About this Unit
SEAL Team 2 is one of the original United States Navy SEAL teams, established in January 1962 and based on the East Coast at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Virginia. The unit was formed to conduct unconventional warfare, special reconnaissance, direct action, and counter-terrorism missions, primarily focusing on operations in the cold weather and arctic environments of Europe during the Cold War. Throughout its history, SEAL Team 2 has participated in numerous significant military operations, including missions in Grenada, Bosnia, Afghanistan, and Iraq. The team is renowned for its expertise in maritime operations, clandestine infiltration, and its adaptability to challenging environments worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Origins: SEAL Team 2 was commissioned in January 1962, shortly after SEAL Team 1, as part of the U.S. Navy’s response to the need for specialized maritime operations during the Cold War.
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Atlantic Focus: While SEAL Team 1 focused on the Pacific, SEAL Team 2 was primarily assigned to operations in the Atlantic, Europe, and the Mediterranean.
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First Cold Weather SEALs: SEAL Team 2 was the first SEAL unit to specialize in cold weather operations, training for missions in Northern Europe and the Arctic.
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Vietnam War Deployments: SEAL Team 2 deployed to Vietnam, conducting clandestine reconnaissance and direct action missions alongside SEAL Team 1, but focused on the northern part of South Vietnam.
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Operation Urgent Fury: In 1983, SEAL Team 2 participated in the U.S. invasion of Grenada, conducting beach reconnaissance, securing the Governor-General, and rescuing American citizens.
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Operation Just Cause: Members of SEAL Team 2 took part in the 1989 invasion of Panama, executing missions such as disabling enemy boats to prevent Manuel Noriega’s escape.
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Balkans Operations: In the 1990s, SEAL Team 2 was deployed to the Balkans during the Yugoslav Wars, performing peacekeeping and special reconnaissance missions.
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Modern War on Terror: After 9/11, SEAL Team 2 has seen extensive action in Afghanistan and Iraq, conducting counterterrorism, direct action, and hostage rescue missions.
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Decorated Unit: SEAL Team 2 operators have received numerous awards, including Navy Crosses, Silver Stars, and Bronze Stars for valor in combat.
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Famous Alumni: Notable former members of SEAL Team 2 include Chris Cassidy, who became a NASA astronaut, and Scott Taylor, who later served as a U.S. Congressman.
