About this Unit
SEAL Team TWO was established in January 1962 as one of the original two Navy SEAL teams, alongside SEAL Team ONE, to meet the growing need for unconventional warfare capabilities during the Cold War. Based at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek in Virginia, SEAL Team TWO primarily focused on operations in Europe, the Arctic, and the Mediterranean. Throughout its history, the unit has participated in numerous conflicts and special operations, including missions in Vietnam, the Balkans, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Renowned for their maritime expertise and versatility, SEAL Team TWO continues to play a vital role in U.S. Naval Special Warfare operations around the globe.
Historical Facts
• Origins: SEAL Team TWO was established in January 1962 alongside SEAL Team ONE, forming the first two units of the U.S. Navy SEALs, with SEAL Team TWO primarily focused on operations in the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and European theaters.
• Cold War Operations: During the Cold War, SEAL Team TWO specialized in intelligence gathering, counterinsurgency, and clandestine operations in Europe and the Arctic, preparing for the possibility of conflict with the Soviet Union.
• Vietnam War: Although SEAL Team ONE was more active in Vietnam, SEAL Team TWO deployed to the region and participated in reconnaissance, direct action, and counterinsurgency operations, gaining extensive combat experience.
• Arctic Training: SEAL Team TWO is renowned for its expertise in cold weather and Arctic warfare, conducting regular training in Norway and other harsh environments to prepare for missions in extreme conditions.
• Operation Just Cause: Members of SEAL Team TWO participated in the 1989 invasion of Panama, tasked with disabling Panamanian Defense Force boats and preventing President Noriega’s escape by sea.
• Balkans Deployments: In the 1990s, SEAL Team TWO was involved in operations in the Balkans, supporting NATO missions in Bosnia and Kosovo, including direct action and peacekeeping support roles.
• Counter-Narcotics: SEAL Team TWO has played a role in counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean and Central and South America, targeting drug trafficking networks and supporting U.S. law enforcement agencies.
• War on Terror: After 9/11, SEAL Team TWO deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq, conducting direct action raids, counterterrorism, and special reconnaissance missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
• Distinguished Alumni: Several notable former SEALs from Team TWO have gone on to prominence in the private sector, government, and as authors, contributing to the public's understanding of special operations.
• Motto and Insignia: SEAL Team TWO uses the motto "The Only Easy Day Was Yesterday," emphasizing relentless training and readiness. Their distinctive unit patch features a trident, anchor, and pistol, symbolizing their maritime roots and combat capabilities.
