The Neptune Warrior

As a veteran and scuba diving instructor with Neptune Warrior, I’ve had the immense pleasure of witnessing firsthand the transformative power of diving. One of the most remarkable stories is that of Skye, a student who used her veteran benefits to pursue her passion for the water. Instead of feeling pressured to continue a degree she wasn’t sure she wanted, she decided to use her G.I. Bill® benefits to follow her dreams. This decision opened up a whole new world for her—both underwater and in her life.

When Skye, a former linguist for the U.S. Air Force first joined our program, she was hesitant and unsure of what lay ahead. However, with each dive, I saw her confidence grow. She started with the basics and quickly progressed, driven by her newfound passion. Our program through NAUI not only provided her with the skills and certifications needed to become a proficient diver but also gave her the courage to explore the world.

Using her G.I. Bill® benefits, she has now visited some of the most breathtaking dive spots on the planet. From the vibrant coral reefs of Bali to the crystal-clear waters of Roatan, the majestic underwater realms of the Cayman Islands, and the serene lagoons of Tahiti, she has experienced the beauty and wonder of the ocean in ways she never imagined possible.

Her journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Each destination brought new adventures and challenges, and with every dive, she discovered more about herself and the world around her. Diving gave her the tools to follow her passion for the water—a passion that has become a central part of her life.

Seeing her come to life through Neptune Warrior program has been a joy and a privilege. Her story is a testament to the incredible opportunities that veteran benefits can provide when used to follow one’s dreams. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most fulfilling paths are the ones that lead us to explore the unknown and embrace our passions wholeheartedly.

Our programs offer a wide selection to choose from, and the G.I. Bill® can help you achieve your diving goals. Through these programs, you will start with the basics of diving and progress along a guided path to become a professional diver if you choose.

Designed by veterans for veterans, this program allows service members who qualify to be reimbursed for their certifications and licensing exams. Restrictions follow the same guidelines as the VA licensing and certification reimbursement program – please refer to this website: https://www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/how-to-use-benefits/test-fees/

Service members can use one month of G.I. Bill® benefits per certification or license exam, allowing them to progress as far as they desire. They can use up to one month to six months of benefits to get scuba certified or to become a NAUI dive professional.

NAUI Basic Level Scuba Certification NES-VA010

• Open Water Scuba Diver
• Enriched Air Nitrox Diver
• Basic Life Support: CPR and First Aid

NAUI Advanced Level Scuba Certification NES-VA011

• Advanced Open Water Scuba Diver
• Underwater Digital Imaging Diver
• 02 Provider

Rescue Scuba Diver Certification NES-VA012

• Rescue Scuba Diver
• Search and Recovery Diver
• NEURO Assessment

Master Scuba Diver Certification NES-VA013

• Training Assistant
• Deep Diver

Professionals are defined as Divemasters, Diving Instructors, Instructor Trainers, and Course Directors – all of these professional licenses are considered true vocational programs and can provide full-time employment with lucrative pay.

G.I. Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill

How to get Started

Step 1:

​(a) Contact Neptune Warrior (neptunewarrior22@gmail.com)

(b) Learn about G.I. Bill® eligibility requirements and find out if you can get these benefits. If you’re an active-duty service member or Veteran, a member of the National Guard or Reserves, or a qualified survivor or dependent, find out if you can get VA education benefits through the G.I. Bill® and other educational assistance programs.

Step 2:

​Apply for your G.I. Bill® benefits.

​How to apply for the G.I. Bill® and related benefits go to the VA website at: https://www.va.gov/education/how-to-apply/ and follow the directions.

​If you have already applied for your benefits and just need to find out how many months of benefits you have left, please go to the VA website at: https://www.va.gov/education/gi-bill/post-9-11/ch-33-benefit/. and follow the steps on how to check your benefits.

Print out your VA statement of benefits you will need to bring it to us. 

​Step 3:

​Upon completion of all exams. The NAUI VA testing center will give you three documents and a presentation so you can submit for your VA reimbursement. (all reimbursements from the VA are first come first serve but it is taking about 30 to 60 days to receive your reimbursement from the VA).