Swimmers run in a formation on the beach while carrying American flags during a Swim for SOF event in San Diego. (The Honor Foundation)
Military veterans, first responders and civilians will compete Saturday at 8 a.m. in the Swim for SOF in San Diego, a 3.3 mile open-water swim from Coronado Island to the USS Midway Museum to raise awareness and funds to support special operations forces veterans transitioning from military to civilian life.
The event is hosted by The Honor Foundation, which also will celebrate its 10th anniversary.
“These are the elite of the elite, and they’re nervous to transition out of the military. ... We need the local [veteran] community to see what we have to offer, and that they need to take advantage of it,” said Jessica Hunt, Director of Impact for The Honor Foundation.
Some special operations forces members living in San Diego are leaving the military and looking for new roles. With the support of local businesses, volunteers and this year’s title sponsors, Surefox and Sunbelt Rentals, The Honor Foundation’s Swim for SOF event will spotlight veteran initiatives and help guide veterans to their next purpose.
More than 100 swimmers from around the country are expected to participate. They will demonstrate not only elite fitness but also the physical grit and determination of special operations forces members defending the nation.
The race will start on Coronado beach at the Rock Jetty. Swimmers will run with an American flag in formation down the beach to the Naked Warrior Statue. Swimmers will put on their wetsuits and begin a 1-mile swim to Tidelands Park, followed by a 2.3-mile swim to the USS Midway Museum.
There will also be two tribute workouts during the race that consist of 22 pull-ups to draw attention to veteran suicide and 100 pushups to remember the fallen.
“It’s a reminder to all of us — military and the community — that all gave some, and some gave all,” Hunt said. “We make sure we honor those who couldn’t be here with us.”
Swimmers will wear photos of fallen service members as personal tributes.
To complete the race, swimmers will carry flags and climb aboard the USS Midway, a decommissioned naval aircraft carrier ship that is now a museum exhibit, for the closing ceremony.
“It’s a really patriotic scene. People are watching, and it’s just extremely moving,” Hunt said.
Those in San Diego this weekend can watch the race from shore and should expect to witness a “cohesion of local support from businesses, volunteers and a grueling physical challenge,” Hunt said.
“Anybody can come and support our mission and Swim for SOF,” said Hunt. “Your time, talent or treasure will directly impact the life of a special operator finding their next mission.”
