DoD Report Reveals Health Risks for Navy SEAL Candidates Training in Contaminated Waters

A recent Department of Defense Inspector General report revealed that Navy SEAL candidates frequently train in contaminated waters off Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, California, even when local beaches are closed due to high levels of fecal indicator bacteria. The report highlighted that between February and September 2024, 76% of water samples showed contamination exceeding state safety levels, yet only 5% of training exercises were relocated despite this health risk. This negligence has resulted in 1,168 documented cases of acute gastrointestinal illnesses among SEAL candidates from January 2019 to May 2023, with nearly 40% of those cases diagnosed shortly after exposure to polluted water. The Navy's reliance on local water quality reports, rather than conducting its own testing, has contributed to the ongoing issue. In response to the report, Naval Special Warfare Command is expected to develop protocols for relocating or canceling training when water contamination is detected. However, logistical challenges remain a significant hurdle for implementing these changes effectively.