Michael Scott: Running to Honor His Brother, Navy SEAL Lt. J.G. Dave Scott

This October, Michael Scott will line up at the 50th Marine Corps Marathon not just to finish 26.2 miles, but to honor the life and legacy of his older brother, Navy SEAL Lt. J.G. Dave Scott.

Dave, a Unionville High School graduate, enlisted directly into the Navy, where he earned his place on the elite SEAL teams. Over six years of enlisted service, he completed multiple deployments before pursuing a Naval ROTC scholarship at George Washington University. Even before 9/11, Dave’s foresight and sense of duty were evident—in 2000, he wrote his senior thesis on “The Threat to America by Saudi Dissident Osama Bin Laden.” After graduating with honors, he rejoined the SEALs as a commissioned officer, continuing to serve with distinction until his life was tragically cut short during a combat deployment in the Global War on Terror.

For Michael, running the Marine Corps Marathon is deeply personal. Two years before his death, Dave ran the race himself—on a dare. True to his character, he didn’t run in traditional gear, but in “boots and utes,” the uncomfortable, grueling combination of combat boots and camouflage. “That’s who my brother was,” Michael reflects. “Pushing limits, lifting others up, and living with purpose.”

That spirit continues to fuel Michael’s own endurance challenges. This past summer, he summited Mt. Rainier, raising a Philadelphia Eagles flag at the summit in honor of Dave—a moment of both triumph and remembrance.

Through wear blue: run to remember, Michael runs in blue to ensure his brother’s story is never forgotten. “Running in blue is more than miles; it’s remembrance in motion,” he says. “It’s about carrying the legacy of a loved one through the pain, the perseverance, and the pride of each step.”

Michael finds strength in the wear blue community, where the shared bond of Gold Star and Surviving families offers comfort and connection. “They truly understand the depth of our loss. There’s no need for words when you lock eyes with someone who has walked the same road. In this community, none of us walks alone.”

As he prepares for the 50th Marine Corps Marathon, Michael hopes his story reminds others to pause, reflect, and give thanks. “Our freedoms aren’t free. They’re paid for by people like my brother and countless others. Every step I take is for him, and for those who no longer can.”

Cohort Update

Michael joins a powerful team of Gold Star and Surviving athletes who continue to push their limits one mile at a time. Together, they will bring stories of sacrifice and resilience to the streets of Washington, D.C. this October.

As for our wear blue community—be sure to request your personalized Faces of the Fallen Tribute Poster by 20 September to honor your hero along the course.