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The United States Navy SEALs are a principal component of the Naval Special Warfare Command (NSWC) and are recognized as one of the most elite special operations forces globally. SEAL stands for Sea, Air, and Land, which represents the multi-environmental scope of their operations. The SEALs are trained to conduct a wide range of operations from direct action warfare, special reconnaissance, counter-terrorism, and foreign internal defense, to unconventional warfare and more. The history of the Navy SEALs reflects their evolution from World War II predecessors to their current status as a top-tier global special operations force.

Origins

The origins of the Navy SEALs can be traced back to World War II, with the formation of units such as the Naval Combat Demolition Units (NCDUs) and the Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs). These groups were initially created for reconnaissance and demolition tasks in aquatic environments, particularly in preparation for amphibious landings. The UDTs famously earned the nickname “frogmen” and played vital roles in the Pacific and European theaters, clearing obstacles for landings on enemy-held beaches.

Formal Establishment

The SEALs were formally established in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy, recognizing the need for a military force capable of conducting guerrilla warfare and counter-guerrilla operations in maritime and riverine environments, especially during the Cold War. Initially, two SEAL Teams were formed: SEAL Team ONE on the West Coast and SEAL Team TWO on the East Coast, drawing personnel from the existing UDTs.

Vietnam War

The Vietnam War was the first major conflict where SEAL teams were deployed extensively. Their missions included direct action against Viet Cong infrastructure, reconnaissance, capturing high-value targets, and training South Vietnamese commandos. The SEALs’ effectiveness in counter-guerrilla operations and their ability to operate in the dense riverine environments of Vietnam solidified their reputation.

The term "Viet Cong" (short for Việt Nam Cộng-sản) refers to the National Liberation Front (NLF), a political and military organization that fought against the United States and South Vietnamese governments during the Vietnam War. The NLF was also known as the "Viet Cong" by the American and South Vietnamese forces.

Post-Vietnam Evolution

After Vietnam, the SEALs’ roles expanded beyond direct combat. They became involved in developing counter-terrorism capabilities, which led to the formation of specialized units like SEAL Team SIX (now known as the Naval Special Warfare Development Group, or DEVGRU) in 1980, focusing on counter-terrorism and hostage rescue.

Modern Era

In the post-9/11 era, the SEALs have been heavily engaged in the Global War on Terror. They have conducted high-profile operations in Afghanistan, Iraq, and other theaters. Perhaps the most famous of these is the 2011 operation Neptune Spear, in which SEAL Team SIX successfully located at Abbottabad, and killed Osama bin Laden in Pakistan.

Training and Selection

The training and selection process for becoming a SEAL is renowned for its rigor, with the Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) course being the central part. BUD/S is known for its physically and mentally demanding phases, culminating in the notorious “Hell Week,” which tests candidates’ endurance, perseverance, and teamwork under extreme conditions.

Find out More

To learn more about SEAL, its history, operations and more, have a look at one of the resources below:

1. The Warrior Elite: The Forging of SEAL Class 228 by Dick Couch. Follows a group of Navy SEALs through their training and provides insight into the rigorous process of becoming a SEAL.
2. Lone Survivor: The Eyewitness Account of Operation Redwing and the Lost Heroes of SEAL Team 10 by Marcus Luttrell. A firsthand account of a Navy SEAL’s harrowing experience during Operation Red Wings in Afghanistan.
3. American Sniper: The Autobiography of the Most Lethal Sniper in U.S. Military History by Chris Kyle. While primarily focused on Kyle’s time as a sniper, it also offers insights into SEAL training and operations.
4. No Easy Day: The Autobiography of a Navy SEAL by Mark Owen. Written under a pseudonym, this book details the author’s experiences as a member of SEAL Team 6, including the mission to kill Osama bin Laden.
5. Fearless: The Undaunted Courage and Ultimate Sacrifice of Navy SEAL Team SIX Operator Adam Brown by Eric Blehm. A biography of Navy SEAL Adam Brown, showcasing his life, struggles, and bravery.
6. Navy SEALs: America’s Secret Warriors. A documentary series that explores the history, training, and missions of the Navy SEALs.
7. Inside Navy SEALs: BUD/S Training.This documentary provides an inside look at the intense Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training that SEAL candidates undergo.
8. Navy SEALs official website. The official U.S. Navy SEALs website provides information about the history of the SEAL teams, their training, missions, and more. Navy SEALs Official Website
9. Navy SEALs Museum. Located in Fort Pierce, Florida, the Navy SEALs Museum offers a wealth of historical information and artifacts related to the SEAL teams. Navy SEALs Museum
10. Act of Valor. While a fictionalized action film, “Act of Valor” features active-duty Navy SEALs and provides a glimpse into their training and operations.
11. Lone Survivor. A movie based on the book by Marcus Luttrell, this film recounts the true story of Operation Red Wings.
12. American Sniper. Directed by Clint Eastwood and based on the book by Chris Kyle, this film follows the life of Chris Kyle as a Navy SEAL sniper.
13. Navy SEALs – History and Origins. Military.com offers an overview of the history and origins of the Navy SEALs.
14. National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum – History. UDT-SEAL Museum’s website provides a brief history of the Navy SEALs.