U.S. Marine veteran Joey Jones reported live from the NYC SEAL Swim held in Jersey City, New Jersey. The annual event sees participants swim across the Hudson River to the Empty Sky Memorial, paying tribute to military veterans, first responders, and the victims of the September 11 attacks. The gathering brings together individuals and families with personal motivations to honor past sacrifices.

Saturday’s swim involved Navy SEALs, veterans, and others diving into New York Harbor to commemorate America’s heroes. Retired Navy SEAL Brad Geary emphasized the solemn purpose of the event, focusing on honoring the fallen, their country, and their faith. Participants swam with the Statue of Liberty visible in the distance, reinforcing the symbolic nature of the tribute.

Bill Brown, who founded the NYC SEAL Swim, explained the significance of the location. The choice of setting, near the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, underscores themes of freedom, civil liberties, and national diversity. The Empty Sky Memorial, representing those lost on September 11, also forms a poignant part of this tribute.

Retired SEAL commander Jimmy May, founder of Beyond the Brotherhood, spoke about his journey from military to civilian life. Having lost four friends to suicide, May sought to establish a support network addressing the challenges faced by fellow SEALs. His nonprofit has gained nationwide support, helping many reconnect with community and purpose.

The event drew veterans, first responders, supporters, and families of the fallen. Cindy Dietz, a Gold Star mom, shared her connection to the swim. Her son, Navy SEAL Danny Dietz, was killed in Afghanistan in 2005. For her and many others, standing alongside the SEAL community each year holds deep significance.

The gathering marked another year of remembrance and solidarity as people came together to honor those who have served and sacrificed for the nation.