Lisa Merriam

National US Navy UDT-SEAL Museum – Salute to Veterans

As today is Veteran’s Day, I wanted to call attention to a very special place: The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum located in Fort Pierce Florida. It was my honor to help promote the Museum’s Silver Anniversary (25th Year) Muster and help drive visitors to the Museum’s Web site.

This annual event attracted thousands of people from all over the country. The Muster was not only a time for current and former SEALs to see friends and teammates, it provided the American public a unique glimpse into the world of Special Operations and Naval Special Warfare.

The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum is a treasure chest of artifacts from the beginnings of special warfare during World War II to present day. It is the only museum in the world dedicated solely to preserving the history of the Navy SEALs and their predecessors, including the Underwater Demolition Teams, Naval Combat Demolition Units, Office of Strategic Services Maritime Units and Amphibious Scouts and Raiders.

The 2010 Muster kicked off with a 5K run on the beach, where racers tested their ability and stamina against former and current SEALs. The events included a performance by the US Navy Parachute Team, the “Leapfrogs”, demonstrating their superior skills by parachuting from 12,000 feet and landing directly onto the grounds in front of the spectators. There was also a live demonstration featuring Navy SEAL commandos conducting a helicopter assault, building takedown and other demonstrations highlighting their capabilities and typical mission scenarios. Because of the clandestine nature of their missions, these demonstrations provided a rare insight into the Navy SEALs and what they do. As they say, “if you got any closer, you would have to enlist.”

Hooyah to the SEALs, their predecessors, and the UDT-SEAL Museum.

And thank you to every U.S. veteran.