian’s consent. The Secretary may transfer a cadet to another enlisted grade, release them from active duty, or discharge them.
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Coast Guard — Source: USLM XML via OLRC
Legislative History
Reference
Citation
14 U.S.C. § 2317
Title 14 — Coast Guard
Last Updated
Apr 3, 2026
Release point: 119-73not60