Meet The Navy’s ‘Seals’: Defenders Against Mines, Enemy Swimmers -- Stars and Stripes

ABOARD THE USS PONCE IN THE PERSIAN GULF — Beyond their cute faces and adorable demeanor, the Navy’s Marine Mammal Program California sea lions are highly trained military assets, skilled in detecting and defending against mines and enemy swimmers.

For the first time, the sea lions participated in the massive U.S. 5th Fleet-led International mine countermeasures exercise in the Middle East, involving 6,500 personnel and 38 warships from 44 navies. At least four sea lions participated in the two-week exercise that concluded Thursday.

Program officials say the sea lions are better suited for the tasks they are given than any piece of technology currently available.

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WNU Editor: Here is another great seal story .... Surfing gets the seal of approval! Playful mammal joins tourists to catch some waves in Hawaii... before SUNBATHING on the sand to dry off (Daily Mail).

Damn .... that is where I should be right now .... not in Montreal where the thermometer is now hitting -6 Celsius.