Washington, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Brian Mast today called on the Secretary of the Navy, John C. Phelan, to include the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, Florida  in the U.S. Navy’s Museum System. With bipartisan support from both chambers, 28 members of Florida’s federal delegation joined Mast in urging the Department of the U.S. Navy to formally recognize the museum’s historic significance.

The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum sits on the original training grounds of the U.S. Naval Amphibious Training Base in Fort Pierce, where the Navy trained its first frogmen during World War II. Founded in 1985, the museum preserves the history and legacy of Naval Special Warfare. The museum offers exhibitions ranging from the Naval Combat Demolition Units and Underwater Demolition Teams of World War II to today’s Navy SEAL Teams.

“The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum tells the story of our most elite warriors on the very ground where that legacy began,” said Rep. Mast. “These are the service members who cleared beaches under fire, carried out harrowing  missions, and defended America in dire conditions while facing unimaginable hostility. Officially including this museum within the U.S. Navy Museum System ensures their legacies are preserved, honored, and shared for future generations.”

Creation of, and criteria for inclusion in, the U.S. Navy Museum System is authorized by the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act. Consistent with the criteria for designation, the museum maintains historical significance, public accessibility and outreach, and it strives for strong alignment with the U.S. Navy’s mission of preserving its heritage. Official designation would aid the museum’s ability to improve educational outreach and expand public access while reinforcing its partnership with the Department of the Navy. 

Read the full letter here.