OUR PATRIOT SEAL HERITAGE STORY
A Registered 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
Our Mission:
"Providing K9 & Equine Therapy Programs for Veterans and First Responders Facing TBI, PTSD, & Related Conditions"
The Reason for the Patriot SEAL Heritage Foundation
U.S. NAVY SEAL / UDT 13 / Apollo 13 Capsule Recovery Team Sigma Chi USC
/ Los Caballero / Combat Muralist / Founder of The Patriot SEAL HeritageFoundation.
A Non Profit 501(c)(3).
BEFORE THE UNIFORM... THERE WAS THE OCEAN.
Raised along the shores of Huntington Beach, Pete Carolan's earliest years were shaped by the rhythm, power, and unpredictability of the Pacific as a dedicated ocean lifeguard, he developed not only a deep respect for the water- but the instinct, discipline, and courage that would define his life's path. It was here, scanning the horizon and responding to the call of others in need, that Pete first embodied the spirit of service.
That calling would carry him into the training of BUDS, Basic Underwater Demolition during the Vietnam draft where he began his military career as a Navy Frogman with Underwater Demolition Team 13- the elite predecessors to today's Navy SEALS.
Serving as a cartographer and conducting beach reconnaissance missions, Pete played a critical role during two combat tours in the Vietnam War.
His work demanded precision, resilience, and the quiet courage required to operate in some of the most dangerous and unrecognized theaters of war. In 1970, Pete "the Pirate" Carolan became part of a moment that would capture the attention of the world.
During the historic recovery of Apollo 13 recovery operation, Pete served in the mission that brought American astronauts safely back to Earth. It was during this operation that he left an indelible mark on history- not through orders, but through his art.
But his story does not end with service. His artwork - rooted in experience, symbolism, an a deep understanding of brotherhood and sacrifice - has gone on to live within the walls of the nation's most respected institutions. His work can be found in The Pentagon, The White House, military installations, within VFW halls and American Legion posts, and the renowned National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, FL.
His military combat mural pieces spanning four generations from Vietnam to 911 continue to expand into national museum exhibitions, carrying forward stories that cannot be forgotten.
THE REASON BEHIND THE MISSION:
Pete 'The Pirate' Carolan represents more than a decorated life of service to his country as a super patriot-he represents a generation of men whose stories were never fully told. Men who fight the silent mental war when you return to civilian life. Those who suffer with PTSD, TBI, and related conditions, just as he did. The Patriot SEAL Heritage Foundation was born from this truth. It exists to ensure that the legacy of warriors like Pete, men shaped by the ocean, tested in combat, and forever bound by brotherhood are not lost to time.
Join us to fulfill his dream. Partner with Us. Become a donor, strategic partner, volunteering your time, and work with us to ensure that the programs of the Patriot SEAL Heritage Foundation fulfill Pete's dream.
Meet the Patriot SEAL Heritage Foundation Board of Directors
Skip Crane
Chairman of the Board
PeggyAnn Morely
President of the Board
April Egbert Thompson
VP of Marketing
John D. Bennett
VP of Membership
Edward "Mickee" Hernandez
Board Secretary
Carol Ann Crane
Board Historian
Kristopher Marshall
VP of Technology & Creative
Deanna Green
BOARD MEMBER
Lance Green
BOARD MEMBER
Andy McTigue
Head K9 Trainer & Board Member
Join Us In Making A Difference
Empower Veterans and First Responders Through K9 Training & Equine 3 Day Therapeutic Retreats. We invite you to become a strategic partner or make a donation to support our mission. Your contribution and strategic partnership will help us expand our programs and reach more individuals in need.
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