Unlock elite career opportunities with the Army Special Forces MOS. Learn about the prestigious 18-series Military Occupational Specialty, its challenging selection process, and the advanced training that forges elite Green Berets. Discover the roles, responsibilities, and benefits of this esteemed career path, and find out if you have what it takes to join the Special Forces.
Joining the US Army Special Forces is a career goal for many who aspire to be part of an elite group of soldiers. The Army Special Forces, also known as the Green Berets, are a highly specialized unit that conducts a wide range of missions, from counterterrorism to foreign internal defense. To become a member of this elite group, you'll need to pursue the right Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) and meet the rigorous requirements. In this article, we'll explore the Army Special Forces MOS, the benefits of joining the Special Forces, and the steps to pursue this elite career opportunity.
What are the Army Special Forces MOS?
The Army Special Forces MOS is a unique group of specialties that are specific to the Special Forces. These MOS are divided into several groups, including:
Special Forces Operational Detachment (ODA) MOS:
- 18A: Special Forces Officer
- 18B: Special Forces Weapons Sergeant
- 18C: Special Forces Engineer Sergeant
- 18D: Special Forces Medical Sergeant
- 18E: Special Forces Communications Sergeant
- 18F: Special Forces Intelligence Sergeant
- 18Z: Special Forces Operations Sergeant
Special Forces Support MOS:
- 18X: Special Forces Candidate
- 18W: Special Forces Warrant Officer
- 18S: Special Forces Support Sergeant
These MOS require specialized training and skills, including language proficiency, cultural expertise, and advanced tactical training.
Benefits of Joining the Army Special Forces
Joining the Army Special Forces offers a range of benefits, including:
- Elite Training: Special Forces soldiers receive some of the most advanced training in the military, including language training, cultural expertise, and advanced tactical training.
- Career Advancement: Special Forces soldiers have opportunities for career advancement and promotion, including leadership positions and specialized skills training.
- Camaraderie: Special Forces soldiers are part of a tight-knit community that values teamwork and camaraderie.
- Sense of Purpose: Special Forces soldiers have a sense of purpose and fulfillment that comes from being part of an elite group that conducts critical missions.
How to Pursue a Career in the Army Special Forces
Pursuing a career in the Army Special Forces requires a combination of physical fitness, mental toughness, and specialized skills training. Here are the steps to pursue a career in the Army Special Forces:
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
- Be a US citizen
- Be between the ages of 20 and 35 (with some exceptions)
- Score a minimum of 110 on the General Technical (GT) section of the Army's entrance exam
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Pass the Army's physical fitness test
Step 2: Enlist in the Army
- Enlist in the Army and choose the 18X Special Forces Candidate MOS
- Attend Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT)
Step 3: Attend Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS)
- Attend SFAS, a 24-day course that assesses your physical and mental fitness for Special Forces training
- Pass the SFAS course to qualify for Special Forces training
Step 4: Attend Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC)
- Attend SFQC, a 62-week course that provides advanced training in language, culture, and tactics
- Pass the SFQC course to earn your Special Forces tab
Special Forces Training
Special Forces training is some of the most advanced training in the military. Here are some of the key components of Special Forces training:
- Language Training: Special Forces soldiers learn one or more foreign languages, including Arabic, Chinese, French, and Spanish.
- Cultural Expertise: Special Forces soldiers learn about different cultures and customs, including history, politics, and social norms.
- Advanced Tactical Training: Special Forces soldiers receive advanced training in tactics, including small unit tactics, close quarters combat, and sniper training.
Special Forces Missions
Special Forces soldiers conduct a wide range of missions, including:
- Counterterrorism: Special Forces soldiers conduct counterterrorism missions, including direct action and special reconnaissance.
- Foreign Internal Defense: Special Forces soldiers train and advise foreign military forces, including building partner capacity and providing security assistance.
- Unconventional Warfare: Special Forces soldiers conduct unconventional warfare missions, including guerrilla warfare and sabotage.
Conclusion
Joining the Army Special Forces is a challenging and rewarding career opportunity that requires physical fitness, mental toughness, and specialized skills training. By pursuing the right MOS and meeting the rigorous requirements, you can become part of an elite group of soldiers who conduct critical missions around the world. Whether you're interested in counterterrorism, foreign internal defense, or unconventional warfare, the Army Special Forces offer a range of career opportunities that can help you achieve your goals.
Special Forces Image Gallery
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Army Special Forces MOS and the benefits of joining this elite group. If you're interested in pursuing a career in the Army Special Forces, we encourage you to comment below and share your experiences.