ABOUT SEAL Team 4
- Foundation: SEAL Team 4 was officially established in 1983, as part of the U.S. Navy’s expansion of its special operations capabilities during the Cold War.
- Area of Responsibility: The team’s primary focus has been operations in Central and South America, particularly counter-narcotics and counter-insurgency missions.
- Operation Just Cause: SEAL Team 4 played a significant role in the 1989 U.S. invasion of Panama, conducting reconnaissance and direct action missions against Manuel Noriega’s forces.
- Cocaine War: Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, SEAL Team 4 was heavily involved in counter-drug operations, often partnering with the DEA and local forces in Latin American countries.
- Tragic Loss: In 2012, the then-commanding officer of SEAL Team 4, Commander Job W. Price, died in Afghanistan. His death was ruled a suicide, bringing attention to mental health issues among special operations forces.
- High-Altitude Training: SEAL Team 4 is known for its rigorous jungle and riverine warfare training, specializing in environments similar to those found in Central and South America.
- Notable Missions: Members of SEAL Team 4 have participated in numerous classified missions across the globe, including hostage rescues, reconnaissance, and direct action raids.
- International Partnerships: The team regularly trains alongside allied special operations units from countries such as Colombia, Peru, and Brazil to improve interoperability and tactics.
- Decorations: SEAL Team 4 personnel have received numerous commendations, including Silver Stars, Bronze Stars, and Presidential Unit Citations for valor and distinguished service.
- Legacy: Despite being a relatively young SEAL Team, Team 4 has established a legacy of excellence in unconventional warfare, particularly in environments often overlooked by other units.