Special Forces/Ops?

[Deleted]

[style]
.zod1 {
font-family: ancient1
}
@font-face { font-family: ancient1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.svg') format('svg');}

.zod1:hover {
font-family: english1
}
{ font-family: english1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.svg') format('svg');}[/style]


[class="zod1"]

Q). So you're thinking about having a character with a special operations background?
A). So below here I will explain each of the various special forces units, their functions and their entrance requirements.

United States Air Force
Combat Controllers
Combat Controllers (CCT) are ground combat forces specialized in a traditional pathfinder role while having a heavy emphasis on simultaneous air traffic control, fire support (via airstrikes, close air support and command, control, and communications in covert or austere environments.

Pararescuemen
Pararescuemen (PJ) are the only Department of Defense specialty specifically trained and equipped to conduct conventional and unconventional personnel recovery operations. A PJ's primary function is as a personnel recovery specialist with emergency trauma medical capabilities in humanitarian and combat environments.

Special Operations Weather Technicians
Special Operations Weather Technicians (SOWT) gather, assess, and interpret weather and environmental intelligence from forward deployed locations, working alongside special operations forces.

24th Special Tactics Squadron
The Air Force 24th Special Tactics Squadron (24th STS) is the AFSOC component of JSOC. The 24th STS usually operates with Delta and DEVGRU because of the convenience of 24th STS ability to synchronize and control the different elements of air power and enhance air operations deep in enemy territory

United States Army
1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta
The U.S. Army's 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta, popularly known as Delta Force, is the first of the two primary counter-terrorist units of JSOC and SOCOM. Modeled after the British Special Air Service, Delta Force is regarded as one of the best special operations forces in the world. This is because of Delta's stringent training and selection process. Delta recruits primarily from the most talented and highly skilled operators in the Army Special Forces and the 75th Ranger Regiment although Delta will take anyone and everyone that can pass their screening. Recruits must pass a rigid selection course before beginning training. Delta has received training from numerous U.S. government agencies and other tier one SOF and has created a curriculum based on this training and techniques that it has developed. Delta conducts clandestine and covert special operations all over the world. It has the capability to conduct a myriad of special operations missions but specializes in counter-terrorism and hostage rescue operations.

United States Army Special Forces
United States Army Special Forces (SF) aka Green Berets perform several doctrinal missions: unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, special reconnaissance, direct action and counter-terrorism. These missions make Special Forces unique in the U.S. military, because they are employed throughout the three stages of the operational continuum: peacetime, conflict and war. Foreign internal defense operations, SF's main peacetime mission, are designed to help friendly developing nations by working with their military and police forces to improve their technical skills, understanding of human rights issues, and to help with humanitarian and civic action projects. Special Forces unconventional warfare capabilities provide a viable military option for a variety of operational taskings that are inappropriate or infeasible for conventional forces. Special Forces are the U.S. military's premier unconventional warfare force. Foreign internal defense and unconventional warfare missions are the bread and butter of Special Forces soldiers. For this reason SF candidates are trained extensively in weapons, engineering, communications and medicine. SF soldiers are taught to be warriors first and teachers second because they must be able to train their team and be able to train their allies during a FID or UW mission. Often SF units are required to perform additional, or collateral, activities outside their primary missions. These collateral activities are coalition warfare/support, combat search and rescue, security assistance, peacekeeping, humanitarian assistance, humanitarian de-mining and counter-drug operations.

75th Ranger Regiment
The 75th Ranger Regiment (U.S. Army Rangers) is the premier light-infantry unit of the United States Army and is headquartered at Fort Benning, Georgia. The 75th Ranger Regiment's mission is to plan and conduct special missions in support of U.S. policy and objectives. The Rangers are a flexible and rapid-deployable force. Each battalion can deploy anywhere in the world within 18 hours notice. The Army places much importance on the 75th Ranger Regiment and its training; it possesses the capabilities to conduct conventional and most special operations missions. Rangers are capable of infiltrating by land, sea, or air and direct action operations such as conducting raids or assaulting buildings or airfields.

Intelligence Support Activity
The Intelligence Support Activity (ISA, The Activity) is the support branch of JSOC and USSOCOM. Its primary missions are to provide Human Intelligence (HUMINT) and Signal Intelligence (SIGINT) mainly for Delta and DEVGRU's operations.

United States Coast Guard
United States Coast Guard SEALs
United States Coast SEALs are a group that was authorized by the United States Defense Department, for the Coast Guard to put some of it's people through Navy SEAL training, to establish a maximum of two SEAL teams.

United States Marine Corps
Marine Special Operations Regiment
he Marine Raider Regiment (MRR) consists of a Headquarters Company and three Marine Raider Battalions (1st, 2d and 3d [formerly the MSOAG]). The Regiment provides tailored military combat-skills training and advisor support for identified foreign forces in order to enhance their tactical capabilities and to prepare the environment as directed by USSOCOM as well as the capability to form the nucleus of a Joint Special Operations Task Force. Marines and Sailors of the MRR train, advise and assist friendly host nation forces – including naval and maritime military and paramilitary forces – to enable them to support their governments' internal security and stability, to counter subversion and to reduce the risk of violence from internal and external threats. MRR deployments are coordinated by MARSOC, through USSOCOM, in accordance with engagement priorities for Overseas Contingency Operations.

Force Reconnaissance
The Force Reconnaissance companies (FORECON), also known as Force Recon, (0358) are one of the United States Marine Corps's special operations capable forces (SOC) that provide essential elements of military intelligence to the command element of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF); supporting their task force commanders, and their subordinate operating units of the Fleet Marine Force (FMF).


United States Navy
Naval Special Warfare Development Group
The Naval Special Warfare Development Group (DEVGRU, SEAL Team 6) is the second of the two primary counter-terrorist units of JSOC and SOCOM.[46] DEVGRU is Naval Special Warfare's counterpart to Delta. Like Delta, DEVGRU recruits the best operators from the best units in its branch, the Navy SEALs. DEVGRU is capable of performing any type of special operations mission, but trains especially for counter-terrorist and hostage rescue operations.

United States Navy SEALs
United States Navy SEALs have distinguished themselves as an individually reliable, collectively disciplined and highly skilled special operations force. The most important trait that distinguishes Navy SEALs from all other military forces is that SEALs are maritime special operations, as they strike from and return to the sea. SEALs (SEa, Air, Land) take their name from the elements in and from which they operate. SEALs are experts in direct action and special reconnaissance missions. Their stealth and clandestine methods of operation allow them to conduct multiple missions against targets that larger forces cannot approach undetected. Because of the dangers inherent in their missions, prospective SEALs go through what is considered by many military experts to be the toughest training regime in the world.


United States Central Intelligence Agency
Special Operations Group
The CIA's Special Operations Group (SOG) is the department within SAD responsible for operations that include the collection of intelligence in hostile countries and regions, and all high threat military or intelligence operations with which the U.S. government does not wish to be overtly associated. As such, members of the unit (called Paramilitary Operations Officers and Specialized Skills Officers) normally do not carry any objects or clothing (e.g., military uniforms) that would associate them with the United States government. If they are compromised during a mission, the government of the United States may deny all knowledge.

SOG is generally considered the most secretive special operations force in the United States. The group selects operatives from other tier one special mission units such as Delta Force, DEVGRU and ISA.

United States Diplomatic Security Service
Mobile Security Deployments (MSD)
The Office of Mobile Security Deployments (MSD) (formerly Mobile Security Division) is a small, specialized unit within the U.S. Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) of the United States Department of State. MSD is composed of specially trained Diplomatic Security Service Special Agents that typically operate in high-threat environments with little outside support.

[/class]

[Deleted]

[style]
.zod1 {
font-family: ancient1
}
@font-face { font-family: ancient1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.svg') format('svg');}

.zod1:hover {
font-family: english1
}
{ font-family: english1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.svg') format('svg');}[/style]


[class="zod1"]

Combat Controllers

United States Air Force Combat Control Teams, singular Combat Controller, (CCT) (AFSC 1C2X1) are ground combat forces specialized in a traditional pathfinder role while having a heavy emphasis on simultaneous air traffic control, fire support and command, control, and communications in covert or austere environments.

Assigned to Special Tactics Squadrons, Combat Controllers are an integral part of Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), the Air Force component of United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). Combat Controllers are often assigned individually or as a team to Army Special Forces, Army Ranger, and Navy SEAL teams to provide expert air support coordination and communications capabilities.

Combat Controllers are FAA-certified air traffic controllers and maintain proficiency throughout their career. Many Combat Controllers also qualify and maintain proficiency as joint terminal attack controllers (JTACs) where they call in and direct air strikes, close air support and fire support during battle.[5] Combat Control, like all U.S. special operations forces career fields (e.g., Army Rangers, Army Special Forces, Navy SEALs, etc.), is male-only. Out of the five Air Force Crosses awarded since the Global War on Terror started in 2001 three have been awarded to Combat Controllers for extraordinary heroism in combat.

Motto

---

CCT Motto: "First There," reaffirms the Combat Controller's commitment to undertaking the most dangerous missions behind enemy lines by leading the way for other forces to follow.

Mission

---

Air Force Special Operations Command's Combat Controllers are Battlefield Airmen assigned to special tactics squadrons. They are trained special operations forces and certified Federal Aviation Administration air traffic controllers. The mission of a Combat Controller is to deploy undetected into combat and hostile environments to conduct special reconnaissance, establish assault zones or airfields, while simultaneously conducting air traffic control, fire support, command, control, and communications and forward air control. They deploy with air and ground forces in support of direct action, such as counter-terrorism, foreign internal defense, humanitarian assistance, and combat search and rescue. Combat Controllers employ all-terrain vehicles, amphibious vehicles, weapons and demolitions in pursuit of their objectives, which may include obstacle destruction.

Training

---

Combat Controller training, which is nearly two years long, is among the most rigorous in the US military. The CCT pipeline has a wash out rate upwards of 80–85%, mostly due to self eliminations and injuries sustained during training. The Air Force is working to lower the washout rate through proper education, testing and rigorous pre-pipeline training.

Combat Controllers maintain air traffic controller qualification skills throughout their career in addition to other special operations skills. Many qualify and maintain proficiency as joint terminal attack controllers (JTACs). Their 35-week initial training and unique mission skills earn them the right to wear the scarlet beret and their 3 skill level (apprentice). From that point they attend a 12–15-month advanced skill training course to obtain their 5 skill level (journeyman). Once they complete AST their training pipeline is finished and they are mission-ready Combat Controllers.

Initial Training
The first course Combat Controller trainees attend after the 8.5-week Basic Military Training is the two-week long Combat Control Selection Course at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. The selection course focuses on sports physiology, nutrition, basic exercises, combat control history and fundamentals.

The second course in the CCT pipeline is the Combat Control Operator Course located at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi. The Operator course is 15.5 weeks long. The Operator course teaches aircraft recognition and performance, air navigation aids, weather, airport traffic control, flight assistance service, communication procedures, conventional approach control, radar procedures and air traffic rules.

After the Operator course the trainee attends the Army Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia. In the three-week course the trainees learn basic parachuting skills required to infiltrate an objective area by static line airdrop.

The next course after Airborne School is the Air Force Basic Survival School located at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington. SERE School lasts three weeks. The course teaches techniques for survival in remote areas. Instruction includes principles, procedures, equipment and techniques that enable individuals to survive, regardless of climatic conditions or unfriendly environments, and return alive.

The last course in the Combat Control pipeline is the Combat Control School located at Pope Field, North Carolina. The CCT School is thirteen weeks long and it provides the final Combat Controller qualifications. The training includes physical training, small unit tactics, land navigation, communications, assault zones, demolitions, fire support and field operations including parachuting. Graduates of Combat Control school are awarded their 3-skill level (apprentice) on their Air Force Specialty Code, scarlet beret and CCT flash.

Advanced Training
After the Combat Controller gains their three level they attend Special Tactics Advanced Skills Training for 12 to 15 months as part of the Special Tactics Training Squadron located at Hurlburt Field, Florida. Advanced Skills Training is a program for newly assigned Combat Controllers, Pararescuemen and Special Operations Weather Technicians. AST produces mission-ready operators for Air Force Special Operations Command and United States Special Operations Command. The AST schedule is broken down into four phases: water, ground, employment and full mission profile. The course tests the trainee's personal limits through demanding mental and physical training.

During Advanced Skills Training Combat Controllers (along with PJs and SOWT) attend two more advanced courses. Army Military Free Fall Parachutist School at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona for five weeks. The course instructs free fall parachuting procedures. It also provides wind tunnel training, in-air instruction focusing on student stability, aerial maneuvers, air sense, parachute opening procedures and parachute canopy control. They also attend Air Force Combat Diver School which is hosted at the Navy Diving and Salvage Training Center, Naval Support Activity Panama City, Florida. Combat Diver School is six weeks long. After completion of Combat Diver School trainees become combat divers, learning to use scuba and closed circuit diving equipment to covertly infiltrate denied areas. The course provides training to depths of 130 feet, stressing development of maximum underwater mobility under various operating conditions. A class of CCTs and PJs at the Air Force Combat Diver School was covered by Discovery Channel's program Surviving the Cut during season two, which originally aired 25 July 2011.

[/class]

[Deleted]

[style]
.zod1 {
font-family: ancient1
}
@font-face { font-family: ancient1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.svg') format('svg');}

.zod1:hover {
font-family: english1
}
{ font-family: english1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.svg') format('svg');}[/style]


[class="zod1"]

Pararescuemen

Pararescuemen (also known as PJs) are United States Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) and Air Combat Command (ACC) operatives tasked with recovery and medical treatment of personnel in humanitarian and combat environments. These special operations units are also used to support NASA missions and have been used to recover astronauts after water landings. They are attached to other SOF teams from all branches to conduct other operations as appropriate. Of the 22 enlisted Air Force Cross recipients, 12 are Pararescuemen. They wear the maroon beret as a symbol of their elite status, and to symbolize the blood shed by past PJs, as well as the blood current PJs are willing to shed to save lives. Part of the little-known Air Force Special Operations community and long an enlisted preserve, the Pararescue service began commissioning Combat Rescue Officers early in the 21st century.

Training & Structure
The process of becoming a "PJ" is known informally as "the Pipeline" or "Superman School". Almost two years long, it's among the longest special operations training courses in the world. It also has the highest training dropout rate in the entire U.S. special operations community, at around 80%.

Pararescue trainees are first required to pass the Pararescue Indoctrination Course at Lackland AFB, commonly referred to as "indoc". Following that is a long string of courses including Combat Dive School, Army Airborne, National Registry for Paramedic, Survival (SERE), and Military Free-fall Parachutist. Upon completing the aforementioned, a pararescue trainee is required to then complete the Pararescue Apprentice Course, which combines all the prior skills and adds a few more. Once a Pararescueman has completed the pipeline, he is assigned to a Rescue or Special Tactics team where he will receive informal on-the-job training. Additionally if a pararescueman is assigned to a special tactics team he will receive additional training along with Air Force Combat Controllers in what is known as Advanced Skills Training.

Pararescue/Combat Rescue Officer Indoctrination Course, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas (63 days)
The mission of the Indoctrination Course is to recruit, select and train future PJs and CROs. At this school, participants undergo extensive physical conditioning with swimming, running, weight training and calisthenics. This course helps prepare students for the rigors of training and the demands of these lifestyles. Other training includes obstacle courses, rucksack marches, diving physics, dive tables, metric manipulations, medical terminology, dive terminology, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, weapons qualifications, history of PJs, and leadership reaction course. Graduation of this course is the "ticket to ride the pipeline," where Pararescuemen begin learning the special skills that make PJs highly regarded special operators.

Army Airborne School, Fort Benning, Georgia (21 Days)
Students learn the basic parachuting skills required to infiltrate an objective area by static line airdrop. This course includes ground operations week, tower week, and "jump week" when participants make five parachute jumps. Personnel who complete this training are awarded the basic parachutist rating and are allowed to wear the Parachutist Badge.

Air Force Combat Diver School, Navy Diving and Salvage Training Center, Naval Support Activity Panama City, Florida (38.5 Days)
The course is divided into four blocks of instruction: (1) Diving Theory, (2) Infiltration/Exfiltration Methods, (3) Open Circuit Diving Operations, and (4) Closed Circuit Diving Operations. The primary focus of AFCDC is to develop Pararescuemen/Combat Rescue Officers and Combat Controller/Special Tactics Officers into competent, capable and safe combat divers/swimmers. The course provides commanders with divers/swimmers capable of undertaking personnel recovery and special operations waterborne missions. AFCDC provides diver training through classroom instruction, extensive physical training, surface and sub-surface water confidence pool exercises, pool familiarization dives, day/night tactical open water surface/sub-surface infiltration swims, open/closed circuit diving procedures and underwater search and recovery procedures. The session culminates with a waterborne field training exercise.

Navy Underwater Egress Training, Pensacola Naval Air Station, Florida (1 day)
This course teaches how to safely escape from an aircraft that has landed in the water. Instruction includes principles, procedures and techniques necessary to escape a sinking aircraft.

Air Force Basic Survival School, Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington (17.5 Days)
This course teaches basic survival techniques for remote areas using minimal equipment. This includes instruction of principles, procedures, equipment and techniques that help individuals to survive, regardless of climatic conditions or unfriendly environments, and return home.

Army Military Free Fall Parachutist School, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona (35 days)
This course instructs free fall parachuting (HALO) using a high performance parafoil. The course provides wind tunnel training, in-air instruction focusing on student stability, aerial maneuvers, air sense and parachute opening procedures. Each student undertakes a minimum of 30 free fall jumps including two day and two night jumps with supplemental oxygen, rucksack and load-bearing equipment.

Pararescue EMT-Paramedic Training, Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico (154 Days)
This course teaches how to manage trauma patients prior to evacuation and provide emergency medical treatment. Phase I is four[7] weeks of emergency medical technician basic (EMT-B) training. Phase II lasts 20 weeks and provides instruction in minor field surgery, pharmacology, combat trauma management, advanced airway management and military evacuation procedures. The airmen are then sent to Tucson, Arizona for hands-on medical training. Trainees work alongside paramedics with the Tucson Fire Department as well as local hospitals. Graduates of the course are awarded National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians-Paramedic (NREMT-P) certification.

Pararescue Recovery Specialist Course, Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico (168 Days)
Qualifies airmen as pararescue recovery specialists for assignment to any Pararescue unit worldwide. Training includes field medical care and tactics, mountaineering, combat tactics, advanced parachuting and helicopter insertion/extraction qualifications. At the completion of this course, each graduate is awarded the maroon beret.[1]

Pararescue and Advanced Pararescue Orientation Course

---

Since the 1950s, Air Force Pararescueman have provided training and mentorship for Civil Air Patrol cadets. This was formalized in 1977 with the introduction of Pararescue Orientation Course (PJOC) at Kirtland AFB, New Mexico. PJOC was later taught at Fort Knox, Kentucky and George Washington National Forest, Virginia. The course teaches CAP cadets fundamental survival and rescue skills such as shelter building, land navigation, and rock climbing. Advanced Pararescue Orientation Course (APJOC) began in the 1980s and was taught only at Kirtland AFB. In 2003, both programs were cancelled. PJOC returned in 2004, but APJOC did not see its return until 2008 when the course was moved to Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona. APJOC builds upon the skills learned at PJOC and exposes cadets to life in an operational Pararescue or Special Tactics Squadron. It plays with a Combat Rescue Training Exercise. During APJOC, Both PJOC and APJOC are Civil Air Patrol National Cadet Special Activities provided by United States Air Force Pararescue.

[/class]

[Deleted]

[style]
.zod1 {
font-family: ancient1
}
@font-face { font-family: ancient1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.svg') format('svg');}

.zod1:hover {
font-family: english1
}
{ font-family: english1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.svg') format('svg');}[/style]


[class="zod1"]

Special Operations Weather Technicians

Special Operations Weather Team (SOWT) (AFSC 1W0X2) specialists are tactical observer/forecasters with ground combat capabilities and fall under the 720th Special Tactics Group within the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC). The mission of a Special Operations Weather Team Specialist is to deploy by the most feasible means available into combat and non-permissive environments to collect and interpret meteorological data and provide air and ground forces commanders with timely, accurate intelligence. They collect data, assist mission planning, generate accurate and mission-tailored target and route forecasts in support of global special operations, conduct special weather reconnaissance and train foreign national forces. SOWTs provide vital intelligence and deploy with joint air and ground forces in support of direct action, counter-terrorism, foreign internal defense, humanitarian assistance, special reconnaissance, austere airfield, and combat search and rescue.

Training

---

Special operations weathermen are among the most highly trained personnel in the U.S. military. They maintain the same weather weapon system qualifications as all Air Force weathermen in addition to advanced special tactics skills. Their 2.5 to 3 years of training and unique mission skills earn them the grey beret. Previously, only those who were already in a weather-related specialty were recruited for training, but on 5 May 2008, the Air Force approved the establishment of a new Air Force Specialty Code for Special Operations Weather, formally recognizing their commitment to deploy into restricted environments by air, land or sea to conduct weather operations, observe and analyze all weather data and environmental intelligence.

Initial Training
Special Operations Weather Selection Course, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas (14 Days)
This course focuses on sports physiology, nutrition, basic exercises, special operations weather history and fundamentals.

Special Operations Weather Initial Skills Course, Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi (210 Days)
This course prepares special operations weather apprentices. Training includes basic, intermediate, and advanced meteorology, report writing and computer usage. Other topics include satellite meteorology, weather chart analysis, weather radar, weather products, tropical meteorology, synoptic level analytical meteorology, weather prognosis techniques, forecasting weather elements to include severe weather, synoptic lab, forecasting lab, and a unit on the weather career field and weather equipment. Additionally, this time is also used to train students physically and mentally for the rigors of the rest of their pipeline. Students train alongside combat controllers to develop the team mindset they will use during their career.

Army Airborne School, Fort Benning, Georgia (21 Days)
Trainees learn the basic parachuting skills required to infiltrate an objective area by static line airdrop.

Air Force Basic Survival School, Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington (17.5 Days)
This course teaches basic survival techniques for remote areas. Instruction includes principles, procedures, equipment and techniques, which enable individuals to survive, regardless of climatic conditions or unfriendly environments and return home.

Air Force Water Survival Training, Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington (two days)
This two-day course teaches principles, procedures, techniques, and equipment that enhance the ability to survive in a water environment and return to friendly control.

Air Force Underwater Egress Training, Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington (one day)
This course teaches the principles, procedures, and techniques necessary to successfully egress from a sinking aircraft. Experiencing water entry and performing underwater egress is part of the training.

Special Operations Weather Apprentice Course (Combat Control School), Pope Field, North Carolina (91 Days)
This 13-week course provides final special operations weather qualifications. Training includes physical training, austere weather operations, tactical weather observations, small unit tactics, land navigation, communications, demolitions, and field operations including parachuting. Upon completing the course graduates are awarded a 3-skill level (apprentice), gray beret and SOWT crest.

Special Tactics Training Squadron, Hurlburt Field, Florida (411 Days)
This four phase course, formal training, core tasks, employment readiness training, and operational readiness training, produces operators ready for deployment as special operations weathermen

Core Training Available During Operational Duty
The following is a list of schools which are available to certain SOWT candidates based upon the needs of their unit and the Air Force: Riverine Assessment, Avalanche Survival Training, Military Freefall (HALO/HAHO), SCUBA

/class]

[Deleted]

[style]
.zod1 {
font-family: ancient1
}
@font-face { font-family: ancient1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.svg') format('svg');}

.zod1:hover {
font-family: english1
}
{ font-family: english1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.svg') format('svg');}[/style]


[class="zod1"]

24th Special Tactics Squadron

The 24th Special Tactics Squadron is one of the Special Tactics units of the United States Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC). It is the U.S. Air Force component to Joint Special Operations Command. It is garrisoned at Pope Field, North Carolina.

[/class]

[Deleted]

[style]
.zod1 {
font-family: ancient1
}
@font-face { font-family: ancient1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.svg') format('svg');}

.zod1:hover {
font-family: english1
}
{ font-family: english1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.svg') format('svg');}[/style]


[class="zod1"]

1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta

1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta (1st SFOD-D), popularly known as Delta Force, is a U.S. Army component of Joint Special Operations Command. It was formerly listed as the Combat Applications Group (CAG) by the Department of Defense. While 1st SFOD-D is administratively supported by USASOC, it falls under the operational control of the Joint Special Operations Command. Delta Force and its Navy counterpart, the Naval Special Warfare Development Group, are the United States military's primary counter-terrorism units. It is often referred to in the U.S. media as a Special Mission Unit.

Delta Force's primary tasks are counter-terrorism, direct action, and national intervention operations, although it is an extremely versatile group capable of conducting many types of clandestine missions, including, but not limited to, hostage rescues and raids.

The Central Intelligence Agency's highly secretive Special Activities Division (SAD) and more specifically its elite Special Operations Group (SOG) often works with – and recruits – operators from Delta Force.

Organization & Structure
The unit is under the organization of the US Army Special Operations Command (USASOC) but is controlled by the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC). Command of 1st SFOD-D is a Colonel's billet. Virtually all information about the unit is highly classified and details about specific missions or operations generally are not available publicly. A number of sources, including the book Inside Delta Force by Command Sergeant Major Eric L. Haney (ret.), suggest the unit's strength ranges from 800 to 1,000 personnel, including the following operational groups:

Detachment Designations
Delta Force's structure is similar to the British 22 Special Air Service, the unit that inspired Delta's formation. Delta has nearly 1,000 soldiers. Approximately 250 of those are operators trained to conduct direct action and reconnaissance missions. There are three main operational squadrons:

• A Squadron
• B Squadron
• C Squadron

These squadrons are based on the organization of the SAS "Sabre Squadron" and each contains 75 to 85 operators. Each sabre squadron is broken down into three troops—one recon/sniper troop, and two direct action/assault troops—that can operate either in teams or in groups as small as four to six men.

Recruitment

---

Most intake comes from the Special Forces Groups, with a sizable but significantly smaller portion from the 75th Ranger Regiment, though a few have come from other units of the army.[16] Since the 1990s, the Army has posted recruitment notices for the 1st SFOD-D.[17] The Army, however, has never released an official fact sheet for the elite force. The recruitment notices in Fort Bragg's newspaper, Paraglide, refer to Delta Force by name, and label it "...the U.S. Army's special operations unit organized for the conduct of missions requiring rapid response with surgical application of a wide variety of unique special operations skills..."[18] The notice states that applicants must be male, in the ranks of E-4 through E-8, have at least two and a half years of service remaining in their enlistment, be 21 years or older, and score high enough on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test to attend a briefing to be considered for admission.

On 29 June 2006 during a session of the Committee on Armed Services, General Wayne Downing testified before the U.S. House of Representatives that 70 percent of all Delta operators started their military careers in the 75th Ranger Regiment.[19]

Selection Process

---

Haney's book Inside Delta Force described the selection course and its inception in detail. Haney wrote the selection course began with standard tests including push-ups, sit-ups, and a 2-mile (3.2 km) run, an inverted crawl and a 100 meter swim fully dressed. The candidates are then put through a series of land navigation courses to include an 18-mile (29 km), all-night land navigation course while carrying a 40-pound (18 kg) rucksack. The rucksack's weight and the distance of the courses are increased and the time standards to complete the task are shortened with every march. The physical testing ended with a 40-mile (64 km) march with a 45-pound (20 kg) rucksack over rough terrain that had to be completed in an unknown amount of time. Haney wrote that only the senior officer and NCO in charge of selection are allowed to see the set time limits, but all assessment and selection tasks and conditions were set by Delta training cadre. The mental portion of the testing began with numerous psychological exams. The men then went in front of a board of Delta instructors, unit psychologists, and the Delta commander, who each ask the candidate a barrage of questions and then dissect every response and mannerism of the candidate with the purpose to mentally exhaust the candidate. The unit commander then approaches the candidate and tells him if he has been selected. If an individual is selected for Delta, he undergoes an intense 6-month Operator Training Course (OTC), to learn counter-terrorism and counter-intelligence techniques, in which the individual maintains little contact with friends and family for the duration. Training includes firearm accuracy and various other munitions training.

In a recent interview, former Delta operator Paul Howe talked about the high attrition rate of his Delta selection course. He said that out of his two classes totaling 240 men, only 12 to 14 candidates completed the course.

Training

---

Operator Training Course is approximately six months long. While the OTC course is constantly changing, the skills taught broadly include the following:

• Marksmanship
  
  • The trainees shoot without aiming at stationary targets at close range until they gain almost complete accuracy, then progress to moving targets.
  • Once these shooting skills are perfected, trainees move to a shooting house and clear rooms of "enemy" targets – first one only, then two at a time, three, and finally four. When all can demonstrate sufficient skill, "hostages" are added to the "enemies".
  Demolitions and Breaching
  
  • Trainees learn how to pick many different locks, including those on cars and safes.
  • Advanced demolition, and bomb making using common materials.
  Combined skills: The FBI, FAA, and other agencies were used to advise the training of this portion of OTC. Commercial airliners such as Delta Air Lines would allow Delta to train on their aircraft as well.
  
  • The new Delta operators use demolition and marksmanship at the shoothouse and other training facilities to train for hostage and counter-terrorist operations with assault and sniper troops working together. They practice terrorist or hostage situations in buildings, aircraft, and other settings.
  • All trainees learn how to set sniper positions around a building containing hostages. They learn the proper ways to set up a TOC and communicate in an organized manner. Although Delta has specialized sniper troops, all members go through this training.
  • The students then go back to the shoothouse and the "hostages" are replaced with other students and Delta Force members. Live ammunition is known to have been used in these exercises, to test the students, and build trust between one another.
  Trade Craft: During the first OTC's and creation of Delta, CIA personnel were used to teach this portion.
  
  • Students learn different espionage-related skills, such as dead drops, brief encounters, pickups, load and unload signals, danger and safe signals, surveillance and counter-surveillance.
  Executive Protection: During the first OTC's and creation of Delta, the U.S. State Department's Diplomatic Security Service and the United States Secret Service advised Delta.
  
  • Students take an advanced driving course learning how to use a vehicle or many vehicles as defensive and offensive weapons.
    They then learn techniques for VIP and diplomatic protection developed by the Secret Service and DSS.
  Culmination Exercise
  
  • A final test requires the students to apply and dynamically adapt all of the skills that they have learned.

Uniform

---

The Pentagon tightly controls information about Delta Force and refuses to comment publicly on the highly secretive unit and its activities. Delta operators are granted an enormous amount of flexibility and autonomy. To conceal their identities, they rarely wear a uniform and usually wear civilian clothing both on and off duty. When military uniforms are worn, they lack markings, surnames, or branch names. Civilian hair styles and facial hair are allowed to enable the members to blend in and avoid recognition as military personnel.

The Term "Operator"

---

Inside the United States Special Operations community, an operator is a Delta Force member who has completed selection and has graduated OTC (Operators Training Course). Operator was first used by Delta Force to distinguish between operational and non-operational personnel assigned to the unit. Other special operations forces use specific names for their jobs (Army Rangers, Navy SEALs, Air Force Pararescuemen); operator is the specific term for Delta's operational personnel. However, since the early 2000s other special operations forces have adopted the term.

SEALs may have unofficially referred to themselves as operators since the Vietnam War. Author and Navy SEAL Gene Wentz makes many references to fellow SEALs as operators in his 1992 book titled "Men In Green Faces," which is about the SEALs in Vietnam.

[/class]

[Deleted]

[style]
.zod1 {
font-family: ancient1
}
@font-face { font-family: ancient1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.svg') format('svg');}

.zod1:hover {
font-family: english1
}
{ font-family: english1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.svg') format('svg');}[/style]


[class="zod1"]

United States Army Special Forces

The United States Army Special Forces, known as the Green Berets because of their distinctive service headgear, are a special operations force tasked with five primary missions: unconventional warfare (the original and most important mission of Special Forces), foreign internal defense, special reconnaissance, direct action, and counter-terrorism. The first two emphasize language, cultural, and training skills in working with foreign troops. Other duties include combat search and rescue (CSAR), counter-narcotics, counter-proliferation, hostage rescue, humanitarian assistance, humanitarian demining, information operations, peacekeeping, psychological operations, security assistance, and manhunts; other components of the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) or other U.S. government activities may also specialize in these secondary areas. Many of their operational techniques are classified, but some nonfiction works and doctrinal manuals are available.

As special operations units, Special Forces are not necessarily under the command authority of the ground commanders in those countries. Instead, while in theater, SF units may report directly to a geographic combatant command, USSOCOM, or other command authorities. The Central Intelligence Agency's (CIA) highly secretive Special Activities Division (SAD) and more specifically its elite Special Operations Group (SOG) recruits from the Army's Special Forces. Joint CIA-Army Special Forces operations go back to the famed MACV-SOG during the Vietnam War. This cooperation still exists today and is seen in the War in Afghanistan.

Organizational Structure

---

Special Forces Groups

Insignia	Group
	Active Groups
	1st Special Forces Group – Headquartered at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington along with its 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Battalions, its 1st Battalion is forward deployed at Torii Station, Okinawa. The 1SFGA is oriented towards the Pacific region, and is often tasked by PACOM. Currently, 1SFGA and two of its battalions spend roughly six months out of every twelve deployed on a rotational basis to either Iraq as Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force – Arabian Peninsula, to Afghanistan as Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force – Afghanistan, or to the Philippines as Joint Special Operations Task Force – Philippines.
	3rd Special Forces Group – Headquartered at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. The 3SFGA is theoretically oriented towards all of Sub-Saharan Africa with the exception of the Eastern Horn of Africa, i.e. AFRICOM. In practice, 3SFGA and two of its battalions spend roughly six months out of every twelve deployed to Afghanistan as Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force – Afghanistan.
	5th Special Forces Group – Headquartered at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. The 5SFGA is oriented towards the Middle East, Persian Gulf, Central Asia and the Horn of Africa (HOA), and is frequently tasked by CENTCOM. Currently, 5SFGA and two of its battalions spend roughly six months out of every twelve deployed to Iraq as Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force – Arabian Peninsula.
	7th Special Forces Group – Headquartered at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. The 7SFG(A) is oriented towards the western hemisphere: South America, Central America, the Caribbean (i.e. the USSOUTHCOM AOR), and North America (i.e. the USNORTHCOM AOR). In practice, 7SFG(A) and two of its battalions spend roughly six months out of every twelve deployed to Afghanistan as Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force – Afghanistan. (In 2011, 7SFGA relocated from Fort Bragg, North Carolina to Eglin Air Force Base, Florida as part of the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) round.
	10th Special Forces Group – Headquartered at Fort Carson, Colorado along with its 2nd, 3rd and newly added 4th Battalions, its 1st Battalion is forward deployed in the Panzer Kaserne (Panzer Barracks) in Böblingen near Stuttgart, Germany. The 10SFGA is theoretically oriented towards Europe, mainly Central and Eastern Europe, the Balkans, Turkey, Israel, Lebanon and Northern Africa, i.e. EUCOM. In practice, 10SFGA and two of its battalions spend roughly six months out of every twelve deployed to Iraq as Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force – Arabian Peninsula.
	19th Special Forces Group – One of two National Guard Special Forces Groups. Headquartered in Draper, Utah, with companies in Washington, West Virginia, Ohio, Rhode Island, Colorado, California, and Texas, the 19SFGA is oriented towards Southwest Asia (shared with 5SFGA), Europe (shared with 10SFGA), as well as Southeast Asia (shared with 1SFGA).
	20th Special Forces Group – One of two National Guard Special Forces Groups. Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, with battalions in Alabama (1st Battalion), Mississippi (2nd Battalion), and Florida (3rd Battalion), with assigned Companies and Detachments in North Carolina ; Chicago, Illinois; Louisville, Kentucky; Western Massachusetts; and Baltimore, Maryland. The 20SFGA has an area of responsibility (AOR) covering 32 countries, including Latin America south of Mexico, the waters, territories, and nations in the Caribbean sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and the southwestern Atlantic Ocean. Orientation towards the region is shared with 7SFGA.
	Inactive Groups
	6th Special Forces Group – Active from 1963 to 1971. Based at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina. Assigned to Southwest Asia (Iraq, Iran, etc.) and Southeast Asia. Many of the 103 original Son tay raider volunteers were from 6SFGA.
	8th Special Forces Group – Active from 1963 to 1972. Responsible for training armies of Latin America in counter-insurgency tactics.
	11th Special Forces Group – Active from 1961 to 1994.
	12th Special Forces Group – Active from 1961 to 1994.

Special Forces are divided into five active duty (AD) and two Army National Guard (ARNG) Special Forces groups. Each Special Forces Group (SFG) has a specific regional focus. The Special Forces soldiers assigned to these groups receive intensive language and cultural training for countries within their regional area of responsibility (AOR). Due to the increased need for Special Forces soldiers in the War on Terror, all Groups—including those of the National Guard (19th and 20th SFGs)—have been deployed outside of their areas of operation (AOs), particularly to Iraq and Afghanistan. A recently released report showed Special Forces as perhaps the most deployed SOF under USSOCOM, with many soldiers, regardless of Group, serving up to 75% of their careers overseas, almost all of which had been to Iraq and Afghanistan.

Until recently an SF group has consisted of three battalions, but since the Department of Defense has authorized U.S. Army Special Forces Command to increase its authorized strength by one third, a fourth battalion was activated in each active component group by 2012.

A Special Forces group is historically assigned to a Unified Combatant Command or a theater of operations. The Special Forces Operational Detachment C or C-detachment (SFODC) is responsible for a theater or a major subcomponent, which can provide command and control of up to 18 SFODAs, three SFODB, or a mixture of the two. Subordinate to it are the Special Forces Operational Detachment Bs or B-detachments (SFODB), which can provide command and control for six SFODAs. Further subordinate, the SFODAs typically raise company- to battalion-sized units when on unconventional warfare missions. They can form 6-man "split A" detachments that are often used for special reconnaissance.

Battalion HQ Element – SF Operational Detachment-C (SFODC) composition

---

The SFODC, or "C-Team", is the headquarters element of a Special Forces battalion. As such, it is a command and control unit with operations, training, signals and logistic support responsibilities to its three subordinate line companies. A lieutenant colonel (O-5) commands the battalion and the C-Team and the battalion Command Sergeant Major (E-9) is the senior NCO of the battalion and the C-Team. There are an additional 20–30 SF personnel who fill key positions in operations, logistics, intelligence, communications and medical. A Special Forces battalion usually consists of four companies: "A", "B", "C", and Headquarters/Support.

Company HQ Element – SF Operational Detachment-B (SFODB) composition

---

The ODB, or "B-Team", is the headquarters element of a Special Forces company, and it is usually composed of 11–13 soldiers. While the A-team typically conducts direct operations, the purpose of the B-Team is to support the company's A-Teams both in garrison and in the field. When deployed, in line with their support role, B-Teams are usually found in more secure rear areas. However, under some circumstances a B-Team will deploy into a hostile area, usually to coordinate the activities of multiple A-Teams.

The ODB is led by an 18A, usually a major, who is the company commander (CO). The CO is assisted by his company executive officer (XO), another 18A, usually a captain. The XO is himself assisted by a company technician, a 180A, generally a chief warrant officer three, who assists in the direction of the organization, training, intelligence, counter-intelligence, and operations for the company and its detachments. The company commander is assisted by the company sergeant major, an 18Z, usually a Sergeant Major. A second 18Z acts as the operations sergeant, usually a Master Sergeant, who assists the XO and technician in their operational duties. He has an 18F assistant operations sergeant, who is usually a Sergeant First Class. The company's support comes from an 18D medical sergeant, usually a Sergeant First Class, and two 18E communications sergeants, usually a Sergeant First Class and a Staff Sergeant.

The following jobs are outside of the Special Forces 18-series career management field (CMF), but hold positions on a Special Forces B-Team. Soldiers in these positions are not "Special Forces qualified", as they have not completed the Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC or "Q Course):

• The supply NCO, usually a Staff Sergeant, the commander's principal logistical planner, works with the battalion S-4 to supply the company.
• The Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN defence) NCO, usually a Sergeant, maintains and operates the company's NBC detection and decontamination equipment, and assists in administering NBC defensive measures.

Basic Element – SF Operational Detachment-A (SFODA) composition

---

A Special Forces company normally consists of six ODAs (Operational Detachments-Alpha) or "A-Teams". Each ODA specializes in an infiltration skill or a particular mission-set (e.g. Military Freefall (HALO), combat diving, mountain warfare, maritime operations, etc.). An ODA is identified by its group, battalion, company, and the team itself. For example, ODA 1234 would be the fourth team in the third company of the second battalion of 1st Special Forces Group.



An ODA consists of 12 men, each of whom has a specific function (MOS or Military Occupational Specialty) on the team, however all members of an ODA conduct cross-training. The ODA is led by an 18A (Detachment Commander), a Captain, and a 180A (Assistant Detachment Commander) who is his second in command, usually a Warrant Officer One or Chief Warrant Officer Two. The team also includes the following enlisted men: one 18Z (Operations Sergeant) (known as the "Team Sergeant"), usually a Master Sergeant, one 18F (Assistant Operations and Intelligence Sergeant), usually a Sergeant First Class, and two each, 18Bs (Weapons Sergeant), 18Cs (Engineer Sergeant), 18Ds (Medical Sergeant), and 18Es (Communications Sergeant), usually Sergeants First Class, Staff Sergeants or Sergeants. This organization facilitates 6-man "split team" operations, redundancy, and mentoring between a senior NCO and his junior assistant.

Qualifications

---

The basic eligibility requirements to be considered for entry into the Special Forces are:



*QualificationsBe a male, age 20–30.
*Be a U.S. citizen.

*Be a high school graduate.

*Score a General Technical score of 107 or higher and a combat operation score of 98 on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery.

*Airborne qualified or volunteer for Airborne training

*Achieve a minimum of 60 points on each event and overall minimum score of 240 on the Army *Physical Fitness Test.

*Meet medical fitness standards as outlined in AR 40-501

*Must successfully complete the Pre-Basic Task list.

*Eligible for a "SECRET" security clearance

*Swim 50m wearing boots and ACUs prior to SFQC

*Must have 20/20 or corrected to 20/20 in both near and distant vision in both eyes.

*One year of college is preferred, but it is not a mandatory for enlistment.

[/class]

[Deleted]

[style]
.zod1 {
font-family: ancient1
}
@font-face { font-family: ancient1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.svg') format('svg');}

.zod1:hover {
font-family: english1
}
{ font-family: english1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.svg') format('svg');}[/style]


[class="zod1"]

75th Ranger Regiment

The 75th Ranger Regiment, also known as Rangers, is an elite special operations force of the United States Army. The regiment is headquartered at Fort Benning, Georgia and is composed of one special troops battalion and three special operations battalions with specialized skills that enable them to perform a variety of special operations missions, including direct action, airfield seizure, airborne and air assaults, reconnaissance, and personnel recovery. It operates as a special operations force of the United States Army Special Operations Command.

Organization

---

Headquarters and Headquarters Company - Fort Benning, Georgia

1st Ranger Battalion - Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia
Headquarters and Headquarters Company
Alpha Company (rifle)
Bravo Company (rifle)
Charlie Company (rifle)
Delta Company (rifle)
Echo Company (support)

2nd Ranger Battalion - Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington
Headquarters and Headquarters Company
Alpha Company (rifle)
Bravo Company (rifle)
Charlie Company (rifle)
Delta Company (rifle)
Echo Company (support)

3rd Ranger Battalion - Fort Benning, Georgia
Headquarters and Headquarters Company
Alpha Company (rifle)
Bravo Company (rifle)
Charlie Company (rifle)
Delta Company (rifle)
Echo Company (support)

Special Troops Battalion - Fort Benning, Georgia
Headquarters and Headquarters Company
Reconnaissance Company
Communications Company
Military Intelligence Company
Selection and Training Company

Modern Ranger Selection & Training

---

Qualifications

• Be a male (75th Regiment positions are not open to women)
• Be a U.S. citizen
• Volunteer for assignment and be on active duty
• Have a General Technical Score of 107 or higher
• A Physical Training score of 240 or above (80% on each event)
• No physical limitations
• Qualify and volunteer for Airborne training
• A person of good character (no pending UCMJ action or drug or alcohol related incidents within 24 months)
• Must enlist into or currently hold a Military Occupational Specialty found in the 75th Ranger Regiment
• Able to attain at minimum a Secret Security Clearance

Additionally Army officer applicants must:

• Be an officer of grade O-1 through O-4.
• Qualify for a Top Secret Security Clearance.
• Be serving at or have completed a tour at one duty station.
• Meet Year Group specific criteria.
• Hold an officer Military Occupational Specialty found in the 75th Ranger Regiment.

Selection & Training
Every volunteer for the regiment, from every new recruit to every officer and any senior leader selected to command in the regiment, will go through the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program (RASP) to assess their ability and provide the basic skills required to be an effective member of the 75th Ranger Regiment.

For new soldiers, RASP is conducted after applicants successfully complete their basic Military Occupational Specialty course and graduate from the Army’s Parachutists Course (Airborne School). For soldiers, both enlisted and officer, who have successfully completed their first tour of duty, and meet the recruiting qualifications, a RASP date will be scheduled upon application and conditional acceptance to the 75th Ranger Regiment.

RASP is broken down into two levels of training: RASP 1 for junior non-commissioned officers and enlisted soldiers (pay grades E-1 through E-5) and RASP 2 for senior non-commissioned officers, officers and warrant officers. Candidates train on physical fitness, marksmanship, small unit tactics, medical proficiency and mobility. Training is fast-paced and intense, ensuring Ranger candidates are prepared to employ their skills in both continued training and worldwide operations upon reaching their assigned Ranger unit. Throughout the course all candidates will be screened to ensure that only the best soldiers are chosen for service in the Ranger Regiment. Regardless of the course, all candidates must meet the course requirements in order to serve in the Ranger Regiment. Upon successful completion of RASP, candidates will don the tan beret and 75th Ranger Regiment Scroll.

Ranger Assessment & Selection Program 1 (RASP 1) - 56 Days
RASP 1 is an 56-day selection course for junior non-commissioned officers and enlisted soldiers (pay grades E-1 through E-5) that is broken down into two phases. Ranger candidates will learn the basics of what it takes to become a member of an elite fighting force. Candidates are tested on their mental and physical capabilities, while learning the advanced skills all Rangers are required to know to start their career with the 75th Ranger Regiment. Phase 1 focuses more on the critical events and skill level 1 tasks and Phase 2 focuses on training in marksmanship, breaching, mobility, and physical fitness.[16]



Ranger Assessment & Selection Program 2 (RASP 2) - 21 Days
RASP 2 is a 21-day selection course for senior non-commissioned officers, officers, and warrant officers. Candidates are tested on their physical and mental capabilities while learning the special tactics, techniques and procedures of the regiment apart, and learning the expectations of leading and developing young Rangers.

[/class]

[Deleted]

[style]
.zod1 {
font-family: ancient1
}
@font-face { font-family: ancient1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.svg') format('svg');}

.zod1:hover {
font-family: english1
}
{ font-family: english1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.svg') format('svg');}[/style]


[class="zod1"]

Intelligence Support Activity

The United States Army Intelligence Support Activity (USAISA), frequently shortened to Intelligence Support Activity or ISA, and nicknamed The Activity, is a United States Army Special Operations unit originally subordinated to the US Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM). It is tasked to collect actionable intelligence in advance of missions by other US special operations forces, especially 1st SFOD-D and DEVGRU in counter-terrorist operations.

USAISA was the official name of the unit from 1981 to 1989; previously it was known as the Field Operations Group (FOG), created in September 1980. In 1989, the then USAISA commander sent a telex "terminating" the USAISA term and his Special Access Program GRANTOR SHADOW, but the unit continued under a series of different codenames which are changed every two years; known codenames include CENTRA SPIKE, TORN VICTOR, CEMETERY WIND, and GRAY FOX.

Recruitment & Training

---

Most (but certainly not all) Activity operatives come from United States Army Special Forces, due to their self-reliance and specialized skill-set. Candidates go through a rigorous selection process, then once admitted, receive further training in deep surveillance, signals intelligence, etc. Like all units, this special missions unit contains operational detachments as well as support detachments.

HUMINT & SIGINT
Candidates must have previous training in tactics, such as CQB, sniper, counter-sniper, and Source development. Foreign language skills, although highly desired, are not a prerequisite to becoming an ISA operator. Like all special operation team assignments, candidates must pass a rigorous assessment and selection course, as well as a lengthy background investigation and psychological testing. After passing assessment and selection, candidates attend and pass Operations Training Course (OTC).

Some of the disciplines focused on in the training course are: infiltration techniques, advanced air operations, professional driving (offensive and off-road), personal defensive measures, and state-of-the-art communications.

[/class]

[Deleted]

[style]
.zod1 {
font-family: ancient1
}
@font-face { font-family: ancient1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.svg') format('svg');}

.zod1:hover {
font-family: english1
}
{ font-family: english1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.svg') format('svg');}[/style]


[class="zod1"]

See Navy SEALs section.

[/class]

[Deleted]

[style]
.zod1 {
font-family: ancient1
}
@font-face { font-family: ancient1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.svg') format('svg');}

.zod1:hover {
font-family: english1
}
{ font-family: english1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.svg') format('svg');}[/style]


[class="zod1"]

Marine Special Operations Regiment

United States Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) is a component command of the United States Special Operations Command that comprises the Marine Corps' contribution to SOCOM. Its core capabilities are direct action, special reconnaissance and foreign internal defense. MARSOC has also been directed to conduct counter-terrorism, and information operations.

Organization
MARSOC comprises roughly 2,500 Marines and sailors, and is currently commanded by Major General Mark A. Clark. MARSOC's organization was finalized in 2007. The base unit of MARSOC is the fourteen-man Marine Special Operations Team (MSOT) which is commanded by the Team Commander (O-3), and is assisted by his second in command, the team senior enlisted Marine, known as the Team Chief (E-8). Each team has two mirror image squads, or Tactical Elements, each headed by an Element Leader (E-7). MARSOC is based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

Special Operations Combat Service Specialist

---

Special Operations Combat Service Specialists (SOCS-Ss) are Combat Service Support Marines who serve one standard tour with MARSOC in their primary MOS, such as Motor Transport or Logistics. Their training includes core skills for joint and interagency work as well as enhanced SOF combat skills training to enable their successful integration and survivability in special operations environments.

Special Operations Capabilities Specialists

---

Special Operations Capabilities Specialists (SOCS) are Combat Support Marines that are able to join MARSOC based upon their MOS skill. They receive advanced special operations forces training and certification. SOCSs are operational and tactical force multipliers and frequently deploy alongside Critical Skills Operators (CSOs). SOCS billet fields include Intelligence, Communications, Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Dog Handlers, and Fire-Control Specialists. Special Operations Capabilities Specialist are awarded the AMOS of 8071, and return to the operating forces after an extended tour of service with MARSOC.

ASSESSMENT & SELECTION - 42 Days
Assessment and Selection Program (A&S)
Once a Marine is qualified through the MARSOC Recruiters screening process, he will be assigned to the Assessment and Selection (A&S) Program.

Prerequisites
Prior to attending A&S Phase I, Marines are highly encouraged to follow the 10 week training guide. At a minimum, Marines should complete the first 7 weeks of the guide in order to support the physical rigors of the program. Attaining only the minimum physical fitness standards to enter MARSOC will not guarantee success during the entire A&S process. A&S highly encourages Marines to have the ability to run a 250 or higher PFT, possess aquatic skills and be able to maintain a 4 mph (15 minute mile) pace with a 45 pound rucksack regardless of distance. During Phase I, Marines will be given fitness goals and receive professional education on fitness, resiliency and nutrition to achieve maximum fitness results. Ultimately, candidates will compete against each other for a limited number of seats at selection.

Assessment and Selection Phase I Course (ASPOC)
All Marines must attend the 21-day Assessment and Selection Phase I Course held at Camp Lejeune, NC. A&S Phase I is a comprehensive program that teaches and conducts fitness oriented events around the MARSOC Performance and Resiliency Program (PERRES). Other facets of the PERRES Program teach a Marine information on proper nutrition and techniques to maintain overall combat fitness. During Assessment, Marines gain exposure to the units that comprise MARSOC while receiving daily mentorship by instructors who are MARSOC Critical Skills Operators (CSO's). Attendance to A&S does not guarantee a seat at selection, or assignment to the Individual Training Course (ITC).

Marines that attend Phase I are "expected" to score a 225 or higher on the initial physical fitness test. They must also possess the aquatic skill to safely, confidently and continuously swim 300 meters using the prescribed strokes (side or breast) while wearing the MCCU uniform (no boots). In addition to the swim, Marines are required to conduct an 11 minute water tread in full utility uniform (no boots), followed by 4 minutes of either blouse or trouser flotation.

Assessment and Selection Phase II - 21 Days
A&S Phase II is both mentally and physically challenging. The program is conducted three times a year at an undisclosed location following the A&S Phase I Course.

TRAINING - 210 Days
Phase 1 is a 70-day basic skills course that incorporates individual fitness, such as swimming, running, rucking, hand to hand combat as well as patrolling, mission planning, fire support, land navigation, combat medic training, and SERE training.

Phase 2 is an 56-day course that focuses on the Marine Special Ops Unit. Marines will master small unit tactics, intelligence gathering, maritime navigation, small boat handling and field training exercises in urban / non-urban environments.

Phase 3 is a 35-day course where precision training starts to challenge the Marines further. Close Quarters Combat (CQC), marksmanship, shooting and moving through a target as a team is the focus of Phase 3.

Phase 4 is a 49-day course and teaches Asymmetric Warfare (AW) which teaches the Marine how to think like the enemy in order to disrupt their insurgencies, acts of terror, or guerilla warfare.

[/class]

[Deleted]

[style]
.zod1 {
font-family: ancient1
}
@font-face { font-family: ancient1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.svg') format('svg');}

.zod1:hover {
font-family: english1
}
{ font-family: english1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.svg') format('svg');}[/style]


[class="zod1"]

Force Reconnaissance

The Force Reconnaissance companies (FORECON), also known as Force Recon, (0358) are one of the United States Marine Corps's special operations capable forces (SOC) that provide essential elements of military intelligence to the command element of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF); supporting their task force commanders, and their subordinate operating units of the Fleet Marine Force (FMF).

Historically, the Force Recon companies, detachments and platoons performed both deep reconnaissance and direct action (DA) operations. Some missions are now shared by the Marine Special Operations Teams (MSOT), due to the establishment of the U.S. Marine Special Operations Command (MARSOC) in 2006. MARSOC was formed from Force Recon's direct action platoons, and now are capable of performing many of the same mission sets for USSOCOM. This dual existence now allows the FORECON companies to focus on excelling in their primary intelligence-gathering mission, as well as the VBSS (Visit Board Search and Seizure) side of the specialized raid mission.

FORECON is responsible for operating independently behind enemy lines performing unconventional special operations, in support of conventional warfare. The unit's various methods of airborne, heliborne, submarine and waterborne insertions and extractions are similar to those of the Navy SEALs, Army Special Forces, 75th Ranger Regiment, or Air Force Combat Controllers, although Force Recon's missions and tasks do differ slightly with a focus on primarily supporting Marine expeditionary and amphibious operations.

Preliminary Requirements

---

Before anyone is able to be screened for Reconnaissance, those candidates must consider the prerequisites and adhere to the following:

• Updated and current physical
• General Technical (GT) score of 105 or higher (particularly, FORECON candidates must have a GT score of 115 or higher).
• Physical Fitness Test 1st Class score.
• CWS-1 (1st Class) swim qualification.
• 20/20 vision, with minimum correction allowed. Laser eye surgery is acceptable as long as 20/20 is achieved. Normal color vision (color blindness is acceptable if able to contrast between red and green).
• No page 11 entries in service record book.
• 18-months minimum remaining on current enlistment contract upon completion of the basic reconnaissance course.
• Be able to obtain a "Secret" security clearance.
• Have completed the infantry course at the Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry.

Selection

---

The first initial steps of making a Marine into a qualified Reconnaissance Marine starts at the recon selection, or screening board, regardless if it is for assignment to Radio Recon, Scout Snipers, Division Recon, or Force Recon. The screening process is used to test potential recon candidates in their combat swimming skills, physical stamina and endurance. The screening board is a 48-hour event that is held on the last Thursday of each month at either MCB Camp Pendleton or MCB Camp Lejeune; the FMF Reconnaissance and all the organic division reconnaissance assets conduct their own distinct selection process from one another. Force Recon held their screening board at Camp Horno and near Las Flores on Camp Pendleton.

If failed, the Marines are encouraged to try the screening process again later if they so desire. Any candidate may also voluntarily dropout at any time during the screening process and retake the test later. Multiple screening attempts are common before succeeding. The only uniqueness between both recon asset's indoc screening, the division recon Marines had to retake the Force Recon's indoc if they were to make the subtle change from a division-level to a force-level command, regardless of their prior excelled qualifications.

Because Marines are amphibious by nature, the candidates proceed to the pool where they perform combat water aerobics. Beginning with a 25 m (82 ft) underwater swim, the candidates also must conduct deep water rifle retrieval. Determining on which is performing the screening, the mock rifle may be either a rubber model of the service rifle ("rubber duck") or even concrete cinder blocks are sometimes used instead; which was frequented by the Force Recon's selection board on occasion. The candidates would then have to carry the concrete block to the surface and swim it to a designated spot.

Next is the 25 ft (7.6 m) tower jump with full combat gear, followed by 30-minutes of treading water. Further water combat skills are imposed also, such as the five-minute flotation with trousers and a timed 500 m (1,600 ft) swim. After the pool screening is completed, the candidates run in formation down to the red course to perform a physical fitness test. They are required to obtain a 1st Class score of 225 or higher.

The next day, the candidates run the Obstacle Course a few times. The Marines conducting the indoctrination evaluation base the candidates on their effort method of attempting the "O" Course, and not by how fast they complete it. After the "O" Course, the last event in the selection and screening board ends with the recon candidates being tasked to run with a "ruck sack" and a "rubber duck." A ruck sack is a field pack containing a 50 lb (23 kg) sand bag. They are expected to maintain a pace of four- to five-miles per hour. The Division Recon demands the candidates to run an 8 mi (13 km) concourse, the FMF Recon however demanded an additional 10 mi (16 km) "boots and utes" ruck sack run over the hills of Las Flores and down along the beach. Failure to maintain this pace results in the candidate being dropped. Once the recon Marine candidates pass all physical and evaluation tests, they are given a psychological screening test and an interview.

If they are deemed fit to continue training, they will then be interviewed by the recon command's staff whether it be Force Recon or Division Recon; the officers are interviewed by the company commander, the enlisted Marines are interviewed by the company sergeant major and other staff non-commissioned officers. If were given permission to start their initial training to become recon Marines, they proceed to the indoctrination program.

In 2007, the Marine Corps folded the recon screening process into the initial phases of the Basic Reconnaissance Course.


Mission Training Plan

---

Training within the Company is outlined by the Mission Training Plan (MTP). It is used in conjunction with the training and exercises that are conducted by the Marine Expeditionary Units for their "Special Operations Capable" certification. It follows a systematic approach to training, and the emphasis is to "train as they expect to fight".

"The best form of WELFARE for our Marines and sailors is first class training; this saves unnecessary casualties"

The Mission Training Plan has five phases, and is based on a two-year platoon cycle. Training is ongoing and continuous, and functions as if it were a loop. Before FORECON operators are "Special Operations Capable" they follow the Company's MTP, which underlines the training protocol of the Pre-deployment Training Program (PTP).

• Phase 1: Individual Training
• Phase 2: Unit Training
• Phase 3: MEU (SOC) Training
• Phase 4: MEU (SOC) Deployment
  
• Phase 5: MEU (SOC) Post Deployment
  

Phase 1
The first phase in FORECON's Mission Training Plan takes place within the MEU's Pre-deployment Training Program (PTP) Initial Training Phase. In order for Marines to become Force Recon operators, it is required to complete each course as they progress through the 'Accession Pipeline' although there are other senior and veteran Marines that have already served with Force Recon, choosing to stay attached to the company only to repeat the 2-year platoon cycle continuously. Whichever the case, they both will attend their respective schools: the candidates traverse through the accession pipeline, as the recon veterans attend specialized schools—both participating in Phase 1 of the MTP.

The recon candidates of Force Recon are required to obtain the designation of MOS 0326 [formerly 8654], Reconnaissance Man, Parachutist/Combatant Diver Qualified. In order to achieve that, they must attend the following courses.

Accession Pipeline - 383 Days (376 Pre Sep 2008)

• Infantry Rifleman Course – Infantry Training Battalion, US Marine Corps Schools of Infantry (East or West) - 59 Days (prior to September 2008, it was 52 days)
• Basic Reconnaissance Course – United States Marine Corps School of Infantry (West) - 65 Days
• Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape (SERE) [Level "C"]/Navy Remote Training Sites; NAS Brunswick, Rangeley, Maine, and NAS North Island, Warner Springs, California. - 91 Days
• United States Marine Corps Combatant Diver Course – Navy Diving Salvage and Training Center, Naval Support Activity Panama City, Florida - 56 Days
• Basic Airborne Course – United States Army Airborne School, Fort Benning, Georgia - 21 Days
• Multi Mission Parachute Course – CPS Complete Parachute Systems, Coolidge, Arizona - 21 Days
• Multi Mission Parachute Course – CPS Complete Parachute Systems, Coolidge, Arizona - 28 Days
  
• High Risk Personnel (HRP) Course – MCB Quantico, Virginia - 42 Days
  

Special Schools
During the "Individual Training Phase", the candidates are undergoing the accession pipeline to become qualified MOS 0321 (Reconnaissance Man). After further training, the already-billeted Force Recon operators (who had already completed the required courses in the accession pipeline [basic recon, parachutist and diving, and SERE/HRP courses] attain MOS 0326 (Reconnaissance man, parachute and combatant diver qualified) and may continue to remain with FORECON after the 3-year rotation cycle. They may be selected for additional advanced cross-service training from other schools provided by the Special Operations Forces (SOF) units. Although these specialized schools are not necessarily required, they are highly encouraged.

Many Marine Corps 'training liaisons' represent the Marines at many cross-services schools, to ensure training slots and openings are met and filled by the Marines that requested, or were recommended, for advanced training. Some of these courses may not be able to facilitate the Marine students, the instructors of these schools resort to complement the Marines' requested syllabus by designing subsidiary courses of the similar. This argument becomes clear on whether Marines may, or may not, actually attend the Basic Underwater Demolitions/SEAL (BUD/S). Nonetheless, in the past, selected operators within Force Recon had attended the courses of instructions provided by BUD/S Instructors and their completion is documented in their military Service Record Book (SRB) or Officer Qualification Record (OQR).

• Tactical Air Control Party – one per team - 127 Days
• U.S. Army Ranger School – all team leaders and above - 61 Days
• U.S. Army Recon and Surveillance Leaders Course – all team leaders and above - 35 Days
• U.S. Army Pathfinder Course – all team leaders and above - 21 Days
• U.S. Army Jumpmaster School – minimum two per platoon - 21 Days
• Mountain Leaders (Summer/Winter) Course – one per team - 35 Days
• USMC Scout Sniper Course – minimum one per team - 50 Days
• Helicopter Rope Suspension Training Masters Course – minimum two per platoon - 11 Days
• Dive Supervisor Course – minimum two per platoon - 21 Days
• LAR V Technician Course – two per platoon - 28 Days
• Special Operations Combat Medics Course - two per platoon. - 168 days.
  

Phase 2 - 49 Days

---

The second phase of the MTP also takes place during the MEU's PTP Initial Training Phase.

Training Cell (T-Cell)
The Training Cell (T-Cell) is regulated by the experienced staff non-commissioned officers (SNCOs) of FMF Recon company's Operations Section (S-3). This removes the responsibility of coordinating training from the platoon headquarters, and permits them to train with their men (rather than to just oversee the training).

"Fight as you train, train as you fight!"

An additional and no less important advantage to the T-Cell is that it acts as a training ground for future platoon sergeants. Those assigned to the T-Cell are all highly trained and experienced operators. Some have deployed as platoon sergeants, and some have not. Experienced FORECON operators within T-Cell monitor, evaluate and improve the training to ensure that exercises meet real-world conditions.

Advanced Long Range Communications Package (21 Days) – It is conducted by the Company Communications Section. As the term Deep reconnaissance indicates, the platoon will operate well forward of other forces. In order to report observations, call for fires or extract, all members need to have a complete and thorough knowledge of the sophisticated communication equipment carried. It includes manual Morse code, and long-range high frequency (HF), satellite, multi-band, and digital communications.
Weapons and Tactics Package (21 Days) – Involves 5000-8000 rounds fired from the M4 carbine equipped with a Special Operations Peculiar Modification kit and the MEU(SOC) Pistol (.45 ACP). A live fire and maneuvering exercise in immediate action (IA) drills within close range of rotary wing support, as well as transportation, is conducted on the third week. As the Marines become familiar with their weapons, they conduct field exercise, force-on-force, live-fire drills using a militarized version of the Simunitions kit called the Special Effects Small Arms Marking Systems, or SESAMS. The Marking Cartridge ammunition contains a sabot and a small, plastic round encasing a colored detergent or paint, usually red or blue.
Threat Weapons Familiarization Package (7 Days) – Concludes "knowledge of weapons" with identification and operation of threat weapons used by adversaries of the United States. Threat Weapons include assault, automatic and mobilized weapons.

Phase 3 - 180 Days

---

Special Operations Training Group (SOTG) - 180 Days
The Special Operations Training Group, or SOTG, is a training section of the United States Marine Corps providing Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) commanders with training facilities and a liaison for Marine Expeditionary Units (MEU). The SOTG provides special operations training for various branches and also participates in the MEUs' Special Operations Capable Certification by acting as the "Training and Evaluation Board" for the exercises and events during the MEU annual training cycles.

Courses
Applied Explosives Course — This course outlines the discussion of the different compositions and theory of explosives and tamping methods.
Dynamic Entry Course — Students are taught different methods of explosive breaching. They must have already completed the "Applied Explosives Course".
Urban Reconnaissance & Surveillance — A course designed to train personnel from FMF and division reconnaissance, Scout Sniper Platoons, Radio Battalions and Radio Reconnaissance Platoons, and company intelligence (S-2) detachments in the conduct of urbanized reconnaissance and surveillance (R&S). The course will cover at a minimum, an introduction to R&S, intelligence considerations, R&S planning, urban route planning and movements, introduction to direct action (DA) operations, evasion-and-escape techniques, surveillance/counter-surveillance techniques and equipment, and urban communication procedures. Training will focus on reconnaissance in support of special operations and conventional missions with specific emphasis on urban operations. This course provides an outstanding opportunity to integrate with the Amphibious Squadron's (PHIBRON) Naval Special Warfare Detachment (NAVSPECWAR Det.)
Urban Sniper Course — Same as above. This course trains snipers in target, surveillance and acquisition while conducting operations in urbanized areas. It lists discussions in advantages and disadvantages of the built-up environment, to include course of instructions in countersniper techniques.
Assault Climbers Course —Mountaineering skills, mountain physical endurance training, multi-pitch climbs, lead climbs, belaying, rope installations, knots, rappelling, steep earth climbing, and all the necessary knowledge associated with it.
Dynamic Assault Course — This course is initially designed for enhancing close quarters combat (CQC) skills. Students learn and apply CQC in a low-light environments. It also emphasizes on advanced surgical and precision shooting with the M4 carbine and M1911A1 .45 caliber pistol. Students learned to quickly switch from one weapon to the other during failure drills. They are also introduced to a close quarters battle environment. They were instructed on how to systematically clear a room and navigate through buildings as a team. Participants learn to quickly identify and deal with improvised explosive devices, adversaries and individuals of unknown intent, referred to as unknowns, within the confined spaces of the "Shooting House".
Security Element Training Course — This course is designed for the Security Element of a Maritime Special Purpose Force, a platoon sized force. It develops the skills necessary for the force to function in support of the Assault Element. The training of this platoon will include limited Close Quarters Battle (CQB) skills, internal security procedures, hostage handling procedures, and other capabilities required to support the assault element.
Boat Raid Course — The course familiarizes the students with the Combat Rubber Reconnaissance Craft in performing various raid and reconnaissance missions. The training also teaches courses of instructions on how to move from an maritime environments to dry land. Students are required to operate around obstacles in the aquatic course.
Deep Infiltration and Extraction Team (DIET) Course — This course teaches students to make small air/ground units under the SPMAGTF. Only students qualified in (HRST), (CQC), (SPIE), Urban Sniper and masterful command of aircraft and navigation may qualify.
Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and/or Personnel (TRAP) Course — Course teaches students in the fundamentals of helicopter and subsurface insertions for the recovery of aircraft equipment and personnel, or other sensitive material that is of interest for retrieval.
Non-Lethal Weapons Course — Students learns skills in utilizing their MCMAP skills in defense and offense of non-lethal weapons.

Phase 4 - 180 Days

---

Once the SOC Certification Final Training Phase is finished, the MEU with the detached Force Recon platoon as a functionable special operations capable force. Then they sail on a 180-day deployment. This long deployment is known as the 'Deployment Phases' to Force Recon, they sail from either three locations, off the east or west coast, or Okinawa. The I MEF on the west would deploy its Marine Expeditionary Units (MEUs) to the western Pacific and the II MEF's MEUs on the east coast sails across the Atlantic Ocean to either the Mediterranean Sea or the Persian Gulf. The III MEF's 31st MEU in Okinawa is to be used as a contingency for reinforced support of an area spanning from southwest Asia to the central Pacific. The III MEF is the only MEF of the FMF that is permanently fully deployed at all times.

While Force Recon is afloat, they still remain focused on their self-disciplined training sessions. They conduct small arms live fire training on the deck of the ships and physical fitness training. In many cases, foreign maritime forces alike participate in joint exercises or training maneuvers, such as the Royal Thai Marine Corps, British Royal Marines, and Australian Forces. But while they may be training, the MEU are capable of projecting fully forward deployed operational task forces. Thus, epitomizing the infamous Marine Corps slogan, "force-in-readiness".

Phase 5 - 30 Days

---

The last phase is the post-deployment phase. After training and deployment, the platoon is granted 30-days of military leave. Once a Force Recon operator has finished deployment, they have a decision to make. What makes Force Recon unique from Division Recon, and the other SOFs, is the career style that is emplaced in the Force Recon company structure. They can choose to stay with the Force Recon Company and continue their assignment with the MEU, recycling its loop cycle; or they can get release from the FORECON company and go back to their original assignment, whether it being administration, motor transport, or infantry. However, on average, approximately 50% of the platoon will leave, their time in Force having expired.

EQUIPMENT

---

The primary weapons used by both Division and FMF Recon assets are typically the same standard-issued weapons in the arsenal of the Marine Corps. However, since Force Recon's missions are directly involved in parachuting and underwater insertions, they demand weapons and equipment that are essential to their job. Their equipment reflects on which ever tasks that have been assigned by the MAGTF, MEF, or MEU commander; either direct action (black) or deep recon (green) operations.

Some equipment only fits the needs for one particular mission over another. There is however some equipment that is used for both black and green operations, and these pieces of gear are usually combat vests, flak and armor jackets (or systems), and harnesses for use in hasty extraction measures.

Particularly during green operations, these missions normally encompass surveillance and reconnaissance. The equipment items carried into the field are usually cameras, scopes, and most importantly communications. Two recon Marines serve as radiomen in the team. Each team/platoon often brings two field radios that are able to withstand the elements of seawater, and rugged patrolling as they tread inland—if one radio fails, they resort to the supplemental radio. This is to ensure that vital information can always be sent to the commander, and to the S-3/S-6 shop, or similar intelligence collection agencies. More common in today's infrastructure, much of the intelligence-gathered information is sent to and processed by the Marine Expeditionary Force's "Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Intelligence Group" (SRIG).

For black operations, the Marines carry weapons that are more of the close-quarter combative use; grenades, carbine rifles, sub-machine guns (SMGs), and any tool to use for breaching barricades and doors. They can be equipped with laser designating devices to "paint" their targets with laser-guiding coordinates to deliver payload to un-expecting targets. Since they are "bringing the fight to the enemy", they do not rely on camouflage as stealthy action is not a factor in these situations.

M4A1 Close Quarters Battle Weapon (CQBW) with M320 Under barrel Grenade Launcher - Black
M27 IAR or M240 Bravo Light Machine Gun - Green
MARPAT Combat Utility Uniform (Desert · Woodland) - Green
Combat Integrated Releasable Armor System (CIRAS) (Land or Maritime)
MEU(SOC) Pistol with Safariland 6004 holster - Black, Green with Supressor
M40 Sniper Rifle or M14 Designated Marksman Rifle (DMR) - Green
M82A3 SASR .50 Anti-Material Weapon - Black
M240 General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) - Black
M2HB .50-cal Heavy Machine Gun - Black
Lightweight Helmet - Both
NOMEX Uniform (Desert · Woodland): Flight suit modified for Force Recon operator use, balaclava
Aviator gloves, and rigger's belt. - Black
Breaching Shotguns: Benelli M1014 - Black
Improved Load Bearing Equipment (ILBE) - Both
Long-range Communications, radio and SATCOM - Both
M2120 SOPHIE Long Range Thermal Imager - Both
AN/PEQ-1A Special Operations Forces Laser Marker (SOFLAM) - Green
Defense Advanced GPS Receiver (DAGR) - Both


CREED

---

Realizing it is my choice and my choice alone to be a Reconnaissance Marine, I accept all challenges involved with this profession. Forever shall I strive to maintain the tremendous reputation of those who went before me.

Exceeding beyond the limitations set down by others shall be my goal. Sacrificing personal comforts and dedicating myself to the completion of the reconnaissance mission shall be my life. Physical fitness, mental attitude, and high ethics—The title of Recon Marine is my honor.

Conquering all obstacles, both large and small, I shall never quit. To quit, to surrender, to give up is to fail. To be a Recon Marine is to surpass failure; To overcome, to adapt and to do whatever it takes to complete the mission.

On the battlefield, as in all areas of life, I shall stand tall above the competition. Through professional pride, integrity, and teamwork, I shall be the example for all Marines to emulate.

Never shall I forget the principles I accepted to become a Recon Marine. Honor, Perseverance, Spirit and Heart. A Recon Marine can speak without saying a word and achieve what others can only imagine.

[/class]

[Deleted]

[style]
.zod1 {
font-family: ancient1
}
@font-face { font-family: ancient1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.svg') format('svg');}

.zod1:hover {
font-family: english1
}
{ font-family: english1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.svg') format('svg');}[/style]


[class="zod1"]

Naval Special Warfare Development Group

The United States Naval Special Warfare Development Group (NSWDG), or DEVGRU, is a U.S. Navy component of Joint Special Operations Command. It is often referred to as SEAL Team Six, the name of its predecessor which was officially disbanded in 1987. DEVGRU is administratively supported by Naval Special Warfare Command and operationally commanded by the Joint Special Operations Command. Most information concerning DEVGRU is classified and details of its activities are not usually commented on by either the White House or the Department of Defense. In 2010 it was reported DEVGRU's designation was changed by the Defense Department.[4] Despite the official name changes, "SEAL Team Six" remains the unit's widely recognized moniker. It is sometimes referred to in the U.S. media as a Special Mission Unit.

DEVGRU and its Army counterpart, Delta Force, are the United States military's primary counter-terrorism units. Although DEVGRU was created as a maritime counter-terrorism unit, it has become a multi-functional special operations unit with several roles that include high-risk personnel/hostage extractions and other specialized missions.

The Central Intelligence Agency's highly secretive Special Activities Division (SAD) and more specifically its elite Special Operations Group (SOG) often works with—and recruits—operators from DEVGRU. The combination of these units led to the most significant special operations success in the Global War On Terror.

Recruitment, Selection & Training

---

In the early stages of creating SEAL Team Six, Marcinko was given six months to get ST6 up and running or the whole project would come to an end. This meant that there was a timing issue and Marcinko had little time to create a proper selection course, similar to that of Delta Force, and as a result hand-picked the first plankowners of the unit after assessing their Navy records and interviewing each man. It has been said that Marcinko regretted not having enough time to set up a proper selection process and course. All applicants came from the Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs) and East and West Coast SEAL teams. Marcinko's criteria for recruiting applicants was combat experience so he would know they could perform under fire; language skills were vital, as the unit would have a worldwide mandate to communicate with the local population if needed; union skills, to be able to blend in as civilians during an operation; and finally SEAL skills. Members of SEAL Team Six were selected in part because of the different specialist skills of each man.

Candidates are interviewed by a review board to deem whether the candidate is suitable to undertake the selection phase. Those who pass the stringent recruitment and selection process will be selected to attend a six- to eight-month Operators Training Course. Candidates will screen with the unit's training wing known as "Green Team". The training course attrition rate is high; during one selection course, out of the original 20 candidates, 12 completed the course. All candidates are watched closely by DEVGRU instructors and evaluated on whether they are suitable to join the individual squadrons. Howard E. Wasdin, a former member of SEAL Team Six said in a recent interview that 16 applied for SEAL Team Six selection course and two were accepted. Those who do not pass the selection phase are returned to their previous assignments and are able to try again in the future.

Like all Special Operations Forces units that have an extremely intensive and high-risk training schedule, there can be serious injuries and deaths. SEAL Team Six/DEVGRU has lost several operators during training, including parachute accidents and close-quarters battle training accidents. It is presumed that the unit's assessment process for potential new recruits is different from what a SEAL operator experienced in his previous career, and much of the training tests the candidate's mental capacity rather than his physical condition, as he will have already completed Basic Underwater Demolitions/SEAL or the Navy EOD training pipeline.

Candidates are put through a variety of advanced training courses led by civilian or military instructors. These can include free-climbing, advanced unarmed combat techniques, defensive and offensive driving, advanced diving, and Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape (SERE) training. All candidates must perform at the top level during selection, and the unit instructors evaluate the candidate during the training process. Selected candidates are assigned to one of the Tactical Development and Evaluation Squadrons; the others are returned to their previous units. Unlike the other regular SEAL Teams, SEAL Team Six operators were able to go to almost any of the best schools anywhere and train in whatever they wanted depending on the unit's requirements.

Structure

---

DEVGRU is divided into color-coded line squadrons, which are commanded by Commanders:
Gold Squadron (Assault Team)
- Headquarters Team (16 SEALs)
- 1st Troop (20 SEALs)
- 2nd Troop (20 SEALs)
- 3rd Troop (20 SEALs)

Blue Squadron (Assault Team)
- Headquarters Team (16 SEALs)
- 1st Troop (20 SEALs)
- 2nd Troop (20 SEALs)
- 3rd Troop (20 SEALs)

Silver Squadron (Assault Team)
- Headquarters Team (16 SEALs)
- 1st Troop (20 SEALs)
- 2nd Troop (20 SEALs)
- 3rd Troop (20 SEALs)

Red Squadron (Assault Team)
- Headquarters Team (16 SEALs)
- 1st Troop (20 SEALs)
- 2nd Troop (20 SEALs)
- 3rd Troop (20 SEALs)

Black Squadron (Reconnaissance & Surveillance Team)
- Headquarters Team (16 SEALs)
- 1st Troop (16 SEALs)
- 2nd Troop (16 SEALs)
- 3rd Troop (16 SEALs)
- 4th Troop (16 SEALs)
- 5th Troop (16 SEALs)

Gray Squadron (Divers)
- Headquarters Team (16 SEALs)
- 1st Troop (20 SEALs)
- 2nd Troop (20 SEALs)
- 3rd Troop (20 SEALs)

Each assault squadron is divided into three groups (commanded by lieutenant commanders) and groups are divided into smaller teams. Each line squadron has a specific nickname. Examples being Gold-Knights, Red-Indians, Black-Pirates.

[/class]

[Deleted]

[style]
.zod1 {
font-family: ancient1
}
@font-face { font-family: ancient1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.svg') format('svg');}

.zod1:hover {
font-family: english1
}
{ font-family: english1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.svg') format('svg');}[/style]


[class="zod1"]

United States Navy SEALs

The United States Navy's Sea, Air, Land Teams, commonly known as the Navy SEALs, are the U.S. Navy's principal special operations force and a part of the Naval Special Warfare Command and United States Special Operations Command. The SEALs duty is to conduct small-unit maritime military operations which originate from, and return to a river, ocean, swamp, delta or coastline. SEALs can negotiate shallow water areas such as the Persian Gulf coastline, where large ships and submarines are limited due to depth.

"SEAL" is always capitalized in reference to members of the Naval Special Warfare community. The Navy SEALs are trained to operate in all environments (Sea, Air, and Land) for which they are named. SEALs are also prepared to operate in climate extremes of scorching desert, freezing Arctic, and humid jungle. The SEALs current pursuit of elusive, dangerous and high-priority terrorist targets has them operating in remote, mountainous regions of Afghanistan, and in cities torn by factional violence. Historically the SEALs have always had "one foot in the water." The reality, however, today is that they initiate lethal direct action strikes equally well from air and land.

All SEALs are male members of the United States Navy. The CIA's highly secretive Special Activities Division (SAD) and more specifically its elite Special Operations Group (SOG) recruits operators from the SEAL Teams. Joint Navy SEALs and CIA operations go back to the famed MACV-SOG during the Vietnam War. This cooperation still exists today and is seen in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Due to their reputation as one of the world's premier special operations forces, SEAL operators routinely serve in allied SOF's including the British Special Air Service, Special Boat Service and Polish GROM.

Selection & Training

---

The average United States Navy SEAL spends over a year in a series of formal training environments before being awarded the Special Warfare Operator Naval Rating and the Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC) 5326 Combatant Swimmer (SEAL) or, in the case of commissioned naval officers, the designation Naval Special Warfare (SEAL) Officer. All Navy SEALs must attend and graduate from their rating's 168-day "A" School known as Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) school, a basic parachutist course and then the 182-day SEAL Qualification Training program.

All sailors entering the SEAL training pipeline with a medical rating or those chosen by Naval Special Warfare Command must also attend the 6-month Advanced Medical Training Course 18D and subsequently earn the NEC SO-5392 Naval Special Warfare Medic before joining an operational Team. Once outside the formal schooling environment SEALs entering a new Team at the beginning of an operational rotation can expect 548 days of training interspersed with leave and other time off before each 6-month deployment.

Screening

---

Entering training to become a Navy SEAL is voluntary, and officers and enlisted men train side-by-side. To volunteer, SEAL candidates must be male, between 17 and 29 years old, and US citizens in the U.S. Navy. Occasionally, personnel from foreign armed forces allied with the United States will also be invited to take part in BUDS training. Waivers are available for 17-year-olds with parental permission and on a case-by-case basis for 29- and 30-year-olds. Academically, all applicants must have the equivalent of a high school education, have a composite score of at least 220 on the ASVAB and be proficient in all aspects of the English language. Medically, all potential applicants must have at least 20/75 vision, correctable to 20/20, be able to pass the SEAL Physical Screening Test and have no recent history of drug abuse. Lastly applicants must have "good moral character" as determined by his history of criminal convictions and civil citations.

Assessment

---

Assignment to BUD/S is conditional on the SEAL Physical Screening Test (PST). Prospective trainees are expected to exceed the minimums. The minimum requirements are 500 yd (460 m) swim using breast or combat sidestroke in under 12:30 with a competitive time of 9:00 or less, at least 50 push-ups in 2 minutes with a competitive count of 90 or more, at least 50 sit-ups in 2 minutes with a competitive count of 85 or more, at least 10 pull-ups from a dead hang (no time limit) with a competitive count of 18 or more, run 1.5 mi (2.4 km) in running shorts and boots in under 10:30 with a competitive time of 9:30 or less.

Naval Special Warfare Preparatory School (56 Days)

---

The training curriculum begins at Naval Special Warfare Preparatory School in Great Lakes, Illinois. Here, aspiring SEALs are given a crash course in the physical standards required to even attempt to become a SEAL.

It starts with the initial Physical Screening Test and ends with a more demanding Physical Screening Test, one that includes a timed four-mile run and a timed 1,000-meter swim. The goal is to increase the SEAL candidates physical readiness between the two tests so that they are ready to move on to Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) Training. Those unable to pass the final test are removed from the SEAL training pipeline and reclassified into other jobs in the Navy.

Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) Training (168 Days)

---

BUD/S is a 168-day training challenge that develops the SEAL candidates mental and physical stamina and leadership skills. Each BUD/S phase includes timed physical condition tests, with the time requirements becoming more demanding each week. BUD/S consists of a three-week orientation followed by three phases, covering physical conditioning (seven weeks), combat diving (seven weeks), and land warfare (seven weeks) respectively. Officer and enlisted personnel go through the same training program. It is designed to develop and test their stamina, leadership, and ability to work as a team.

Orientation (21 Days)

---

BUD/S Orientation is a 21-day course that introduces candidates to Coronado, the Naval Special Warfare Center and the BUD/S lifestyle. During Orientation, Navy SEAL instructors introduce candidates to BUD/S physical training, the obstacle course and other unique training aspects. This part of training is designed to prepare candidates for day one of the first phase.

Phase 1: Physical Conditioning (46 Days)

---

The first phase of BUD/S assesses SEAL candidates in physical conditioning, water competency, teamwork and mental tenacity. Physical conditioning utilizes running, swimming and calisthenics and grows harder and harder as the weeks progress. Candidates will participate in weekly four mile timed runs in boots and timed obstacle courses, swim distances up to two miles wearing fins in the ocean and learn small boat seamanship.

The first two weeks of basic conditioning prepare candidates for the third week, also known as "Hell Week." During Hell Week, candidates participate in five and a half days of continuous training, each candidate sleeps at most four hours during the entire week and runs more than 200 miles and does physical training for more than 20 hours per day. The remaining three weeks involve the acquisition of various methods of conducting hydrographic surveys and creating a hydrographic chart.

Because of its particularly challenging requirements, many candidates begin questioning their decision to come to BUD/S during First Phase, with a significant number deciding to Drop on Request (DOR). The tradition of DOR consists of dropping one's helmet liner next to a pole with a brass ship’s bell attached to it and ringing the bell three times.

It has been reported that all candidates receive two medical examinations within 24 hours, after hell week.

Phase 2: Combat Diving (49 Days)

---

The diving phase of BUD/S trains, develops and qualifies SEAL candidates as competent basic combat swimmers. During this period, physical training continues and becomes even more intensive. This second phase concentrates on combat SCUBA. Candidates will learn two types of SCUBA: open circuit (compressed air) and closed circuit. Also, basic dive medicine and medical skills training is provided.

Emphasis is placed on long-distance underwater dives with the goal of training students to become basic combat divers, using swimming and diving techniques as a means of transportation from their launch point to their combat objective. This is what separates SEALs from all other US special operations forces.

Successful second phase candidates demonstrate a high level of comfort in the water and the ability to perform in stressful and often uncomfortable environments. Candidates who are not completely comfortable in the water often struggle to succeed.

Phase 3: Land Warfare (49 Days)

---

The land warfare phase teaches the class basic weapons, demolitions, land navigation, patrolling, rappelling, marksmanship and small-unit tactics. During third phase, the class is taught to gather and process information that will complete the overall mission. There is more classroom work that teaches map, compass, land navigation and basic weapon skill sets. These skill sets allow the class to transition from having novice skills to becoming more comfortable out in the field. Most of this training is new to the class, and the learning pace becomes faster and faster.

For the final three and a half weeks of training, the class goes offshore, about 60 miles from Coronado to San Clemente Island. On the island, the class practices the skills they learned in third phase. The days become longer and more work intensive, set to mirror the work hours spent in the field.

Parachute Jump School (21 Days)

---

Upon successful completion of BUD/S, SEAL candidates go on to receive both static line and free-fall training at Tactical Air Operations in San Diego, CA. The accelerated 21-day program is highly regimented, facilitated by world-class instructors, and designed to develop safe and competent free-fall jumpers in a short period of time.

To complete the course, candidates must pass through a series of jump progressions, from basic static line to accelerated free fall to combat equipment – ultimately completing night descents with combat equipment from a minimum altitude of 9,500 feet.

SEAL Qualification Training (SQT) (182 Days)

---

SEAL Qualification Training (SQT) is a 182-day course that will take the student from the basic elementary level of Naval Special Warfare to a more advanced degree of tactical training. SQT is designed to provide students with the core tactical knowledge they will need to join a SEAL platoon.

The class will learn advanced weapons training, small unit tactics, land navigation, demolitions, cold weather training in Kodiak, Alaska, medical skills and maritime operations. Before graduating, students also attend Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape training.

Graduation from SQT culminates in the awarding of the coveted Navy SEAL Trident – after which new SEALs immediately are assigned to a SEAL Team and begin advanced training for their first deployment.

SEAL Troop (TRP) Training

---

Following SQT, new SEALs will receive orders to a SEAL Team and assignment to a Troop (TRP) and subordinate Platoon (PLT). New operators will join their Platoon wherever they are in their deployment cycle. The normal workup or pre-deployment workup is a 12- to 18-month cycle divided into three phases.

Individual Specialty Training

---

Phase one of a work-up is Individual Specialty Training. Individual Specialty Training is 6 months long where individual operators attend a number of formal or informal schools and courses. These schools lead to required qualifications and designations that collectively allow the platoon to perform as an operational combat team. Depending on the team's and platoon's needs, operators can expect to acquire some of the following skills (Items in parentheses are Joint SOF Unit Course equivalent):

• Sniper | Scout/Sniper
• Advanced Close Quarter Combat/Breacher (Barrier Penetration/Methods of Entry)
• Surreptitious Entry (Mechanical and Electronic Bypass)
• NSWCFC (Naval Special Warfare Combat Fighting Course)
• Advanced Special Operations (MSO)
• Technical Surveillance Operations
• Advanced Driving Skills (Defensive, Rally, Protective Security)
• Climbing/Rope Skills
• Advanced Air Operations: Jumpmaster or Parachute Rigger
• Diving Supervisor or Diving Maintenance-Repair
• Range Safety Officer
• Advanced Demolition
• High Threat Protective Security (PSD) – (US/Foreign Heads of State or High Value Persons of Interest)
• Instructor School and Master Training Specialist
• Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operator
• Language School
• Joint SOF and Service Professional Military Education (JPME)

Unit Level Training

---

Phase two of a work-up is called Unit Level Training (ULT). ULT is a 6-month block run by the respective group (NSWG1/NSWG2) training detachment, where the TRP/PLT's train in their core mission area skills: Small unit tactics, land warfare, close quarters combat, urban warfare, hostile maritime interdiction (VBSS/GOPLATS), combat swimming, long range target interdiction, rotary and fixed wing air operations and special reconnaissance.

Task Group Level Training

---

Phase three of a work-up is Task Group Level Training. Task Group Level Training is the last 6-month block wherein a troop conducts advanced training with the supporting attachments/enablers of a SEAL Squadron: Special Boat Teams (SWCC), Intelligence(SI/HI/ETC)Teams, Cryptological Support Teams, Communications (MCT/JCSE) Medical Teams, EOD, Interpreters/Linguist, etc. A final Certification Exercise (CERTEX) is conducted with the entire SEAL Squadron (SQDN) to synchronize Troop (TRP) operations under the Joint Special Operations Task Force (JSOTF) umbrella. Following CERTEX, a SEAL Team becomes a SEAL Squadron and is certified for deployment.

Once certified, a SEAL Team/Squadron will deploy to a Joint Special Operations Task Force or Area of Responsibility to become a Special Operations Task Force (SOTF), combine with a Joint Task Force (JTF) or Task Force (TF) in support of other National Objectives. Once assigned, the Troops will be given an Area of Operations (AOR) where they will either work as a centralized/intact Troop or task organize into decentralized elements (PLT-20/SQD-10/TM-5) to conduct operations. NSW Troops have ranged in size from 60 personnel to over 200 and can consist of SEAL's and any USSOCOM operational element and enablers. A SEAL Team/Squadron deployment currently is approximately 6 months, keeping the entire cycle at 12 to 24 months.

[/class]

[Deleted]

[style]
.zod1 {
font-family: ancient1
}
@font-face { font-family: ancient1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/ancient_virtual.svg') format('svg');}

.zod1:hover {
font-family: english1
}
{ font-family: english1; src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot'); src: url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.eot#iefix') format('embedded-opentype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.woff') format('woff'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.ttf') format('truetype'),
url('http://goesbumpinthenight.b1.jcink.com/uploads/goesbumpinthenight/fonts/bitwise.svg') format('svg');}[/style]


[class="zod1"]

Special Operations Group
Special Operations Group (SOG) is the department within SAD responsible for operations that include the collection of intelligence in hostile countries and regions, and all high threat military or intelligence operations with which the U.S. government does not wish to be overtly associated. As such, members of the unit (called Paramilitary Operations Officers and Specialized Skills Officers) normally do not carry any objects or clothing (e.g., military uniforms) that would associate them with the United States government. If they are compromised during a mission, the government of the United States may deny all knowledge.

SOG is generally considered the most secretive special operations force in the United States. The group selects operatives from other tier one special mission units such as Delta Force, DEVGRU ISA, and 24th STS.

SOG Paramilitary Operations Officers account for a majority of Distinguished Intelligence Cross and Intelligence Star recipients during any given conflict or incident which elicits CIA involvement. An award bestowing either of these citations represents the highest honors awarded within the CIA organization in recognition of distinguished valor and excellence in the line of duty. SAD/SOG operatives also account for the majority of the names displayed on the Memorial Wall at CIA headquarters indicating that the agent died while on active duty.

Selection & Training

---

SAD/SOG has several hundred officers, mostly former members of special operations forces (SOF) and a majority from the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC). The CIA has also recruited individuals within the agency. The CIA's formal position for these individuals is "Paramilitary Operations Officers" and "Specialized Skills Officers." Paramilitary Operations Officers attend the Clandestine Service Trainee (CST) program, which trains them as clandestine intelligence operatives (i.e. "spies"; known as "Core Collectors" within the Agency). The primary strengths of SAD/SOG Paramilitary Officers are operational agility, adaptability, and deniability. They often operate in small teams, typically made up of six operators (with some operations being carried out by a single officer), all with extensive military special operations expertise and a set of specialized skills that does not exist in any other unit. As fully trained intelligence case officers (i.e. spies), Paramilitary Operations Officers possess all the clandestine skills to collect human intelligence—and most importantly—to recruit assets from among the indigenous troops receiving their training. These officers often operate in remote locations behind enemy lines to carry out direct action (including raids and sabotage), counter-intelligence, guerrilla/ unconventional warfare, counter-terrorism, and hostage rescue missions, in addition to being able to conduct espionage via HUMINT assets.

There are four principal elements within SAD's Special Operations Group: the Air Branch, the Maritime Branch, the Ground Branch, and the Armor and Special Programs Branch. The Armor and Special Programs Branch is charged with development, testing, and covert procurement of new personnel and vehicular armor and maintenance of stockpiles of ordnance and weapons systems used by SOG, almost all of which must be obtained from clandestine sources abroad, in order to provide SOG operatives and their foreign trainees with plausible deniability in accordance with U.S. Congressional directives.

Together, SAD/SOG contains a complete combined arms covert military. Paramilitary Operations Officers are the core of each branch and routinely move between the branches to gain expertise in all aspects of SOG. As such, Paramilitary Operations Officers are trained to operate in a multitude of environments. Because these officers are taken from the most highly trained units in the U.S. military and then provided with extensive additional training to become CIA clandestine intelligence officers, many U.S. security experts assess them as the most elite of the U.S. special missions units.

SAD, like most of the CIA, requires a bachelor's degree to be considered for employment. Many have advanced degrees such as Master's and law degrees. Many candidates come from notable schools, many from Ivy League institutions and United States Service Academies, but the majority of recruits today come from middle-class backgrounds. SAD officers are trained at Camp Peary, Virginia (also known as "The Farm") and at privately owned training centers around the United States. They also train its personnel at "The Point" (Harvey Point), a facility outside of Hertford, North Carolina. In addition to the 585 days of training in the Clandestine Service Trainee (CST) Program required to become a clandestine intelligence officer, Paramilitary Operations Officers are trained to a high level of proficiency in the use and tactical employment of an unusually wide degree of modern weaponry, explosive devices and firearms (foreign and domestic), hand to hand combat, high performance/tactical driving (on and off road), apprehension avoidance (including picking handcuffs and escaping from confinement), improvised explosive devices, cyberwarfare, covert channels, Military Free Fall parachuting, combat and commercial SCUBA and closed circuit diving, proficiency in foreign languages, surreptitious entry operations (picking or otherwise bypassing locks), vehicle hot-wiring, Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape (SERE), extreme survival and wilderness training, combat EMS medical training, tactical communications, and tracking.

[/class]