The United States Navy Sea, Air, and Land (SEAL) Teams, established in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy, are the Navy's primary special operations force and a component of the U.S. Naval Special Warfare Command. The modern-day SEALs trace their roots to World War II, when the military recognized the need for covert reconnaissance of landing beaches and coastal defenses. Originally formed with personnel from Underwater Demolition Teams, their mission was to conduct counter-guerilla warfare and clandestine operations in maritime and riverine environments. SEALs are trained to operate in maritime, jungle, urban, arctic, mountainous, and desert environments.
SEALs are highly trained and proficient in unconventional warfare, direct action, and special reconnaissance. Their responsibilities include capturing or eliminating high-level targets and gathering intelligence behind enemy lines. SEALs are known for direct action raids, special reconnaissance, counterterrorism, foreign internal defense, sabotage, demolition, intelligence gathering, and hydrographic reconnaissance. A key element of SEAL training is Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S), a rigorous six-month program known for its physical and mental challenges.
