Operation SEAs the Day parades through Bethany

Despite Hurricane Dorian bringing dreary weather to the Delaware beaches, locals lined the roads, waving American flags in the harsh winds as veterans paraded through Bethany Beach in buses and classic cars. A sight both patriotic and heartwarming.

On Sept. 6, Operation SEAs the Day welcomed wounded veterans and their families into Bethany as part of the seventh annual Warrior Beach Week. It’s a week of relaxation, respect, and togetherness for veterans. The motorcade went from Bethany to Bayside, Fenwick Island. Many came out to cheer on the families.

Operation SEAs the Day offers Very Important Families (VIF for short) from all over the country an opportunity to visit Bethany and enjoy the welcoming community. From car shows to concerts, the local businesses and citizens line up to help and entertain the VIFs.

Don Brown, an Army veteran from Chambersburg, Pa., was enjoying his third year at the event with his family. They heard of the event through the Wounded Warrior program and were blown away during their first year. “The way they gave back to us brought us to tears. All the love, support, and food. It is truly amazing,” Brown said.

Looking out at the turnout for the parade during stormy conditions, Brown was even more surprised and humbled. “We didn’t really expect it. Even ladies were singing ‘The Star Spangled Banner’ on the side of the road… There’s so much love from a small town and all of its businesses. There’s too many to name, but I can’t thank them enough.”

Annette Reeping, a board member for Operation SEAs the Day, said the event offers a place where wounded veterans can be understood.  “The magic is that in [the veteran’s] neighborhoods, everyone stops talking to them. They’re looked at as different,” Reeping said, “but here everyone understands. Everyone is together. It means so much to them and to us.”

Posters drawn by local children welcoming the families stood planted along the road, and residents and visitors piled out with smiles and waves.

Not even a storm could stop the community from taking the time to share love with soldiers who sacrificed so much. The electricity of respect and honor was impossible to ignore, for the veterans and also the town that makes it possible.

More information about Operation SEAs the Day can be found at operationseastheday.org.