If it were a competition then I'd say yes. It's not a competition, so how you play is up to you. If you want to know whether it's realistic, then no, it's not.
If you just want to beat the game, do whatever it takes. If you want to experience what they really did, your crew needs to grow realistically.
Petty Officers should all be qualified, as that's what makes them Petty Officers. They should only be awarded medals when they do something to deserve them.
Here's a question: Why do you feel you need to ask this of others?
For me it would be cheating, but you're not me, you're you. On the other hand if you start bragging about how great you are at the game, expect some flak.
Above all, have fun.
