Honoring America’s Elite Warriors

The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum

David Scott Fields II, Senior Writer • January 29, 2025

Nicknamed the “Naked Warriors” these Navy Seals were outfitted with only a knife, shorts, swim fins, a dive mask, a pencil, and a slate board – yet they accomplished many missions to secure enemy beaches for Allied landings during WWII. The title image is a photo of the photograph on the Naked Warrior display. A Naked Warrior statue is currently displayed at all Navy Special Warfare training sites.

FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA – Last June, I had the privilege of visiting the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, Florida, with my mom and nephew. It is only about 50 miles from where I live, but even after a decade of living in the Sunshine State, I had never been there before. Now, I am so glad I finally did. It was amazing! As a Christian and someone who has been raised to honor those who have served, this experience was both inspiring and sobering. The museum stands as a tribute to the brave men who have served in the United States Navy’s elite special operations forces. As currently the only museum dedicated solely to preserving the history of the Navy SEALs and their predecessors (though a second location in San Diego is opening soon), it provides an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

The museum is located on the original training grounds of the Navy’s Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs), the predecessors of today’s SEALs. These courageous men were vital in the process of securing beaches for amphibious assaults during World War II. Decades later, their mandate has both grown and changed. The title Navy SEAL instantly conjures in the mind the image of formidable warriors willing to take on the most dangerous and difficult missions, even at the cost of their own lives. Walking the grounds of the museum reminded me of John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (NIV). These warriors have lived out this truth, putting themselves in harm’s way to protect our nation and the precious freedoms we cherish.

Exploring the museum, I was struck by the vast collection of artifacts and exhibits. One such exhibit I had been prepared for only the night before as my mom, nephew, and I watched the film Captain Phillips. The film (which I would not recommend for younger audiences), details the kidnapping of Captain Richard Phillips in April 2009 by Somali pirates. His cargo ship, the Maersk Alabama, was hijacked in the Indian Ocean. Eventually the crew was able to reclaim control of the ship, but the pirates took Phillips hostage in a lifeboat and fled. As the situation escalated into a tense standoff, Navy SEALs from SEAL Team 6 were deployed, and after days of pursuit, on April 12, 2009 Navy SEAL snipers, positioned on the USS Bainbridge, executed three pirates holding Phillips at gunpoint. The movie was incredibly intense just to watch, so I imagine the real incident was exponentially more so. Only a day later, I was able to touch a piece of that history as the lifeboat Captain Phillips was held aboard is now housed at the museum.

Beyond this, the museum is filled with authentic gear, weaponry, and equipment used by SEALs from World War II to the present day. It was impossible to pass by any of the displays without learning some new story of courage and sacrifice. I will never forget standing before the Memorial Wall, a tribute to each fallen “Frogman” who died during service in World War II. Seeing the names of those who gave their lives in service was a powerful reminder of the cost of the freedoms we so often take for granted. As Christians, we are called to honor those who sacrifice for others. Romans 13:7 tells us to “give honor to whom honor is due,” and there are few more deserving of our respect and gratitude than those who risk everything to defend our nation.

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One of the more interactive aspects of the museum is the replica SEAL obstacle course. My nephew loved this and eagerly took on the physical challenge. Seeing him face the course gave me the opportunity to reflect on the rigorous training these men must endure to become part of such an extraordinary force. It instantly brought to mind 2 Timothy 2:3, “Endure hardship as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.” Just as these warriors prepare tirelessly for battle, we as Christians must also be disciplined and prepared for the spiritual battles we face daily.

The museum is dedicated to educating the public about the vital role Navy SEALs play in national security. Through guided tours, documentary screenings, and special events, guests gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifice and dedication required to serve our nation in this capacity. As I left, I felt an overwhelming sense of thankfulness for those who serve and a deep conviction to pray for them – especially those serving in harm’s way at this very moment. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 reminds us to pray for “all those in authority,” including those who defend and protect us.

If you are a history enthusiast, a patriot, a Veteran, and/or a Christian seeking to reflect on the values of courage, sacrifice, and perseverance, the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum offers an inspiring experience. And you will learn so much! The museum is located just a short drive from several major Florida destinations at:

3300 N. Hwy. A1A
North Hutchinson Island
Fort Pierce, FL 34949

At the time of this writing, admission is:

Adults (13 years and older): $16.00
Children ages 6 – 12 years: $8.00
Children age 5 and under: FREE
Seniors (65+), Veterans, First Responders: $13.00

The museum it is a must-visit for anyone seeking to honor the courage and commitment of America’s most dedicated warriors. May we never take their sacrifices for granted, and may we always lift them up in prayer. For more information about visiting hours, upcoming events, and educational programs, visit the museum’s official website at www.navysealmuseum.org.

References

Captain Phillips. Directed by Paul Greengrass, performances by Tom Hanks and Barkhad Abdi, Columbia Pictures, 2013.

Disclaimer: The Believer’s Byline and Thrive Christian Press do not endorse this film. Please exercise caution if choosing to view it. However, we do commend and endorse the real life heroes of the Navy SEALs who saved Captain Phillips’ life and the lives of so many more throughout the world.

National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum. National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum, www.navysealmuseum.org. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.

Photography Credit

All photography in this article was produced by the author during his visit to the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum. The content featured in the images is the property of the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum. It is used under the terms of fair use and for review purposes only. Thrive Christian Press and The Believer’s Byline make no claim on the content of these photos.

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