Navy SEALs specialize in hostage rescue, counter-terrorism, unconventional warfare—activities that sound like a great videogame. So it comes as no surprise that Electronic Arts (EA) would want to consult with Navy SEALs for the making of recently released FPS, Metal of Honor: Warfighter. But it also comes as no surprise that the SEALs have been disciplined for revealing the particulars about their very deadly skill sets.
These aren’t just any SEALs: These are the illustrious members of SEAL Team Six, who killed Osama bin Laden. Eleven of them had acted as consultants to EA; since then, according to CBS News, four of them have transferred out of the unit (they are still on active duty elsewhere and are also under investigation).
According to ABC News,
The official confirmed that on Thursday morning seven senior enlisted sailors, who are still part of the unit, had received letters of reprimand and been fined two months’ pay. Letters of reprimand are seen as career-enders because they typically prevent further promotions. The investigation continues into the four West Coast based SEALs who were part of the unit at the time that they served as consultants.
SEALs have worked fearlessly and tirelessly. And until recently, they also worked anonymously. This anonymity has been lifted somewhat when another member of SEAL Team Six, “Mark Owen” (a pseudonym), released a book detailing Operation Neptune Spear, No Easy Day.
Which raises the question: Why would the SEALs consult with EA when they’ve signed non-disclosure agreements?
I figure either the U.S. government isn’t paying these soldiers enough for their years-long dedication, or they really, really like the Medal of Honor series.
Warfighter received only mediocre reviews.
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