Disney withdraws Navy SEAL trademark application
Military steps in to protect name rights
5/25/2011LOS ANGELES — The Walt Disney Co. has withdrawn its application to trademark the phrase “SEAL Team 6.”
The entertainment company stepped back after the Navy moved to protect the naming rights for the unit of elite operatives that killed terrorist leader Osama bin Laden.
Disney sought the trademark rights on May 3, two days after operatives raided a luxury compound in Pakistan and killed the mastermind of the 9/11 attacks.
It said it was looking to develop a TV show for its ABC subsidiary along the lines of like “NCIS” and “JAG,” which are also real-life Navy units.
Disney/ABC spokesman Kevin Brockman says the company pulled the plug on its bid in deference to the Navy’s application.
Navy spokeswoman Amanda Greenberg said the Navy is “fully committed” to protecting its trademark rights.