Today, on the 82nd anniversary of D-Day, we honor the predecessors to Navy SEALs, the Naval Combat Demolition Units (NCDUs).
These daring "frogmen" landed in the first assault waves at Normandy to blow up beach obstacles and clear paths for Allied troops.
They operated in small, 6 to 9 man teams armed with explosives, cutting tools, and satchel charges to destroy German "hedgehogs" (steel obstacles), timber stakes, and mines under heavy enemy fire.
NCDUs suffered a staggering 52% casualty rate, with 37 killed and 71 wounded, making it one of the bloodiest days in the history of Naval Special Warfare.
Despite fierce resistance, they successfully blew gaps in the German defenses at both Omaha and Utah beaches, allowing vital reinforcements and equipment to land.
Following the war, remaining NCDUs were absorbed into the Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs), which later evolved into Navy SEALs.
Not forgotten 🔱