Philly Hosts:

NAVY APPRECIATION DAY FOR NAVAL SPECIAL WARFARE

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Kathryn Whittenberger

Philadelphia-Memorial Day was more than just a chance to barbeque with friends and farnily for members of Naval Special Warfare Group 4 and Special Boat Team 20, both stationed at Little Creek Arnphibious Base, Va. In a rare port call, two Mark V Special Operations Craft stopped in Philadelphia for four days, and on Monday, the SEALs and Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewman were guests of honor at a Navy Appreciation Day hosted by the Schuylkill Banks Development Corporation. The key event of the day was the establishment of Navy SEAL Grove, where those people who made a significant irnpact on the NSW community will be recognized.

"lt's important to remember those who gave their lives so others could live," said Commander Naval Special Warfare Group 4 Capt. Evin Thompson, guest speaker during the ceremony. Thompson explained the significance of who the trees were dedicated to, including Petty Officer 2nd Class (SEAL) Michael Monsoor, who jumped on a grenade to save the rest of his unit while serving in lraq. Lt. Mike Murphy (SEAL) was also recognized with one of the first trees to fill the grove. Murphy made a suicidal decision to call for air support during an ambush, knowing he wouldn't make it out alive but hoping members of his unit would.

"l think having my guys be a part of sornething as significant, important and historical as this ceremony means a lot. We're truly honored to have a chance to recognize those from the Naval Special Warfare cornmunity who have set the example for all those who follow," said Chief Warrant Officer Ron Carpenter commander of the detachrnent that went to Philadelphia.

After the ceremony, the Mark V's were open for public tours, with about 800 people turning out to learn a little rnore about Naval Special Warfare and the quiet professionals who are a part of it.