Since middle school, senior Andres Godoy has participated in the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps, a national youth program sponsored by the United States Navy and Coast Guard. He also plays the tenor saxophone for the Band of the West, a unit within the USNSCC and the sole sea cadet band in the nation. Sea cadets within the Band of the West have the honor of playing music for important military events, such as San Francisco Fleet Week and the Navy Seals Tribute.
At 12 years old, Godoy was first introduced to the program by his father.
“My dad … spent 26 years in the military and … when he retired, he wanted someone in the family to continue what he had started because he really loved his experience,” Godoy said.
Godoy’s discovery of the tenor saxophone sparked his passion for music, leading to his involvement in the Band of the West.
“I was introduced to the program … because I played music,” Godoy said. “In middle school, I started playing percussion, and then I eventually expanded … and started playing the tenor saxophone … I really liked it, and my dad was like, ‘Okay, military and music.’ And so he did some research, and he found the USNSCC.”
When Godoy was first recruited, he found the military regulations daunting.
“They were very strict [and]all so focused. I was really intimidated,” Godoy said.
After his first day with the USNSCC, Godoy expressed uncertainty about the program to his father.
“My dad was like, ‘You know what, spend a year here. If you don’t like it, we can take you home,’” Godoy said.
After following his father’s advice, Godoy soon adjusted to military protocols and became deeply engrossed in the program. Over time, he learned how to balance both the fun and serious aspects of the USNSCC.
“A key term that we use is called ‘flipping the switch,’” Godoy said. “[It’s] knowing the difference between when to socialize with your friends and when to focus on the mission and the task at hand. [It’s] what we call military bearing, keeping it all together.”
Being a member of USNSCC became a major commitment for Godoy and it has helped him nurture his musical and life skills.
“We provide music for military events … [and] live up to the customs and courtesies of military tradition,” Godoy said. “I’m forever grateful for all the experiences and skills I’ve gained.”
“Now that I’m older, I know that military isn’t really the path that I want to go down, but it gave me an opportunity to try things out,” Godoy said. “I think the one [thing] that I’ve definitely gained from it is confidence … We all have a lot of growing up to do when we’re … young. Now, I’m able to stand taller [and] have more confidence in myself all around.”
Through the program, Godoy has discovered the benefits of trying new things, even if they seem intimidating at first.
“I think one piece of advice that I carry with me to this day is to be comfortable with being uncomfortable,” Godoy said. “Don’t be afraid to go out of your comfort zone and try something new.”
