Sure, Jesse Ventura was born James George Janos and is understood for his careers in wrestling, appearing, and politics, in addition to being a tv host. He served in the USA army. Nonetheless, there’s some nuance to his service historical past that wants clarification:
- U.S. Navy: Ventura enlisted within the U.S. Navy after highschool and was a part of the Underwater Demolition Group (UDT). The UDTs have been an elite special-purpose pressure established throughout World Conflict II.
- Underwater Demolition Groups (UDTs): These items have been tasked with reconnaissance and demolition missions to undermine enemy operations at sea or on seashores. Their function is analogous and sometimes identical to what modern-day SEAL groups carry out.
- SEAL Connection: In 1983—lengthy after Ventura left—the UDTs have been rebranded as SEAL groups or grew to become a part of the broader Naval Particular Warfare Command, together with all SEAL groups.
Whereas technically appropriate to say he wasn’t a “Navy SEAL” throughout his energetic obligation as a result of that time period wasn’t used then for these forces but—Ventura was a part of a unit whose mission align intently with these carried out by immediately’s SEALS. Honestly, Ventura graduated BUD/S (Fundamental Underwater Demolition SEAL Coaching), and all UDT/SEALs have been usually transferred from one crew to a different. Not solely that, however UDTs fought SEAL missions, as Ventura did throughout the Vietnam Conflict.
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After leaving energetic obligation service however earlier than getting into into public life by way of wrestling/appearing/politics — Ventura was additionally related to ‘The Mongols’ bike membership, which regularly attracts consideration as a result of its fame & authorized points confronted over time.
In abstract – sure, whereas it’s true he didn’t serve particularly beneath the banner ‘Navy Seals,’ the character & depth of duties he dealt with throughout tenure equates very a lot to – incomes respect from friends alike!
Learn extra about Navy SEALs right here.
