How do you pick where you are stationed in the navy?

Answer 1

You don't - your duty station is determined by Fleet requirements and needs, not a sailor's personal desires. You are allowed to fill out a Duty Preference sheet before your first major duty station after training, but it's not guaranteed. However, detailers do their best to try and put people where they wish to go, but only so much as it is in keeping with Force needs.

As you gain seniority, you have a better ability to control your Duty Station fate. Usually E-5 and above have a better ability to choose their next station, but it's also dependent on the person's evaluations, recommendations, and qualifications for a particular assignment. For Commissioned Officers, their career paths are pretty much determined by which path they choose to follow, as well as their evals and Fitness Reports.

Answer 2

You can express your preference on what is referred to as a "dream sheet" but the needs of the Navy trump all. The only branch of the U.S. military that has duty station of choice is the Army. They offer it from time to time as an enlistment or re-enlistment incentive.

Answer 3

The Job you Choose