From Navy SEAL to Advocate – The Journey of Bill Brown

From Navy SEAL to Advocate – The Journey of Bill Brown

Theresa Carpenter Theresa Carpenter
4 minute read

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In this episode, we sit down with Bill Brown, an Iraq Veteran Navy SEAL who served honorably for eight years, completing three deployments. Bill shares his incredible journey from the battlefield to higher education, where he utilized the Montgomery GI Bill to attend Rutgers University and Rutgers Law School. Now, Bill works alongside renowned military and veteran attorney Tim Parlatore at Parlatore Law Group, where he advocates for the rights and well-being of service members and veterans. Bill is also the founder and driving force behind the NYC SEAL Swim, an inspiring event that has raised millions of dollars to support Gold Star families, Navy SEALs, and their loved ones. He opens up about the mission behind the swim, the impact it’s had, and what motivates him to give back to the SEAL community. Join us for this powerful conversation about service, resilience, and making a difference beyond the uniform.

Bill's Early Life and Military Journey

Bill Brown was born in Voorhees, New Jersey, and raised in various river towns outside of Philadelphia. Coming from a strong military family, with both grandfathers serving in World War II and the Korean War, and a father who served in the Air Force during the Vietnam War, Bill felt a strong pull to serve his country. Initially, he enlisted to become an electrician, unaware of the Navy SEALs until he was in boot camp. Inspired by the rigorous training and the camaraderie he witnessed, he decided to pursue the challenging path of becoming a SEAL.

The Rigorous SEAL Training

Bill describes SEAL training as a grueling experience, akin to being hit with a hammer every day. He emphasizes the importance of resilience and determination, recalling how he failed the screening test multiple times but continued to return until he succeeded. His journey through training taught him valuable lessons about teamwork, leadership, and the significance of perseverance.

Transitioning to Civilian Life

After serving three deployments, Bill transitioned to civilian life, utilizing the Montgomery GI Bill to further his education. He attended Rutgers University and Rutgers Law School, where he honed his skills to advocate for veterans and service members. His work at Parlatore Law Group allows him to continue serving his community, focusing on the rights and well-being of those who have served.

The NYC SEAL Swim

One of Bill's most impactful initiatives is the NYC SEAL Swim, an event that raises funds for Gold Star families and Navy SEALs. The swim involves a challenging course from the Statue of Liberty to Ellis Island, where participants honor the sacrifices made by service members. Bill shares how this event has not only raised millions of dollars but has also fostered a sense of community and support among veterans and their families.

Advocacy and Leadership

Throughout the conversation, Bill reflects on the importance of leadership and the responsibility that comes with it. He discusses the challenges faced by veterans in the current political climate and the need for advocates who can stand up for their rights. Bill's commitment to service extends beyond his military career, as he actively engages in discussions about the future of the military and the importance of accountability within its ranks.

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Bill Brown's journey from Navy SEAL to advocate is a testament to the resilience and dedication of those who serve. His story inspires others to give back to their communities and to continue fighting for the rights of veterans and service members. Through initiatives like the NYC SEAL Swim and his work at Parlatore Law Group, Bill exemplifies the spirit of service that defines the military community. Join us in celebrating his journey and the impact he continues to make in the lives of others.

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