What is one major legacy of the UDTs and NCDUs today?

The legacy of the Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs) and Naval Combat Demolition Units (NCDUs) is most prominently reflected in the establishment and evolution of the U.S. Navy's modern special operations capabilities. Throughout World War II, UDTs and NCDUs were instrumental in conducting reconnaissance, clearing obstacles, and supporting amphibious operations, setting a foundation for the elite special operations forces we see today, including the Navy SEALs. Their innovative tactics, training methods, and operational ethos have greatly influenced contemporary methods of warfare, especially in the realms of maritime and amphibious operations. This legacy is evident in the way modern naval special warfare units are organized, trained, and deployed.

The contributions of these units are often cited as a crucial pivot point from traditional naval warfare strategies to more specialized operations, allowing for a greater emphasis on stealth, precision, and adaptability in changing combat environments. This foundation has laid the groundwork for the highly specialized and versatile forces that perform critical missions across the globe today. The continuing evolution of these units reflects the initial lessons learned and operational successes of the UDTs and NCDUs, making option A the most accurate representation of their major legacy.