Last month, Disney attempted to cash in on the Navy SEAL Team 6 name fame by submitting a US trademark application for “SEAL Team 6.” The US Navy countered with their own trademark submissions and Disney backed down by abandoning its applications.
However, there are several other companies and individuals who continue to file applications in an attempt to trademark SEAL Team 6 and other variations of the name. In examining the USPTO database, such companies and individuals filing applications include Metrogames, Justice is Done, AAAA World Inc., RESCO Instruments, The Outdoor Recreation Group (and this one), John Brokaw, and Jon Narmi—even a German company is trying to cash in. There are others as well, but you get the picture.
It is not coincidental that all of the application file dates range from early May 2011 until present–obviously a direct link. Additionally, Disney was met with public scorn and the Navy did strong-arm Disney to protect its rights:
Navy spokeswoman Amanda Greenberg said the Navy already had rights to the SEAL trademark but recently submitted two new applications for trademarks of “Navy SEALs” and “SEAL Team.”
“The Navy is fully committed to protecting its trademark rights as it pertains to this matter and is currently examining all legal options,” she said.
Disney/ABC spokesman Kevin Brockman said the company pulled the plug on its bid “in deference to the Navy’s application.”
It is fair to ask, in light of the outcome with Disney, how will the Navy handle these companies and individuals who continue to file trademark apps using Navy SEAL Team 6 and will the public rebuke these companies and individuals?
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