The Navy SEALs have produced some of the world's most heroic and inspiring icons, including Marcus Luttrell, David Goggins, Chris Kyle, and Rudy Boesch.
They all not only underwent rigorous training to become Navy SEALs but accomplished historic feats afterward that will have their names remembered until the end of time.
Recently, "celebrity" Navy SEALs have been in the national spotlight because of one question: Was Ron Desantis a Navy SEAL?
In this article, we'll answer that question and more. Keep reading to learn more about it.
Who Is Ron Desantis?
Ron Desantis is the 46th governor of Florida.
Ron was born and raised in Florida and graduated from Yale University with honors. He was also the captain of the varsity baseball team. He later also graduated from Harvard with honors as well.
Desantis spent time in Iraq as a member of the U.S. Navy. After he returned, he became a federal prosecutor and convicted several child predators.
In 2012, he was elected to Congress. He was a leading champion for America's veterans, helped bring reforms to Veterans Affairs, and focused on mental health.
Ron is married to Casey Desantis, a well-known and accomplished television host. Together, they are the parents of Mamie, Madison, and Mason.
Was Ron Desantis a Navy SEAL?
There's often much confusion and questioning if Ron Desantis was a Navy SEAL.
Desantis did join the U.S. Navy as a JAG officer. During his service, he was deployed to Iraq. Although he worked closely with the Navy SEALs while deployed there, he wasn't a Navy SEAL, nor did he ever claim to be one.
So what did he do with the SEALs?
In 2007, he was deployed as the legal counsel to a SEAL commander because he had earned a law degree from Harvard University. Because of this, he earned a commission in the U.S. Navy's JAG Corps. These are attorneys that are knowledgeable about both civilian and military law.
He would closely advise Captain Dane Thorleifsson, the SEAL commander for Special Operations Task Force-West in Fallujah, Iraq. He would advise him on the legality of the operations that took place in the region.
He ensured that prisoners captured by the SEALs were treated humanely and complied with international law.
What Is a Navy SEAL?
The Florida governor did not go to nor graduate BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition SEAL) training. So Desantis wasn't a genuine Navy SEAL — so what exactly are they?
They are the special operations force for the U.S. Navy that takes place in the Sea, Air, and Land. They function in small units to execute missions, typically for high-level targets or to gather intelligence on the enemy.
The Navy SEAL size includes around ten active-duty teams, each of which is made up of about 200 people as well as a commander.
The average Navy SEAL salary is around $74,279. Depending on their unique skill sets, this number can vary widely.
Learn More About the Navy SEALs
Now you know the true answer to the burning question: Was Ron Desantis a Navy SEAL?
If you'd like to learn more about one of the world's most prestigious and exclusive military units, check out our other articles today.
