Once you ride over the Coronado Bay Bridge, you are overwhelmed by the beauty of the beach and the upscale community of Coronado.  While riding past the Hotel Del Coronado, where movie stars and the wealthy spend their weekends, you must think you're on this side of Heaven.  But the beauty stops there.

As a graduate of BUD/S Class 89, arriving at BUD/S like so many before and after me, each Navy SEAL Frogman trainee has his heart set on one thing.  Surviving Navy SEAL training.

Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training, commonly known as BUD/S, is the initial training program that prepares candidates to become U.S. Navy SEALs. It's widely considered one of the world's most physically and mentally demanding military training programs.

BUD/S Structure and the 3 Phases

BUD/S consists of three main phases over approximately 24 weeks:

Phase 1:  All About Surviving Misery...and Hell Week

Phase 1: Physical Conditioning (8 weeks)

• Focuses on physical conditioning, water competency, and teamwork
• Includes timed runs, swims, and obstacle courses with progressively higher standards
• Contains the infamous "Hell Week" in week 4: 5½ days of continuous training with minimal sleep (typically 3-4 hours total)
• Attrition rates are highest during this phase, especially during Hell Week
• Candidates perform daily 4-mile runs in boots, timed obstacle courses, and ocean swims

Phase 2: Navy SEAL Requirements Includes Combat Diving

Phase 2: Combat Diving (8 weeks)

• Develops combat diving skills and underwater competency
• Includes open-circuit and closed-circuit diving techniques
• Focuses on underwater navigation, mission-focused swimming, and dive physics
• Candidates learn to use various diving equipment including the LAR V Draeger rebreather
• Pool Competency tests push candidates' comfort level underwater

Phase 3: Finally, You Get To Fire Guns and Blow Things Up

Phase 3: Land Warfare (9 weeks)

• Conducted at San Clemente Island, California
• Teaches basic weapons, demolitions, and small unit tactics
• Includes practical application of reconnaissance and patrolling techniques
• Culminates in a series of realistic training scenarios

After BUD/S

After completing BUD/S, candidates still must complete:

1. SEAL Qualification Training (SQT): A 26-week program that develops more advanced tactical skills
2. Parachute Training: Static-line and free-fall techniques
3. SEAL Team Assignment and Probationary Period: 18 months where new SEALs prove their capabilities
   

   What Happens During the Formal BUD/S Class Graduation?

   The culmination of SEAL training is marked by the BUD/S Class Graduation, a ceremonious event celebrating the achievements of the newest graduates. Dressed in their distinguished Navy attire, the graduates are honored by proud family members and high-ranking SEAL officials.

   Significant figures in the Naval Special Warfare community, including Commanding Officers and senior enlisted advisors, come together to acknowledge the graduates. The graduates are formally welcomed into the exclusive SEAL brotherhood during this ceremony. They are reminded of the legacy of the courageous Frogmen who preceded them and the honor of serving as a U.S. Navy SEAL.

   Graduation is a recognition of their hard-earned achievements and a solemn pledge to uphold the values and sacrifices of their community. This momentous occasion underscores the beginning of their journey within this elite group.

How To Prepare And The Key Elements To Survive BUD/S

Physical Requirements:

• Run 4 miles in boots in under 32 minutes
• Swim 1,000 meters in combat gear in under 20 minutes
• Complete a minimum of 50 push-ups in 2 minutes
• Complete 50 sit-ups in 2 minutes
• Do 10 pull-ups from a dead hang
• These are minimum standards; successful candidates typically exceed them significantly

Mental Challenges:

• Sleep deprivation during Hell Week
• Constant exposure to cold water and wet conditions
• The famous brass bell that candidates can ring to quit (known as "ringing out")
• Instructors looking for any reason to issue "remediation" in the form of physical exercises

Attrition Rate

The historical attrition rate for BUD/S is approximately 70-80%. Classes typically start with 150-200 candidates and often graduate only 30-40.

The Only Easy Day Was Yesterday: BUD/S Class 89

Key Traditions and Terms

• "The Only Easy Day Was Yesterday" (SEAL motto)
• "It pays to be a winner" - a phrase used during competitive events
• "Sugar cookie" - rolling in sand while wet
• "Boat crews" - small teams that must succeed or fail together
• "Securing the surf zone" - extended physical evolution in cold surf

BUD/S is designed to test physical limits and identify those with the mental resilience, teamwork skills, and leadership potential necessary to serve in the Navy's premier special operations force.

The Navy SEAL Trident

Earning the Navy SEAL Trident insignia represents a monumental achievement and carries significant weight within the military community. This emblem, worn proudly on the uniforms of Navy SEALs, signifies completion of one of the most grueling and challenging training programs in the world.

Symbol of Excellence
The Trident is not just a badge; it's a symbol of excellence, resilience, and unparalleled commitment. It marks the transition from a trainee to a warrior equipped to handle the most demanding operations. As it adorns their uniforms, it communicates their readiness and exceptional skill.

Commitment and Brotherhood
Beyond skill and capability, the insignia embodies a profound sense of brotherhood and shared sacrifice. Individuals who earn this honor join an elite group bonded by shared experiences and unwavering loyalty to each other and their mission.

Global Respect
Globally, this insignia commands respect. It signifies that the wearer has been tested and proven through rigorous trials, earning a place amongst the most elite military forces worldwide.

In summary, the Navy SEAL Trident insignia is more than a decoration. It is a badge of honor that acknowledges the wearer's relentless determination, exceptional skill, and integral place within a legendary community.

Understanding the "Honor Man" in BUD/S Class

In the rigorous and demanding environment of Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training, the "Honor Man" stands out as a distinguished figure. This title is awarded to the individual who exemplifies exceptional qualities and serves as a beacon of perseverance and resilience for his peers.

Key Attributes of the Honor Man:

• Inspiration Through Action: The Honor Man is the trainee whose actions and determination inspire fellow classmates to push forward, especially during moments of doubt and fatigue.
• Exemplary Leadership: He demonstrates a natural ability to lead, showing not just physical prowess but also mental tenacity. His presence motivates others to strive beyond their perceived limits.
• Commitment and Achievement: This individual exemplifies a deep sense of accomplishment, pride, and brotherhood. His relentless spirit and dedication to the team's success make him a role model for others.

The title "Honor Man" is not just about who can endure the physical challenges, but about who can also lift the spirits of others, embodying the true essence of a leader and a team player. His influence is not measured solely by personal achievements but by the collective success and morale of his classmates.

Conclusion

After successfully navigating Hell Week in BUD/S training, recruits move forward to the subsequent phases designed to hone specialized skills. The journey continues with the Second Phase, which spans eight weeks and is focused on diving techniques. During this period, trainees are tested on aspects such as dive physics, ensuring they are equipped for underwater operations.

Following the Dive Phase, recruits enter the Third Phase, which lasts nine weeks and concentrates on land warfare tactics. Here, the emphasis is placed on mastering weapons, demolitions, and tactical knowledge crucial for their roles. It's common for those who have triumphed in Hell Week to excel in these stages, although academic or safety-related challenges can arise.

After completing these phases, trainees participate in a three-week Basic Parachute Training program. This course, often conducted by civilian partners like Skydive Arizona or SkyWarrior LLC, equips them with essential parachuting skills, rounding out their comprehensive training experience.