A group of retired Navy SEALs and others plunged into New York Harbor on Saturday morning for the annual NYC SEAL Swim, an event that honors the service and sacrifice of America's military heroes.
The swim, which combines miles of swimming with physical challenges and tributes to those who served and sacrificed, took place against the backdrop of the Statue of Liberty. The location was chosen by the event's founder, retired Navy SEAL Bill Brown, who said it represents "our freedoms, our civil liberties" and "the men and women who came to our country for a better life."
The event also serves as a tribute to those who lost their lives on 9/11. According to Brown, the location is significant because of its connection to the Empty Sky Memorial, which honors Americans who were killed in the terrorist attacks.
Retired Navy SEALs Brad Geary and Jimmy May also participated in the swim. Geary said that the event is "all about honoring our fallen" and "honoring our country, honoring God." May, a retired SEAL commander, founded Beyond the Brotherhood, the beneficiary of this year's event. The nonprofit organization provides support to veterans who are struggling with the transition from military to civilian life.
The NYC SEAL Swim has become an annual tradition that brings together veterans, first responders, supporters, and families of the fallen. Some family members have found meaning in the event, returning year after year to stand alongside the SEAL community. Cindy Dietz, a Gold Star mom whose son was killed in Afghanistan in 2005, said that attending the swim "means so much" to her.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
View original reporting →
