The Navy SEALs' origins are linked to Naval Combat Demolition Units and Underwater Demolition Teams that served in World War II. Although not formally founded until 1962, the modern-day US Navy SEALs trace their roots to these World War II units. The United States Military recognised the need for the covert reconnaissance of landing beaches and coastal defences. As a result, the joint Army, Marine Corps and Navy Amphibious Scout and Raider School was established in 1942 at Fort Pierce, Florida. The Scouts and Raiders were formed in September of that year, just nine months after the attack on Pearl Harbour, from the Observer Group, a joint US Army-Marine-Navy unit.