Introductions I I- Your first post on this board goes here. (CLOSED)

[Q]

Got back surgery in the morn'. Will be out for a couple of days. Don't drink nothin' I wouldn't. "Q".

[CoLawman]

Got back surgery in the morn'. Will be out for a couple of days. Don't drink nothin' I wouldn't. "Q".

Best wishes and speedy recovery!

[Team Sergeant]

Special Operators et al,

Hello, I'm from Texas and surfed into this board from another site. I'm a civilian who wishes he could've had a career in the military. Thanks for having me. I'll be lurking about awhile before posting.


Tex,

Do not refer to us as "Special Operators".

We are often referred to as the Quiet Professionals, The Green Berets, or Special Forces soldiers. While I've no idea actually who coined the phrase "operator" you can rest assured it was not a Special Forces soldier. (Most likely some wannabe that was actually never in the Special Operations community.)

I dislike the term "operator" because it denotes that the title itself bestows some sort of special warfare talent that the individual obviously lacks and attempts to make up for with a "title". Over the past decades I've seen individuals with zero training in Special Operations profession often call them selves "operators". This list includes policemen, conventional Army, Marines, Navy and AF personnel, contractors, mall security specialists, civilian firearms instructors, air-soft enthusiasts etc. all calling themselves "operators".

I've heard it used in some Special Operations units to denote the difference between combat soldiers and non combat soldiers. For some individuals it is not enough to belong to a highly decorated, Special Operations combat unit and they still feel the need to distinguish themselves with this term "operator". When I hear the term, "I was an operator in G-Force." I ask "What did you operate?"

Most combat soldiers of the US Army Special Forces when asked "What did you do in the Army?" will answer "I was a soldier." And when asked to be specific will answer, "I was a Special Forces soldier."

Do not call me an "operator", I am Special Forces soldier.

Team Sergeant

[demodude]

Kyle A Barrington
18C/18F
Retired from B/2/3 SFG in April 2005. Currently a Military trainer for Northrop Grumman.
Retired as SFC Masterbreacher/Tac Ops NCOIC form B/2/3
2/3 SFG from 1990-2005
SFA life member D-6902

[Roguish Lawyer]

Welcome demodude. If you get out to N-G HQ, the beers are on me.

[Texian]

Do not refer to us as "Special Operators".

Roger that, Team Sergeant. Thanks for the education.

P.S.
I've corrected my intro accordingly.

Edit: Added postscript

[Bill Harsey]

Welcome aboard guys.

Texian, good second post.

[AngelOfDiablo]

From one newbie to another, hey up Texian!

Welcome and hope you enjoy your time :p

[iminmi]

Hey everyone, I have been lurking around this site for a while now and thought I would finally introduce myself. I'm SGT H., I'm currently stationed at Schofield Barracks, HI... yeah I know, life is sooo rough here. Anyways, I just got back from SFAS, Class 04-06 and was selected for 18E and Arabic. I was raised in Virginia, graduated high school in 2001, joined the Army in 2002 and have been loving it ever since.

[Warrior-Mentor]

I just got back from SFAS, Class 04-06 and was selected for 18E and Arabic.

Congrats and welcome aboard.

[Snake Charmer]

Hello everyone.

The name is Snake Charmer as you have read.
Joined this forum for information pertaining to the MOS I would love to be a part of.
I was a metal building mechanic that walked 4" wide steel beams for a living setting purlins and everything else having to do with roof/wall sheets.
I wanted to get my contract back (I was originally signed for '03 but, finally went to night school last semester to get my 2 half credits I needed to get my diploma...long story; stupid adolescence).

So here I am, starting BCT 20060407. I hope to see some of you soon! Good day and God bless!

-Snake Charmer

[zfynxs]

Greetings all,
I'm just reading up on the SFAS info so I can figure out whether to go in as a 68P or an 18X and hope for 18D eventually although I'll probably have to be a 18b or 18c first. Leaning with 18X because it's a little more active.
Oh, I go by zfynxs b/c I have yet to run across someone else with the screen name.
Thank you all for your good info.

[Warrior-Mentor]

Greetings all,
I'm just reading up on the SFAS info so I can figure out whether to go in as a 68P or an 18X and hope for Delta. Leaning with 18X because it's a little more active.
Pretty diverse choices...one relatively sedate (sitting in a hospital reading x-rays) vice SF.


Oh, I go by zfynxs b/c I have yet to run across someone else with the screen name.
Thank you all for your good info.

Just curious, how is zfynxs pronounced? "FINKS"?

...or is it like Prince's symbol/name? :rolleyes:

Regardless, welcome aboard.

[zfynxs]

Sir, its derived from sphinx, and pronounced like the word zinc with es on it. I got it originally for a hotmail account that i let expire but still use so i only have one user name to remember.

[Frode]

Hello, So here is my indroduction
I am a senior in college in Vermont. I enlisted in the Army in Nov and can not wait to get out of school and ship. My plan was to go 18x but I didn't get it because I don't have 20/20 vision. Instead I took an option 40 contract as 11x. I am looking forward to this but was disappointed about the 18x because SF is my final goal. I have studying hard and training harder and am looking forward to the information on this site.

[SgtEdWhiting]

I am new here, I am not SF.

Former USAF - Security Policeman 1976-1980.

Thank you all for your service.

[Jack Moroney (RIP)]

Welcome all!

[Peter]

Hey everyone,
I'm new here and looking for advice. I'm interested in the 18x program and the NG. I took my ASVAB and got a high enough score but my recruiter keeps telling me that 18X is only for active members (I thought all members of the NG were active) and that it's better for me to go 11B and after training transfer to a state with a SF training group and join the REC. Is that really the best way? is there no way I can enlist under 18X? (i'm in NY and there isn't a sf group here)

thanks

[The Reaper]

Peter:

Fill in your profile, read the stickies, intros, etc., use the search button here and if you absolutely cannot find the answer, put your question in the proper forum. This thread is for intros.

Good luck.

TR

[swesty70]

Joining B 2/20th SFG as an NQP this week.

[Don]

I was browsing the internet and found this site. I am a retiree, living in Atlanta now. I was a former member of ODA 744 back in the 90's. After reading through a couple of posts I decided to join up. I look forward to corresponding with you all.

[Team Sergeant]

I was browsing the internet and found this site. I am a retiree, living in Atlanta now. I was a former member of ODA 744 back in the 90's. After reading through a couple of posts I decided to join up. I look forward to corresponding with you all.


Welcome Don.

There's a "few" 7th Gp types hanging around. (I think they're taking over the place!)

Team Sergeant
5th Gp:lifter

[18xSic_Muther]

thanks so much for the criticism and auto punking have a nice day

[NousDefionsDoc]

hey all, today i went on myspace and asked about some advice to SF and got the link to this site. so far this site seems to be one of the best resources ive found. my name is carl and live in york pa. i enlisted in the active duty army in september and got an 18x contract the week before they discontinued it for highschool students. i thank the good lord that i enlisted when i did. i go to school for law enforcement at a technical school in york. the class is taught by an SF vetran whose a mentor to me since my father passed away. he motivated me to shoot for the best and never quit. Ill make SF or have to be carried out in a body bag. thanks to all of those who serve or have served wearing the green beret. HOOAH
No, now see, this is all wrong. Read the introductions from those that have served, then read yours again. You should have used the others for a model. Edit this and try again. The e.e. cummings routine isn't encouraged around here either.

When you have picked your new user name, PM an admin and we will change it for you.

[The Reaper]

hey all, today i went on myspace and asked about some advice to SF and got the link to this site. so far this site seems to be one of the best resources ive found. my name is carl and live in york pa. i enlisted in the active duty army in september and got an 18x contract the week before they discontinued it for highschool students. i thank the good lord that i enlisted when i did. i go to school for law enforcement at a technical school in york. the class is taught by an SF vetran whose a mentor to me since my father passed away. he motivated me to shoot for the best and never quit. Ill make SF or have to be carried out in a body bag. thanks to all of those who serve or have served wearing the green beret. HOOAH

ThugmastaXtaC/18xSic_Muther:

You are coming across as very immature, lacking education, and unsure of yourself. Read your own profile and post. Look in the upper right corner of this page. See the words, "Quiet Professional"? Do your own words strike you as something written by a man who wants to be a quiet professional? Or some kind of tacky, drug abusing, self-effacing, wannabe rock star?

Talk is cheap, my grandmother wants a green beret. You have done nothing yet to prepare yourself and have taken no significant step on your journey. Getting the contract is no real feat. Completing your part of it is.

The attributes you are displaying so far are not wanted in SF, hence our decision to discontinue taking younger, less educated enlistees into SF. They just were not what we were looking for, and were wasting too much training time trying to get them to wise up. Many of them may eventually make it into SF, after a few years in an infantry unit.

I highly recommend that you follow NDD's instructions, consider the way you are presenting yourself, and get your stuff together before you move any further down the road, to include more posts here. He is a medic and as such, is a much nicer guy than I am. And he knows things, trust me.

Have a very SF Day.

TR

[Forgiven]

My name is Joshua. I was doing research on SF and came across the site. I will not post as I don't believe I have any new information. I simply wanted to read what is written and will not ask for more.Thank you for allowing me to read and study. Most of all Thank You for being the best of what America has to offer. Forgiven

[Peregrino]

thanks so much for the criticism and auto punking have a nice day


Precisely why they changed the standards for 18x. In case you haven't noticed, there's a war going on. Nobody has the time or extra energy required to ride herd on immature punks. When you grow up and get a few clues about life you can try again. BTW - If you really do have an 18x contract, you might want to check the attitude until you've done something to earn the right to share it. Have a very SF day. Peregrino

[Rambo DevilDog]

Good Evening everyone, my name is PFC Robert Bruce Coe. As my first post I will make it short. I am an American Soldier, I have in no way earned the title of 18D as of yet, I have not even completed the 91W course, but am set and determined for my date at May 16th, 2006. I will become what only the most professional become, an American Special Forces Soldier.

[NousDefionsDoc]

Welcome aboard Joshua and Robert Bruce.

[Eagle5US]

Good Evening everyone, my name is PFC Robert Bruce Coe. As my first post I will make it short. I am an American Soldier, I have in no way earned the title of 18D as of yet, I have not even completed the 91W course, but am set and determined for my date at May 16th, 2006. I will become what only the most professional become, an American Special Forces Soldier.
Welcome RDD-
Go to your profile and re-think your responses to some of your information. Read all the stickies, use the search button lots, and don't quit. You have a long road ahead of you. There is a great deal of information here that can prove to be to your benefit.

Eagle

[The Reaper]

Welcome all who have used a modicum of SA.

Rambo, one point, you are not an 18D. You are not assigned as an 18D. Your occupation is not 18D. Please do not call yourself that till you walk across the stage and someone tells you, "Congratulations, you made it, welcome to the Regiment".

TR

[Rambo DevilDog]

Welcome all who have used a modicum of SA.

Rambo, one point, you are not an 18D. You are not assigned as an 18D. Your occupation is not 18D. Please do not call yourself that till you walk across the stage and someone tells you, "Congratulations, you made it, welcome to the Regiment".

TR


Discrepency corrected TR.

[The Reaper]

Discrepency corrected TR.

Check again, you missed one.

Attention to detail counts for a lot with us. Helps us stay alive as well.

Hey, if you are not a former Marine, why do you call yourself Devil Dog?

TR

[Rambo DevilDog]

Check again, you missed one.

Attention to detail counts for a lot with us. Helps us stay alive as well.

Hey, if you are not a former Marine, why do you call yourself Devil Dog?

TR


I am the spawn of two marines, my father when I was born wanted to name me Rambo DevilDog Coe, but my mother got to the paperwork first. she named me Robert Bruce Coe. ever since then I guess the nickname stuck...

BTW: I have double and triple checked my profile, there is nothing that even mentions "18D" as far as I am concerned I am a 91W in training untill I get the title 18D. the only question I have is my Unit...I drill with the 5/19th SFGA, may I put that down or leave the spot empty?

[The Reaper]

I am the spawn of two marines, my father when I was born wanted to name me Rambo DevilDog Coe, but my mother got to the paperwork first. she named me Robert Bruce Coe. ever since then I guess the nickname stuck...

BTW: I have double and triple checked my profile, there is nothing that even mentions "18D" as far as I am concerned I am a 91W in training untill I get the title 18D. the only question I have is my Unit...I drill with the 5/19th SFGA, may I put that down or leave the spot empty?

Good story. OTOH, he could have named you David Alan.

I threatened to name our kids by filling out the papers while the wife was asleep, but thought that she might be a while getting over it.

You deleted the second 18D mention after I posted my last comment.

You can use the unit designation of you are drilling with them or have orders assigning you to them.

Welcome aboard.

TR

[Rambo DevilDog]

Good story. OTOH, he could have named you David Alan.

I threatened to name our kids by filling out the papers while the wife was asleep, but thought that she might be a while getting over it.

You deleted the second 18D mention after I posted my last comment.

You can use the unit designation of you are drilling with them or have orders assigning you to them.

Welcome aboard.

TR

Thank you Sir, it is now time for me to be stealthy and unnoticed. have a nice day everyone!

[ciulkwens]

hello all,
my name is Wojtek, came from Poland
actually in land forces service, not SF extacly
I would like to stay here little longer if it's allowed?
looking for info mostly about modern gear,
and knives- my love and hobby
I'm makeing knives for my soldiers friends
here is sample of my work
http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/8880/dscf59380wd.th.jpg (http://img59.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dscf59380wd.jpg)


I can post more pics in edged weapon section if you like

regards
wojtekn

[BamBam]

That's a nice looking blade, I wouldn't mind seeing more examples. welcome aboard.

[barney_rubble]

Gentlemen,

I'm stopping by to say hello and offer a British angle on the discorse within; I look forward to engaging you and bring it on.

M.

[The Reaper]

Gentlemen,

I'm stopping by to say hello and offer a British angle on the discorse within; I look forward to engaging you and bring it on.

M.

M.

You need to do better on your profile, including where and when you served.

We are not looking for people to "bring it on", but feel free to contribute where you have knowledge. Do not initiate arguments unnecessarily, especially till we get to know one another better.

TR

[CM13]

Greetings,

I've been lurking and reading stickies and searching forums for some time. I would like to introduce myself. I came across this sight doing research on the net. I have really enjoyed all the excellent infomormation, advice, and the professional atmosphere.

-cm13

[LumpyRN]

Hello, very interesting board you have here. I am an ER nurse doing travel assignments across this great nation of ours. i stumbled across the site at military.com and thought i would check it out.
im prior service and was in ADA 16r (low tech high fun ADA aka the vulcan) 88-91 spent some time in germany and ft drum. never heard a shot fired in anger etc. im more interested in the medical forums here than anything else. ive already learned a few things reading them, and knowing that you guys get the latest and greatest toys, i figure this is a good place to increase my knowledge. while i dont usually post much, if/when i do, i try very hard to stick to my lane.

[bost1751]

My name is Dave and I retired from SF in 1994. I spent most of my time in the 10th, at both Ft Devens and Bad Tolz. I also was with the 3d Bn 5th, 1st and 2d Bn of the 1st. I was an SF baby. After retiring I spent 9 years as a State Trooper in CO. Now I am OK contracted to the US Marshalls Service. Life has been rather boring since I retired.

[Team Sergeant]

My name is Dave and I retired from SF in 1994. I spent most of my time in the 10th, at both Ft Devens and Bad Tolz. I also was with the 3d Bn 5th, 1st and 2d Bn of the 1st. I was an SF baby. After retiring I spent 9 years as a State Trooper in CO. Now I am OK contracted to the US Marshalls Service. Life has been rather boring since I retired.

Welcome Dave, PM inbound.

Team Sergeant

[plato]

Alright, I"m an OLD guy.

Somebody on "airbornerangers" referenced a post on this site, so I came over to visit and stayed.

Glad to know everyone her who is out there doing the job today, or the BTDT crew.

Gotta admit, though, that I'm especially hoping to bump into some of the old crowd from the 1st Group during the early 70's. That was one helluva tour ;)

[gunnerjohn]

welcome all
JJ

[Bioxx]

Hi I'm Rob, I stumbled across this site while doing research on special forces and found some much needed links in the stickies. I read all the stickies that were posted regarding how I should act so you'll get no problems from me. I know questions are not exactly big here so i'll try to keep them to a minimum. It is just that I would rather here this information from the mouth of the special forces members themselves instead of a recruitor. I turn 18 in July which is when I plan on enlisting. I might go Ranger if I decide that special forces is just too much. I don't want to be a washout, but whats the difference as long as I am serving my country? Anyways I hope I can get a few questions answered here, either through previous threads or by asking them myself. Thank you for letting me be a guest here.

[Ambush Master]

Alright, I"m an OLD guy.

Somebody on "airbornerangers" referenced a post on this site, so I came over to visit and stayed.

Glad to know everyone her who is out there doing the job today, or the BTDT crew.

Gotta admit, though, that I'm especially hoping to bump into some of the old crowd from the 1st Group during the early 70's. That was one helluva tour ;)

Plato, welcome from another FOG. PM out to ya !!

[CPTAUSRET]

Alright, I"m an OLD guy.

Somebody on "airbornerangers" referenced a post on this site, so I came over to visit and stayed.



That may have been me.

Welcome aboard everyone.

Terry

[brianb0806]

Hello to all. First let me say that I am very impressed by the members of this forum. The discussions are well written and intelligent, unlike most forums on the internet. I attribute that to the hard work of the moderators and members of the forum keeping everthing in line and moving smoothly.

About me: I am currently a United States Border Patrol Agent woring in southeast California. I entered active duty in the army in 1989 with 2/505 of the 82nd as a grunt. After 4 years I went to V Corps LRSC in Darmstadt, GE. Then back to Bragg for another year with the 2/504 before ETSing. I then attended college in Chapel Hill and entered duty with the BP in 2002. I spent some time in Reserve Civil Affairs and Air Guard TACP in NC. Currently I have no military affiliation, but this board has me dreaming again. I'm 34 years old and am trying to convince myself that I could make it though selection and the Q-course. I guess I won't know 'til I try. I miss the military very much and regret gettiing out. This board has reminded me of what I liked most about the Army, the people. Professional, mission oriented individuals who know when to be serious and when to relax and de-stress.

Thank you for allowing me to be a member.

Brian

[Roguish Lawyer]

Welcome, Brian. Very nice intro.

[Neo]

Welcome aboard Brian. It's good to see another TACP in these forums. I thought I was the only one.:)

[MtnGoat]

Welcome aboard Brian.

Don't let your age drive your thinking. When I went to Ranger school, I had a 38 Y/o student (NCO) graduate, then take Honor Grad for the class!!

So its all about your mind, just don't QUIT!!

[WannabeSF]

First, thanks for your service to our great nation!

Just registered after lurking for a few days & IAW the ROE this is my story as best as I can recollect.

AD Marine from '77-'84 (6yrs9mo12da) with an office pogue MOS, Supply Admin. But a very fit pogue! Very high to perfect scores on the PFT. Also, served as a Marine Security Guard in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania & Paris, France respectively from '80-'83 (2.5 yrs). E-6 in 6yrs3mo~19da.

ALSO, was assigned to Special Services (uh-oh ... I sense the poseur alert antennae activating) ... (To Be Contd) ...


(with bated breath or is it bait on my breath, can't remember which)


... the Marine Corps version of Recreational Services (had you going, admit it). And this just after Supply Admin school where we had received a speech on how critical the MOS was (true for the duration of my service) & where do I do my Special Services duty? None other than the Marine Corps Logistics Supply Base in Barstow, CA. All I can say is: Mine is not to wonder why ...

Got out to take advantage of old GI Bill bennies before their expiration in '90. Just barely managed to get my degree in Computer Engineering by '90. Sorry to burst your collective bubbles, but I don't qualify as a "Smart College F**k" on account of my extremely loooow GPA. In other words, don't ask me to enginemineer nothing! Since I was on a educational roll of sorts, I decided to continue my edumication in the Software Engineering Masters program at the nearly local mental institution but only managed 24 credit hours before quitting (yeah, I know already, NEVER QUIT). From there, it's been all downhill (just kidding).

I'm now considering re-entering the military, the AD Army specifically. Have gone so far as paying a visit to the local MEPS on 20060320/21 where I re-took the ASVAB (guess my scores from 20 yrs ago weren't good enuf) & once again proved how great a standardized test-taker I am, scoring 95 out of 99 for the AFQT (or whatever it's called) & mostly over 130 in the various test sections. Also managed a 111121 rating on the physical.

I'm SCUBA certified (but prefer free diving); have held TOP SECRET & SECRET security clearances; fractions of an hour short of my private pilots license (this was back in '80); into ATB'ing; camping (too cheap to do otherwise); & have had a life-long interest in nutrition & physical fitness. Also, used to be a pretty fast runner (PR for PFT 3 mile was 16m3?s) & have done 1/2 marathons as well as up to 14 mile runs.

Chronologically I'm 46 yo but biologically I'd put my age at about -- h'um let's see -- 30 yo. What a coincidence! That just happens to be the maximum [policy] age of acceptance into SF candidacy (yeah, I know, I'm such a dreamer)!

Single (never noosed) & no dependents.

Oh, & by the way, I was born in Tehran, Iran.

[dbvelazquez]

Hello I would like to introduce myself, my name is Dan i spent 20 years in the Army assigned to leg units and airborne alike. I have been browsing your site since Nov. and unlike some of the other site which are full of gamers and wannabe's i thank you for allowing me to post on your site. Beign a vet myself i have the deepest feelings for the men who put themselves in harms way .
Thank You

[zuluzerosix]

Hello to all. First let me say that I am very impressed by the members of this forum. The discussions are well written and intelligent, unlike most forums on the internet. I attribute that to the hard work of the moderators and members of the forum keeping everthing in line and moving smoothly.

About me: I am currently a United States Border Patrol Agent woring in southeast California. I entered active duty in the army in 1989 with 2/505 of the 82nd as a grunt.
Thank you for allowing me to be a member.

Brian

Welcome. Brian I was in 2-Panther the same time you were in. We may know each other. PM inbound!

[Pvt. Butler]

First order of business, I would like to thank the Quiet Professionals and all others formerly, currently, or considering serving in the military.

I'm currently enrolled in the D.E.P. and leave for OSUT down at Benning 20060607 under the 18x contract. I've always wanted to serve my country in some way, shape, or form. Went to the University of Massachusetts for a few years but decided that sitting behind a desk the rest of my life wasn't my cup of tea. A challenge is what I seek, of both the mental and physical nature. Have been an athlete since I first was able to walk independently, concentrating on baseball, soccer, and hockey. Was also a martial artist, practicing Taekwondo for several years. Some may say I'm an idealist, but I've always wanted to do some good in the world. To use the physical and intellectual gifts I've been blessed with in a positive manner for the good of others and not for my own personal gain. But I digress, so I'd just like to thank you for this wonderful, informative site.

[Jay11]

My Name is Jay. I am a military buff and am also interested in our countries current events. I registered with this site mostly because of my curiousity with Special Forces. I attended college for a few years but couldn't continue to pay it. So now I am a working stiff and just want to find out more about the great warriors that defend our nation.

[plex]

Introducing Myself:

I am currently in the US Army with a SFAS date of 5 June 2006. I have been lurking here for a little bit. I have read alot of posts and am just trying to prepare myself.

From everything I have read here, I have come up with one model for preparing myself for SFAS, I am going to bust my ass to improve my pull-ups, APFT events, ruck, and rope climbing abilities as much as humanly possible. And when I get to SFAS, they are going to have to throw me out before I stop. And if that isnt enough, I will go prepare until they let me go back.

The info here on blisters, boots, and other things is invaluable tool for preparing though...

Thanks for letting me be a member of the community.

[Styer]

Hi, I am not in the military and I will probably never join the military. But I love the US military. When I was a kid in high school I used to read all these books about the Special Forces in Vietnam and I was obsessed with it. My dad was in the Navy for 23 years. He was with NEDU for a while and then went on to other things before he retired. He raised me and my siblings to be patriots and taught us a respect for the armed services.

Now I'm married with a family and my adolescent dreams of being a Special Forces soldier are gone. But my patriotism has never died. I was at work when the planes hit the twin towers on that day. It's hard to describe the feelings I experienced on Sept. 11, 2001 but in the end it all turned to anger and frustration. I have tried to research as thoroghly as I can, the role you all play in this time of our lives. I don't inted to post here, just read. I do want to take this opportunity you've afforded a regular guy like me, to come into your home and say thank you. Thank you for everything you have done and continue to do for me and my family and our country every day. Thank you for sacrificing your lives for me and my family. Thank you for living for our country. Thank you for killing the enemies of the United States. Thank you for the humanitarian work you do after the killing is done. Thank you for fighting terrorism for us. You are my personal heroes. I wish I could meet you. I wish my kids could meet you. Thank you. To all of you who have served us during times past and who currently serve us now, Thank you and God Bless you and your families. Stay safe.

[Team Sergeant]

Thank you for everything you have done and continue to do for me and my family and our country every day. Thank you for sacrificing your lives for me and my family. Thank you for living for our country. Thank you for killing the enemies of the United States. Thank you for the humanitarian work you do after the killing is done. Thank you for fighting terrorism for us. You are my personal heroes. I wish I could meet you. I wish my kids could meet you. Thank you. To all of you who have served us during times past and who currently serve us now, Thank you and God Bless you and your families. Stay safe.


I don't know about the rest but I've not been thanked like that since I helped liberate Kuwait!:D

Styer,

Welcome aboard. Enjoy the site.

Team Sergeant
Master Sergeant
Special Forces
(ret)

[NousDefionsDoc]

Welcome aboard styer

[18xray]

Hello Sirs,

My name is Dan, I am currently finishing my third year at UW Platteville. I was a mechanical engineer major for almost all of it, then I decided that it was not for me. I switched to criminal justice and realized that college was not the place I really wanted to be. I met up with my local army recruiters and decided that 18X was where I wanted to be. I went through meps three weeks ago and managed to get 18X and leaving in June. I look forward to the challenges ahead that I will face, and I am very excited to begin. Also, thanks for the site its great. I'm a little new to the forum thing so I trying not to screw up and if I do I apologize in advance.
Thanks again for the resource,
D. Altieri

[CPTAUSRET]

Welcome aboard, all!

Nice tribute, Styer.

Terry

[bob]

Good morning Gentlemen, my apologies to any ladies present.

I have been lurking in the background for the last couple of months and thought I should step forward and say hello.

My military carer has not been especially long or colourful but for what its worth I served for just over three years in the T.A. (similar to your National Guard I believe) before work commitments and a bad fall persuaded me to leave. I was then “persuaded” by the local police to help at a military sponsored youth group, been there since 86.

Since I work with other peoples children I figure you can’t know too much about first aid / medical skills. That’s how I found my way on here originally. Main reason I would like to join, is that occasionally I would like to clarify a point that I have read. Some trade names of equipment are that I have seen posted are unknown to me.

So if it’s all right with every one else, I’m going to grab a coffee and go lurk in the medic’s room some more.

[Invictus]

Good afternoon gentlemen, I hope this finds you all well.
Having stumbled across this site recently, I would appreciate the opportunity to introduce myself.

I am a SNCO of 12 years in the British Army and currently still serve as a Combat Medic. Having worked alongside US Special Forces on various occasions over the last few years, I look forward to contributing positively to this forum and perhaps even learning a thing or two!
I would also like to show my appreciation for the Sqn Medics and the guys at the JMAU who have looked after me and my guys on more than one occasion, in more than one country!
I apologise if my profile is a little vague, I am simply being cautious at this early stage, I'm sure you understand. I would be more than happy to discuss any further details with Site Admin if necessary, perhaps via PM?

Once again, cheers for the opportunity to say hello.

[Peregrino]

Welcome to PS.com. Please read the stickies and get a feel for the site. Think of it as a directed military radio net with net protocols, a Net Control Station, and a distinct hierarchy. It will help prevent misunderstandings. We welcome anyone who can contribute positively and professionally to the ongoing discussions. Unfortunately we have recently had a spate of visitors who mistook the purpose and tone of this site and conducted themselves inappropriately. They have since been banned. We don't stifle legitimate discussion but we will not tolerate typical internet antics. FWIW - Peregrino

[kain]

Hello All

I am currently a student in the university obtaining my MS in Civil Eng. I served in the army from 97-01 in both conus and oconus units as a 31U. I am currently looking at going back into the army, however I have decided that I will go in under an 18X contract. I initially considered a ranger contract but discovered that PS are not eligible. I have always wanted to be apart of an elite corps; I want to give it my all to see if I can complete this task.

I wish to use this forum for preparation tips and suggestions. I appreciate any information any member may give.

Thank you and godbless
Kain

[The Reaper]

Hello All

I am currently a student in the university obtaining my MS in Civil Eng. I served in the army from 97-01 in both conus and oconus units as a 31U. I am currently looking at going back into the army, however I have decided that I will go in under an 18X contract. I initially considered a ranger contract but discovered that PS are not eligible. I have always wanted to be apart of an elite corps; I want to give it my all to see if I can complete this task.

I wish to use this forum for preparation tips and suggestions. I appreciate any information any member may give.

Thank you and godbless
Kain


Welcome all.

You might check and see if you are eligible for 18X, IIRC, it is also limited to initial entry soldiers.

I don't think you just decide what you will go in as. A contract has to be offered, and qualified for.

TR

[ScottM]

My name is Scott and I have never served in the Military, but greatfully appreciate all those who have served or are currently serving (Thank you and God bless). My grandfather and his 2 brothers all served in the Navy during WWII. My great uncles were on the beach during D-Day, my father served in the Army in the 50's and my Uncle was in Vietnam with the Airforce, his son was with the Marines and I attended a Military School where most of my classmates went on to serve. DODMRBs had other plans for me and would not give me a waiver.

Instead I am a Law Enforcement Officer with 6+ years on the job. I have worked various assignments and worked in inner cities in Florida as well as small and medium sized towns and cities in the North East.

Some of my assignments have alotted me the opportunity to train with some recently retired SF Operators (5th Group) and I must say it was a great experience.

Enough about me.

Thank you for allowing me to join you here.

Once again thank you for your service and time.

[ethikz]

Hello fellow soldiers and people. My name is Josh and I'm 21. I currently live in Sanford, NC enlisted in the NC Army National Guard as a 19K. I enlisted in 2003 and went to OSUT in 2004 and graduated in 2004. After my graduation I was deployed to Iraq for a tour with my unit. I came home and continued my web design and graphic design for awhile, then went to the NC coast for hurricane Ophelia, shortly after I found myself in New Orleans helping out. I've enjoyed my career so far as a tanker but it just isn't satisfying enough so I started thinking about NG SF. I've been doing research for about 6 months now trying to gain all the knowledge I can, and I'm still searching. I came across this site from google and I must say I am very intrigued here. Its a nice site and it is very informative. I'm interested in meeting others and learning how their careers have been to them in SF and anything else I can gain from being here and talking with others.


Thanks,
Josh

[fcarter]

I am a few days away from signing my papers and allowing the Army to dictate the next 6 years of my life (8 when you count Ready Reserves), and would love to make my way into a SF unit. My father served with the Marine Recons during his time with the Military and gave me the advice that unless I plan on being the lead elephant, the scenery will all be the same. I've always considered myself to be lead elephant material and look foward to finding out if I am.

I seek only advice to better my chances of getting where I want to go in the Army and will try my best to do as much research as I can before asking stupid questions.

I grew up learning martial arts and have taught for eight years. I hunt, fish, backpack, and climb regularly although I am a very small guy. I've found that in the past my size has only ever mattered to the people who wanted to tell me what I couldn't do because of my size.

Thanks in advance for and advice I can gleam from you.

[Jack Moroney (RIP)]

I've always considered myself to be lead elephant material and look foward to finding out if I am.

.

Good leaders need to be good followers and vice versa. SF teams have both and each member is both leader and follower as the situation dictates, but more importantly they are teams and work best as pack animals reinforcing each other, learning and contributing to each other, sharing in the plan-the effort-the risk and the reward. We have no lead elephants as lead elephants tend to follow their own path and when they drop a load eveyone else has to walk in it.

Welcome aboard
Jack Moroney-Mahout

[johnsosm]

Hello All,
hi there my name is sean and i first must say thanks for allowing me to become a part of this site, a short statement about myself is that i am on my way to my first deployment and am not sure what of two jobs i will be partaking, in one i will see combat and in another i will stare at a computer screen all day ( i am gunning for the one where i have the chance to see a little bit). I wont be back for a while but once i come back my next step is to go for selection and attempt my fate at becoming a special forces soldier. there that was quick and easy. thank you
-Sean

[Surgicalcric]

Welcome everyone...

Sean:

Maybe you can work on some grammar skills, punctuation and capitalization to be specific, if you end up sitting at a computer while deployed. It will make reading your posts, once you return, much easier.

Just teasing, but seriously...lol

welcome.

Crip

[johnsosm]

thanks crip, yeah i do need to pick up a grammer book. i will get better through out the year when it comes to that.
thanks,
-Sean

[HillHiker]

Hello All.

Currently, I live and work in Chicago, Illinois. My employer is the largest provider of Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) services in the world, with over 6,000 client organizations, in 92 countries worldwide. I coordinate responses to everything from robberies, to workplace violence, to natural disasters and terrorist attacks. I was extensively involved in the aftermath of the London Subway bombings and the recovery efforts surrounding hurricane Katrina. Most recently, I am providing consultations and training in regards to the potential for the outbreak of Avian Flu among humans and what that will mean to municipalities, corporations, and individuals from both the business and security perspectives.

In another life, I was a live-firing fool out at Camps Roberts and Fort Hunter Liggett, as well as a successful Long Range Surveillance Team Leader (Q6). My military strong points are TLPs, IPB/E, MOUT, PT, and Combatives. Essentially, that boils down to shoot, move, and communicate- but know whom you are shooting at and what you are communicating.

I found this forum quite by accident. After reading through several of the posts, I think that it is a great web site. Of course, it does seem to have its share of idiots- who seem to get deleted in short order.

Quiet Professionals, if any of you would be interested in participating in a public forum discussion that seriously delves into the subject of extreme close quarters combatives, please email me. I have a bit of experience with that.

With respect,

HillHiker:lifter

[Soldier]

Hello, First Off Thank you for allowing me to be a Site of your site. While I am not a member of SF in any way, It is a lifestyle that I am very interested in learning about to decide if it is something truely for me. My name is Chris, I joined the army at the age of 17 (split op). I loved the army, every second, From the very begining I had the Intent on Going Active Army. I graduated BCT , Switched Active Army ( Infantry). And here I am Today. Once Again Thank you All For what you Have Done For our great nation, and thank you again for allowing me to be a Guest of your site.
Hooah~

[NousDefionsDoc]

Hello All.

Quiet Professionals, if any of you would be interested in participating in a public forum discussion that seriously delves into the subject of extreme close quarters combatives, please email me. I have a bit of experience with that.

With respect,

HillHiker:lifter
Hi. I'm interested, although I must admit I have no idea what "extreme" means in this context. Feel free to PM me, I am always willing to learn. I feel like I should know you.

[jatx]

Hooah~

3000+ members here at PS.com and someone finally picked this user name. :D

Welcome and thanks for your service.

[kpthook1012]

I spent 4 years in the Navy working in Law Enforcement and had a brief stint as a Parachute Rigger. I got out for two years and now I just signed into the 143rd Inf. Det. (LRS) of the 36th ID as an 11B. I'm here to learn what I can. Thank You

[EPC]

Hello everyone,

I am a civilian thinking about the 18X program. I'm here to learn what I can by reading more than asking, and am looking forward to absorbing what you Professional Soldiers have to pass on. I've read the stickies prior to registering. Thank you all for what you do to help ones who are considering SF.

Divinely Guided

[Ambush Master]

Hello everyone,

I am a civilian thinking about the 18X program. I'm here to learn what I can by reading more than asking, and am looking forward to absorbing what you Professional Soldiers have to pass on. I've read the stickies prior to registering. Thank you all for what you do to help ones who are considering SF.

Divinely Guided

If you've read the "Stickies", why is your PROFILE, basically, a BLANK SLATE!!!


If you do really head into this field of endeavor, you will be fun to watch!!!

Please keep us posted.

Later
Martin

[hermitcrab]

I am just a DEP 18x that will be leaving for Ft. Jackson on May 2nd... Like my profile says I am just trying to soak up as much information as I can. I should have just shipped ASAP this waiting is killing me. On another note, from what I have seen thus far, this site has a great layout.

[Acadia]

Good evening all. I would first like to thank all the regulars and past SF guys that have answered so many of the newbie posts.

I just enlisted on Saturday as an 18X. I will deploy on 20060712 to Benning and start the long road toward a fulfilling life. I am 29 and I had to get in before August 1st, my 30th Birthday. Now all I am waiting to do is schedule my DLAB and I should be good to go.

Thanks, Acadia

[Jehgunnz]

Hello everyone,

I'm currently attending SFQC and have been assigned 18C/Mandarin. I'm ethnically Korean and have also lived in Seoul for most of my formative years.

I've been on active duty for less than a year, but I must say these past 11 months have been the longest and most rewarding chapter thus far in my life. It's a pleasure to have run into this forum as it has and always is a priveledge to receive guidance, instruction, and information from SF soldiers.

Cheers

[Warrior-Mentor]

Welcome aboard.

[Gruzzen]

Greetings all,

I've been lurking here for a while, over a year actually. I enlisted on July 15, 2005 with an 18X contract. I went through Basic, Ait and Airborne at Fort Benning. I attended the Jan 19. SOPC class. I was in Class 04-06 for SFAS, and was selected as an 18D with Chinese mandarin as my language. I have completed the SFPC school and am set to start PLDC/BNOC on May 2.

This site gave me alot of good information prior to my enlistment and I thank you guys for spending the time answering peoples questions.

Gruzzen

[Kyobanim]

Greetings all,

I've been lurking here for a while, over a year actually. I enlisted on July 15, 2005 with an 18X contract. I went through Basic, Ait and Airborne at Fort Benning. I attended the Jan 19. SOPC class. I was in Class 04-06 for SFAS, and was selected as an 18D with Chinese mandarin as my language. I have completed the SFPC school and am set to start PLDC/BNOC on May 2.

This site gave me alot of good information prior to my enlistment and I thank you guys for spending the time answering peoples questions.

Gruzzen
Congrats on your selection, and welcome.

[Team Sergeant]

I am just a DEP 18x that will be leaving for Ft. Jackson on May 2nd... Like my profile says I am just trying to soak up as much information as I can. I should have just shipped ASAP this waiting is killing me. On another note, from what I have seen thus far, this site has a great layout.

hermitcrab,
Are you sure you signed up for 18X? You may want to check those documents again.

Team Sergeant

[The Reaper]

hermitcrab,
Are you sure you signed up for 18X? You may want to check those documents again.

Team Sergeant

Special Forces, Special Services, isn't it all the same?

TR

[hermitcrab]

hermitcrab,
Are you sure you signed up for 18X? You may want to check those documents again.
Team Sergeant

TS,

Your not the first one that has brought that question to my attention. Including my recruiter after I let him know that the MEPS had me going to Ft. Jackson. He along with my liason at the MEPS did some reseach for me and discovered that a lot of 18 series have been getting put into different feeder MOS's recently. I am listed in my contract as an 18E so my AIT is 25C at Ft. Gordon. From what I understand 18D's are being sent in as 91W's as well...

I do appreciate all those that were willing to send up the red flag though. Looking at my contract right now I am pretty confident everything is set up correctly. However, it wouldn't hurt my feelings if anyone wants to take a look at my orders (http://img387.imageshack.us/my.php?image=orders6pv.jpg) just to be sure.

[The Reaper]

It could be that the attrition rate for 18Xs was sufficiently high that the Army had enough 11Bs and wanted to help some other shortage MOSes when people fail in the pipeline.

Of course, I could be all wrong about that.

TR

[Blueboy]

Not a good move on the Army's part, IMHO. Sending 18x's throught 11-series AIT, with its emphasis on basic infantry skills, sets them up for success in the Pipeline better than Ft Jackson or (gasp) Fort Sam Houston ever could.

[Duckkie07]

Well this is my first post so I'll start off by introducing myself. My name is Taylor I am 15 and a sophmore in high school. I came about this website after I bought a book off the internet called GET SELCETED!. I e-mailed the author a question and he gave me a link to this site saying that alot of the questions I would probably have were discussed ad nauseum on this site. From what I have read he was right. I first got introduced in joing the military and used to want to be a SEAL when I met a neighbor of ours son who was one. But as I have aged I have seen that the army is the place for me and plan to enlist when I graduate and I will become a SF solider. I used to be overwieght and since I moved and got involved with JROTC and the Raider Team I have lost 40lbs and have increased my pushups from 15 to 45 in two minutes.:lifter . But I'll spare ya'll the life story by ending it here

[jatx]

I used to be overwieght and since I moved and got involved with JROTC and the Raider Team I have lost 40lbs and have increased my pushups from 15 to 45 in two minutes.

Good work. Keep it up. :cool:

[CoLawman]

I am just a DEP 18x that will be leaving for Ft. Jackson on May 2nd... Like my profile says I am just trying to soak up as much information as I can. I should have just shipped ASAP this waiting is killing me. On another note, from what I have seen thus far, this site has a great layout.

Fort Jackson!? Nothing gets by Team Sergeant!

[Jehgunnz]

Hermitman, are you joining the national guard?

My NG 18X buddies were assigned their CMF 18 MOS before ever starting and were sent to the applicable AITs. If you're active duty then you'd be the first I've heard that got this deal.

Based on my own personal experience on Sand Hill, I don't think you're missing out on too much Infantry training Hermitman. We did battle drills maybe.. five times my entire time there. OSUT ... met the standard... but very inefficiently IMHO.

Good luck man!

[lksteve]

Special Forces, Special Services, isn't it all the same?
i guess i'm the only one hearing "Basketball Jones" by Cheech and Chong...:confused:

[82ndAA]

I finally found this thread! I had been looking in the wrong discussion areas. I failed my first attention to detail test. :boohoo

I served in the Army from '88-'92. My first duty station was Ft. Bragg in the 21st Chemical Co., 82nd Abn Div. After serving a short time there, I was put on levy (sp?) to Germany, where I ended up in E Co. 320th FA, Berlin Brigade. My MOS was 31V (Unit Level Communications Maintainer).

After 9/11, I looked into re-enlisting as a WO helo pilot, but after assessing the pay and comparing it to my debts (auto/school loans, and cc), I reluctantly decided that it would be financially unwise for me to join at that time. Since then, I was laid off from my engineering job, started my own business, and recently sold the business at a profit. I was able to pay off all my remaining debts, and the new debts acquired for starting a business, and again turned my attention to re-enlisting.

In addition to looking into WO aviation, I was curious about the possibility of SF. Both of which would require significant age waivers as I have found out. But I believe I’m physically fit enough, and have the mental discipline to train up for and go ALL THE WAY. The only issue is that I’m married and wish to start a family. So, I’m leaning towards NG SF, particularly A Co., 5th of the 19th SFG. So, imagine my surprise when I find on this site, a discussion area for that unit!

Now, don’t laugh at this, but while I was running my business, I was introduced to Airsoft. I had tried paintball, but just couldn’t handle the unrealistic look of the guns and tactics used. When I was shown my first full metal M4-copy airsoft rifle, I was impressed! And not only that, but there was a local airsoft group that wanted more military realism in their tactics, and so began using tactics learned in the Rangers Handbook, and tactics learned from an ex-SF airsoft player (yes real retired SF, not a poser). Playing with this group reminded me of the days of war games on Bragg using Miles Gear. The group’s name is Crazy AITs (Airsoft Incursion Team), crazyaits.com.

All playing airsoft did was remind me of how much I missed the Army.

Anyway, there is my introduction. Wonderful site BTW! :D

(-Brad

(Edited post to include my MOS information.)

[Soft Target]

Special Forces, Special Services, isn't it all the same?

TR

I resembled that remark!

[Team Sergeant]

TS,

Your not the first one that has brought that question to my attention. Including my recruiter after I let him know that the MEPS had me going to Ft. Jackson. He along with my liason at the MEPS did some reseach for me and discovered that a lot of 18 series have been getting put into different feeder MOS's recently. I am listed in my contract as an 18E so my AIT is 25C at Ft. Gordon. From what I understand 18D's are being sent in as 91W's as well...

I do appreciate all those that were willing to send up the red flag though. Looking at my contract right now I am pretty confident everything is set up correctly. However, it wouldn't hurt my feelings if anyone wants to take a look at my orders (http://img387.imageshack.us/my.php?image=orders6pv.jpg) just to be sure.


Orders are good to go.

I think because they are National Guard orders they look quite different then what we're used to seeing.

S**t Happens, Things Change and No one has all the answers.

TS

[hermitcrab]

Hermitman, are you joining the national guard?

My NG 18X buddies were assigned their CMF 18 MOS before ever starting and were sent to the applicable AITs. If you're active duty then you'd be the first I've heard that got this deal.

Based on my own personal experience on Sand Hill, I don't think you're missing out on too much Infantry training Hermitman. We did battle drills maybe.. five times my entire time there. OSUT ... met the standard... but very inefficiently IMHO.

Good luck man!

Jehgunnz,

That would be the difference then... Yes, I am joining the Colorado Guard... I think that I signed on right as a lot of changes had or are in the process of taking place. I also think that 18x's get something called SFPC II which I gather goes over some of the things we would miss during an infantry AIT. I appreciate the insight bro.

[Razor]

So you're signed up as a Rep63, not an 18X, right?

[hermitcrab]

So you're signed up as a Rep63, not an 18X, right?

Razor,

Assuming you are speaking to me, I am not familiar with what a Rep63 is. I have 18E listed in my actual contract, and my recruiter has only spoken of 18X with me. So if I am signed up as a Rep63 I am un-aware of it.

[TFM]

Razor,

Assuming you are speaking to me, I am not familiar with what a Rep63 is. I have 18E listed in my actual contract, and my recruiter has only spoken of 18X with me. So if I am signed up as a Rep63 I am un-aware of it.It is too easy. Read your Statement of Enlistment (7 page doc). It will tell you exactly what you are. At this point, if you signed the dotted line, aint no turnin back. You are what the Army says you are.

[Renee]

Civilian office manager guest. Joined to keep up on a member or two from another site. Dont really expect to post much except maybe to thank Java for recommending those Bates. Good looking site... lots to read. Thanks.

Renee

[CPTAUSRET]

Welcome aboard, everyone.

Terry

[Basicload]

Hello everyone,

I'm active duty Military and I have been posting on the net for almost a decade. I've been on 10-8, Lightfighter, SOCnet, Tacforums, and a few others.

I came here to check things out at the suggestion of one of your MODs who is a mate of mine from another board. I'm also stalking renee! :D

I hope to bring something to the board and I can tell you all that I am all ready jacked up because I cannot figure out where to post the link to my avatar.....(sending up red pen-gun flare...help)

Thanks for having me aboard.

DA Chuck

[Kyobanim]

welcome aboard, all.

100 posts will get you an avatar.

[Basicload]

No wonder I could not "unclick" that button...... I thought it was more 18 series/Ranger rivalry stuff going on. :D

I was thinking a Nous Defions Doc baited ambush......:cool:

[NousDefionsDoc]

Welcome Load. Good thing you let Renee come in first, I had to put the safety back in the clacker.

Welcome to both of you. Good to see you both here.

[M4Guru]

Welcome Renee and Basic, good to see you here.

[Hiclaude]

Hello All,
I'm a medic currently stationed in Alaska. I found this website while looking for more information about the SF community. My goal is to become a successful Special Forces soldier and be shoulder to shoulder with America's best. See you around.

[Renee]

Thanks M4Guru. It's an impressive membership.

Welcome Load. Good thing you let Renee come in first, I had to put the safety back in the clacker. Welcome to both of you. Good to see you both here.

Hey, 50% of the time my navigation works every time. And that's not always good.

Renee

[Jack Moroney (RIP)]

Welcome aboard all!

[JimW]

I followed BL and Renee here on the sage advice of a smart man. Been around the net for a few years on LF.

LSHD USAF ASR tech '89-93. LEO/SWAT '97-

[Basicload]

Great to see you here Jim. I've been reading the old posts all evening and it looks like there is some really good info here, even for us non SF types.

[Jehgunnz]

Jehgunnz,

That would be the difference then... Yes, I am joining the Colorado Guard... I think that I signed on right as a lot of changes had or are in the process of taking place. I also think that 18x's get something called SFPC II which I gather goes over some of the things we would miss during an infantry AIT. I appreciate the insight bro.

No probrem. :D
Yeah, one thing I've seen while here is that the program is changing all the time. SFPC (aka SOPC II) will square you away for what you need to know about patrolling.

[NousDefionsDoc]

I followed BL and Renee here on the sage advice of a smart man. Been around the net for a few years on LF.

LSHD USAF ASR tech '89-93. LEO/SWAT '97-
My LEO Bro! Welcome aboard Jim. Good to see you here.

[NousDefionsDoc]

LOL - I see Renee's lesser half finally showed up. Welcome Gary!

[Casket]

Thanks Doc.

:o

Hi all.

My name is Gary and all my friends seem to be coming over here…. I’m ex Army and have been over at Lightfighter for years. In civilian life I’m an R&D supervisor for a quasi-evil multi national corporation.

Gary

[The Reaper]

Welcome LFs.

Casket, looks like you might be from a university town.

TR

[ADAman]

Hello everyone,

I just wanted to say thank you for allowing me to visit your site. I am a currently deployed NG ADA guy. Originally from SC. Once again, thanks for the chance to hang around and learn.

[NousDefionsDoc]

Welcome ADAman. Are you working in your MOS while deployed?:munchin

[gunnerjohn]

Welcome all...

So with Casket here now, does this mean that Harsey and I have to watch what we say about the OSU Beavers???

[ADAman]

Yes NousDefionsDoc, I am working in my MOS.

[Casket]

Welcome LFs.

Casket, looks like you might be from a university town.

TR

Roger that & thank you Sir.

Funny thing about a college town, no matter how old I get, the girls always seem to stay the same age....

;)

This looks like a very well done site.

Gary

[After doing my homework on who I was talking to, edited to add “Sir”.]

[Smokin Joe]

Yes sir, I am working in my MOS.

Root-roo-raggie I think you just broke one of his cardinal rules. :munchin


Welcome everyone glad to see the influx of quality members for the LF community.

[ADAman]

Smokin' Joe,

Please correct me!

[SoD Stitch]

Good Evening.

First of all, thank you for allowing me to visit your site. I'd like to let all of you know right away that I am a GD civilian, and I certainly won't be trying to "pretend" that I have any military experience. The only weapon I've ever actually fired is a .22 LR and the closest I've ever come to a "real" weapon was touching an M60E3 once at Fleet Week in San Francisco in 1990.

However, I do have a huge amount of respect for warriors in general, and SF in particular. I guess you could call me an armchair general. That being said, don't expect me to put my 2 cents in very often, I would rather keep my mouth shut and be thought a fool than open it up and remove all doubt. I may ask a few questions here & there, but for the most part I will put discretion before valor and maintain my silence. My only "qualifications", if you can call them that, are a degree in International Relations and an enjoyment of reading anything related to SF (and I have quite a few). I look forward to reading your posts. Thank you for your time.

SoD Stitch

[Jack Moroney (RIP)]

Good Evening.

I guess you could call me an armchair general.

Welcome aboard all! Don't concern yourself about the above description, many of us have work for those types before and they wore a uniform:D With the influx of LEOs and Lawyers we have recently seen I am wondering if I need to drag out my old Miranda Card and post it on my desk;)

[Bill Harsey]

Thanks Doc.

:o

Hi all.

My name is Gary and all my friends seem to be coming over here…. I’m ex Army and have been over at Lightfighter for years. In civilian life I’m an R&D supervisor for a quasi-evil multi national corporation.

Gary
Welcome aboard Gary.





go ducks.

[Loadsmasher]

Howdy,
First of all I would like to thank you all for allowing outsiders not only a glimpse into your community but the opportunity to ask questions and learn. I'm a SSgt reservist C-5 Loadmaster in the U.S. Chair Force with almost 6 years and 2000 hours. In late 2001 and early 2002 I had the privilege of working with a few members of Special Forces in the relocation of their unit. Their quiet professionalism and fierce intensity were inspiring and was a far cry from the posturing and bravado I was used to from Air Force pilots. I resolved that when my obligation to the Air Force was completed I was going to throw my hat in the ring and see how I stacked up. In August I graduate from college and finish my enlistment and will then pursue my options for a career in Special Forces.

[Gypsy]

Smokin' Joe,

Please correct me!


Well, I'm not Smokin' Joe but...NDD doesn't much care for the whole "Sir" thing when you address him. :D

Welcome all, special thanks to those of you who have or are serving.

[Mud Puppy]

Hello,

First off, Thank You for allowing me to be a guest in your house.

I have 26 years in the Army. 11 Active duty years as a MP alot of it in the field (hence Mud Puppy). 15 years in the Reserve as a Drill Sergeant. I am currently a 1SG in a Drill Sergeant unit. I am a LEO on the civilian side. JM shouldn't worry about his Miranda card, it looks like there are plenty to go around. Besides the attorneys here will find a loophole :)

I am looking forward to learning as much as possible. Any postings will only be in my lane.

Mud Puppy

[ADAman]

Gypsy,

Thanks for the heads-up. I guess a little more attention to detail would go a long way on my part. I meant no disrespect. :)

Thanks to everyone for the very warm welcome. I feel privileged to be here.

[CPTAUSRET]

Thanks to everyone for the very warm welcome. I feel priveleged to be here.



Truth be told, I feel privileged to be here, too.

Terry

[Gypsy]

Gypsy,

Thanks for the heads-up. I guess a little more attention to detail would go a long way on my part. I meant no disrespect. :)

Thanks to everyone for the very warm welcome. I feel priveleged to be here.

De nada...takes a while to get up to speed, it's because NDD wasn't an ossifer. ;)

[One up One down]

Hi all,
As the name says, I'm an active duty Army PFC. I'm pretty new to the Army. Still working on hitting that one year mark. I plan to sit around and read, and not talk too much at all. I'm currently deployed in the SOUTHCOM AOR and wanted to get a feel for who was playing in the neighborhood if you will.

[The Reaper]

Welcome PFC journalist from Soto Cano.

Been there a few times myself, always glad to leave.

TR

[NousDefionsDoc]

Truth be told, I feel privileged to be here, too.

Terry
Me too.

[NousDefionsDoc]

Welcome PFC journalist from Soto Cano.

Been there a few times myself, always glad to leave.

TR
Roger that Boss, but they didn't call it that when we were there....:)

[One up One down]

Welcome PFC journalist from Soto Cano.

Been there a few times myself, always glad to leave.

TR

Thanks for the quick welcome. This is my first station, so I don't have much to compare it to. For now it gives me a chance to see a great deal of Central America. The only thing I could ask for is an expanded library down here. Were you here when it was Palmerola?

[ghost 7]

Nice looking board, looks like a lot of work went into making this place a cut above. Lurked a bit and enjoyed reading quite a few interesting posts. One caught my attention and made my blood boil--about three PSYOP soldiers (http://www.professionalsoldiers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=10223) wearing ipods on a patrol in Afghanistan. I just wish they'd have been mine. But I'm...calm...now...

Thanks for letting us in your neighborhood.

[The Reaper]

Thanks for the quick welcome. This is my first station, so I don't have much to compare it to. For now it gives me a chance to see a great deal of Central America. The only thing I could ask for is an expanded library down here. Were you here when it was Palmerola?

Palmerola and SCAB.

Spent a few days in Juticalpa, Cucuyagua, Tegu, San Pedro Sula, Comayagua, Santa Rosa de Copan, La Ceiba, Mocoron, Ocotopeque, and a few other places that shall remain nameless.

Surprised to hear that you are getting out, I thought that most of the permanent party were only let out a couple of times for R&R.



Could you explain this "extra grains" thing?

Do you know what they are, and why a certain number are there already?

TR

[Warrior-Mentor]

Thanks for the quick welcome. This is my first station, so I don't have much to compare it to. For now it gives me a chance to see a great deal of Central America. The only thing I could ask for is an expanded library down here. Were you here when it was Palmerola?

How's the fried fish at the lake just north of there (on the drive to La Ceiba)?
If you haven't stopped in for a meal yet, I highly recommend it.

[ronin11B]

Good evening gents,
Wanted to say hello to everyone and thanks for letting me aboard.

[The Reaper]

How's the fried fish at the lake just north of there (on the drive to La Ceiba)?
If you haven't stopped in for a meal yet, I highly recommend it.

Lago de Yojoa.

Ate there every time we drove the road from SCAB to San Pedro Sula.

TR

[gatoraco]

I just wanted to say you got a cool forum here, glad to be part of it.

[Ambush Master]

I just wanted to say you got a cool forum here, glad to be part of it.
OK, now that you broke the ice, hows about filling out your Profile and introducing yourself, in a PROPER manner, in here!!

Later
Martin

[NousDefionsDoc]

Mr. Gator, the Ambush Master.

AM, Mr. Gator.

[vern23]

Gentlemen,

I'm an AF Space Operator, meaning I do the satellite thing. I always enjoy seeing a soldier's POV on things as it helps me to better cater our mission to your needs. I'm here to absord and learn; may post if it falls near my area of expertise. Thanks for letting me be a guest in your domain.

Mike

[JCUSA]

Gents,

I thought I would stop-in and say hello. Longrange1947 advised me to check this site out. I plan on doing a lot of reading and very little posting.

JC

[NousDefionsDoc]

Welcome JC.

[NousDefionsDoc]

Lago de Yojoa.

Ate there every time we drove the road from SCAB to San Pedro Sula.

TR
Enrique is a good man. I hope he and his family are well.

[SF18C]

Hello everyone! MtnGoat sent me your way and after a day or two of trolling around and reading a few posts I signed up to be part of the action.

I did my team time in 10th Group and thought this would be a great site to keep up with old friends, make some new ones and keep in touch with the "community".

I am currently one of those fat, lazy, overpaid GS types that is doesn't look too fat, works my rear to the bone daily and haven't yet found the GS pot of gold I had always heard about.

I am working in Italy right now with SETAF but hope to be back at Bragg this summer.

Thanks for having me aboard!

[Roguish Lawyer]

Welcome, SF18C!

[VAFF]

I have come and gone to SFAS and will go back again. I am an E5 in the United Kingdom and Want more than anything to be with the Warriors that make up our current military, even if it means my life. I fully understand the obligation I will make in this decision and am already comitted to it. I have been in for 6 years, and would like to make this my career. Look out because I will be there, and hopefully one day I will help complete a mission or even save a Warriors life. Thank you for all that you guys do.

-VAFF

[NousDefionsDoc]

I have come and gone to SFAS and will go back again. I am an E5 in the United Kingdom and Want more than anything to be with the Warriors that make up our current military, even if it means my life. I fully understand the obligation I will make in this decision and am already comitted to it. I have been in for 6 years, and would like to make this my career. Look out because I will be there, and hopefully one day I will help complete a mission or even save a Warriors life. Thank you for all that you guys do.

-VAFF
Good, you're halfway there. Now go fill out your profile.

[CPTAUSRET]

[QUOTE
I am working in Italy right now with SETAF but hope to be back at Bragg this summer.

Thanks for having me aboard![/QUOTE]



SF18C:

Welcome.

We will be heading to Florence, for a couple of weeks in the near future.

Terry

[SF18C]

CPTAUSRET

I threw up some info/links in the Area Study...Florence, Italy (http://www.professionalsoldiers.com/forums/showthread.php?p=117721#post117721)

If you want more info PM me and I'll see what I have from my last recon there (about a month ago.)

If we need to gather more "ground truth" I will insert a pilot team (my wife and daughter)!!!

[Sapper101]

Hi all,
NousDefionsDoc sent me over here from lightfighter when I started asking about insurgency/counter insurgency. I imagine I'll be mostly a lurker here, as I'm certainly no quiet professional, just an NG Sapper, though I certainly take my job seriosly and hope to be in for a long time. My civilian life is currenty devoted to school, I'm a junior history major, though with my upcoming deployment I'll be lucky to graduate by 2009, ha.
Anyway, much respect to you SF fellas, what limited interaction I've had in training with your kind has left me in awe I assure you.
-Sam

[Irishsquid]

Just wanted to introduce myself, as I'm new to these boards. Professionalsoldiers.com was recommended to me by some guys on SOCNET, as a good place to go for National Guard Special Forces. I'm a Navy type...was pursuing BUD/S training, until I found out that since I have critical job training, I won't be allowed to attend. Now I'm looking at returning home to MS to join the Guard and go to 20th Group. My father was with 20th Group at Camp Shelby and speaks very highly of the unit. I'm mostly just here to read, so you probably won't hear much from me...just the occassional question.

I'll go back to lurking now.



V/R
Squid.

[1IDSAPPER]

Hi everyone,

Been lurking here forever, just registered today. I am a combat engineer in the U.S. Army. Enlisted in Aug of 2004, tryed to get 18X but you had to be 18 and I just wanted to blow stuff up so I ended up here. I am stationed in Germany. I like to read ALOT and watch the show 24. Hoping to get to SFAS after I get a tour downrange finished, gotta wait for my buddy to make that E-4 though. Hoping to get alot of good info from this site. I already have just lurking around here. My uncle was with 42nd Special Forces Group in Thailand and Nam', he has been kinda of my inspiration to go Special Forces. Well thats about it. Thank you for letting me absorb the information here and for putting up a wonderful site.

[TFM]

Hi everyone,


Been lurking here forever, just registered today. I am a combat engineer in the U.S. Army. Enlisted in Aug of 2004, tryed to get 18X but you had to be 18 and I just wanted to blow stuff up so I ended up here. I am stationed in Germany. I like to read ALOT and watch the show 24. Hoping to get to SFAS after I get a tour downrange finished, gotta wait for my buddy to make that E-4 though. Hoping to get alot of good info from this site. I already have just lurking around here. My uncle was with 42nd Special Forces Group in Thailand and Nam', he has been kinda of my inspiration to go Special Forces. Well thats about it. Thank you for letting me absorb the information here and for putting up a wonderful site.
Howdy:D Lurk away brotha. Duty first Hooah!:lifter

[SF18C]

Although I am not part of the official welcoming committee I’d like to say HI and Welcome to a couple of Sappers!

[Joe111]

Hi All,
I am a graduate student in Physics at Cornell University looking to finish my PhD this year. I have been interested in Special Forces for quite some time now and have spent a lot of time following the posts on this site. Thinking about the Army and SF in particular after graduation.

[Warrior-Mentor]

Professionalsoldiers.com was recommended to me by some guys on SOCNET, as a good place to go for National Guard Special Forces.

Squid,
That would have been me.
Welcome aboard.
JM

[VAFF]

Just wanted to add that the "Get Selected" book was briliant, and is a great asset to any want to be SF soldier. MAJ Larson put me onto this book, MAJ Martin, he told me to tell you hello.

-VAFF

[exsquid]

All:

Some of you may recognize me from lightfighter & socnet. For those of you who do not, I am an ex-Navy guy now in the NG. I am a NQP with B 3/20th in NC heading to the Q next week. Hopefully I will be a valuble contributor here.

x/S

[Neo]

Good Luck at SFQC!

[keith]

Hey fellas,
I figured I've been lurking this forum long enough, it was about time to register and introduce myself.

My name is Keith. I'm 23 years old and currently work as a Software Developer (read: programmer), but spend most of my time at work supervising my team and dealing with clients.

Without going into a lengthy biography, I've been thinking about joining the Army under the 18x program for years. I simply can't stand sitting in an office all day long and feeling like what I do all day is not bettering the world in any shape or form. I want to be challenged, I want adventure, I want to feel proud of what I do, and most of all, I want cool stories to tell my grandchildren.

3 years ago I was considering joining, but my brother eventually convinced me to try police work. I enjoyed it, but I collected quite a debt while paying my way through the police academy. I eventually had to return to computers to pay the bills. I think that police work definately made me a more appropriate candidate than I was 3 years ago.

I'm leaning towards going the National Guard route (Mass.'s 20th SF) as SF Communications, although I'm open to other suggestions. I have a pile of books including GET SELECTED! and a book on learning Russian. I've been running, hiking, and doing push-ups, trying to get myself up to the level needed. I am definately serious about this endeavor.

I have a little related family history... my aforementioned brother was an Army MP (K9), who was attached to the Navy SEALS during the Invasion of Iraq. He got out of the Army after that. My dad was in the 82nd during Vietnam.

I'm here with the hopes to learn from you all, but I hope that I can also be useful to this community. I'll be more than happy to help with any technical problems, or fix anything that's wrong with the website (such as the pixilated flashing forum button ;) ). Just give me a holler and I'll do my best to help you out.

Thanks for letting me be here and making this site available!

[TFM]

Hey keith,

Read your bio. I can relate. You came to the right place. Have a goodun.:D

[incommin]

Introduce yourself with your first post.

When you come into our house we'd like to know a little about you. This assists in framing a response to post from a Professional Soldiers member.

De Oppresso Liber

I am a retired CSM. Retired in 1989. Next scheduled assignement would have been pushing papers in DC and didn't want to go there. Spent time in the 7th SFG, 5th SFG (B-50...RT Nail), and 10th at Devens. Served elsewhere as an instructor, Drill Sergeant, 1SGT, and CSM in Engeneer Bn's.

Currently a criminalist (CSI guy) for a large department in South Georgia.

Written two books and have two more going to a publisher....

Kids grown....wife good looking and happy....

[airbornediver]

Im' a Sgt currently serving in the NC national guard.

During my first tour of active duty I was a doc with the 1/503 light infantry 2ID in korea, did 2 years there from 96 to 98. After that was a doc with 3/67 ar in 4ID.

then I did another tour of active duty as an airborne infantryman, finding myself at swc.

now I'm in the national guard and am in the process of transferring to 20th group for a tour and then rolling to sfas after that.

thanks for allowing me on the board and believe me, I've tossed back a few beers over the years for all past and present QPs, as I have some friends who are QPs.

lots of respect to you guys and eventually I'll get there.

[Team Sergeant]

Kids grown....wife good looking and happy....


Cannot ask for much more than that!

Welcome CSM!


Team Sergeant

[Irishsquid]

I'm a Navy type. Looking to get out of the Navy, because they won't let me go to BUD/S. I want to go MS Army NG and go to 20th Group. My father was 20th, and speaks very highly of them. I'm an Information Systems Technician 3rd class (Surface Warfare Specialist) so I'll be trying to go for 18E. That's about all there is to me.

[Warrior-Mentor]

Just wanted to add that the "Get Selected" book was briliant, and is a great asset to any want to be SF soldier. MAJ Larson put me onto this book, MAJ Martin, he told me to tell you hello.

-VAFF

Glad you got a lot out of it.

What's MAJ Larson doing now? Haven't seen him in a long time...

[Warrior-Mentor]

I am a retired CSM.

Written two books and have two more going to a publisher....

Welcome aboard CSM.

What did you write already?

What are your next two?

[whitej34]

I've been lurking around for awhile like Keith and figured it was my turn to introduce myself.

I'm heading to SFAS in June after a couple years debating it. I figured it was time to sh*t or get off the pot. I am due to ETS in October and am faced with 3 options: go back to college, continue riding a desk or go Special Forces. I obviously dont want to ride my desk anymore and college just doesn't seem like my cup of tea right now, so the choice to try it was fairly easy. If I can't be SF, I don't want to be in the Army. I decided to assess in January while at Airborne school and have been training since. I know I need to keep my eye on the 25 M target (SFAS), but sometimes it's nice to try to look a little farther ;) .

J

PS. I bought the "Get Selected" book already :D

[xfjon]

Hi,
Im Jon (Jonathan) im currently looking for some input from current and retired SF guys. Thanks for letting me leave my little piece here.

-J

[RTSpecial]

Hello,

DEP 18 X-ray may 11th... found board through a diffrent board this one has by far been the most helpfull... I really appreciate the time everyone has put into setting this information up recently ordered Get Selected aswell...

[Q]

Retired in '89 too. Welcome aboard.

[incommin]

Retired in '89 too. Welcome aboard.


Being a new guy, don't want to make a fuss. But that quote in you signature block is by John Stuart Mill and Not W. Churchill......I think...... anyway I have the quote hanging on my wall and that is who it is attirbuted to.....

[incommin]

Welcome aboard CSM.

What did you write already?

What are your next two?


SOLDIERS STUDY GUIDE, now in its 4t edition and SHADES OF DANIEL BOONE...my rememberance of CCS....

Next two are CANCER , A MATTER OF FAITH...... lost a father and brother to cancer a number of years ago.... it is their stories. And the last is DYING TO KILL...the story of a terminal ill patient who is thinking of ridding his state of a few bad apples before passing on.....

Thanks for asking,

Best wishes,

Jim

[Team Sergeant]

Being a new guy, don't want to make a fuss. But that quote in you signature block is by John Stuart Mill and Not W. Churchill......I think...... anyway I have the quote hanging on my wall and that is who it is attirbuted to.....


LOL:p

Good eye CSM......

TS

[Q]

OK, so I'm not a scholar. Thanks for settin' me straight. I'll fix it. I borrowed it from a fellow educationally challenged college grad. Fixin' it now, Boss.

[NousDefionsDoc]

Welcome aboard Sergeant Major.

[Cypher078]

Good evening, and thank you for allowing me to be a guest in your community.

Firstly let me say a huge Thank You to the men and women who serve our country. You provide the many freedoms that people take for granted with little or no praise and I for one appreciate it a great deal.

I have had the pleasure of knowing a handful of Special Operations soldiers and carry on close relationships with a few of them today. There is not a finer group of men. My experience with them has taught me that SF soldiers are a tight knit group, and I would love to live that lifestyle if health and time would permit.

Growing up I dreamed of becoming a Navy SEAL as I was an experienced diver and grew up shooting guns. I chose to play college football over joining the military. I played at a Div I-AA school, Appalachian State Univ. in Boone NC. I am a novice gun collector who is just getting back into the fray after a few years away from shooting. I came across this site through a web search comparing the ACOG and EOTech sights, as I am looking to build a weapon that will be used primaily for range shooting, but with practical defense capabilities. I have recently joined the IDPA and am looking to shoot in 3 gun matches in the Triangle area of NC. My current line of employment is working in corporate finance for a big tobacco firm.

I hope I wasn't too long winded, but I wanted to give you more information than "Hi I am Joe and I like guns". If you ever have a question please feel free to ask, and if I am ever out of line feel free to point it out as well.

Thanks and be safe.

Christian Cypher

[NousDefionsDoc]

Welcome Christian, nice intro.

[beedlesw]

howdy, i'm an e5 out of fort carson, infantry, been in 3 years and i had the distinct pleasure of never having a conus assignment until we got here to carson, i was part of the bde they sent over there from korea. any of you have ever served in korea know how things are over there, when we got back our CSM told us that the units in korea were the most untrained units in the entire army. my unit got back from iraq last summer, and after 6 months of 'living it up' in the garrison army and learning how to be an NCO/babysitter i've got to thinking there has to be something better. after seeing how incredibly happy one of my friends was when they passed selection and got orders for the Q course i started doing a lot of book and internet research, talked to people, and have come to the conclusion that SF is probably a pretty good decision, i haven't made any definitive moves towards getting to selection, no class dates or anything. i really like these forums, theres a lot of good information on here, thanks to all the SF senior NCO types for posting and sharing the information. i don't think i'm going to be doing any posting until i actually get slotted for SFAS, and i probably don't need to because any question i could think to ask has already been beaten into the ground, and further attempts at beating are frowned upon, to say the least. so yea, hi, and thanks for letting me access your forum.

[GreenMtnTac]

Hello Everyone,

I'm a firearms enthusiast and tactical gear freak living in the mountains of Northern Colorado. I found your site while googling for spotting scope info.

I personally have no military background, but come from a military family. Dad served in the AAF in WWII. Uncle was a Marine in the Pacific during WWII (and got to tour scenic Iwo Jima for a month). Brother in the AF, brother in the Army, and 2 brothers and a sister in the Navy (all retired).

Thanks, and to all you guys n gals on active duty, stay safe.

[MtnGoat]

I'm a firearms enthusiast and tactical gear freak living in the mountains of Northern Colorado.

Welcome abroad GreenMtn - Flat Iron Man. Have some fun and take a look around.

[scribbler]

Hello. I've covered Special Forces for about three years now for the newspaper in Fayetteville. In fact, some of my stories are posted here.

I stumbled upon the site researching a possible book idea. I doubt I'll post often. But, I just wanted to be honest about who I am in case some of you are wondering.

Thanks for allowing me to be a guest.

[Pete]

.... In fact, some of my stories are posted here.

Hey Scribbler;

The SF related stories we link here are pretty good. Save BMT, me and a few others some time. When your next SF story goes to print link it in one of the folders below. Save us some time and heatburn as we try and get our eyes open, drink coffee and type on this critter. I've messed up plenty of links.

Pet

[mark.brummitt]

Hello,

My name is Mark, and I will be leaving for Selection soon. I am just looking around and learning right now.

Mark
"Soldiers are my credentials"

[MtnGoat]

Hello,

My name is Mark, and I will be leaving for Selection soon. I am just looking around and learning right now.

Mark,

Good luck when you get your class date. Let us know what happens.

VG

[Bill Harsey]

Welcome aboard everyone.

You too scribbler. Thanks for your work.

[bad aim]

Thank you for you guys for allowing me to be a guest and a member on these forum. I am a current college student at the University of Austin, Texas. I have plans on enlisting in the US Army and striving hard to attend Flight School.

I currently own a 16" RRA M4 and my hobbies include military history, shooting, and books.

Thanks for having me.

[jatx]

Thank you for you guys for allowing me to be a guest and a member on these forum. I am a current college student at the University of Austin, Texas. I have plans on enlisting in the US Army and striving hard to attend Flight School.

I currently own a 16" RRA M4 and my hobbies include military history, shooting, and books.

Thanks for having me.

Welcome, Longhorn.

[tentoesup]

I just got registered and wanted to introduce myself. I was former 11B and 18C. Become a Fed. and got bored so now I am working overseas. Thanks for all the great info on this forum.

[SF18C]

Welcome...we could use a few more Charlies around here!

[fighting_irish]

Hello,

This is my first post and I would like to introduce myself. I came across your site while just searching the web for news stories of a fallen family member (SFC Christopher L Robinson).

I am not in the military but I have great respect for what you guys do and wanted to say thank you and God Bless. If there are any members of the 2/20th SFG(A) that I could ever help in any way please let me know.

Regards,
Scott

[dhow311]

Good afternoon all, and thank you for allowing me to be a guest in your community.

I am 24 years old and strongly considering joining with an 18x contract. I am the youngest person with a Director level position in a collection of resorts that spans across the country. I am extremely motivated and I want to serve in a capacity that will challenge me and allow me to give back and protect this great country.

Thank you all for this resource as I begin to absorb all that you have been kind enough to share.

DHow

[FutureSoldier45]

Hello gentlemen, thank you for allowing me to become a member on this site. Im 21 and i live in california, im currently enrolled in junior college and I am finishing up to botain my AA in Fire Science. I am very active in fitness and staying into shape. I have an older brother who is enlisted in the army and has been for quit sometime. I myself have just joined the army on an 18x contract and I leave for basic june 8th at fort benning.
Zack

[PSM]

Gentlemen,

After several months of lurking, it’s time for a proper introduction.

I found this site while researching whether the warranty on my Silva Type 27 covered the bubble that developed in the capsule. I looked around and found this a site by and for adults who understand service, mission, honor, camaraderie, and valor. And who like to blow things up.

The mentoring of young and future soldiers is the most impressive aspect of the site, in my opinion. Those who find their way here will be well served.

As for myself, I served in the Army for 1967 until 1970. I was Infantry through Ft. Polk and Ft. Ord. I was assigned to the “infantry only” security platoon at an ordnance company on Okinawa. From there I went to the Combat Surveillance/Electronic Warfare School at Ft. Huachuca where I qualified as an Unattended Ground Sensor Operator. Then I went through the Methods of Instruction Course and back to CS/EWS as an instructor.

My only contact with the SF community was some guys from Camp Hardy (I believe) on Okinawa who came to train on some of our “toys” and a SF Capt. I went through MOI with. We later shared an office at EWS.

By the way, in the last 36 years, I’ve never met an 11B from that period who did not serve in Viet Nam. I guess I’m the only one.

Thank you and stay safe out there.

Pat

[NousDefionsDoc]

Welcome aboard PSM.

[bungi74]

Love the site... lots of good motivating stuff here...

Active Duty Army 11b1v...

Passed SFAS in December, got 18d-Arabic...

Broke hip (nothing too serious) in car accident in February, and will go to the Q once the hip heals and I can get into shape.

[187snooch]

Just recently got selected and cant wait to get to Bragg and start the Q coarse. Looks like alot of good info here. Thanks for your time.

[highflier77]

Good afternoon,

My name is Brian. I am a 28 year old airline pilot. I work in an industry where integrity, honesty, and loyality do not exist. I want to be a part of something that is more important than just one person (me). I want to spend my life a part of something I can be deeply proud of and that demands all that I am. Flying a jet around doesn't do it. I am at a point in my life I have to be honest with myself with respect to my destiny. My soul is calling for something else.

My hobbies are skydiving (USPA C-35245), shooting (I am attending FFDO training next month), backpacking, and cross-training.

I have done extensive research into SF. The questions I have pertain more to Family issues. "Get Selected" only touches the issues of Family life and family strains. My "mentor" (A current active 180Alpha) has graciously offered me his insight on it but I am looking for a few more opinions to form a better understanding to make the best, most informed decision.

Thank you for the access to this site.

[sleepyhead4]

How's it going,

I found this forum through another forum that I frequently visit. Too bad I didn't know about this site earlier...no matter.

I got selected back in November...actually got the good news on my birthday (greatest birthday present I could ask for)...and I am currently going through some required army training before starting Q course. Since I'm a native Korean speaker, I will be headed to 1st SFG in about a year and a half. I hope to help some people on this site if anyone has questions that I might be able to answer...and of course I hope to find answers to my questions here. Can't wait.

[Warrior-Mentor]

Welcome aboard. Glad to see we're getting guys who've passed SFAS in addition to the guys looking for advice on how to pass SFAS (not that there's anything wrong with that...it's just smart).

[Land Shark]

After 2 years of struggling, I've made it back in. I've joined the Colorado National Guard. I was able to prove that I didn't have asthma, but I still couldn't contract for Airborne (or SF) because of a Lasik waiver. It baffles me that forward operating soldiers like Airborne and SF are at the top of the list to get Lasik from the military, but if you had Lasik from one of the top civilian surgeons then you can't contract for Airborne.

I go back to complete AIT in June. Once I complete AIT, I hope to transfer to a REC for 19th Group. I absolutely don't like not having things in a contract, but I reached a point where I could either trust that God would continue to carry me on this path or I could take my toys and go home.

I have been soaking up information from this list for months now. This has been a wonderful asset for knowledge and motivation.

Thank you,

Land Shark

[Bill Harsey]

I am a retired CSM. Retired in 1989. Next scheduled assignement would have been pushing papers in DC and didn't want to go there. Spent time in the 7th SFG, 5th SFG (B-50...RT Nail), and 10th at Devens. Served elsewhere as an instructor, Drill Sergeant, 1SGT, and CSM in Engeneer Bn's.

Currently a criminalist (CSI guy) for a large department in South Georgia.

Written two books and have two more going to a publisher....

Kids grown....wife good looking and happy....
CSM,
Welcome aboard.
Bill

[BIG W]

Hello. Great site! I just happend to see it mentioned on AR-15.com. Now a little about me. I am an 18B at 5th group. Just completed CDQC. It took a while to get here due to our busy scedule. I am sure glad its over. Take it easy and I will be in touch.

[gunnerjohn]

Welcome aboard all
Gunner

[shortbrownguy]

Great site!!! I'm 31 years old, and stationed in Ft Bragg, NC. I was an 11b assigned to 1/505 PIR, and have deployed in support of OIF and OEF. I am now in the "Q" course training as an 18e.

[l.knott]

...And the Lt jokes begin. But just so everyone knows, I passed the LandNav course down here with no problem at all, so hopefully I can head off all the 'Can't spell lost without LT' jokes.
Anyhow, I'm a new Infantry LT down here at Benning for IOBC. Waiting to get my orders cut for PRC and Ranger School. I'm mainly on here looking for some answers to questions I have about the Q-Course and SF life...mainly dealing with family issues. I haven't been able to find them yet, so I figured I'd introduce myself just incase I have to ask about them.
Just to cover my own tail, I know that I have about 2yrs before I can be chosen to go to SFAS. And from there, I know it will be a long and arduous course before I get a long tab and a funny-looking, green, French hat. But I'm certainly not going to count myself out yet and am going to try to aquire all the info I can about the course. I'm frankly very humbled to be able to communicate with such qualified and proven operators, both former and current, and hope to one day stand before you, be tested, and found to be of the same calibre as yourselves.
....Hey, a guy can dream can't he?

-Larry

[x SF med]

Guys-
I didn't read the SOP and posted in a couple of other threads prior to coming here.

Bio - SFQC (originally 11b with S qual, swithched to 18 series) 1983-4 peered in RS and recycled. Went through the 2nd 18b - 18d requal group in 85-86, anybody remember Rocky? Assigned to 10SFG(A) - Gary Gordon was still there at the time - my company, not my team - he was a bubblehad and ff.
Bonafides: Instructors at Bragg/ McKall included both Gritz's (before JR got canned for pharmaceuticals) Bob Howard and Nick Rowe (prior to reassignment to DoD). My class had the guy who tried to claim his rifle was stolen, even though they left his rolex on his wrist (who wears a rolex through SFQC? the guy was not liked).

PM me if you want to know more.

[Nauschalk]

Howdy yall,

My names Walter, I was a student at Texas A&M University in College Station for 2 years switching majors between Aerospace Engineering, Geology and International Studies before withdrawing and signing an 18X contract. It took me a while to figure out what I really wanted to do.

Right now I'm back in Killeen, TX getting ready to ship off on 11 MAY 2006.

This website is great :D.

[Warrior-Mentor]

Great site!!!

Great screen name!

Had more than one short brown guy on my team...they did well. Ya hablas?

Congrats on SFAS...good luck in the course.

[MtnGoat]

I was a student at Texas A&M University in College Station for 2 years switching majors between Aerospace Engineering, Geology and International Studies before withdrawing and signing an 18X contract. It took me a while to figure out what I really wanted to do.

Right now I'm back in Killeen, TX getting ready to ship off on 11 MAY 2006
Welcome aboard AGGIE - 12th man??

[The Reaper]

...And the Lt jokes begin. But just so everyone knows, I passed the LandNav course down here with no problem at all, so hopefully I can head off all the 'Can't spell lost without LT' jokes.
Anyhow, I'm a new Infantry LT down here at Benning for IOBC. Waiting to get my orders cut for PRC and Ranger School. I'm mainly on here looking for some answers to questions I have about the Q-Course and SF life...mainly dealing with family issues. I haven't been able to find them yet, so I figured I'd introduce myself just incase I have to ask about them.
Just to cover my own tail, I know that I have about 2yrs before I can be chosen to go to SFAS. And from there, I know it will be a long and arduous course before I get a long tab and a funny-looking, green, French hat. But I'm certainly not going to count myself out yet and am going to try to aquire all the info I can about the course. I'm frankly very humbled to be able to communicate with such qualified and proven operators, both former and current, and hope to one day stand before you, be tested, and found to be of the same calibre as yourselves.
....Hey, a guy can dream can't he?

-Larry

Larry:

Land nav at the Furman or Yankee Road courses has about as much to do with SFAS land nav as getting a driver's license has to do with being a NASCAR driver.

There are no legs at CMK as short as the longest legs at Benning, unless things have seriously changed.

Worry less about acquiring info on the course and more about being the very best officer that you can, to include taking care of your people. We do not take officers with below average or even average reports.

TR

[BrendanH]

Hello Everyone,
My first post on your forum so I wanted to say hello, introduce myself and to say thank you for the opportunity to join your forum.
My name's Brendan and I'm from Chicago where I'm a police officer.
I was doing a web search recently about leadership and this forum was one of the links that came up. Hopefully I'll be able to contribute to the forum as I'm sure I'm going to learn a lot.
Look forward to some good conversations,
Brendan

[Brandozen]

Greetings all.

Great site, and I appreciate the ability to gather pertinent, logical information.

[Warrior-Mentor]

Greetings all.

Great site, and I appreciate the ability to gather pertinent, logical information.

Welcome Brandozen.

For what are you gathering the info? Just curious.

[Brandozen]

Thank you for the welcome.

I am gathering info as I am soon to join the Army, after a 2 year College First Program. Later than I should have, I suppose, being 29, but joining nonetheless.

I probably should have fleshed out my introduction in the first place, but I didn't want to blabber on in my first post. :D

Being a self-diagnosed philosopher-monk (figuratively, not literally) for years, I've been struck by the undeniable urge to be a "doer" rather than a "thinker". I can't say it was a worthless detour, but I have to get out there and actualize service.

I am not trying 18x on my first go, as I am not deluded enough to believe I am physically ready to attempt the rigors, but I can say I hopefully will be able to accept that challenge and man up in a few years.

The reason being that, aside from a desire to be "the best", and aside from the challenge and meaning of such service, I have found in the course of researching the military that SF types are certainly in line with my mentality and outlook. Reading different boards and publications, and the rare occasional personal meeting, when I see the cut-to-the-point heart-of-the-matter process of thought and mode of expression of the SF personality, it falls right in line with my mode of thought. I don't mean to claim to be cut from the same cloth, as one couldn't assume that until they have been there and done that, but it certainly is encouraging.

Even if I don't ever have the honor of being tabbed SF, I am fully certain I will have no regrets about my military career, whatever it entails, as it is a calling for me, and inevitable.

Thanks for having such an informative and interesting site, and thank you for your service to this country.

TK

[Martin]

Welcome everyone!

This place attracts interesting people.

M

[BAX]

I am a member of the National Guard. I have deployed for OIF. I am thankful for this site as it provides information valuable to any soldier. I am an aspiring Career FireFighter in the civilian world and things have been going good since returning from the deployment. After I get hired on up here in the PNW I intend to become a member of 19th Grp. Thank You for this site and all you have done.

[willard]

AD Air Force O-3 here. Just returned from a short, by Army standards (6 mo), tour in Baghdaddy in Jan. I was the lone AF guy in an Army unit, so I picked up a lot of new AF jokes. My boss out there was SF(though no longer in a group), and introduced me to a few active SF members stationed in other outlying areas who came in from time to time. Through my job function, I was able to work with the local population a fair amount, and learned a great deal from my boss about the finer points of said work (not too much detail- sorry, OPSEC knee-jerk reaction). Though what I was doing in Iraq is in no way what I would claim analogous to a true SF mission, I was able to see the training and teamwork of my boss and others in action. The work and comraderie I saw amongst the SF I witnessed was a cut above anything I've witnessed in the military- and something I decided then and there that I wanted to do. I intend on doing a Palace Chase, interservice transfer to the NG. Thanks for this board-lots of good info here.

[GhostInTheShell]

Hello Quiet Professionals,

My name is Kyle and I'm currently in the DEP. I'm enlisted 18x and I ship 20060713.

I'm 20 and am currently enrolled in a community college. Ever since I was little, I've had a profound interest in the military, especially the Army Special Forces. I have the utmost respect for all of you service members past, present, and future, and I hope to learn as much as I possibly can from you until I ship. It is an honor to be here.


Thank you for your service to our great country.

[NousDefionsDoc]

Guys-
I didn't read the SOP and posted in a couple of other threads prior to coming here.

Bio - SFQC (originally 11b with S qual, swithched to 18 series) 1983-4 peered in RS and recycled. Went through the 2nd 18b - 18d requal group in 85-86, anybody remember Rocky? Assigned to 10SFG(A) - Gary Gordon was still there at the time - my company, not my team - he was a bubblehad and ff.
Bonafides: Instructors at Bragg/ McKall included both Gritz's (before JR got canned for pharmaceuticals) Bob Howard and Nick Rowe (prior to reassignment to DoD). My class had the guy who tried to claim his rifle was stolen, even though they left his rolex on his wrist (who wears a rolex through SFQC? the guy was not liked).

PM me if you want to know more.
I bet I know you and I know we know the same people. I was at 300-F1 when your class went through (we got bumped back).

Not that I will ever admit publically to actually knowing somebody from Gucci Group.;)

Welcome aboard.

[Strait_Jacket]

Guys,

Ex. UK Light Inf here. Got out in 2000 after seven years, read Modern History at university and now work in the business world.:confused: I'm not here to Walt/Big time it but thinking of getting back in for the 2007 Tehran Dash so will be 'eyes on, mouth off' most of the time. Have trained with some 82nd guys over here - they didn't like the beer much - and have had professional respect for your Airborne since. Standing by for abuse..

Regards,
J

[Comnenus]

Hi, I'm in the Va National Guard (29th Light).

Not much to say really, just came on here for information.

[MoonAngel]

This site has been a valuable resource to me over the past weeks and I am grateful to all who contribute.
My name is Heather and my husband just graduated from OSUT and is now in airborne school, with an 18x contract. He is why I am here but I'll give a short intro for myself.
I am first a wife and mother to our amazing two sons. I am also finishing my final semester in medical anthropology. I own my own business teaching childbirth courses and working as a doula (birth attendant).
My husband has his degree in International Studies with a minor in Spanish, a minor in History and a Latin American and Caribbean Studies certificate. Joining the military has been a long term goal for both of us for some time, once he was done with school and I am excited that we are finally moving forward with this dream.
The information here has been helpful for me as I look ahead to the steps to come.
Thank you again,
Heather

[NousDefionsDoc]

My husband has his degree in International Studies with a minor in Spanish, a minor in History and a Latin American and Caribbean Studies certificate.
Yum, Yum, Chomp, Chomp

Welcome aboard.

[monotheism]

Hello,

Nice to meet you all. I am an Orthodox Jew living in Australia. My particular areas of interest vis a vis this forum are: the authority of security experts, the role of soldiers when military orders are not based on security experts, and identifying the most effective ways of winning the war on terror in general.

[docbuxton]

Hello,
I'm a navy hospital corpsman with a marine company (now a reservist) providing medical support. I'm currently getting off of my 1 year activation to portsmouth naval hospital in VA. I'm a NREMT- Intermediate and have taken numerous military medical classes. If anyone has questions for me just ask.

doc buxton

[Hostile0311]

Hello Gentlemen,
This is my first post & I just wanted to intro myself. I served in 1st Bn 8th Marines from 99'-03' and am currently on IRR and thinking of crossing over to to see what the Army has to offer a Jarhead. I came across your site while doing some research on SF. I'm finding your site very informative with lots of useful posts & links.
Regards

[Vincent]

Just wanted to make my introductory post. Naval Reservist, 3912, Spec Warfare Intel Analyst, currently assigned to the Joint Military Intelligence College in the Post Grad Intel Program.

Possible deployment to Iraq in Oct. with NSW.

Great site and plan on doing a lot of reading.

[dangerman]

Nice board, looks like I alot of good info and knowledgable people here. I am an 11B in the Army Guard here in Hawaii and just got back from a tour in Baghdad. Actually, I signed up to get some more info from searching the forums, we were told by our chain that they will be standing up a SF det down here soon, so I figured this would be a good place to check out. Thanks, looking forward to it!

[Gypsy]

Welcome home dangerman.

And welcome to all, my thanks to all who have or are serving!

[neveryield]

Morning SF, Rangers, and all present.

I have been a member (somewhat of a lurker latley) at AirborneRanger.Com, ArmyRanger.Com, as well as SOCNET for quite awhile now, not saying much but attempting to glean as much useful information as is possible on a regular basis. When I was recently directed this direction by a fellow DEPer, I must say I was incredibly impressed at the amount of work that has gone into building a community with the amount of prestige that can be found here. I hope that in becoming a member here, I will be able to add to my growing understanding of my choice of a future career as well as meet some of the best men living today.

Currently, I am an infamous DEP. I enlisted on September 12th of last year and am on my way to Ft. Benning for OSUT and BAC (what they're calling ABN now) on 20060706. Although I have learned that a large majority of Special Operations soldiers frown upon DEPers not obtaining 18x or Opt40 contracts right off the bat, I decided long ago the route which I intend on taking and am confident in my decision. I hope to spend at least two years with an Airborne unit such as the 82nd or 101st, during which I hope to gain the opportunity of an RTB slot. Obviously the chances are slim to none, but I'm not in the business of worrying about chances, so I'll take what I can get.

After acheiving success at Ranger School and retruning to my unit a tabbed, and more importantly, reformed soldier, I intend on fulfilling my dreams and volunteering for the SFAS course through the standard recruiting pipeline.

Of course, it is said that if God were to hear our plans, he'd scoff at them, so in essence I'm simply banking on that my dreams were instilled within me by him and that his plans coincide with mine. I'm confident that they do.


As far as preparation is concerned, as dramatically cherry hooah-hooah as it sounds, I have attempted to devote my life to my service as much as possible. Fighting off the injuries of early-overtraining I have learned to take better care of myself and have learned an incredible amount along the journey of getting ready for my future.

I bought GET SELECTED! last year, and combined with several other resources, I have to say it was probably one of the best purchases I've ever made. Its a pity that it has not been mass-marketed as much as some of the other less-useful works on preparing for a future in the combat arms branches of the military in general.

In essence, I'm looking forward greatly to what's in store for me in a hopefully lifetime career in the United States Military and hope to join you all in obtaining the title of Quiet Professional very soon.

[Jack Moroney (RIP)]

I hope to spend at least two years with an Airborne unit such as the 82nd or 101st, during which I hope to gain the opportunity of an RTB slot.

Welcome aboard. By the way, I jumpmastered the last airborne drop for the 101st before it went from Airborne to Airmobile which was quite a while before you were born. I only bring that up in case you get assigned to the 101st and someone talks you into climbing into a C-17 or C-130 for a jump. It is not that the jump will be all that difficult, but the landing will be a real bitch without that chute:D

[cjmurphy]

My name is Chuck, and I am a prior service member, serving in the New Jersey Army National Guard from 1999 until 2002. I am 24 years old and a college graduate with a degree in English Literature. I also participated in Army ROTC for a first year and a half in college. I never contracted with ROTC, and ended up deciding to leave for various reasons.

I am looking to get back in the Army, and I just have to figure out what I want to do. I have considered a medical MOS, as my eventual civilian career goal is to be a Nurse Anesthetist, but that is 20 years down the line. I feel I have a lot to offer as a leader and as a soldier, and that while the Army needs good radiologists, I might be of better or of more service elsewhere.

I am close with an Uncle who is a retired Lt. Comander in the Navy, and he encouraged me to look into OCS before making any decisions. I joined the Army OCS board about a month ago, and I have read a lot over there.
I was referred to here by that site. I have read a few books about the Special Ops Community, and I am here to learn and to inform my eventual decision. Thank you all in advance for supplying this resource.

[lksteve]

I enlisted on September 12th of last year and am on my way to Ft. Benning for OSUT and BAC (what they're calling ABN now) on 20060706. strangely enough, the Basic Airborne Course was BAC when i went through in '72...

[Irishsquid]

I've been in the Navy for 2 1/2 years. Currently looking to get out and join the MS Army National Guard. I want to go to 20th Group. My dad was in 20th Group, and speaks quite highly of the unit. If anyone out there can tell me a little bit more than the recruiting brochures about 18E, it would be great. I work comms and computers for the Navy, and would like to take a similar job if I move to ARSOF. I'm 22 years old, married, with 1 child and another on the way.


Irishsquid, OUT!

[The Reaper]

I've been in the Navy for 2 1/2 years. Currently looking to get out and join the MS Army National Guard. I want to go to 20th Group. My dad was in 20th Group, and speaks quite highly of the unit. If anyone out there can tell me a little bit more than the recruiting brochures about 18E, it would be great. I work comms and computers for the Navy, and would like to take a similar job if I move to ARSOF. I'm 22 years old, married, with 1 child and another on the way.

Irishsquid, OUT!

A good search of the site and reading the 18E forum might be a good start.

The 18E position will in no way be a similar job to what you do now.

TR

[rcfoley]

Greetings everybody, just getting signed on here today. I was with C/2/20, Columbus. MS from '75 to '81--Commo guy. Anybody here, with 2/20?

Also, my father was with Training Group in the mid-sixties, A Camp 423? on the border with Cambodia, and MAC-V Recondo instructor, I-112 in early '70's. Was wondering if he might ring any bells with anybody--James L. (Jim) Foley.

Sharp Salute...