VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. -- The U.S. Navy Parachute Demonstration Team, the Leap Frogs, performed July 21 in Virginia Beach for members of the SEAL community and their families.
The Leap Frogs paraded the U.S. flag during the opening ceremonies of the Allen Stone Memorial Race, a run-swim-run competition designed to raise money for the SEAL Foundation which provides support for family members of the Navy's Special Warfare Community.
One competitor was especially motivated by the Leap Frogs' performance.
"Every time I see these guys they're amazing," said retired Master Chief Hospital Corpsman Tony Craig. "This is my third time and it still gives me goosebumps."
After helping kick off the marathon event, they completed two demonstrations at the annual East Coast SEAL Reunion as part of a capability exercise designed to display the skills of Naval Special Warfare to family and friends of the elite community.
The first performance involved bringing in a commemorative wreath to the beach in honor of their SEAL brethren who had gone before them. The wreath was then carried to sea by swimmers.
"The most important thing we do, not just during the year but during our whole careers, is support other SEALs and their families," said Chief Special Warfare Operator Brad Woodard, the Leap Frogs' team chief and this year's deliverer of the commemorative wreath.
Following the SEAL team demonstrations, the Leap Frogs concluded the event with their signature performance jumps, including canopy work by SEAL mascot and honorary Leap Frog Freddie the Frog.
The Leap Frogs are based in San Diego and perform aerial parachute demonstrations in support of Naval Special Warfare and Navy recruiting.
