Veterans are the reason One More Wave exists — and the people within our community are what make this journey so meaningful. Today, we’re shining a spotlight on one of the many remarkable individuals who applied, was accepted, and became part of the One More Wave family. Meet retired Navy SEAL Captain Rob Newson.
A couple of blocks from Windansea Beach in La Jolla, California, is a white house with a wall overlooking the ocean painted with an inspiring message: “For whatever we lose it is always our self we find in the sea.”
The message resonates deeply with Rob Newson, who retired as a Navy SEAL captain after 30 years of service. His career included multiple combat deployments during the Global War on Terror and leadership roles establishing innovative commands within Naval Special Warfare.
Yet, surfing wasn’t part of Newson’s life until after his Navy career. In 2022, he discovered Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) during a veteran’s retreat in Punta Mita, Mexico. From that moment, he was hooked. Inspired by the SEALs he had served alongside within One More Wave, Newson reached out to the nonprofit for assistance.
One More Wave provided him with a wetsuit, paddle, and a customized SUP board. “It’s an absolute aircraft carrier,” Newson joked. “I have a mild traumatic brain injury that affects my balance, so One More Wave designed a board to trade maneuverability for maximum stability.”
But the board is more than just equipment. As Newson says, it’s a symbol of belonging to a new tribe.
His board is white, featuring alternating red and blue fins to reflect the American flag’s theme of red, white, and blue. While the board gets him out on the water, it’s the sense of presence and camaraderie that keeps him returning.
Since joining One More Wave three years ago, Newson has attended 15 to 20 3rd Saturday events, forming bonds with fellow veterans. And each time he steps into the water, the quote from the house near Windansea Beach echoes in his mind: “For whatever we lose it is always our self we find in the sea.”
Story by Matt Fratus