Meet the Real Navy SEALs: Insights from a Former Farm Kid

Growing up in the sun-drenched Imperial Valley, the face of the American Southwest, many of my stories are intertwined with Navy SEALs. Although often portrayed in Hollywood films, the real-life encounters with these elite military members offer a different perspective. In this article, we’ll explore what it’s like to interact with Navy SEALs in person through the lens of a man who grew up in the very land they train in - Camp Billy Machen, a desert warfare training center in Niland, California.

Professionalism and Discipline

What is the true nature of a Navy SEAL? They are not just characters in a movie. In person, these individuals exhibit a blend of professionalism, discipline, team orientation, adaptability, and respect. Consider the stories of Tommy Wong, one of my best friends, who not only embodies these traits but also serves as a testament to the unique experience of interacting with Navy SEALs in non-military contexts.

A Daily Life Filled with Challenge

Tommy Wong, a SEAL, spent time in Imperial Valley after completing his rigorous training. Growing up in a farming community, it was quite common for me to meet Navy SEALs through motorcycle riding, water skiing, and other shared activities. The desert provided the perfect backdrop for such pursuits, and it was in these moments, away from the military, that I got to see a more relaxed side of these men.

Endurance and Resilience

Tommy Wong once told me that he was a “postman.” This was a deliberate attempt to maintain anonymity while riding motorcycles with us, a group of friends from Brawley. We met at the Planters Hotel Bar, and only later did we discover his true identity. This example highlights the SEALs' ability to maintain their professional personas even when in casual settings. Their physical fitness, honed through rigorous training, was always evident. Tommy, while a new member of the SEAL team, could hold his own during our competitive riding trips across the expansive desert terrain.

A Devastating Incident

One of the most unforgettable moments came when Tommy suffered an injury during his break from SEAL duties. While sitting in an El Centro bar, a roughneck named Virgil Welch, fresh off his father's geothermal drilling rig, hit Tommy with a broken bottle, shattering his eye. This incident was a stark reminder of the dangers SEALs face both inside and outside their military service. Despite the setback, Tommy's recovery was remarkable. His dedication to rehabilitation meant he could still manage to score 20/20 on his new drivers license shortly after the incident, demonstrating his unwavering resilience and determination.

Post-Service Adventures

After leaving active service, Tommy took on roles as a contractor, shooting pirates off the coast of Somalia and later assisting in re-fueling armed Predator drones at a secret base in Pakistan. His career post-SEAL service was filled with high-stakes missions that required his unique skills and experience. Yet, the stories that stick with me are the simpler moments – hosting him at our house, and the joy my children found in calling him "Uncle Tommy." Tommy's adoration for his daughter and his passion for adventure underscored his commitment to family and freedom despite his demanding life.

AUSTere Living Conditions

It’s worth noting that the living conditions at Camp Billy Machen were quite austere during the time I knew it. The original camp, a collection of old Quonset huts and tin buildings, seemed merely a "shithole" compared to the modern facilities that now exist. This environment breeds a sense of camaraderie and resilience, traits Tommy easily displayed outside of his military duties.

Conclusion

Through my experiences with Navy SEALs like Tommy Wong, I have come to appreciate the multi-dimensional nature of these individuals. They are not just highly trained soldiers but also friends, family members, and community members. Their discipline, teamwork, and physical fitness stand out in every setting, be it in the desert or on the edge of a desert bar. Rest in peace, my friend. You are sorely missed.