What role did SEALs play in Operation JUST CAUSE?

During Operation JUST CAUSE, which took place in December 1989 to January 1990, SEALs were primarily engaged in combat search and rescue operations. This operation aimed to depose Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega and restore democracy in Panama. The skill set of Navy SEALs made them highly effective in executing such missions, as they are specially trained in special operations, conducting covert actions, and providing support in high-risk environments.

Combat search and rescue operations involve locating and retrieving individuals in distress, often in hostile territory. SEALs utilized their expertise in maritime operations, navigation, and direct action to facilitate the rescue of American personnel and other individuals in peril during the operation, ensuring that vital missions were successfully completed. Their ability to operate in diverse environments and their proficiency in coordination with other military branches were critical to the success of these rescue efforts.

Understanding the unique capabilities that SEALs brought to such complex operations helps clarify why they were specifically focused on combat search and rescue in this context, as opposed to roles like intelligence analysis, where other units might have been more suited. Similarly, while medical support was certainly important in wartime operations, it was not the primary role fulfilled by SEALs during JUST CAUSE.