We Salute the Navy SEALs!

 On April 13th, the US Navy rescued Captain Richard Phillips from the Somali pirates who had held him hostage for four days.  The rescue was carried out by the Navy SEALs, a special-warfare group who take their name from the elements in and from which they operate (SEa, Air, Land).  We salute the SEALS, and we salute coach Don Walsh, who for nearly a decade has helped prepare young men who want to get into the SEAL program.   You can learn about Don, and see his unique teaching progression for combat side stroke, the stroke of choice for the Navy SEALs, in his DVD:  Go Swim Combat Side Stroke with Don Walsh.

Don recently sent us this portion of the Navy SEALs creed:

"My loyalty to country and team is beyond reproach.  I humbly serve as a guardian to my fellow Americans, always ready to defend those who are unable to defend themselves.  I do not advertise the nature of my work, nor seek recognition for my actions.  I voluntarily accept the inherent hazards of my profession, placing the welfare and security of others before my own.  I serve with honor on and off the battlefield.  The ability to control my emotions and my actions, regardless of circumstance, sets me apart from other men.  ... In the absence of orders I will take charge, lead my teammates and accomplish the mission. ... I will never quit.  I persevere and thrive on adversity.  My nation expects me to be physically harder and mentally stronger than my enemies.  If kocked down, I will get back up, every time.  I will draw on every remaining ounce of strength to protect my teammates and to accomplish our mission.  I am never out of the fight."