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BM

Boatswain’s Mate

BMs are experts in all things navigation and seamanship.

BMs are experts at navigating vessels and have the most command leadership opportunities of any rating. When operating a boat as coxswain, you'll be in charge of executing the mission and be responsible for the safety of your crew members. You'll also have a chance to train as a law enforcement officer to conduct maritime boardings. BMs can be found at nearly every operational unit.

  • Comfortable as a leader?
  • Attentive to detail?
  • Excited to operate small boats?
  • Interested in law enforcement?

Boat operations
Seamanship and navigation
Leadership

  • BMs receive a 14-week rating course in Yorktown, VA, with instruction in seamanship and navigation.
  • Advanced maritime navigation training and tactical law enforcement training.
  • Both full-time and part-time Coast Guard-funded educational opportunities that lead to an associate degree, bachelor's degree, or higher may be available.

  • Captain, Mate, or Pilot of Water Vessels
  • General and Operations Manager
  • Emergency Management Director
  • First-line Supervisor of Material-moving Machine and Vehicle Operators
  • Schedule Development or Personnel Management Specialist
OR
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