SEALs Honored During Veterans Ceremony at Norfolk State University

From Naval Special Warfare Group TWO Public Affairs

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- Norfolk State University hosted a Navy SEAL and wounded warrior, along with a contingent of SEALs from Naval Special Warfare Group TWO, during a Veterans Day observance ceremony at the university student center, Nov. 11.

The ceremony was held in conjunction with the local Hampton Roads Reserve Officers Training Corps unit and other local veterans groups.

Ceremony guest speaker Lt. Jason Redman spoke about the meaning of Veterans Day and the sacrifices of service, sharing his experiences serving as a SEAL on the front lines and about the near-death experience that left him seriously injured.

Redman was injured in combat, along with two of his teammates in Iraq, when his squad came under heavy machine-gun and small-arms fire. Despite being hit numerous times, Redman and his team won the fight and brought all of his teammates home alive.

While he was recovering at Bethesda Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., Redman posted an inspirational sign outside his hospital room that discouraged visitors from pity and urged fellow wounded warriors to be proud of their service. The sign, gaining the attention of Secretary of Defense Robert S. Gates, became a statement for wounded warriors everywhere, and continues to hang in the wounded ward at the medical center.

"The truth is," said Redman, "I am thankful for these scars because I know they mean that my family, my friends and all of you, hopefully will never have to wear them. I proudly wear them for you."

The torch of American Freedom has burned for 234 years, he said.

"Three years ago, against all odds, I brought my torch of freedom back from Iraq. I pass it on to all of you here today," said Redman. "What will you do with yours?"

Redman reminded the audience that military service requires an incredible amount of dedication and self sacrifice.

"Thousands have willingly sacrificed their own flames of freedom to ensure the flames of all Americans' would never be extinguished by the winds of terrorism," said Redman.

He concluded by thanking all veterans and inviting the members of the audience to meet visiting Navy SEALs and other veterans in attendance.

"Thankfully, there are those of us who wear the uniform; who are entrusted with an oath and presented at the start of our military careers with a part of the flame to keep the torch of American freedom always burning," said Redman.