Twenty one miles swimming in near, 58 degree water. One year of persistent training. The gaining of 25 pounds of weight to sustain the water’s temperature and to store energy. One serious dedicated SEAL, and a commitment to fallen Naval special operators and their families.

These components led to the inspiration, and ultimately the success of LCDR John Doolittle’s endeavor to raise more than $17,000 for the Naval Special Warfare (NSW) foundation while he swam across the English Channel a little more than 12 hours in August.

Doolittle was inspired to honor fallen teammate and fellow SEAL, Petty Officer Neil Roberts who was the first NSW operator to be killed in combat actions during Operation Enduring Freedom in March 2002.

The NSW Foundation supports the family member of Naval special operators killed since Sept. 11th, 2001. The foundation donates college scholarships to the children of fallen Naval Special Operations Forces and provides catered support to the families of NSW in a wide range of capacities, including spouse scholarships, child care services, financial support and wellness activities.

Doolittle graduated from the Air Force Academy in 1992 and then transferred to the Navy where subsequently became

qualified as a parachutist, surface warfare officer and SEAL.

Although SEALs are known for their swimming ability, none have succeeded in the channel crossing wearing only their swim goggles, cap and Speedo-style swimsuits until now. To further insulate himself from the coldness of the water and to provide additional buoyancy, Doolittle gained 25 pounds of bodyweight.

In addition to the restrictions on clothing, as established by the Channel Swimming Association. Doolittle could not touch the support boat that lead him across the 21-mile wide channel. The support boat crew served as a guide and passed food and drinks to him during the swim. He consumed one liter of water every hour as well as liquid carbohydrates supplements every 45 minutes.

"The most difficult pat of the training regime was the long swims. I worked up to 10 hours in San Francisco Bay. Trying to mentally convince your body that you’re not in S.F. bay is difficult."

Katie really helped out as the training became more intense," he said. "It’s tough to carve out a four or five hour period to train each day when you two little ones at home. Of course the Naval Postgraduate School supported me as did the NSW foundation. John Doolittle, my dad, was my primary support crew members and was absolutely essential to helping ensure the swim went smoothly."

Doolittle trekked from British to French soil in 12 hurs, 24 minutes. "It was all about raising money to help children and spouses of fallen NSW heroes. Those donations to the cause were the most important part," Doolittle said. "and it was speaking with Neil’s wife and mother that gave me the power to cross the channel.

"Everyone has the ability to make a difference." Just making a positive impression on one person makes it all worthwhile.