Q: Have the Navy SEALs always been known by that name? I seem to recall a similar group in WWII by another name.
—John Timpe, Johns Creek
A: President John F. Kennedy established the SEALs in January 1962 after several units carried out special operations in World War II and the Korean War. These included the scouts and raiders — which included both army and navy personnel — Naval Combat Demolition Units (NCDUs), Office of Strategic Services (OSS) operational swimmers, navy Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs) and motor torpedo boat squadrons, according to the SEALs' official website at www.sealswcc.com. The first two SEAL teams were formed from members of UDTs and were to "conduct counter guerilla warfare and clandestine operations in maritime and riverine environments," according to the website. "While none of those early organizations have survived to present, their pioneering efforts in unconventional warfare are mirrored in the missions and professionalism of the present Naval Special Warfare warriors," the website states.
Q: Why are the charges against Bishop Eddie Long not considered criminal charges?
—Joe Sappington, Lawrenceville
A: The plaintiffs were over the legal age of consent, which is 16 in Georgia, so it is not a criminal matter. They would have to face a higher standard of proof that they were forced to allegedly have sexual relations with Long if the accusations became criminal charges, Atlanta attorney Lee Parks told the AJC.
Lori Johnston wrote this column; Craig Schneider contributed. Do you have a question about the news? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or e-mail q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).
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