Intro
Discover the elite world of Special Forces in the Army National Guard. Learn about the 19th and 20th Special Forces Groups, their mission, and the rigorous training required to join these prestigious units. Explore the differences between Active Duty and National Guard Special Forces, and find out what it takes to become a Green Beret.
Special Forces, also known as the Green Berets, are an elite group of highly trained warriors who conduct unconventional warfare and other specialized missions. The Army National Guard (ARNG) has its own Special Forces units, which are part of the larger Special Forces community. In this article, we will delve into the world of Special Forces in the Army National Guard, exploring their history, roles, and responsibilities.
History of Special Forces in the Army National Guard
The Army National Guard's Special Forces roots date back to the 1950s, when the first Special Forces units were established in the active duty Army. The ARNG's 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne) was activated in 1961, followed by the 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne) in 1963. These units were trained to conduct unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, and other specialized missions.
Over the years, the ARNG's Special Forces units have participated in numerous operations, including Vietnam, Grenada, Panama, and the Gulf War. In the post-9/11 era, ARNG Special Forces have deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq, and other countries, conducting a range of missions from counterterrorism to training and advising foreign militaries.
Mission and Roles
The primary mission of Special Forces in the Army National Guard is to conduct unconventional warfare, which includes guerrilla warfare, sabotage, and intelligence gathering. ARNG Special Forces are trained to operate behind enemy lines, conducting reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.
Some of the key roles and responsibilities of ARNG Special Forces include:
- Unconventional warfare: ARNG Special Forces conduct guerrilla warfare, sabotage, and other forms of unconventional warfare to disrupt enemy operations.
- Foreign internal defense: ARNG Special Forces train and advise foreign militaries to help them build their capacity to counter internal threats.
- Direct action: ARNG Special Forces conduct direct action missions, such as raids and ambushes, to disrupt enemy operations.
- Special reconnaissance: ARNG Special Forces conduct reconnaissance and surveillance to gather intelligence on enemy operations.
Selection and Training
To become a member of the Army National Guard's Special Forces, one must undergo a rigorous selection and training process. The process typically begins with the Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC), also known as the "Q Course."
The SFQC is a grueling course that pushes candidates to their limits, testing their physical and mental toughness. The course includes training in subjects such as:
- Unarmed combat
- Marksmanship
- First aid
- Survival, evasion, resistance, and escape (SERE)
- Language training
- Cultural awareness
Those who complete the SFQC are awarded the Special Forces tab and the coveted Green Beret.
Special Forces Units in the Army National Guard
The Army National Guard has two Special Forces units:
- 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne)
- 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne)
These units are headquartered in Utah and Alabama, respectively, and have battalions and companies located throughout the country.
Benefits of Joining Special Forces in the Army National Guard
Joining the Army National Guard's Special Forces offers numerous benefits, including:
- Opportunities for adventure and challenge
- Advanced training and education
- Camaraderie and esprit de corps
- Opportunities for career advancement
- Special pay and allowances
- The chance to serve as part of an elite unit
Challenges of Joining Special Forces in the Army National Guard
While joining the Army National Guard's Special Forces can be a rewarding experience, it is not without its challenges. Some of the challenges include:
- Rigorous selection and training process
- High level of physical fitness required
- Time away from family and friends
- High level of stress and pressure
- Possibility of deployment to combat zones
Conclusion
Special Forces in the Army National Guard are an elite group of highly trained warriors who conduct unconventional warfare and other specialized missions. With a rich history and a reputation for excellence, the ARNG's Special Forces units offer a challenging and rewarding experience for those who are willing to push themselves to the limit.
If you are interested in joining the Army National Guard's Special Forces, be prepared for a rigorous selection and training process. But if you are up for the challenge, the rewards are well worth it.
Special Forces Image Gallery
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of Special Forces in the Army National Guard. If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please leave a comment below.