So You Wanna Be a San Diego Sailor? Your Guide to Practically Beaching Yourself (Military Style)
Ah, San Diego. Land of perfect weather, endless burritos, and enough ???? (Nihongo for "Navy") ships to make you feel like you're in your own Tom Clancy novel. But hold on there, Maverick (because let's face it, everyone in the Navy is basically Maverick), getting stationed in San Diego isn't quite as easy as landing an F-14 on the deck of the USS Nimitz (though that is pretty darn impressive).
Fear not, my fellow future flipper-finder (that's Navy talk for dolphins), this guide will be your compass on the high seas of duty station preferences.
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| How To Get Stationed In San Diego Navy |
Step 1: Become a Navy Superstar (or at least semi-competent)
This might seem obvious, but you'd be surprised. Uncle Sam isn't exactly handing out San Diego beach passes to just anyone. Do well in boot camp, impress your superiors, and choose a job description that has some San Diego flavor. Let's be honest, becoming a cryptologic linguist specializing in Mongolian probably won't put you in flip-flop distance of the Pacific Ocean.
Pro Tip: During boot camp, subtly mention your love for surfing whenever possible. It might not influence your orders, but hey, at least you'll be motivational material for your bunkmates.
QuickTip: Don’t ignore the small print.
Step 2: The Magical Mystery Tour of Detailers
Detailers, those wonderful folks who decide where your Navy journey takes you, are like Navy fashion consultants. They know what uniform looks best on you (hopefully it's not the "stuck-on-shore-duty" one). Chat with your detailer about your preferences, but be prepared for a healthy dose of "needs of the Navy" Sometimes, you gotta deploy to defend freedom before you defend your right to a perfect tan.
Side Note: If your detailer happens to be a surfer dude named "Hawk," consider buying a lottery ticket. That man has some serious San Diego-assignment-granting mojo.
Step 3: Embrace the Power of Visualization (and Maybe a Vision Board)
Alright, alright, so vision boards might sound a little woo-woo, but hear me out. Picture yourself in a crisp Navy uniform, catching waves on a sunny San Diego morning. Channel your inner Tony Robbins and manifest that West Coast dream. The Navy might not be swayed by your expertly curated board (filled with pictures of palm trees and fighter jets, of course), but a positive attitude never hurts.
Tip: Look for small cues in wording.
Plus, if all else fails, that vision board will look mighty nice hanging up in your...well, wherever the Navy sends you.
How to REALLY Get Stationed in San Diego (According to Urban Legends)
- **Bribe your detailer with a lifetime supply of California burritos. (Disclaimer: This is absolutely not recommended and probably illegal.)
- Learn Morse code and tap out "San Diego or bust!" every night. ( ????????????? ?? ????????????? [effectiveness not guaranteed] in Russian, because apparently, international relations are important too.)
- Claim you're allergic to anything that isn't sunshine and saltwater. (This might backfire and land you in a top-secret arctic research facility.)
Important Note: These are jokes (hopefully very obvious jokes). Please don't take them seriously and focus on the actual advice above.
Frequently Asked Beach Bum Navy Questions:
How to increase your chances of getting stationed in San Diego?
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
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Do well in training, choose a relevant job title, and communicate your preferences to your detailer.
How important is it to have a college degree?
While not always mandatory, a college degree can open doors to specific programs and potentially influence your duty station.
Tip: Don’t just scroll — pause and absorb.
What are some things to consider besides location?
Think about your desired job description, deployment possibilities, and base amenities (like housing and family support).
How can I prepare for a move to San Diego?
Research the cost of living, explore different neighborhoods, and familiarize yourself with base resources like the Fleet and Family Support Center.
What if I don't get stationed in San Diego?
The Navy has amazing bases all over the world. Embrace the adventure, and who knows, maybe your new duty station will surprise you!
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