Hiya, folks! This might sound a little ambitious, but I'm really interested in joining the special forces after high school. I'm not exactly sure how it varies among the military branches, though. Can anyone give me a rundown of the main special forces in each branch, and maybe what their selection process is like? Much appreciated!
Absolutely, special forces teams in the US military each have their unique roles and training processes. I'll provide a brief rundown below.
1. Army Special Forces (Green Berets): Green Berets specialize in unconventional warfare, foreign defense, direct action, special reconnaissance, and counter-terrorism. The selection process, known as Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS), spans 24 days and includes intensive physical and mental challenges.
2. Navy SEALs: SEALs (Sea, Air, and Land) conduct a diverse range of operations from the sea, air, and land. Navy SEAL selection is a two-phase process, starting with Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S), a six-month training course, then SEAL Qualification Training (SQT) for another 26 weeks after that.
3. Air Force Pararescue (The PJs): Air Force Pararescuemen, or PJs, are tasked with recovery and emergency trauma medical services in humanitarian and battlefield conditions. The selection process includes an Indoctrination course, the Pararescue Development course, and the Pararescue Recovery Specialist course among others which, cumulatively, can take close to two years to complete.
4. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC): MARSOC is the newest branch of special operations forces, focusing on direct action, special reconnaissance, and foreign internal defense. MARSOC's selection process involves a three-week Assessment & Selection (A&S) phase and a nine-month Individual Training Course (ITC).
5. Coast Guard Deployable Specialized Forces (DSF): Their special forces conduct missions including maritime law enforcement, counter-terrorism, and defense operations. The selection process includes rigorous physical standards, specialized training, and maintaining qualifications through constant skill performance and testing.
Remember that joining any Special Forces is not directly possible right out of high school. You'll first need to join the military, then apply for Special Forces training. Also, each of these forces has stringent physical and mental requirements, so it's important to maintain strong physical condition and mental resilience. Understandably, it's a long arduous path, but for those who make it through, it can be a very rewarding one. Good luck with your decision!
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