National Navy SEAL Museum and 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 Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) responded to the devastating terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. 343 brave firefighters gave their lives in the line of duty. Their selfless sacrifice will never be forgotten.
In the aftermath of the attacks, the US military reacted swiftly with Special Operations Forces, including the highly elite US Navy SEALs, 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 side-by-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 Program 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 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.
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, forever unshakable.
Show your support by purchasing your patch. Proceeds will directly benefit the Navy SEAL Museum and the Fire Department of the City of New York.
About the Navy SEAL Museum’s Trident House Charities Program
The Trident House Charities Program is the heart of the Navy SEAL Museum’s mission, serving the families of Naval Special Warfare. Comprised of four pillars–two respite houses on Florida’s Treasure Coast; the Scholarship Program for the support of private Pre-K, Kindergarten through 12th Grade, and higher education for children of Special Operations individuals; the K9 Project for the donation of service dogs for veterans; and Direct Family Support to fill in gaps beyond Federal support–the Trident House Charities Program is funded by the generous contributions of donors who care for those who have served, those who continue to protect our country, and for the families who have lost loved ones to combat or related training.