Retired Navy SEALs, veterans, and first responders participated in the annual NYC SEAL Swim, plunging into New York Harbor on Saturday, August 15, 2026. The event pays tribute to the service and sacrifice of America's heroes, including those lost on September 11, 2001.
The swim, which culminates at the Empty Sky Memorial, was founded by retired Navy SEAL Bill Brown. He chose the harbor's iconic backdrop, featuring the Statue of Liberty, to symbolize freedom and civil liberties. The proximity to Ellis Island also evokes the nation's diversity, while the Empty Sky Memorial honors the victims of the 9/11 attacks.
"This is all about honoring our fallen," retired Navy SEAL Brad Geary told Fox News. "Honoring our country, honoring God."
Building Community and Support
For retired SEAL commander Jimmy May, the event holds a personal significance. He founded the nonprofit organization Beyond the Brotherhood, the 2026 beneficiary of the swim, after experiencing difficulties transitioning to civilian life and losing four friends to suicide.
"When I first got out of the teams, a lot of my friends, four, to be specific, had killed themselves, and I wasn't sure what to do," May explained. "I felt really alone."
Beyond the Brotherhood aims to create a strong support network for fellow SEALs, fostering a renewed sense of community, service, and purpose. May stated that the organization has since experienced an "outpouring of support" nationwide.
Cindy Dietz, a Gold Star mother whose son, Navy SEAL Danny Dietz, was killed in Afghanistan in 2005, has attended the swim since its inception. "It means so much," she said. "To watch the team guys, to be with the team guys means so much to me."
The gathering brought together veterans, first responders, supporters, and families of the fallen, underscoring the event's broad appeal and its role in commemorating those who have served and sacrificed. The event also provides resources and support for suicide prevention. Individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts are encouraged to contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).