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Oath of Enlistment

Lt. Scott Woods, left, administers the Oath of Enlistment to Machinist's Mate 1st Class Adam Bunker-Worley on Ellis Island in New York Harbor.

Oath of Enlistment
Department of Defense

Lt. Scott Woods, left, administers the Oath of Enlistment to Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Adam Bunker-Worley on Ellis Island in New York Harbor. Chief Electrician’s Mate Michael Whitney holds a Bible. Bunker-Worley is assigned to Naval Submarine Support Facility at New London, Conn.

Potential Navy recruits follow several steps before taking the Oath of Enlistment. First, they talk to a recruiter. Then, they visit a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS), where they

  • Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), if necessary
  • Get a physical
  • Consult a career classifier to determine their Navy career
  • Complete a Pre-Enlistment Interview

After the successful completion of this process, an applicant signs a contract. Then a commissioned officer administers the Oath. Family and friends are welcome to watch and take photos as the applicant swears in.

See All: MEPS,  Enlisting

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