How to Become a Green Beret

Introduction:
The Green Berets are an elite group of Special Forces within the United States Army. The name “Green Beret” stems from the distinct headgear they wear, which symbolizes their exceptional skills and training. Becoming a Green Beret takes immense dedication, preparation, and perseverance. This article will guide you through the steps to achieve this goal successfully.
Step 1: Understand the Basic Requirements
To become a Green Beret, a candidate must initially meet specific requirements. These include:
– Being a US citizen or permanent resident
– Being between 18 and 32 years old
– Having a high school diploma or GED
– Scoring a minimum of 110 on the Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), specifically in the General Technical (GT) section
– Completing all necessary physical examinations
Step 2: Enlist in the US Army
Once you meet the basic requirements, it’s time to enlist in the US Army. Visit your local recruitment office to begin the enlistment process which involves signing an initial contract with the Army.
Step 3: Attend Basic Combat Training (BCT)
Every soldier is required to attend BCT, which lasts approximately ten weeks. During this time, recruits learn fundamental military skills such as weapons training, physical fitness, and discipline.
Step 4: Complete Advanced Individual Training (AIT)
After BCT, you will move on to AIT where you will receive specialized training in your chosen Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). Make sure that your chosen MOS aligns with available positions within Special Forces.
Step 5: Apply for Airborne School
As a crucial component of Special Forces qualification, you must complete Airborne School – also known as jump school – where you will learn essential parachuting skills. Apply for Airborne School before finishing your AIT.
Step 6: Complete the Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS)
This rigorous 24-day course is designed to test, evaluate, and select candidates who demonstrate the ability and resilience necessary for Green Berets. Physical endurance, land navigation, and problem-solving skills are some elements that SFAS will assess.
Step 7: Attend the Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC)
Once you pass SFAS, you will attend the SFQC – a comprehensive training program that spans several months. This course covers various subjects like small unit tactics, counterinsurgency, unconventional warfare, and foreign languages.
Step 8: Become a Green Beret
When you successfully complete everything mentioned above, including the grueling SFQC, you will become a Green Beret! You can now wear your iconic headgear with pride and join the ranks of an elite force within the US Army.
Conclusion:
Becoming a Green Beret is no easy feat. It requires immense dedication and perseverance. By understanding the requirements and following each step meticulously, you prepare yourself for this noble and challenging journey. As a Green Beret, you will embark on critical missions to protect your country and maintain international peace and stability.