Special boat teams are manned by Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewmen who operate and maintain state-of-the-art surface craft to conduct coastal patrol and interdiction and support special operations missions. Focusing on infiltration and exfiltration of SEALs and other SOF, SWCCs provide dedicated rapid mobility in shallow water areas where larger ships cannot operate. They also bring to the table a unique SOF capability: the Maritime Combatant Craft Aerial Delivery System -- the ability to deliver combat craft via parachute drop.
The Naval Special Warfare Combatant-Craft Crewman (SWCC) program has evolved from the PT boats of World War II and the “Brown Water Navy” of Vietnam. They are specially trained to conduct and support special operations missions and work primarily with Naval Special Warfare Sea, Air and Land teams (SEAL).
SWCC teams are required to utilize a combination of specialized training in navigation, radio communications, engineering, weapons, parachuting, first aid and tactics in completion of SO missions worldwide. SWCC teams have proven their ability to operate across the spectrum of conflict and in operations other than war in a controlled manner. Their ability to provide real-time intelligence and eyes on target while offering decision-makers immediate and virtually unlimited options in the face of rapidly changing crisis around the world.
What Navy SWCCs Do
- Collect information about enemy military installations and shipping traffic in coastal or riverine areas;
- Conduct direct-action raids against enemy shipping and waterborne traffic;
- Operate independently in small units to accomplish operational tasks;
- Operate and maintain weapon systems, communications, electronics, small boats and other equipment associated with SWCC missions.
- SWCC medics (SO combat medics), provide combat trauma medical support during all operations while also serving as SWCCs.
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SWCC Creed
In our nation's time of need, an elite group of maritime warriors stands ready off distant shores and on shallow rivers. Defending freedom, they serve with honor and distinction. I am proud to be one of these Sailors.
I am a Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewman: a quiet professional; tried, tested and dedicated to achieving excellence in maritime special operations. I am a disciplined, confident and highly motivated warrior.
My honor and integrity are beyond reproach, my commitment unquestioned and my word trusted. The American people depend on me to carry out my mission in a professional manner.
I maintain my craft, equipment and myself at the highest-level combat readiness. I set the standard and lead by example. I am responsible for my actions and accountable to my teammates. I challenge them to perform, as I expect them to challenge me.
I am ready for war. I will close and engage the enemy with the full combat power of my craft. My actions will be decisive yet measured. I will always complete the mission. I will never quit and I will leave no one behind.
My heritage comes from the Sailors who operated the PT boats of World War II and the combatant craft of Vietnam. The legacy of these warriors guides my actions. I will always remember the courage, perseverance and sacrifices made to guarantee our nation's freedom. I uphold the honor of those who have fought before me and will do nothing to disgrace my proud heritage.
On Time. On Target. Never Quit.
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