Monthly News and Intel | October 2025
(Left->Right) Barbara Kaiser; NSMSD Executive Director Brian “Beef” Drechsler; San Diego County Sheriff Kelly Martinez; San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria; NSMSD Board Member Yolla Kairouz; Helen Shafer; National Board Chair Dr. Jim Shafer; National Board Vice Chair Tim Szymanski, and Navy SEAL Museum CEO Rick Kaiser.
A Message from Our Chief Executive Officer
On October 4, 2025, Navy SEAL Museum San Diego officially opened its doors, establishing a new era for the National Navy SEAL Museum. The opening of the Museum’s second location has been an endeavor driven by your ongoing commitment and belief in our mission. To all who have supported us through this process and helped drive our progress, our team is sincerely grateful. As both Museums continue to expand and develop, your contributions remain vital to the experience we offer our guests and the impact we make on our communities and the nation at large.
We look forward to the future of the National Navy SEAL Museum as we move forward together as a world-class institution: One Museum, One Mission, Two Locations.
The National Navy SEAL Museum continues to evolve and grow, but our mission remains steadfast. With our expansion to San Diego, we continue our work in Fort Pierce—the birthplace of Naval Special Warfare and home of our legacy museum. There are many groundbreaking projects ahead, and we are honored to have you with us as we enter this new era of growth, expansion, and enduring legacy.
With gratitude,
Master Chief (SEAL) Rick Kaiser, USN (Retired)
Chief Executive Officer
National Navy SEAL Museum
Navy SEAL FROGMEN
By CDR (SEAL) Tom Hawkins, USN (Ret.)
This story was written in 2011 in collaboration with Captain (SEAL) Norm Olson, USN (Ret.), who was the founding director of the Navy SEAL Museum. The story has been condensed and updated with revisions.
In January 1962, the U.S. Navy’s SEAL Teams were established, yet to this day, SEALs often refer to themselves as Frogmen. How, then, has this come about? During World War II, the Naval Combat Demolition Units (NCDUs), training in Fort Pierce, Florida for the Normandy Invasion, referred to themselves as “Demolitioneers.” That name caught on, and was adopted throughout the war as Fort Pierce men were subsequently deployed to the Pacific Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs).
The term “Frogmen” was first used by British combat divers during World War II, but it was never adopted by the UDTs. Their trademark was demolitions, and they liked being referred to as “Demolitioneers.” In 1947, however, Commander Doug “Red Dog” Fane, commander of the east coast UDTs, and Dr. Chris Lambertsen, OSS Maritime Units (OSS MU) Medical Officer and primary trainer, collaborated to bring MUs tactics, techniques, and procedures into UDT. Once realized, the media began referring to the UDT men as Frogmen in print, but the men disliked the moniker and refused to use it.
In fact, in Commander Fane’s book, “The Naked Warriors,” first published in 1956, the word “Frogman” is used only once, and that’s in the Preface of the book, which reads (paraphrased): “I am receiving hundreds of letters from the youth of our land requesting information on how to become “Frogmen.” It is hoped this unvarnished account will answer their queries and whet their interest in the U.S. Navy and the sea.” Commander Fane obviously preferred “Naked Warriors,” he thought it was a more fitting description of the early UDT men, as their kit consisted only of fins, facemasks, lead lines, slates, web belts, and K-bar knives.
That notwithstanding, in the late 1950s, the Frogman label began to stick, and the men began embracing it. Perhaps it was because the UDTs were the first in the U.S. Navy to adopt SCUBA diving, and their capabilities separated them from the traditional rope-line Navy divers. Also, there were a plethora of books and comic books written about UDT with a lot of titles and references to Frogman or Frogmen. And, probably most impactful, the movie “The Frogmen,” starring Richard Widmark is often touted as the reason many men volunteered for UDT training.
Navy SEAL FROGMEN
By CDR (SEAL) Tom Hawkins, USN (Ret.)
This story was written in 2011 in collaboration with Captain (SEAL) Norm Olson, USN (Ret.), who was the founding director of the Navy SEAL Museum. The story has been condensed and updated with revisions.
In January 1962, the U.S. Navy’s SEAL Teams were established, yet to this day, SEALs often refer to themselves as Frogmen. How, then, has this come about? During World War II, the Naval Combat Demolition Units (NCDUs), training in Fort Pierce, Florida for the Normandy Invasion, referred to themselves as “Demolitioneers.” That name caught on, and was adopted throughout the war as Fort Pierce men were subsequently deployed to the Pacific Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs).
The term “Frogmen” was first used by British combat divers during World War II, but it was never adopted by the UDTs. Their trademark was demolitions, and they liked being referred to as “Demolitioneers.” In 1947, however, Commander Doug “Red Dog” Fane, commander of the east coast UDTs, and Dr. Chris Lambertsen, OSS Maritime Units (OSS MU) Medical Officer and primary trainer, collaborated to bring MUs tactics, techniques, and procedures into UDT. Once realized, the media began referring to the UDT men as Frogmen in print, but the men disliked the moniker and refused to use it.
In fact, in Commander Fane’s book, “The Naked Warriors,” first published in 1956, the word “Frogman” is used only once, and that’s in the Preface of the book, which reads (paraphrased): “I am receiving hundreds of letters from the youth of our land requesting information on how to become “Frogmen.” It is hoped this unvarnished account will answer their queries and whet their interest in the U.S. Navy and the sea.” Commander Fane obviously preferred “Naked Warriors,” he thought it was a more fitting description of the early UDT men, as their kit consisted only of fins, facemasks, lead lines, slates, web belts, and K-bar knives.
That notwithstanding, in the late 1950s, the Frogman label began to stick, and the men began embracing it. Perhaps it was because the UDTs were the first in the U.S. Navy to adopt SCUBA diving, and their capabilities separated them from the traditional rope-line Navy divers. Also, there were a plethora of books and comic books written about UDT with a lot of titles and references to Frogman or Frogmen. And, probably most impactful, the movie “The Frogmen,” starring Richard Widmark is often touted as the reason many men volunteered for UDT training.
Jack Carr Premieres Cry Havoc at Vero Beach Book Center
On October 10, the National Navy SEAL Museum partnered with the Vero Beach Book Center to host the release of Cry Havoc, the newest novel from Jack Carr.
Congratulations to Jack Carr, #1 New York Times bestselling author and retired Navy SEAL, on the release of his latest book. His fictitious novels are focused on special operations, covert missions, geopolitical intrigue, and high-stakes conflict, captivating readers of many generations and backgrounds.
Master Chief (SEAL) Rick Kaiser, USN (Ret.), was honored to introduce his longtime friend and fellow retired Navy SEAL.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this special evening celebrating the premiere of Cry Havoc.
Jack Carr Premieres Cry Havoc at Vero Beach Book Center
On October 10, the National Navy SEAL Museum partnered with the Vero Beach Book Center to host the release of Cry Havoc, the newest novel from Jack Carr.
Congratulations to Jack Carr, #1 New York Times bestselling author and retired Navy SEAL, on the release of his latest book. His fictitious novels are focused on special operations, covert missions, geopolitical intrigue, and high-stakes conflict, captivating readers of many generations and backgrounds.
Master Chief (SEAL) Rick Kaiser, USN (Ret.), was honored to introduce his longtime friend and fellow retired Navy SEAL.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this special evening celebrating the premiere of Cry Havoc.
Museum Membership
The National Navy SEAL Museum is honored to celebrate its 40th Anniversary this year. Be part of the next 40 years by securing or renewing your Museum membership. Your membership helps sustain the Museum’s mission.
As a member, you’ll enjoy exclusive benefits and gain early access to Museum events, VIP programs, and so much more.
Join the National Navy SEAL Museum as a member and help preserve the enduring legacy of Naval Special Warfare.
New Vessel for Trident House Families
The National Navy SEAL Museum team sincerely thanks Jim Leopardo at Leopardo Construction for his generosity and support in donating a new vessel for the Museum’s Trident House guests.
The Museum has two Trident Houses, both located on waterfront property along the serene shores of Indian River County, Florida, offering Special Operators, their families, and other military personnel a place of respite.
On behalf of the entire National Navy SEAL Museum team, we are profoundly grateful for your ongoing support.
New Vessel for Trident House Families
The National Navy SEAL Museum team sincerely thanks Jim Leopardo at Leopardo Construction for his generosity and support in donating a new vessel for the Museum’s Trident House guests.
The Museum has two Trident Houses, both located on waterfront property along the serene shores of Indian River County, Florida, offering Special Operators, their families, and other military personnel a place of respite.
The Museum’s Trident Houses do not receive federal funding and exist solely through the generosity of our supporters. Donations such as this ensure that the Museum’s Trident Houses continue to serve families.
On behalf of the entire National Navy SEAL Museum team, we are profoundly grateful for your ongoing support.
Navy SEAL Museum’s Rally Point Testimonial
The Navy SEAL Museum sponsored the Second Annual Rally Point in South Carolina September 22 through 24. Recipients of the Museum’s K9 Project enjoyed three days of training and fellowship, deepening their bond with their canines and with each other.
Your support of this program is life changing. Here is what one participant shared.
To Whom it may concern,
I wish to express my sincere gratitude for the invitation to the second annual K9 Rally Point. The event was well organized and well executed.
Kevin’s training was professional, thorough, engaging and effective. Phil’s added experience in K9 training/handling was a bonus.
The SOWW facility was perfect, not only for the good training grounds but for fellowship. The building, memorabilia, and it being a place of respite for warriors, added much to the experience.
From a recipient’s perspective this event was a success. I got a lot out of training; from new skills, to refreshing the fundamentals, as well as coming together for fellowship. It was much needed and greatly appreciated! I look forward to future recipient handler/K9 training.
Please know that I have found much success in the K9 Project as a whole. Or better, I have been reminded of strength, discipline, peace, etc… things I’d buried the dog brought out.
This does work. Your efforts are not in vain. Keep it up! THANK YOU!
Navy SEAL Museum San Diego Opening Events
Plank Owner Preview
Navy SEAL Museum San Diego opened its doors for the very first time on September 24, 2025, welcoming our Plank Owners, past and present SEALs and SWCC, along with the families and friends whose generosity and support made the opening of the Museum possible.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our Plank Owners, whose vision and commitment brought this Museum to life. We were honored to have them be the first to step inside and experience the completed Museum.
It was profoundly moving to watch you walk through the finished Museum—built through your dedication, to honor your stories, and to preserve the enduring legacy of Naval Special Warfare.
It was deeply humbling to see the BUD/S classes and boat crews come together to reunite and reminisce.
Plank Owner Preview
Navy SEAL Museum San Diego opened its doors for the very first time on September 24, 2025, welcoming our Plank Owners, past and present SEALs and SWCC, along with the families and friends whose generosity and support made the opening of the Museum possible.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our Plank Owners, whose vision and commitment brought this Museum to life. We were honored to have them be the first to step inside and experience the completed Museum.
It was profoundly moving to watch you walk through the finished Museum—built through your dedication, to honor your stories, and to preserve the enduring legacy of Naval Special Warfare.
It was deeply humbling to see the BUD/S classes and boat crews come together to reunite and reminisce.
Donor Thank You
Navy SEAL Museum San Diego welcomed a dedicated group of individuals on September 29 for a special preview—an opportunity to reflect on the teamwork, collaboration, and unwavering support that brought this vision to life.
Our evening celebrated the effort of those who made it possible. From builders to supporters and donors, every contribution played a vital role in shaping the Museum. We extend our deepest gratitude to all donors and supporters for believing in our mission—to honor those who serve and to inspire generations to come. Your ongoing commitment is the reason the Museum exists today.
To every donor and supporter, thank you for helping turn this vision into reality. Your faith, generosity, and steadfast commitment have made this possible.
Donor Thank You
Navy SEAL Museum San Diego welcomed a dedicated group of individuals on September 29 for a special preview—an opportunity to reflect on the teamwork, collaboration, and unwavering support that brought this vision to life.
Our evening celebrated the effort of those who made it possible. From builders to supporters and donors, every contribution played a vital role in shaping the Museum. We extend our deepest gratitude to all donors and supporters for believing in our mission—to honor those who serve and to inspire generations to come. Your ongoing commitment is the reason the Museum exists today.
To every donor and supporter, thank you for helping turn this vision into reality. Your faith, generosity, and steadfast commitment have made this possible.
Board Preview
Navy SEAL Museum held an exclusive board preview event celebrating the grand opening of the Navy SEAL Museum San Diego. Before the Museum’s doors opened to the public, we invited our board members to walk through the completed Museum.
Unified by a shared vision to honor the legacy and sacrifice of Naval Special Warfare, this museum stands as a tribute to all who have served. Through your unwavering dedication and tireless efforts over the years, that vision is no longer just an idea – it is now a reality.
This incredible accomplishment is a testament to your commitment, and for that, we extend our deepest gratitude.
Grand Opening
On October 3, Navy SEAL Museum San Diego celebrated its grand opening and ribbon cutting. On behalf of our Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers, we thank all who joined us for this historic day.
The grand opening marked the launch of the Museum to the public on Saturday, October 4—but more importantly, it represents the beginning of a mission to serve greater San Diego and beyond.
We are deeply grateful for the presence and support of our distinguished guests. Your support has been essential in bringing us to this moment.
Grand Opening
On October 3, Navy SEAL Museum San Diego celebrated its grand opening and ribbon cutting. On behalf of our Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers, we thank all who joined us for this historic day.
The grand opening marked the launch of the Museum to the public on Saturday, October 4—but more importantly, it represents the beginning of a mission to serve greater San Diego and beyond.
We are deeply grateful for the presence and support of our distinguished guests. Your support has been essential in bringing us to this moment.
Navy SEAL Museum San Diego Opens to the Public
Navy SEAL Museum San Diego officially opened its doors on October 4, 2025. The opening of Navy SEAL Museum San Diego represents an expansion of the National Navy SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, Florida, into San Diego.
The Navy SEAL Museum exists to tell the story of Naval Special Warfare through the timeless traits of service, discipline, responsibility, commitment, teamwork, and leadership. These values, enshrined in the SEAL Ethos and the Special Warfare Combat Crewman Creed, transcend the military. They are traits that can inspire anyone, regardless of background—and that is our intent here: to inspire and to have impact.
The National Navy SEAL Museum is: One Museum, One Mission, Two Locations.
40 Years of Fort Pierce
Join us on November 7 and 8, 2025, for the Navy SEAL Museum’s 40th Annual Muster and Music Festival.
This milestone event celebrates the 40th Anniversary of the Navy SEAL Museum.
Visit our website for a full schedule of events.
Anytime is the Right Time to Give the Gift of NSW History!
Do you have a history buff in your household? Do you have a current or former NSW operator in your life?
Did you know that Navy SEAL Museum’s photo archives are online to view and available for sale?
Check out our online library and search key words to find the right image for you or a loved one.
Digitization of NSM’s archive was made possible by a generous grant from The Navy SEAL Foundation.
Anytime is the Right Time to Give the Gift of NSW History!
Do you have a history buff in your household? Do you have a current or former NSW operator in your life?
Did you know that Navy SEAL Museum’s photo archives are online to view and available for sale?
Check out our online library and search key words to find the right image for you or a loved one.
Digitization of NSM’s archive was made possible by a generous grant from The Navy SEAL Foundation.
Keep in step with us across the States. Sign up for our San Diego SITREP, as well.
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