Who is the FIRST person in an indoctrination candidate's chain of command?

The correct answer is the Section Leader, as this individual plays a pivotal role in the immediate oversight of the indoctrination candidates. The Section Leader is often the first point of contact within the chain of command for the candidates, providing guidance, support, and mentorship during their initial training and adaptation to the Navy's culture and expectations. This position is crucial for establishing the foundation upon which candidates build their leadership skills and military bearing.

In the OCS environment, the Section Leader's responsibilities include monitoring the performance and conduct of candidates, ensuring they understand and adhere to the Navy's standards, and facilitating their progression in training. By interacting directly with candidates on a daily basis, the Section Leader can foster a strong leader-candidate relationship, which is essential for the candidates' success.

While the Class Officer, Class Chief Petty Officer, and Officer Candidate School Lead Class Officer have significant roles within the overall command structure, the Section Leader is the first line of authority that candidates will experience within their daily routines and training environment. This foundational layer of leadership is critical for enabling candidates to acclimate effectively to the rigorous demands of officer training.