National Navy SEAL Museum & FDNY VFW Post 12033

A Bond Born in Blood: The Lasting Relationship Between the FDNY and US Navy SEALs

September 11, 2001, was a day that will forever be etched in the memories of the people of New York City and the world at large. On that fateful morning, the FDNY (Fire Department of the City of New York) responded to the devastating terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, with 343 brave firefighters giving their lives in the line of duty. Their selfless sacrifice will never be forgotten.

In the aftermath of the attacks, the US military swung into action, with Special Operations forces, including the highly elite US Navy SEALs, being deployed to Afghanistan in a mission to hunt down and eliminate Osama Bin Laden and Al-Qaeda. As the brave SEALs prepared to take on the enemy, many among them chose to carry a symbol close to their hearts – the FDNY patch. This gesture was a heartfelt tribute to the FDNY, acknowledging the immense sacrifice of the fallen firefighters.

The gesture of solidarity did not go unnoticed. It marked the beginning of a profound bond between the FDNY and the US Navy SEALs, a bond forged in the fire of tragedy and strengthened by the shared values of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism. This connection between the men and women of the FDNY and the US Navy SEALs has endured over the years, as both organizations continue to stand by each other's side, honoring the memories of their fallen comrades.

Recognizing the deep affinity between the FDNY and the US Navy SEALs, the Navy SEAL Museum has initiated a campaign to honor and support the families of the fallen firefighters and SEALs. This effort is part of the Trident House Charities and the FDNY Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 12033 Staff Sergeant Christian P. Engeldrum Memorial Scholarship, aimed at providing vital assistance to the bereaved families and promoting the spirit of camaraderie that binds these two noble organizations together.

For those who proudly wear the t-shirt bearing the FDNY-Navy SEALs patch, it's more than just a symbol of solidarity – it's a statement of gratitude and admiration for the ultimate sacrifices made by the men of the FDNY and the US Navy SEALs. The patch serves as a tangible connection to the brave men who gave their lives on 9/11 and in the subsequent military campaigns. Each wearer embodies the spirit of brotherhood and loyalty that unites these two groups, transcending borders and uniforms.

As we reflect on the bond between the FDNY and the US Navy SEALs, we are reminded that there is no greater tribute to the fallen than the unwavering commitment to honor their memory. The legacy of that fateful day lives on through the continued camaraderie between the FDNY and the US Navy SEALs, inspiring all to stand united in the face of adversity.

Trident House Charities:

Trident House Charities is a noble initiative launched by the Navy SEAL Museum providing care and support to the families for additional medical needs not covered by Federal funding, The Scholarship Program for children of the Special Operations community, the Trident House respite home, and the K9 Project for veterans.

To wear the FDNY-Navy SEALs patch proudly is to embody the values of courage, loyalty, and sacrifice that define both organizations. It's a symbol of the unbreakable bond that exists between the men and women of the FDNY and the US Navy SEALs, a bond born in blood yet forever unshakable.