About this Unit
Underwater Demolition Team 12 (UDT-12) was a specialized unit of the United States Navy established during World War II. Activated in 1944, UDT-12 was trained for amphibious reconnaissance, demolition of obstacles, and beach clearing ahead of major assaults in the Pacific Theater, including operations in Okinawa and other island campaigns. The team’s expertise in underwater demolition and covert operations set the foundation for modern Naval Special Warfare tactics. After the war, UDT-12 continued to serve through the Korean War before eventually being integrated into the emerging Navy SEAL teams in the 1960s.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in WWII: Underwater Demolition Team 12 (UDT-12) was formed during World War II as part of the U.S. Navy’s efforts to clear obstacles ahead of amphibious landings, a dangerous and pioneering role.
•
Pacific Theater Operations: UDT-12 played a vital role in the Pacific campaign, participating in operations such as the invasions of Okinawa and Iwo Jima, where their demolition skills were essential.
•
Daring Reconnaissance: Members of UDT-12 often swam ahead of landing forces, conducting nighttime reconnaissance and mapping enemy beach defenses under fire.
•
Nickname “Naked Warriors”: Like other UDTs, UDT-12 earned the nickname “Naked Warriors” because they often wore only swim trunks, fins, and masks to minimize drag and avoid snagging on obstacles.
•
Postwar Innovations: After WWII, UDT-12 continued to experiment with new equipment and tactics, laying the groundwork for the development of the Navy SEALs in the 1960s.
•
Korean War Service: UDT-12 was among the UDTs deployed to Korea, performing demolition, reconnaissance, and sabotage missions along enemy-held coastlines.
•
Hollywood Connection: UDT-12 members participated in the filming of the 1951 movie “The Frogmen,” providing both technical advice and on-screen stunts.
•
Pioneers in SCUBA: UDT-12 was among the first U.S. military units to experiment with and adopt closed-circuit SCUBA gear, revolutionizing underwater operations.
•
Transition to SEAL Teams: Many veterans from UDT-12 were instrumental in the creation of the first SEAL Teams in 1962, bringing their expertise and ethos to the new units.
•
Legacy and Honors: The legacy of UDT-12 lives on in today’s Navy SEAL Teams, with their pioneering spirit, bravery, and innovation forming the foundation of modern naval special warfare.
