Hey all, just doing a bit of dream-chasing here, but I've always admired the Navy SEALs. Does anyone have a ballpark idea of the kind of commitment and training it takes to join that branch? Ack, even asking this question is making my heart pound!
Joining the US Navy SEALs is no easy task. It's considered one of the toughest military training programs in the world. Let me break it down for you a little.
Firstly, you need to enlist in the Navy. You should aim to excel physically, as the Navy will assess your endurance, strength, and agility by having you take the Physical Screening Test (PST). The PST measures your performance in push-ups, sit-ups, pull-ups, a 1.5 mile run, and a 500m swim.
After passing requirements, you can potentially receive a contract to attend Basic Underwater Demolition/SEALs (BUD/S) school. BUD/S training lasts approximately six months and is divided into three phases.
Phase one is Basic Conditioning, which lasts for 7 weeks. It's designed to develop and test your physical stamina, water competency, teamwork, and mental tenacity. This phase is notorious for "Hell Week," which includes 5 and a half days of continuous training with minimal sleep.
Phase two is Dive, which lasts for 7 weeks, designed to develop your combat swimming, diving, and SCUBA skills.
Phase three is Land Warfare, which also lasts for 7 weeks. This is where you learn about weapons, demolitions, land navigation, patrolling techniques, rappelling, and marksmanship.
After graduating from BUD/S, you would then need to go through 26 weeks of SEAL Qualification Training, followed by an additional 18 months of pre-deployment training before you are considered a fully certified Navy SEAL.
You strikingly need to have extreme physical endurance, mental fortitude, and a willingness to push beyond your limits. Additionally, Navy SEALs need strong leadership skills and a high level of team cooperation.
Bear in mind that many consider this journey to become a SEAL as not just a job, but a lifestyle. So, if you're thinking about this path, know that it demands an extraordinary level of dedication and resilience.
But also remember to chase your dream. The world needs people who are willing to truly give it their all.
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