Being at the mercy of the sea can, unfortunately, come with the chance of several tragedies. From rescue operations to defense missions – choppy waters rarely bring good news. While tragedies are part and parcel of life at sea, honoring the fallen is a noble gesture. Recently, Tampa Bay residents paid their respects to their Navy brethren in an annual swimming tradition.

The WFLA recently featured a unique tribute by Tampa residents. The Tampa Bay Frogman Swim has been around for 14 years now. Each year, more swimmers join in to honor the Navy. Some come to pay their respects, while others come to ensure that their family isn’t forgotten. Let’s take a look at how the swim takes place.

Swimming enthusiasts prepare for the Frogman stretch

Between the bays of Tampa and St. Petersburg lies a 3.4-mile stretch of vast, blue waters. Participants gear up to swim all the way from St. Pete to Tampa Bay with hopes of honoring the fallen. The annual Frogman Swim first started as a gesture of not just paying respects, but also raising money for charity. Going strong for 14 years now, the event witnesses many participants.

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Swimmers pool in and collect money for the Navy Seal Foundation. They remember veterans who lost their lives in wars or ventured out to rescue others, never to return. Families of the fallen also put up posters and photos of their loved ones who lost their lives for their country. The currents may be strong, but the fallen proved to be stronger through their duty.

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Coming together for the SEALs

The event was the brainchild of the head of Commander Dan O’Shea USNR, a former SEAL. Several others joined in to organize the first Frogman swim in 2010. While they did not expect to raise a lot of funds, given the frigid cold temperatures of the water, they managed to collect thousands of dollars. Ever since then, citizens would enthusiastically participate in the race.

This year, the organizers are expecting to collect over a million dollars for charity. A successful event complete with sponsors, media, and participants, the Frogman Swim might just create history. The event has already raised over $7 million to date, and this year’s turnout might be a sight to behold!

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