What job does a seaman recruit do in the military?

I'm thinking about joining the military after high school, and I've heard about seaman recruits. What exactly do they do, and what can I expect if I pursue this path? Is it a good starting point?

As you might know, a Seaman Recruit is the entry-level rank in the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard for those who are fresh out of boot camp. If you choose to become a Seaman Recruit, you can expect to learn the basics of seamanship including nautical terms, knot tying, pipe patching, and other maritime maintenance duties.

Your responsibilities will likely include general ship maintenance and cleaning, standing watch, and assisting others in your unit with their duties. This position serves as a foundational starting point in the Navy or Coast Guard, teaching you fundamental skills and a work ethic you can build upon as you progress in rank.

Whether it's a good starting point or not can depend largely on your long-term goals in the military. If you have a specific career path in mind within the Navy or Coast Guard, it can be beneficial to start from this foundational level. It allows you to get acquainted with the work environment, expectations, and discipline inherent to military service. As you rise in rank, which usually takes place after about nine months in service, you might get the opportunity to receive training in a specific trade or occupation, or "rating" as it's called in the Navy.

Remember, the military isn't for everyone and it's a big commitment, so it's a good idea to carefully weigh your options and discuss your plans with a military recruiter or others who have served in the military before making a decision.