BUD/S Warning Order

Sea-Air-Land (SEAL) Teams trace their history back to the first group of volunteers selected from the Naval Construction Battalions in the Spring of 1943. Their mission was clearing obstacles from beaches chosen for amphibious landings, Thus, the first formal training of the Naval Combat Demolition Units (NCDUs) began. The NCDUs distinguished themselves at Utah and Omaha beaches in Normandy and in Southern France.

In the Pacific, the NCDUs were consolidated into Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs). The newly formed UDTs saw action in every corner of the Pacific during World War II. In September 1950, the UDTs participated in the Korean War at Inchon, Wonsan, Iwon, and Chinnampo. The redeployment of the United Nations Forces featured the UDTs conducting delaying operations using guerrilla warfare.

In January 1962, the first SEAL Teams were commissioned to conduct unconventional warfare, counter- guerrilla warfare, and clandestine operations in maritime and riverine environments. These Teams were SEAL Team ONE on the West coast and SEAL Team TWO on the East coast. During Vietnam, the SEALs compiled an impressive record of combat success. Since the close of the Vietnam conflict, the ever-changing world situation and increased operational tasking have prompted the expansion of SEAL Teams in number, size, and capabilities. To effectively respond to this evolutionary process, Underwater Demolition Teams have been redesignated SEAL or SEAL Delivery Vehicle Teams. Thus, the newly designated SEAL Teams acquired the SEAL mission and retained the amphibious support mission inherited from their UDT forefathers.

SEAL and SEAL Delivery Vehicle (SDV) Teams and Special Boat Units comprise the elite combat units of Naval Special warfare. These units are organized, trained, and equipped to conduct special operations, unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, and clandestine operations in maritime and riverine environments. These highly trained specialists are deployed worldwide in support of fleet and national operations. The wide range of tasks performed by Naval Special warfare and their outstanding combat records have earned an enduring and highly respected reputation.