Navy SEALs Help Fulfill Young Boy's Dream

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class William Parker, Naval Special Warfare Group 2 Public Affairs

May 2, 2010 - NORFOLK (NNS) -- The Make-A-Wish foundation teamed up with U.S. Navy SEALs to help make a young boy's dream to be a Navy SEAL come true during his visit to Naval Special Warfare Group 2 at Joint Expeditionary Base, Little Creek, Va., April 28 and 29.

Eleven-year-old, Colton Seybert from the Orlando area, has battled leukemia into submission and has now conquered an equally tough challenge of becoming an honorary frogman (Navy SEAL).

His morning started early with his uniform issue, a brand new pair of BDU's (battle dress uniform) and boots. Colton was then briefed on what it takes to be a SEAL and asked if he was up to the challenge.

"I'm ready to try," said Colton.

He then took a quick tour of the parachute lockers, learning all about the different types of parachutes he'll have to use (in later training). Afterwards he joined some of the SEALs for a quick morning workout and a run around the obstacle course.

The next big hurdle was a jump from the 10-meter dive platform and some water performance work. Later in the afternoon he directed fast roping from a helicopter, his first ride ever.

After a quick trip in a decked out combat hummer to the close-quarter combat house, he gained insight on weapons systems and how to take on bad guys in a small space. Then like a true leader he helped take out some tough looking paper targets.

"The experience we have had here is just indescribable, it's been every bit if not above and beyond fulfilling Colton's dream," said Connie Seybert, Colton's mother.

"I've gone from the crying mom in the corner to the smiling mom watching Colton and his brother, Nick, interact with the SEALs."

"It was fun and exciting but mostly tiring. I will hopefully be bigger the next time I go through training like this," said Colton.

A sand-covered exhausted little man stood stiffly with a smile creeping across his face when his uniform was finally completed. The empty spot next to his heart filled with the coveted trident pin, as it was planted firmly on his chest. The world is safer now with the toughest warrior one could imagine, Honorary U.S. Navy SEAL, Colton Seybert.