SFAS Advice

[The Reaper]

Gents:

This thread is provided as a service for SFAS attendees to provide their advice (without G2ing SFAS) to those who have not attended.

If you are not an SFAS attendee, do not post here or ask questions.

We are looking for generic advice from those who were selected. Those who have attended without being selected and who think they have an experience to add may also do so, subject to review.

It is hoped that this will allow for SF students to keep the forum relevant, assist prospective attendees, and pay a little back.

If you candidates think you have something of value, please put it up and we will tune this on the fly.

Thanks and congrats!

TR

[Snaquebite]

Those who have attended without being selected and who think they have an experience to add may also do so, subject to review.


I would suggest that potential posters that fall in this category contact a QP on this board to review the content of their desired post . This may keep your ruck out of the hall.

[Phantasos]

Gentelmen,
I'm sure I might touch on things that have been mentioned somewhere on this site-but here are some collective and hopefully helpful thoughts:


One of the first things that come to mind are socks. Bring as many of them as you can; I believe I brought over 10 pairs. Just like many threads here say- keeping your feet in good shape will make you or break you.


This goes without saying, but don't bring boots that you just purchased from the PX. You might laugh, but it happend. Bring in boots that you could be comfortable in for days.


For the winter classes, maintaining body heat is very important. Stay dry when possible and always be prepared to snivel/de-snivel.


Positive attitude is key, if you are a good judge of character- as the course progresses you will see who maintains a positive attitude and who doesn't. Don't be the guy who is always complaining.


Cadre put out rules, regulations, and standards for a reason. Without being too specific, not adhering to the rules shows poorly on you, even if it seems minuscule, you think no one is watching or "everyone else is doing it". Remember if you are selected you will see some of the same people you were in SFAS with in the SFQC.


When in charge take charge; Otherwise let the leadership do their job- but don't be afraid to provide input if needed.


Make sure you have a firm grasp on land navigation before you come to SFAS. Bring a good map case with good markers.


Do not come to SFAS in poor physical shape. Be prepared to run, ruck, and maybe ruck run if needed;). You WILL be a burden to your fellow peers if you are weak, guaranteed.


Active stretch before each event(this was very important for winter class). And stretch after each event to prevent injury. Lots of good guys get injured. Always be cognizant of what your body is telling you.


Be humble.


For me, SFAS was at the time the apex of my career. Keep the mindset that the Cadre will have to take you out in a body bag before you VW, and you should should be set.

Good luck guys,
Phantasos
Class 004-10 (Jan 2010)

[The Reaper]

Phantasos:

Good solid advice, thanks for your contribution.

If you guys do not mind, give your class number and month/year you attended so that we can figure out how current your advice is and what the season was.

Thanks and keep 'em coming.

TR

[k-rub]

Buy and read Get Selected by MAJ Martin. The book contains excellent information to prepare you for SFAS.

Buy canteen straws. Attach them to your 2 qt canteens and they will save you a lot of time instead of taking them off your ruck to drink once your 1 qts run out. They can be had at Ranger Joes. Also buy a real Camelbak mouth piece. They do not leak and have an on/off valve.

Be prepared to wear a ruck everyday all day while at selection. Learn to be comfortable in the suck.

Do not be afraid or embarrassed to go to sick call. It is not looked down upon.

Kit bags are good to have. You'll be living out of your bag the whole time and having something with a side zipper will make life a little easier than digging through your duffle.

Eat everything you are given, absolutely everything. You will regret it if you don't.

Always, always, always do the right thing even if nobody is looking. If selected and if you graduate the Q, you will be entrusted with a huge amount of responsibility. If you can't be trusted to follow simple instructions, how can you be trusted to carry out missions. The COL who gave us our selection brief gave a great analogy. He said if we can't be trusted to be faithful to our spouses, who we made a commitment with to God, then how can he trust us in SF.

Always have a good attitude. People will notice, candidates and cadre alike.

Do not self asses. Let the cadre take care of that. Do your best and do not quit. Also, take it one event at a time. Don't think about tomorrow or next week. Focus on your current goal. 25m target.

There is an incredible wealth of information about everything on this site. I read it everyday prior to SFAS. Something I did was put together a collection of motivational quotes from this site posted by the QPs. I read it everyday and whenever I needed to refocus my thoughts. It helped out tremendously.

Class 09-10
June 2010

[version13]

This is all great advice.

In addition to what is immediately listed above, I would also submit the following:

1. Nothing is forgotten. The same people you went to selection will you will be seeing throughout the course. Whatever event you didn't put all forth or corners you cut will be remembered. Conversely, if you are a great team player, got along well with you peers, carried all your weight and some, you will be remembered by that, too. Your reputation starts there.

2. Bring a fiction book to read. If not for the entertainment value, it makes excellent trading for other useful books, i.e. Ranger Handbook, Get Selected.

3. Always pull guard, every night.

4. During individual land-nav events, always have your ruck with you, i.e. don't take it off to run to your next point.

5. Your body will be hurt at some point. It may not be hurting until the last day or two, but you will be hurting then.

6. Watch the "Green Berets" with John Wayne before attending.

7. Bring New-skin. This was more valuable than gold and an amazing treatment that is often overlooked.

8. Know how to properly pack a MOLLE ruck and how to properly set it up.

9. Tie everything down securely.

10. Try out a few map cases before you go and make sure they are 100% waterproof and can easily be accessed to annotate. On that note, be wary of markers. If you use them, do not bring alcohol based markers, permanent only.

11. Ice when you can. In fact, bring a reusable ice bag. This is a great way to prevent injuries and sooth sore muscles.

12. Hydrate, even during the Winter or Spring.

13. Laugh or at least smile sometimes. You're doing what you want to do.


v13
Class 06-10
March 2010

[BirdStuff]

1. DO NOT POP BLISTERS! Use the thread trick.
Assemble a needle with thread on it. Run it through the meat of the blister at a angle as to not stab your foot. You want to have the string just inside the inner circumference. Trim off the string so you have about 1 in. to 1/2 in. hanging out. Put a CLEAN sock over and elevate. By the next day all the fun stuff inside the blister that makes them enjoyable should have drained out via the thread.

2. Put a strip of 100mph tape on the hot spots you develop. Helps to relieve some of the friction going on inside your boot. You may have conditioned your feet for long walks with weight but a rain tends to erase all that hard work.

3. As an alternate to the above mentioned kit bag. Acquire an empty MRE box and cut off the top flaps; Use it as a storage box for items you want easy access to, store it under your cot.

4. Bring a loofah and scrub the hell out of your legs when you get to shower. I saw allot of guys get staph/merca infections because they only brought a bar of soap.

5. Freezer bags.

6. If attending a winter course; put your canteen inside your sleeping bag with you. When your moving put one inside your top. Alternate every hour to keep them from freezing. Same goes for your compass.

7. Do not put the electrolyte mix you may receive in all your water sources when going out. You may end up looking like you got in a fight with a box of powdered donuts before you find a clean water point.

8. Take your DLAB and TABE before attending.
*Not sure if this is still a permitted practice or not. May need clarification.

9. Gut a strip of 550 cord and separate the black/white strand. Poke a hole "the cross hair" in the center of your protractor. Tie a knot 3x the size as the hole you made and run the string through. Once the string is through tie another 3x size knot on the running end so the protractor is wedged by the knots. Use a lighter on the "bottom side knot" of the protractor; heat it so you can press it flat up against it - DON'T MELT YOUR PROTRACTOR! Put the cross hair on your start point and run the string over your end point. No lines drawn on your map and you save time! Note: the strings width adds a potential 50m drift to your path, so use this method with plenty of close attack points.

SFAS 06-05
Selected May 2005

[1stindoor]

Nice thread, I think it'll help a lot, coming from some of the younger guys...funny how a lot of the "advice" is the same as we got 20 years ago.

[caveman]

Thanks for all the excellent advice.

I will be attending the Feb/2011 class (I believe it is 005-11) and I am curious how many pairs of boots you all brought?

Right now I've just got two broken in pairs (my Bellevilles and a pair of Rocky sv2's) and was pondering how many pairs I should have in rotation.

[version13]

Thanks for all the excellent advice.

I will be attending the Feb/2011 class (I believe it is 005-11) and I am curious how many pairs of boots you all brought?

Right now I've just got two broken in pairs (my Bellevilles and a pair of Rocky sv2's) and was pondering how many pairs I should have in rotation.

The packing list calls for 2 pairs of boots and that's all I needed. Any more would really be overkill in my opinion. With that said, I would suggest the following about boots:

1. Do not get the "SOPC Special" and remove toe and heel cups and a softer sole. They exist for a reason. I saw a few candidates seriously hurt their toes kicking a log or such during land-nav or even dropping things on them. Also, the soles will come apart during rucks possibly and you may hold up your team.

2. Make sure that you boots have drain holes. You will be getting wet and the water needs to go somewhere. My Blackhawks did not have holes and made it miserable for some of the events. The first thing I did when I got back was put drainage holes in them.

3. Instead of bringing extra boots, I suggest bringing extra insoles. Changing socks, changing the insoles, and powdering the inside of the boots will make them pretty dry and like new. Greatly saves weight, too.

4. Campdry your boots with about 3 coats, but don't clog the holes.

5. Make sure at least one of your boots have a hard sole. Descending ropes will burn them up if they do not.

[RUCK NUT]

I just got back from SFAS last month 10-10 and got selected. Here is what I noticed....

1. Bring lots of T shirts, socks, and uniforms. I would seriously recommend a shirt for every day that you are there. I only had 7 or 8 and I was bumming b/c they never get that clean in the wash bin. I also really cherished my "free time" and running down to laundry, running back, hanging them to dry takes time.

I brought 5 uniforms, should have brought more. The dirtier they get the less they breath the more you sweat.

Sock and foot powder are key. I used thin issue socks and did not have a problem but I did a lot of foot prep before I went.

2. Foot prep, get them tough, learn to treat blisters and learn how your boots effect them, pre-cut mole skin so you can slap it on and CM. TUFF FOOT, EPSON SALT BATHS before you go. Helped me.

3. At least when I went the packing list was not scrutinized, bring the stuff on the list and bring extras, if sneaker boots fly wear them, if not have some issue boots so they don't kick you back.

4. Don't be light don't be late. They weigh your ruck with high speed digital scales 3-4 lbs over is a good so that your safe.

5. You don't need sexy muscles you need functional ones. I did a lot of upper body in prep and my arms came back noodles. Focus on leg strength, solid base of cardio and strong upper back.

6. MOST IMPORTANT don't assess yourself out. At the APFT I did by my count 64ish PU and took a break the TAC SGT looked and me and said 38! I knocked out 20 more and collapsed. I thought to myself that I was going to be 41 clubbed and got bummed out. If I had quit on myself at that moment I would have been a VW for the rest of the 19 days. I kept going and learned that I had maxed the PU during my selection counseling. The mind games start at jump! Stick to min by min event by event always doing your best.

7. TWO QUART STRAWS ARE A MUST! I got one from a cool Xray and it saved my life. They are worth the 20 bucks!

8. Land Nav-- do it before you go. Understand hand rails, back stops and attack pts. Go out at night, I did not and never found a point in the dark either day of STAR. I had to run around like a mad man all morning to get my points before index. I was really tired for the first day of team week.

9. Get around the motivated guys and stay clear of the weak ones. It is a interview and you have to stand out positively. At the same time always help out a buddy. Carry your share of the weight and don't leave any one out flapping.

10. The SOPC guys are f*cking studs. They have been working out hard for months leading up to SFAS. Don't let them burn you on the transition rucks or you will be dropped. They also all know each other from Airborne, SOPC, OSUT so don't piss them off. Its a good way to get peered low.]

11. Bring your TABE and DLAB scores with you! You will get to chill while others take the test. Also you can do the TABE at your home station as many times as you want to max it with 12.9

12. Do your research about the MOS, languages and Groups. Have a 1st 2nd and 3rd pick for each. I tried to fudge the DLAB to get spanish got a 96 and got Urdu. I had not ever heard of Urdu until then.

13. Remember that if you can stick through 19days of suck your life will forever be changed, your options will increase expediently, and you will take from the course a confidence and pride you can only get at selection. You can do it, shit I am an X-RAY TECH and I was fine:D

[The Reaper]

Guys, there are some real pearls here, thanks for your contributions.

Those who have not yet been, you should be all over these comments. You may not like all of them, but they represent snapshots of various classes and opinions from BTDTs who took the time and effort to write them up.

If non-selects would like to contribute, please drop me a PM with your comments, I will review them and will let you know to post them or not.

Appreciate the feedback.

TR

[1stindoor]

...I tried to fudge the DLAB to get spanish got a 96 and got Urdu. I had not ever heard of Urdu until then.


Congrats on getting selected. In the future...try to keep your attempts at "fudge" to yourself. There's enough challenges out there without you artificially adding to it.

[RUCK NUT]

Congrats on getting selected. In the future...try to keep your attempts at "fudge" to yourself. There's enough challenges out there without you artificially adding to it.

WILCO

[Sglav85]

deleted

[1stindoor]

You will take it during SFAS. Don't worry about trying to get it done prior, worry about being physically fit for Basic, AIT, Airborne, SFAS, etc.

The TABE test will measure your education level.

[amatlis]

September 2010
Class 10/10
18-xray (National Guard)

A lot of good points here, so I'll just focus on where I saw people getting dropped.


Day 1: PT Test. Don't come to SFAS if you're just barely passing the PT test. The cadre use a very tough standard and you will have wasted everyone's time. Fast, jerky pushups won't cut it. You need to drop your chest to the ground, keep your eyes looking up, move your whole body up together, and try to extend your arms almost to the point of going up on your fingertips - and it has to be slow enough to easily count. That's the only way to guarantee your pushups are counted. A lot of people got dropped on the PT test.
Gate Week: The standards for gate week are not that hard by themselves. The fact that you have to do it all running through sand, up hills, and crossing small rivers, makes it more challenging. I would like to post the time hacks since all the active duty guys had that information before showing up, but I don't want to be accused of G2ing the course. Needless to say, you should be comfortable running up to 6 miles and rucking up 10 miles. I was amazed at how many "pt studs" didn't make one or more of the gates. I can only conclude that some guys were only training for one kind of event. Some guys just couldn't run 6 miles. For SOPC, we never ran distance but we did a lot of interval training and that seemed to help.
TABE: Don't fail the TABE test. If you're like me and haven't done basic math problems in >15 years, do yourself a favor and get a TABE study book. The problems are not hard, but if you're out of practice you'll be giving yourself minor aneurysms trying to remember how to do them.
Psyche Test: As others have said, just answer the questions truthfully. However, I have one caveat to add - don't overthink the questions like I did. This is not a civilian psyche test to discover all the nuances of your unique personality. This is a test to determine if you fit with SF. If they ask a question like "Do you sometimes feel like violently attacking someone?", they mean "are you really thinking about doing that?" They don't mean it the way I took it like "Yeah, I have imaginary thoughts of beating people up all the time when people piss me off." That earned me an interview with the psychologist where I had to explain they were just wishful thinking thoughts, not real intentions. So, just use common sense. Also, there's a ton of repetitive questions, so try not to accidentally mark the wrong bubble about things such as "Do you see imaginary people or animals?"
Nasty Nick: I don't know if anyone got dropped for performing poorly on Nasty Nick, but it reflects badly on you if you fail obstacles. Make sure you are good at climbing ropes before you show up.
Land Nav: The only advanced land nav I ever did was at SOPC before showing up to selection, and I got all 4 points on the first day, so you don't necessarily have to be an expert before showing up. Just be a good learner. The biggest (and saddest) reasons people failed were (a) losing their map, or (b) losing their weapon. I saw some really good candidates dropped from the course because they lost their map. Please, buy a good map case and tie it securely to your body!!! Tie your weapon to your body if necessary. The draw monsters are nasty and they will rip everything out of your pockets. When you realize your map is gone (in the dark), it will be too late. Speaking of the dark, they tell you you need to discover at least 2 points before daylight if you wish to succeed. But that wasn't the case for me. My first point was 12 kilometers. It was ridiculously dark, like walking through a closet with no lights on. Your progress will be very slow, but don't despair, your land nav techniques will get you there. I didn't get to my first point until 7:50 am. I ran for an hour and a half to get my last point on time, but I still got all my points. PACE COUNT!! Most of the guys who had trouble, did not use their pace count. You should NEVER depend on the roads and trails on the map being accurate. You should not count firebreaks. If you use your pace count and azimuth, you will know exactly when you hit your next check point. You won't be wondering if it's the correct road or not. Also, use your compass A LOT at night. I walk straight during the day, but at night it was amazing how I could completely steer off in the wrong direction. I was so sure I was walking straight that I thought my compasses were wrong when I checked them. Trust and use your compasses. Or, if you can see the stars, memorize a few so you can approximately gauge your direction. Use the clearings on the map (such as the bowling alleys). They are accurate and great for verifying your position and handrailing at night. I wouldn't trust the draws much at night, but don't be afraid to bust draws during the day if you can see through them. They can save a lot of time, and you can usually find old paths through them during the day. At night is a different story...
Team Week: It was sad how many guys made it through to team week, performed well on events, but then fell out of transition rucks. The transition rucks were faster than gate week, so... you just need to be good at rucking fast and through sand. There's no secret method. You can't really prepare for the events except to be good at lashing and tying ropes. Most of the time, you won't be in charge of the apparatus design, so you just have to make do with whatever F'd up design your PL comes up with. It's not about coming in first anyway, it's about how you adjust and work as a team. Be a team player. Don't be like one guy on my team who complained constantly about how stupid the design was or how weak people were. Yeah, he was a physical stud, but he got peered out of Selection.


Know how to pack your MOLLE. I moved my pack high up on the frame and packed all the heavy stuff on top. I think that helped a lot *for me*. Everyone's different. However, there is no substitution for time under a ruck. You need to give your body time to adjust to the weight of carrying a ruck sack for long periods and distances. It will also help you with team weak. People talk so much about different work-out routines, but I think the simplest way to get in shape for SFAS is alternate running and rucking in the mornings and safe/moderate (i.e. don't hurt yourself) cross-fit style workouts in the afternoons (for overall muscle training - i.e. beach-body muscles are useless). Change up your running with intervals. Make sure you can ruck a 15 min/mile pace. That's all I would do. If you only lift weights in the gym, you may look sexy in the mirror, but my 36 y/o normal-looking-ass will be passing you on the runs or rucks.

My final point is about boots and blisters. Standard issue boots may be good for some people, but they're terrible for my feet and a lot of other people's feet as well. There's no reason why you should show up with boots that don't work well for your feet. I saw people who's feet were completely destroyed. That makes everything so unnecessarily miserable. There are many options available. I like the Blackhawks. They are built like a running shoe with no break in time, and they're very comfortable. Lots of people I know like them. However, you should get drainage holes installed as someone else mentioned. Otherwise they tend to get heavy when wet. I heard a lot of people like Garmand (sp?) boots. I was a dumbass, and just before Selection I got psyched out and bought OTB boots. I kept hearing about how great they were (so light and they dry so quickly). I was worried about my Blackhawks being so heavy with water. I wore my Blackhawks most of the time, but one day I tried the OTBs and, of course, I got blisters, and they bothered me the rest of Selection. Don't do that. Stick to what you know. As for popping blisters - at first I tried leaving them as the Medics recommended, but it was incredibly painful walking on them. So finally I popped them with an alcohol-sterilized needle, and most of the pain went away in a day.

Oh, one more point - hot weather. I forgot to mention how many people dropped due to heat casualties. Some people simply don't do well in heat, but there are many things you should be doing to avoid heat injury. I sweat more and get more overheated than most people I know. I obviously drank a lot of water as recommended. I drank two Salt Rehydration Packs per day and also added my own sugar-free rehydration flavoring to make it more palatable. Sip your water continuously and drink your rehydration mix gradually but steadily. Too much will make you throw up. I drank a whole pack during an event and the other throughout the day to recover. I could feel the difference it made in my muscle recovery/endurance. Also (this is optional), it was very hot during our team weak so I wore my ACU blouse without my t-shirt. The cadre gave me a weird look about it, but I wasn't penalized and I think it literally saved me from being a heat casualty.

Ok, one more point: Ice!! Ice is freely available. I iced my feet every day, and it made a tremendous difference. I know I'm a little older than other candidates, but my feet were aching every day, and with ice they almost good as new the next day.

Good luck everyone!

[version13]

One more piece of advice:

I swear that Camp Mackall was designed by M.C. Escher, you can walk in a 10 mile circle and the entire way will be uphill.

[BirdStuff]

One more piece of advice:

I swear that Camp Mackall was designed by M.C. Escher, you can walk in a 10 mile circle and the entire way will be uphill.

There is also a weather control device installed. The second you leave the gate it starts to rain.

[DJL2]

I was in class 503-08 (May of '08), and I know a lot has changed since with respect to particulars. It blows my mind that the gates and the standards for them are actually briefed now, but that brings me to the one piece of advice I would like to add to that presented thus far:

Do not try to game SFAS. This goes along with assessing yourself out. You are always being evaluated. Trying to calculate how much of an effort you need to put forth to get a "GO"or a good eval for an event and then metering out your effort and expending the minimum you deem necessary is a good way to skyline yourself as unsuitable. There were plenty of folks in my class that I heard strategizing their way around the events and through SFAS that found themselves standing in the non-select formation with sad faces on the last day.

On second thought, if any of that would have seemed like a good idea to you in the first place...go right ahead. :D

[SMP9168]

Class 07-10
April 2010

Socks - I took 16 pair, should have taken a few more. Not a necessity, but they just didn't feel right after hand washing and hanging dry.

Boots - I took three pair. I would recommend taking three. Your feet will get wet nearly every day. I would have one pair in my ruck (packing list), one on my feet, and one in the tent drying from the day before. It was a good rotation for me. Two issued pair and a pair of Danners.

Feet - I know its been hammered before, but its so important. Know what works for you before you go. I'm glad I got blisters a couple of times during my train up for selection, because by the time they showed up at SFAS, I knew how to take care of them and what worked for me. Take your boots and socks off and elevate your feet any time you have down time.

Sandals - Really wish I would have taken a pair of Crocs. Those that did took them to land nav and could let their feet air out while walking to the port-o-jons, etc.

Training for SFAS - A lot of personal preference here, but I'll give what I did. 1) Legs - I ran three times a week and rucked three times a week. I was working my legs hard six days in a row. I incorporated hills in nearly all my workouts. I hammered my legs so they were used to working hard every day. 2) Upper Body - I personally think upper body is important. You'll need strength for rope climbing, obstacles, team week, etc. We had some weak people when it came to team weak, and their lack of physical strength showed. It definitely can slow your team down. Forearm strength is also important 3) Rucking - There is a lot of advice on rucking on this site. My ruck training will look inadequate to most, but it worked for me. I rucked three times a week, twice for three miles, and once a week a six miler. This advice was given to me by a couple of QP's who believe if you go any further than six miles you risk the chance of injury, and you really aren't gaining anything. I stuck with that strategy and it worked for me. I never slowed down in the longer rucks, and never stopped walking during land nav other than at my points or to do a map check. A guy on my team from Ranger Bat trained the same way, and he was a stud. He was good to go on all ruck events as well. But, to each his own.

Stay positive and have fun.

[amatlis]

Hey, just a quick message for guys coming from the civilian world to military. I think it's important to be aware that joining the military and going to selection and the Q course is not one big glorious adventure. It's a huge shock going from the civilian world where time is money and you are treated in a civilized way. One of the hardest adjustments for me is the enormous amount of time spent doing nothing, waiting for something to happen. I am so used to working hard to be productive during my day. In addition, you are constantly treated either like an infant or a prisoner. I came from a program management position in DoD, running multi-million dollar programs, to an environment where most SF cadre hate the 18-xray program, don't want you there, and treat you like a complete idiot and don't mind showing you how insignificant you are by having you standing around all day doing nothing. You will typically have no idea what's going on until the day something happens. If you have a family or significant other, you will not be given opportunities to see them, even when there's time, because it's too much paperwork to give you leave. While in hold periods between classes, you will be with cadre who consider it their mission in life to weed you out for any possible reason. Being in hold is a shitty existence where your time and efforts will be constantly mismanaged and your training will make no sense. You will experience certain cadre who apparently are placed in charge of you as a punishment. They will constantly play fuck-fuck games with you to convince you and themselves of the power they have over you, and you will listen to endless long speeches about how great they are and how you should be humbled just to be in their presence. You will listen to long speeches about all the things you shouldn't do while learning that your cadre have and still do those things which they claim shows lack of integrity and professionalism.

I just want people to know the other side of what you're getting yourself into so your're not imagining some illusionary, romantic path of glory. You will spend a lot of time thinking about how much you could be accomplishing with your life outside the army while you stand around doing nothing or playing stupid games. The actual classes and cadre who run them are good, but you will spend a whole lot of time before sopc and in between classes hating life. That's reality. I thought someone should say it.

Good luck Gentlemen!

[moses25]

Any thoughts from others on the above post?

[The Reaper]

Any thoughts from others on the above post?

I think it is one person's perspective. An unfiltered opinion based on his personal experience. Just like his previous post on this thread was.

That attitude is probably one of the reasons that the 18X program is going away. People can serve in a regular unit and see what the Army experience is all about before coming to SF. I was an Infantryman before going SF, and once the SFQC was over, I was shocked at how much better it was in SF. And our cadre screwed with us mercilessly, much worse than they do now. In hindsight, the SFQC looked a lot better after it was over than when we were in it.

Anyone who has ever been on a jump with the 82nd can tell you about the hassles there in the conventional Army. It takes all day and then some for them to finally exit an airplane.

There is pressure on the cadre to take everyone that can get through the pipeline. I do not think that is a good thing. There is probably some pushback from this.

Leave is not permitted during SFAS. That keeps people from dropping 4187s for a free plane trip back to NC and quitting the first day. Not sure what the policy is beyond that, but processing a DA31 Leave Request is an easy thing at any unit PAC.

If you saw the Discovery Channel special on SFAS, instructions there are taken from the board. We are looking for people who can take and follow instructions, but who are also flexible.

The IG is always available if people are violating standards or being abusive.

If amatlis has let some bitterness color his comments, well, take it with a grain of salt. He has completed SFAS and was selected. amatlis, take a look back at this after a few months and let us know if you still feel this way.

TR

[lksteve]

Anyone who has ever been on a jump with the 82nd can tell you about the hassles there in the conventional Army. It takes all day and then some for them to finally exit an airplane.Wake up for a 1500hrs jump was usually 0200...with several manifest calls, equipment and weapons issue, pre-jump training, etc, we'd be on the planes by noon...after takeoff, we'd fly around for a couple of hours before jumping...after several more manifest calls, chute shake out and all, it would be 2000hrs before we were back in the barracks to clean our weapons and get them turned in by 2200 hrs so we could shower and get to bed for PT at 0530...

A day in the field during SFQC was better than a day in garrison in the 82nd...appreciate the opportunity...

[Blitzzz (RIP)]

"I just want people to know the other side of what you're getting yourself into so your're not imagining some illusionary, romantic path of glory. You will spend a lot of time thinking about how much you could be accomplishing with your life outside the army while you stand around doing nothing or playing stupid games. The actual classes and cadre who run them are good, but you will spend a whole lot of time before sopc and in between classes hating life. That's reality. I thought someone should say it. "

SF is certainly not illusionary , nor is the training. Much of the needs of SF can't be gleaned from books. The "hands on" environment to include between training down time does test those who are impatient or smarter the everyone else. The ability to work successfully with third and fourth world indigenous military, will require great amounts of patience and understanding of the near understandable.
Much easier to understand the DOD office life.
Just my Zwei Centavos. Blitzzz

[Richard]

It is what it is - take it or leave it...but the choice to do so may or may not be yours alone.

Richard's $.02 :munchin

[blue02hd]

Individuals with Amitlas's (it's not even worth my time to check for spelling) attitude are doomed to fail if they actually squeeze though the Q and make it to a deployed team. Nay-sayers and negative attitudes will always surface when the pressure is on and you are given a task that HAS to be accomplished.

My advice to anyone who read his post and agree, is to save yourself alot of time and ass pain now and look to another occupation immediately. You either want it or you dont. Problem is, many recruits straight from the street in the 18X program do not even realize what they want from the Army, let alone SF. Too many have yet to fail at anything signifcant in their young lives therefore have no clue what it will take to succeed. Amitlas appears to be one of those types.

Quit now. One less whiner to have to worry about.

No one ever said it would be easy.

[1stindoor]

Personally, I appreciate his candor and honesty, it's just important to remember where he is in his "career." His opinion will change over time.

[Dozer523]

Personally, I appreciate his candor and honesty, it's just important to remember where he is in his "career." His opinion will change over time. I'm with 1st. This guy Amatlis went. We asked his opinion. He trusted us enough to give it. Calling the kettle "not so shiny" around here can be tough.
Wake up for a 1500hrs jump was usually 0200...with several manifest calls, equipment and weapons issue, pre-jump training, etc, we'd be on the planes by noon...after takeoff, we'd fly around for a couple of hours before jumping...A day in the field during SFQC was better than a day in garrison in the 82nd...appreciate the opportunity...

As for the comment about jumping with the 82nd. I did that . . . once. I think there was a long stretch heading toward the door where my feet were not even on the deck -- we were packed so tight. I counted "One Slip away, two slip away, three slip away." Then climbed a riser and ran as far from that mob as I could get:D (which put me right at the turn in point)

[JJ_BPK]

Anyone who has ever been on a jump with the 82nd can tell you about the hassles there in the conventional Army. It takes all day and then some for them to finally exit an airplane.

TR

From one of the FOG's..

In 1969, April-November, I was assigned as S4 to C 6th. I spent 8 months at Ft Bragg,, of which 2 months at Scuba in KW & Nov leave prior to Nam.

For the other 5 months (less a 3 wk FTX in Nantahala), I spent as much time as I could down on the flight line trying to bum a jump. I managed to get 27 or 28 jumps.

As a very Jr 2nd LT,, I spent a LOT OF TIME in 82nd lines,, but perseverance pays,, you just need to suck it up...

And Smile... :D:D:D:D Because your having fun..

[1stindoor]

..And Smile... :D:D:D:D Because your having fun..

All this...and a paycheck too.

[greenberetTFS]

All this...and a paycheck too.

Absolutely concur.............;););)

Big Teddy :munchin

[amatlis]

The point of my post was not to complain. I dont have any need to do that here. I only meant to open a window of information for civilians who know nothing about the military and think it's cool and high speed all the time. There's fiction and there's reality. Everything I stated in my post is based on the realities on the ground as voiced by the majority of candidates (including the prior service guys). Why shouldn't people have that information? If it changes their mind, then clearly SF isn't for them. Am I going to quit? No. Do I think Basic training, airborne school, and sf-hold are poorly run programs that waste huge amounts of time doing nothing that could be spent training? Does the average highschool sports team have a better PT program? Yes. Most people agree. I'm just saying it. Please don't kill the messenger. I think we should want to improve these things. I'm an engineer. It's my nature to want to fix things.

On the other hand, as I said before, sopc and sf were well run (I would say excellent) programs. The cadre were professional and impressive. The training was excellent.

I'm sorry to the military people who took this the wrong way. It's just information. I have received several messages from people thanking me for the alternate perspective (sorry i can't respond to everyone just yet). *I am grateful and happy to be to be in the sf pipeline. *It has been a lifelong dream of mine. I hope SF is an environment where it's acceptable to point out the improves and sustains...

[Peregrino]

amatlis - Nothing personal, just a few "words of wisdom". You're like most other engineers I've run into over the years. All about identifying the problem without considering the human factors (tact). Right doesn't mean popular. FWIW - you've described situations that've existed pre-Hannibal in every military in the world. Discovering it for yourself and learning to deal with it is one of the rites of passage. I've got an office full of guys who're ALWAYS willing to share their observations about "the Emperor's clothes". Probably why some of them are at HQ and not on teams anymore. Messengers make great targets; just one of the facts of life. blue02hd is a personal friend; he's also a deployed Team Leader. His reply is right up the middle WRT the typical reaction you can expect to get from your post. Guys who are actually in the fight and still having to put up with the local versions of the Charlie Foxtrots (cluster f**k) you're sharing from your training perspective aren't going to be inclined to "share the love". If you learn to fill the wasted time constructively, and put a positive spin on it, you'll be an asset anywhere you wind up. Otherwise, nobody will want you around - it won't matter how good you are. Human nature; nobody likes having their noses rubbed in the s**t. The further up the food chain they are, the less they like it - and the more likely they are to take their dislike out on the messenger. Good luck. And learn a little more about human nature. After all - people are the tools of your new trade. Learn to influence them gently and you'll get a lot further.

[VAV1500]

I'll keep it short.

Just remember when the rumors and G-2 are flying around, no matter what--if you were given a detailed day-by-day briefing of what you were expected to do at selection--you still have to do it. Its more fun when they keep you guessing anyways.

Also--on a slightly different note...

There is no delicate way to put this, but use those pink slips to the best of your ability. There are a lot of reasons people probably shouldn't be in the program, ranging from the subtle to the horrifyingly obvious. Thus far my experience has shown that there is still a light at the end of the tunnel and the really serious cases will either take care of themselves or be spotted and outed by the cadre (thank god). Anyhow, be fair and be clear why you think someone is unqualified, whether it be they complain about everything, have a bad attitude, act entitled, don't put forth the effort, ride your coattails, or are just that dude you get that baaaad feeling about. Be sure you put it down when you get the opportunity. Articulate yourself as well as you possibly can. And perhaps most importantly, remember, as one individual related to me, "It's called Special Forces, not special friends."

This is just my very humble opinion. Am I the most qualified person to comment on this? Absolutely not. Am I too harsh a judge of the relative value of others? Maybe. But I also believe that by keeping one's standard for themselves at an unattainably high level, they will likely succeed in their endeavors. Be tough, be fair.

So much for keeping it short. I hope those preparing to make the journey find some use here. This is a great thread and another great addition to the website.

[fromthemountain]

Just got home from SFAS class 01-11 SELECETED 11C

Things I learned that I would change if I had to go again, along with some tips..do and dont's.

1. Cannot stress this enough, bring tons of socks. Also you can string some 550 cord from your ruck to to hang wet socks from to dry during the day. Trust me they WILL get wet

2. Any chance you get, change out your socks and powder your feet.

3. Canteen straws can make or break you. Its too hard during a ruck to keep drinking from a 1 qt. I was given one there by an X-Ray. If I had to go again I would bring several so I could give one to someone.

4. Don't cut the ruck weight close to the standard. Go over a few pounds because you will have to weigh in and it looks bad.

5. Don't be the guy sleeping when your not authorized to, especially during team week

6. Eat EVERYTHING from your MRE's

7. Don't show up with long hair! You will just look like an asshole

8. bring alot of tshirts

9. bring several insoles and change them out. Dry socks and dry insoles can turn a bad day around for you

10. Pay attention to all land nav training and try your best on the PE's

11. Learn how to pack a ruck so it will be comfortable to wear for up to 10 hours

12. Massage your legs and feet every night.

13. Spend your fireguard shifts doing deep stretches

14. Train running and rucking in sand or offroad

15. RESPECT both the cadre and peers

Thats all I can think of right now gents.. best of luck

[1stindoor]

There is no delicate way to put this, but use those pink slips to the best of your ability.

Allow me to add to this valuable comment. Your ability to write well is also noted, along with your demographic, i.e. 19, GED, 18X, etc. When someone reads a poorly written pink slip...or one that clearly shows your lack of experience...it's noted.

[1stindoor]

Just got home from SFAS class 01-11 SELECETED 11C


Congratulations!

[Razor]

3. Canteen straws can make or break you. Its too hard during a ruck to keep drinking from a 1 qt. I was given one there by an X-Ray. If I had to go again I would bring several so I could give one to someone.


Congratulations on being selected.

From your point above, I realize what a miracle it was that so many of us old timers luckily squeeked through, since we only had canteens with no straws/hoses from which to drink.

[x SF med]

Just a few thoughts from a FOG:

It's called Selection, not entitlement. Others have a say, make the impressions the right ones.

If you are not 100% sure you want to be at Selection (or the Q) you probably shouldn't be there and have taken a slot from somebody who really does want to be there.

Be honest with yourself and others, if you screw up, admit it - If others screw up, let them know and if you can guide them to unscrew themselves, do it.

When you are doing individual stuff, excel. when you are doing Team stuff, help everybody excel - one person giving 110% for himself when other members of the Team are only giving 50% is still a Team Failure.

In order to lead, learn how to follow and do not be afraid or unwilling to do whatever is asked, or you will have to ask of others.

Next step:

It's called the Qualification Course, in order to pass you need to be qualified, which is not easy, as the baseline is excellence.

Take all of the advice above to the next level.

[Mobile Groundhog]

Along with all the other outstatnding information on this thread(and for that matter on this site); be prepared to ruck long distances with VERY WET boots. Those of you who think you will be able to stop during an event and change your socks will be hurting during team week and during the STAR Exam(s) when it is impossible to keep your feet dry. Just my .02 Cents.

[Green Light]

I can't remember being in the sticks with dry boots, socks, pants, shirt, etc. It's just the way it is. It's either raining, you're crossing swamps (rhymes with damp), or you're just plain sweating through everything. No big deal. Embrace the moisture! Welcome to SF - if it sucks, you're doing it right. :D

[Pete]

I can't remember being in the sticks with dry boots, socks, pants, shirt, etc. It's just the way it is. It's either raining, you're crossing swamps (rhymes with damp), or you're just plain sweating through everything. No big deal. Embrace the moisture! Welcome to SF - if it sucks, you're doing it right. :D

Thats why I liked 5th Group. When your cloths got really salt stained and your hands really, really dirty you just rubbed them together until the dirt balled up into little rolly balls and then wipe them on your pants. Ve-oooolaaaa your hands are clean enough to dig into that MRE - while you dreamed of orders to 7th Group where they got per diem, lived in hotels and ---- and ---- damn, never did get them orders.

Hey, it's mind over mater. If you don't mind - it don't mater. Think of the bright side - they may beat you and they may kill you but at least they wouldn't eat you - cannibalism is against the law.

[The Reaper]

Guys, lets have the trip down memory lane elsewhere and stay on topic here, SFAS advice.

Appreciate it.

TR

[pistolero]

Class 09-10, June 2010.

First piece of advice, don't get too caught up in all the high-speed gear. Oakley boots, however comfortable as they may be, are very expensive. The drainage holes on them suck, and I trekked for long hours during team weak in water logged boots. Issued boots WILL work just fine. Hundreds of candidates each year complete SFAS with them, modified or not. Don't assume you're going to be allotted all the time in the world to change socks. The clock is always ticking.

Two most important items for me: Seal Line medium sized map case, and as stated before, canteen straws.

Something that is often over-looked: ORS packets/MREs are your lifelines. Our class completed SFAS through one of the hottest months of the year. For those of you who are about to attend in the upcoming months, you should still take heed, because your body burns just as many calories, if not more, during the chill of winter. Not only are you completing the same amount of work, but your body is burning precious calories while you shiver non-stop. Add a soaking uniform and your body's metabolism is in for a wild ride.

Oral re-hydration salts are absolutely essential as they assist in water retention as well as metabolism, or your internal temperature regulating mechanisms. You will be sweating non-stop, and once your sweat starts to taste like plain water, you know you're pushing it. I saw MANY guys go down as heat casualties as a direct result of their complacency, and this happened every day up until the very last few days. And it has nothing to do with how much of a PT stud you are, because the heat doesn't discriminate. Just choke the ORS down, you won't regret it. Eat EVERYTHING in your MRE. They are loaded with sodium and calories and you will probably be in caloric deficit for most of the time anyway. And this especially applies to those of you who are prior hot/cold weather casualties.

If you are prone to hypoglycemia, or have ever passed out due to low blood sugar, I strongly recommend that you save some of the sweets from your MREs for the really long days and movements, you'll know what I mean when you get there. I know of one candidate specifically who completed SOPC with flying colors that went hypoglycemic and passed out during the last few days of SFAS and was med-dropped. If you feel light-headed, drink water, eat a few toffee cubes. Dump some water on the back of your neck. It also helps to put an ORS packet in one of your 2 QT canteens.

I will close with this: a few weeks ago, I was driving back to the barracks at about 6PM, and I saw a few privates from the 82nd picking grass from the edges of the road by HAND, sweating their asses off with their berets on and everything. I can say that it was all I needed to get my ass moving to the next hit time in the right uniform, ready to train, or stand in formation for hours on end, if need be. Before we go on criticizing anything, or anyone, just remember that it could be WAY worse for us. Cadre don't ask for much. Act like a man. We came to work with/as professionals, we should perform accordingly. Embrace the suck, learn to work through it and remember that we have no entitlement to anything. We don't know where the Cadre came from, what they've done, or why they are here, and frankly it is none of our concern. They have been entrusted with bringing us into the Q course, so I leave it alone.

I have spent several months in hold in between phases, and I am now about to enter language school and I will tell you candidates, hold is what you make of it. Even before SFAS. Are you going to take the initiative to PT your ass off while you wait for the next phase, or will you wait for someone to take you by the hand?

Good luck guys.

[Jeffrey]

Some good advice that I can echo to those who are going to selection would be; 1. Wear broken in boots and have at least two pairs. I saw too many people with one broken in pair and when their primary pair was wet or torn up, their feet became hamburger meat from the unbroken in boots. 2. Bring extra socks, army issue. The army issues those socks for a reason, so wear them. 3. I know it has been said but ill stress it further, buy canteen straws for your two qts. They are such a convenience. 4. Do what you are suppose to all the time, because even when you think someone isn't looking...there is. 5. Be courteous of others, but don't coddle the weak links. 6. This is my best advice and what helped me stay injury free through selection, stretch every morning and night and massage those tired worn out muscles. Yes, it will hurt but you will be doing your body a favor. Class 01-11

[FSUhockey]

I'm not going to beat a dead horse here and talk about taking care of your feet, preparing physically, canteen straws, etc. A lot of good advice has already been given. The one thing I want to add is to have a sense of humor while at SFAS. I had a lot of fun at Selection. It seemed like the more it sucked the more I laughed and joked around with my peers. I remember trying to crack jokes and lighten the mood while carrying very heavy objects extremely long distances during team week. Just try to enjoy the fact that you are doing things that the average person cannot.

[Snaquebite]

I had a lot of fun at Selection. It seemed like the more it sucked the more I laughed and joked around with my peers. I remember trying to crack jokes and lighten the mood while carrying very heavy objects extremely long distances during team week. Just try to enjoy the fact that you are doing things that the average person cannot.

Excellent point.

[KJV1611]

4 Rules I lived by at Selection
1. Don't Quit
2. Take care of your feet
3. When in doubt A-Frame it out!
4. Move faster, you will get lost.

[frostfire]

Disclaimer: I requested Reaper's permission to post this here. Mods please remove if irrelevant/improper.

I am currently assigned at the receiving end of the "cast" part in "cast or tab."
If you are injured enough to be admitted to the hospital or med-dropped, most likely I'll work with you toward healing.

1. Please watch for ground hazards even when back at the barracks. Got a guy who ran into an object protruding from the ground on the way back from latrine at night. He reached down and could feel bone and tendon at his knee.

2. Obviously scratches/scrapes will result from busting draw etc. However, if you get deep cut, even without severe bleeding, please take good care to clean the wounds and keep it clean. Knowing some basics of preventing injuries from getting worse pays off big time (Not sure if candidates are carrying first aid kit or if TMC allowed to give prophylactic antibiotics) There are nasty bugs out there. Being sleep deprived, not having optimal nutrition, and stress hormornes pumping out, the immune system is not at level it used to or needs to be. Got someone who cut his elbow, then developed abcess, and his WBC and ESR were so high he had to be admitted.

3. Heat casualty does happen in cold weather too. Recognize when too much layering hinders heat release, which differ for each individual dependin on activity type. Also hydration and ORS as mentioned countless time before.


I got nothing as far as how far to push one self. Got a guy who gut it out all the way through with chest pain. Afterwards, in the ED he presented with tension pneumothorax! Whenever I resent this cold, muggy, drizzly, chilling weather, I just have to remember those out in MacKall right now and all is well and fuzzy warm over here. You guys are impressive. Hats off to you all. I'm sure I will come across more tales of indomitable spirit.

[Snowman]

There isn't really much I could say that hasn't already been said but I will add my .02 cents.

First I will say that frostfire makes some great points. The hair on the back of your neck stands up when you hear a grown man scream the way that guy did. It was right behind my tent, just after lights out when that incident occured. Follow the rules but use common sense and be careful when you're moving at night. Candidates aren't carrying first aid but it's good to take care of a your cuts and scratches because you will get them. As for the heat casualties in the cold thing, besides layering, if you take supplements stay away from them for a month before selection and don't be that guy that tries to sneak stuff in. It's not worth it and if you're that guy that falls out on a run when it's 40 degrees it's going be pretty obvious.

G2:

I've learned more now than ever that there is no magic trick to being successful at SFAS. It really doesn't matter if you know exactly what is going to happen down to the minute if you're not prepared to be there. If you have friends that have gone before you don't let them G2 everything for you. As well, when you get there you will meet guys that "know" exactly what is going to happen day to day. It's hard not to hear them talk, but I say try not to listen to them and take each day and event one at a time because things will change and there is no use in trying to plan it all out if you can't focus and complete the task at hand.

Equipment:

Canteen straws are awesome...unless of course it's so cold that the water in your canteens and straws freeze up while you're moving. So learn to drink from your one quarts while you're on the move.

In my opinion boots are a personal thing. Find something that works well for you before you go and put plenty of miles on them to be sure. Also, get drainholes.

Training:

There is plenty of advice on that here. All I can say is train hard before you go, be confident in yourself when you get there and do your best on every event.

Lastly, the point has been made several times, but I will say it again. No matter how bad things are sucking Keep a good attitude and never quit.

Hope all of this is helpful.

Of course, Thank You to all of the QP's and others who contribute and keep this site running.

[LLRevolution]

Love the advice, currently compiling notes from this and other threads as well as the Warrior Mentor book, Chosen Soldier, and others. Just a few questions that I have been researching and trying to get answers for. First a bit of quick info, I am an 18X, ship out to OSUT in a few months, so I anticipate going through SOPC and SFAS in the winter months.

First, boots. I know, its been hashed over a million times, and I understand conventional wisdom here is bring several pairs (I'm thinking three) and have them broken in a with drains prior to arriving. My question is, coming straight from BAC, what is the recommended wisdom on acquiring the non-issue items on the packing list and having broken in boots? Should I have several pair boots broken in and prepped prior to reporting to OSUT, ready to have shipped out? Same question with the insoles, multi-tool, canteen straws, etc. Or will I have time to source said items sometime between OSUT and SOPC?

Second, and hopefully not too silly a question, in my ruck training I have my MOLLE setup with both 1qt and 2qt and practice drinking from my 1qts on the move. As for the larger ones, they will come on the rucks at SFAS, correct?

Third, been looking into picking up and studying the Ranger Handbook and some of LTC Grossman's books, is this a wise investment of my time or would you think there are more advantageous ways of spending my time?

That's all for now, off for some more reading and lots of PT, thank you for your time and the collective wisdom here on this site,

LLR

Edit: loved the commercials Wet Dog, that shows some serious posture!

[wet dog]

First, boots.

Wear what Uncle Sam issues you.

Second, ....MOLLE

Use what Uncle Sam issues you.

Edit: loved the commercials Wet Dog, that shows some serious posture!

You're welcome, go do PT.

[Hammock]

For what it may be worth, I brought three pairs: 2 issue (winter Danners and BCT-issue Bellvilles) and Nikes. I never used the Danners because, even though they were the warmest, they were too heavy. The key for all events is light and fast.

Instead, I wish I had brought a pair of broken-in boots 1/2 to 1 full size larger than normal to accommodate swollen feet during team week. Perhaps another pair of Nikes would have done the trick. My feet were fine until the end of land nav, but as they swelled the toes began to rub and develop a lot of blisters, even without insoles in the boots.

Crocs are great for going to the latrine to shower but were not authorized for use during land nav because folks were using them to cross scuba road. I did not bring regular flip-flops and so missed a few chances to air out my feet during land nav. I would suggest bringing both crocs and flip-flops.




Hammock

[The Reaper]

This is the SFAS advice thread.

The Comedy Zone is elsewhere.

Please focus and stay on topic.

Thanks.

TR

[trvlr]

My top 4 from the Feb 11 class.

1. Pack the entire rucksack packing list before every event. The added 3-6 pounds will be negligible as the days draw on. Don't get caught up in the ounce shaving cult, as it can get you in trouble.

2. Wear the 2 pairs of boots that you'll bring to SFAS everywhere. Wear them on your training rucks, and to work. You should know how your feet react inside your boots on miles 8-10, and when they are submerged in water. You can then figure out which insoles to use and if your drainage holes actually work.

3. Avoiding injury is sometimes more important than going fast. Learn to fall with your ruck on. Stretch and do your foot drill everyday. Small injuries can compound into bigger ones.

4. Enjoy the ride.

EDIT:

If your post has an SF Recruiting Center drop by and see if they conduct SFAS prep PT. The one at Ft Hood is 2 hours every morning with 1-2 Night Navigation exercises a month. It will be worth your while to try it out for a couple weeks. It's also a great place to find a mentor if you don't know any QPs.

[pjody187]

Would recent Selection grads who used the SOPC Special recommend using them to train before attending SFAS?

[preblake]

Class 09-11 . . . selected!
During my SFAS prep, I read everything I could on this site. It is extremely helpful; therefore, you should spend some time perusing the info here. I am going to add my QUICK two cents.
2 quart straws: get two of them! Bring a spare if you want, but at least bring two.
Map case: Bring at least one! I brought a spare and provided it to a peer in need.
Boots: Issued boots are fine. (I wore mine every once and while.) But the Nike boots work great in this training environment! They are narrow and your feet WILL SWELL a lot, but if you wet the Nikes every time you put them on the material will stretch a bit. Yes. The nikes lack ankle support, but you are not traversing mountains and the like. You are spinning your wheels in SAND day in and day out, and you want something LITE on your feet. Working the Star and negotiating Team week, you will want something light on the end of your legs!!!
The packing list: make sure you bring everything; otherwise, you risk a report at the beginning of training. That means if you bring a pair of Nikes, you must still have two pair of issued boots.
Other footware: In another post, someone suggested Crocs. Crocs would have been nice, but they confiscated mine during the shake down because they didn't want you wearing them across SCUBA road.
Back to the Nikes quicly: They dry pretty darn fast, whcih means they snap back realitively quick after Scuba. Just tighten your laces and drive on. Basically, my feet were wet for three weeks. Arrive with tough feet and deal with whatever they throw at you. Just MAKE SURE you have a comfortable, sturdy pair of sandals to wear around when you are not in an event.
There it is: My two cents. I could ramble on for hours, but you will get what you need from reading the older posts.
My advice: Embrace the Suck and Drive on!
Good luck!
At your service,
Ron / "Jesse"

[stfesta]

Selected: Mar 1992

A lot of great advice out there. The advice I am about to give out is timeless.

Most everyone that goes out there is in good shape. Every class breaks down into 4 groups at first, then into 3. The fast (broken into two, the really fast and the fast), the medium, and the slow. So where do you want to be?

The slow? Of course not. That is just crazy talk.

The medium? Not there either. No one is really watching you......yet.

The fast? Yes, this is where you will perform like a stud at the same time eyes will be off of you.

The really fast? Only if your ego, can take it.

Eventually the slow gets washed out. That makes the medium group, the new slow group and the fast group the new medium group. Again, the medium group is not being looked at. The new slow group is being assessed hard because they are slow and the new fast group is being "poked" to look for flaws in their egos.

This doesn't mean you get to skate by in the medium group, everyone has to give blood at the office.


Keep your mouth shut. Speak when spoken to. Lead when it is time to lead. Follow when it is time to follow.


As I've said before, most everyone out there is in pretty good shape. Everyone puts miles on their feet. What is the difference? What are they looking for. They are looking for two things and only two things:

1. You are not a pussy!

2. Your mind will force your body to go farther then you body "thinks" it can.

That is the secret, that is what we all have in common. We carry that trait through our entire life.

You will get advice saying "buy this book or buy that book". Don't do it. Books aren't needed. Books don't carry that weight, you do.

sf

[chester]

Don't over think selection. All you have to do is show up and do the best you can moment by moment. I have seen some crazy train up programs posted on here that are complete overkill and a recipe for injury and overtraining. Make sure you can do 6-10 pull-ups minimum, run a 13:30ish or faster 2 mile, and score a 270+ on a strictly graded PT test. That is all you really need in my opinion.

Make sure you can ruck somewhere around a 13:00 pace without running. I got my pace down to 12:30 on easy terrain and I never had any trouble on the rucks. The guys that could only make a good time by running had a hard time because running with a ruck is a good way to get hurt and get sore joints. Some of the guys that smoked me on the first timed ruck were begging me to slow down on the transition rucks by the end of it, and I was just walking a comfortable pace.

[slownugly]

Don't make waves, ride em. Ignore the rumor mill/G2 cult, they really just compound uncertainty and fear. It's childish, and for such a dynamic and evolving course, ultimately futile.
Have fun with it and keep smiling. You should be able to convince the Cadre that earning the tab is your life's ambition. Beyond that, your forecast efforts should be focused on what you can trade for veggie burger and wheat snack bread. Bon appetit!

[patton368]

pt test, dont fail it so practice doing qaulity pushups
train in a manner where your body is used to performing day after day, perform each event as hard as you can AND STILL BE READY FOR ANOTHER EVENT, that does not mean sandbag, what it means is do not destroy yourself by pushing harder than your body can recover from.
train without spandex,( get used to body glide, and petroleum gelly).
if your not good at math and english do a refresher, just research sat prep on ako or buy a book as these subjects will be tested, dont lie on your evals, if your tired in classroom standup, information will not be repeated and if you miss it you just shot yourself in the foot especially land nav.
do your best on all land nav events Do not sandbag, if you need extra help with the concepts any cadre will help you. no matter what advantage can be gained off useing the roads stay off them if you cheat you will be caught there were alot of sad faces when we left hoffman because they thought they got away with stuff and they really did not. use your compass inside of draws so as not to veer off course, before busting the draw walk laterally to it and most the time you can find where someone already busted it.
drink your ors packets and eat when they tell you to.
team week is ....well team week. if i could train for team week again i would focus more on my lower back,legs, and do farmer carries every other day. if you get hurt your still expected to pull your weight, your team will not be forgiving. if you dont have the ability to carry heavy stuff on your back and heavy stuff in your hands you will not complete team week,other than that be yourself and do your best.

[mud slinger]

I'm heading to SFAS in June and I've had to climb mountains to get to this point. My questions is what is the standard for the TABE test and what are the results used for? I'm sure it used used to help place an individual in a specific MOS. I have just never been told.

[The Reaper]

I'm heading to SFAS in June and I've had to climb mountains to get to this point. My questions is what is the standard for the TABE test and what are the results used for? I'm sure it used used to help place an individual in a specific MOS. I have just never been told.

To determine your educational level.

For example, have you read the board rules, filled in your profile, and introduced yourself yet?

TR

[mud slinger]

You are absolutely right. Thanks Reaper.

[joesnuffy]

Take care of your feet!

Take care of your feet!

Take care of your feet!

Don't be late

Don't be last

Don't be light

Don't listen to the rumor mill as it will just cause you to worry about things you have no control over in the first place. Just do whatever task is asked of you and be happy about it (or not thats your choice).

When you find yourself hurting and sucking don't say a damn word about it because 9/10 times everyone else is as well and they sure as hell don't want to hear about your aches and pains.

Do listen to what the cadre tell you they will provide you with the tools to succeed.

Do more than the standard at all times and never self asses yourself out, you never know what the cadre are thinking.

Make sure that everything at home is squared away before you leave otherwise it WILL distract you from the course and that's a NOGO.

Have fun and enjoy yourself

Take care of your feet.

[Sarski]

Take care of your feet!

Take care of your feet!

Take care of your feet!

Don't be late

Don't be last

Don't be light

Don't listen to the rumor mill as it will just cause you to worry about things you have no control over in the first place. Just do whatever task is asked of you and be happy about it (or not thats your choice).

When you find yourself hurting and sucking don't say a damn word about it because 9/10 times everyone else is as well and they sure as hell don't want to hear about your aches and pains.

Do listen to what the cadre tell you they will provide you with the tools to succeed.

Do more than the standard at all times and never self asses yourself out, you never know what the cadre are thinking.

Make sure that everything at home is squared away before you leave otherwise it WILL distract you from the course and that's a NOGO.

Have fun and enjoy yourself

Take care of your feet.

You sound pretty squared away. Keep at it and good luck!

[mud slinger]

I just completed and was selected for class 9-12. I won't sit here and repeat information that is already on this site but I will give some information why people were not selected and or failed.

1. Poor physical condition. Failed PT test, Failed runs and Ruck marchs, Injuries that could have been prevented by just being in shape from the get go.

2. Eat " ALL " your food and drink " WATER ". You will burn more calories then you take in. A few people were just to exhausted to continue. It might be nasty but if you really want it you will eat it.

3. The medic is there for a reason go see him. People were dropped for something that could have been prevented if they would have just went when they noticed a problem in the first place.

4. Land Nav gets a lot of people. Trust your compass and know your pace count, never doubt your training and stay away from the DRAWS! stay off the ROADS! even if there is 10 mins to index.

5. Be a team player, add input and help out every chance you get. Don't sit around looking like a tool. Your peers will smile at you but will note everything you do.

Do your best on everything you do even if it is not a gate, cadre are always watching and everything you do is noted. My class started out with 327 and we finished with 125 making the selection rate 39%. You don't have to be a muscle man to get selected you just have to be in top shape and have a lot of heart and want it more then you want to breath. If you make a mistake bounce back by doing better then what you did before.

Good luck and remember NEVER QUIT!

[jurisdoctor]

Selected this last class (09-12) as well. Agree with everything mud slinger said above. A few of my own thoughts/words of advice:

1. I trained with a combination of alpine climbing and Crossfit/Crossfit Endurance. Worked for me. Personally I see little return on investment from miles and miles of "rucking." I'd recommend putting some of that time and energy into strength/strength endurance development so you can keep going without rest days for 17 days.

2. Similarly, focus more on full body movements that utilize the entire posterior chain and legs. You will do pushups twice: the PT test and log and rifle PT. Otherwise you're walking with a ruck, farmer's carrying heavy things, or putting it on your back.

3. People seem concerned with how much running to do in training. We ran less than 20 miles (not counting all the jogging around camp as you must run everywhere you go) and walked over 150 miles with rucks on. If you can max the PT test and run 7:00/mile for an unknown distance you are more than fine.

4. STAY OFF THE ROADS AT LAND NAV. Whereas you used to just get docked points or something for a roadkill, they are no longer so gentle. For our class they dropped anyone who got roadkilled unless they had an outstanding excuse.

5. Selection is four days. You've heard it said and its true. Gate week and land nav are just your entry fee for team week. As they told us, they don't even look back at those performances unless you are on the edge after team week. Work hard, lead when appropriate and be a great follower/team player. Also write clear, descriptive peer evals as those show the cadre you can articulate feedback and be part of a solution in a team environment.

6. For Officers: Bust it, hard. We had 21 Os finish and 13 Selected. Almost all those non-selects were outstanding guys and would have easily been Selected near the top of the list if enlisted. Not only that, but every non-selected O in our class (save one) got an NTR. The most common reason from those non-selected officers was that they weren't [good] leaders during team week.

7. Don't focus on stupid stuff. The cadre don't care if you blouse your boots, put your hands in your pockets, or show up to a formation in PT shorts and a brown shirt. You can be as "AR 670-1" fantastic as you want, but they want someone who is highly capable and professional, not someone whose uniform looks cleanly pressed.

8. Have fun with it. Its a good time, a lot of the events can be fun if you're physically prepared, and you have a lot of down time to get to know and learn from some of the Army's finest soldiers. Enjoy it.

[Mr_Lite]

edit

[Sir topham hatt]

I was also selected 09-12, the two guys above me were spot on!

Nothing can totally prepare you for SFAS. It will be the hardest thing you have done to date. You WILL think about quitting. The thing that counts is what you do with those thoughts, keep pushing.

Hit the gym as hard as you can. Find somebody that you think is in the best shape a person can physically be in, and workout harder than them.

Take care of those feet. I took all of the information on this board about foot care and applied it during my train up, and only really had problems the last couple of days.

Don't worry about the other guys in SFAS. Get to know people, and make some friends, but when it comes down to it, you are all you got out there. There will be some tough guys not breaking a sweat during any of the events, and there will be little puny guys (me) sucking hard 24/7. Both have an equal chance of getting selected.

[Cowgomoo]

Selected in 8-12

In addition to all of the other advice here, I would like to put emphasis on two things that I found were my weakest points.

1) Have a lot of forearm strength! I killed the PT test and all of the rucks but I was the second weakest on my team when it came to carrying water cans. Fortunately, there was always someone else who dropped the cans before I was about to so I never stood out for it, but I was mighty close to being "that guy" for not having much forearm strength. (The guy that kept dropping them got peered)

2) Learn how to tie knots before going. If you can tie a good knot, you can shine when apparatus construction begins even if your not leading the team when it comes to putting forth ideas. I sucked at knots so I was mostly a "grey-man" during construction and planning which didn't look good on my part.

[MikeKilo]

1. Canteen straws are great to hydrate and drop weight while you move. Bringing a camelback doesn't mean you get to leave your 2qts empty, you still have to fill them.
2. Bring the lightest possible boots you can. Preferably ones that dry quickly.
3. Bring a book. You won't trade it, but you will be bored.
4. Poncho in the top of the ruck with bungie cords ready. A wet rucksack is a heavy rucksack.
5. Don't bring a million pairs of everything. You don't need it.
6. Map case with dummy cord. I didn't bring one, and it was stupid.
7. The new ACU's that have button cargo pockets. The draw monster will have a harder time getting to your goodies.
8. Train with a 50lb rucksack and get the hell off the road. You won't develop the necessary stabilizer muscles by road marching. Then walk. Then walk some more. And walk until your feet are leather and peel every other week.
9. People say it takes 100% commitment to pass. I think a more accurate statement is that before you start SFAS, that you want nothing else in this world. If you do, you will not make it.

In the words of the CSM that inbriefed us, "If you weren't trying to G2 this course before you got here, you're a f***ing idiot. I don't do shit without trying to G2 the hell out of it."

[Sir topham hatt]

1. Canteen straws are great to hydrate and drop weight while you move. Bringing a camelback doesn't mean you get to leave your 2qts empty, you still have to fill them.


I almost forgot about this! Bring canteen straws, if you don't...you will kick yourself in the ass daily. Don't make the same mistake I did.

[mud slinger]

Sir top, have you received a school date?

[jurisdoctor]

I almost forgot about this! Bring canteen straws, if you don't...you will kick yourself in the ass daily. Don't make the same mistake I did.

And if you bring them, replace the bite valves with actual Camelback bite valves. I was advised to do so and was kicking myself when I could barely suck a trickle through the straw on rucks.

Also, take them off during land nav. They'll get hung up and you have plenty of time to take off your ruck and gulp water.

[Unapologetic Soldier]

Ruck marching:
In my preparations for SFAS I became obsessed with an increasing heavy ruck. I was being told horror stories about team weak and the unbearably heavy load that you’ll need to carry during these events.
This turned into my ruck weighing a minimum of 90 lbs and I eventually worked my way into the triple digits. Yes, this training did prepare my body for team week but that’s about it.
The majority of the rucking that you’ll be doing in SFAS will be under a 60/65 lbs load. Training with just a heavy ruck made me slow over long distances and hurt my overall performance at selection. Train as you fight; your ruck should weight 60/65 lbs and you should be able to move out with a purpose. Work on speed and strength this will pay off while doing your mandatory timed rucks and land navigation. Yes; train with a heavy ruck but no more than once a week.

Don’t argue with the cadre:
I’ve seen candidates get into a pissing contest with the cadre over some retarded shit; not once did it ever turn out well for the candidate.
Are you here to get selected or get into a pissing contest? Enough said don’t do it. Period! Even if it’s not your fault.

Land navigation:
You will be given a block of instruction on land navigation when you get there. You’ll also do a few practice courses prior to the star course. I would recommend being proficient in land navigation before heading to SFAS at a minimum be familiar with it.
For the star course itself, do as you’re told. Stay off the roads! It’s not worth getting caught or throwing away your SF carrier before you even get started. Staying on the high ground is preferred but not always possible. Try to keep out of the draws when you can (you won’t always be able to) if you are about to go into a draw make sure everything is tied down (just like Ranger school) the vines will take anything they can off you and kick your ass while doing it!

Staying in the gray:
This is some of the stupidest advice I’ve ever heard. Do your best in every event, regardless of what the event is. You’re going to an interview don’t try to blend in or standout be who you are, SF is looking for leaders not sheep. If your selected it will be because of your intelligence, ability to work well with others and physically abilities not where you fell into the gray matter. Besides if you go to selection trying to “play the game” you is probably not what SF is looking for; there’s no game to play, only a calling to do more for your country than what you’re doing now.

That’s my two cents feel free to contact me for any follow up questions. Good luck to those headed to SFAS.

[Cool Breeze]

It's real simple. Know what the standards are and ensure you can exceed all of them prior to starting SFAS. If you do that, you have a ~60% chance of success. You will be pushed to your limits and beyond. Have set in your head that you will not quit, no matter what. As an instructor, I've seen lots of candidates come through the 18X program who could not meet the minimum PT standards. There is no excuse for that, expecially if you are joining the army specifically to go through SFQC. In addition to PT, you should know the Ranger handbook cold, learn everything you can about Lan Nav, and if you know your MOS, pick up some FMs and start getting smart.
All that said, you could still get injured and end up a Med Drop. You also may not be smart enough or have the heart/determination to keep pushing. Make sure that there are NO issues as home (girlfriend, wife worries, pregnant wife, etc.). You need total focus on the course.
SF is not for everyone but for those who make it through, there is no better place to be than on a team.
Good luck studs.

[Red D]

I will try to keep this post short and sweet as possible with out any G2. If any perspective candidate has additional questions and is allowed by the site administrator to ask via private message please feel free.

Packing List
1. Uniforms 8 Pairs -you are not limited in the number of ACUs you are allowed to bring. I brought eight pairs, yes that is a lot. However I did not spend any time at all during SFAS washing clothes. While others were running half a click to wash their clothes during personal time I was taking care of my feet, resting, and drinking water.

2. Socks 21 Pairs- it has been said many times in this thread to bring a fresh pair of socks for each day. I took this advice even though it seemed ridiculous. I can honestly say this suggestion alone was the most valuable of all the advice I received in regards to the packing list. When your feet are shredded like hamburger, a fresh pair of socks that are soft and completely dry will make a difference. Also the current packing list clearly states any sock can be used as long as it is not a civilian color. I personally use Fox River socks, find what works best for you. I personally do not recommend using cotton issued socks.

3. Sock Liners 10 Pairs- the current packing list allows the use of a sock liner, this is not mandatory but highly recommended as sock liners reduce friction.

4. Under Armor- the current packing list allows moisture wicking underwear and T-shirts such as under armor. Spandex is prohibited. I brought five pairs of under armor underwear and five under armor T shirts. Not only did this help prevent heatstroke but also drastically reduced chafing.

5. Boots 3 Pairs-use whatever military boot you want!, let me state that again, USE WHATEVER MILITARY BOOT YOU WANT! So many people ask about boots, read the current packing list. It clearly states that any boot within Army regulations is allow. That being said I brought three pairs. All three were Nikes. I kept one in my Ruck, had one on my feet, and let the other pair dry.

6. PT's 4 Pairs/White Socks 8 Pairs- again I did not want to have to wash anything, which saved me a lot of time.

7. Sandals- you must run everywhere, and running in shower shoes is not easy. Save yourself the hassle and get a pair sandals.

8. Antibacterial soap and a Loofah. Yes it sounds weird but a staph infection is no joke. Even if you are tired and don't feel like running to the shower do it anyway. You are dirty and need to clean at least once a day! I saw two of my friends get med dropped for staph.

9. Body Glide- great anti-chafing product. I brought two sticks and used it all. Use it anyplace you chafe or get blisters. I covered my feet with it before I put on my liners and socks.

10. Ziploc Bags- there is unlimited ice to be used however they provide very small bags.

11. Canteen strolls with camel pack bite valves- as said many times before get them both. It will save you so much time and energy. I never took them off for land nav and had no issues, and kept moving. I also suggest tying the camel pack bit valves down to the canteen stroll. I lost one set on the 3rd day that was not tied down. I tied the other one down and never had an issue.

12. Gorilla Tape- like duct tape but stronger, I used it on hotspots before blisters formed. If your feet sweat a lot use the tape in conjunction with tincture of benzene which the medic has an unlimited supply of. I personally would tape my feet then apply body glide over top before putting on my socks.

13. Two of everything else- you will be surprised what you can lose in a draw. Also the principle of having extra to give to fellow teammates in need will do you a great deal of favor. Be a team player and help your body's that needs things. (I brought 2 lights, 2 watches, 2 extra sets of batteries, 2 protractor's, 2 sets of map pens, 2 small scissors, and 2 sets of Ranger beads) EVERYTHING was used.

14. Oversized zipper duffel bag- no one cares how much stuff you bring as long as you can carry it all in a bag. The zipper duffel bag allows easy access to all your items and I highly recommend buying one.

15. Empty MRE Box- I kept one under my rack with all my important frequently used items in it. It was very helpful.

16. Pillow- yes bring a pillow, you would be foolish not to.

17. Baby Wipes- bring more than you think you will use. Share what you don't use with your team.

18. Bug spray/sunblock-you will use them both.

19. 550- I used 100 ft.

20. A book- The packing list strongly advice's you to bring one. I did what I was told and brought everything on the advised packing list. The advised packing list is there for a reason. You would be foolish to not follow the recommended advice form SFAS cadre. I ended up using everything on the list. Work hard and finish an event before index, you will have downtime. Raise your feet and read, do not fall asleep!


Gate Week/Land Nav/Team Week

1. Don't Sleep- do the right thing even if you're tired. If you start to get sleepy get up and walk around. I saw a lot of guys get caught sleeping, some of which was accidental on their part. Some of those guys did not get selected. It's not hard to get up off your rack and walk around if you're tired. Only sleep when they tell you to.

2. Don't argue with cadre-if they suggest to do something, do it. I know that sounds simple but I saw at least four or five guys totally disregard the suggestions the cadre made and I'm sure they were negatively assessed for it.

3. Be Heavy- make sure your ruck is at the least 2 pounds over. I saw a lot of guys make the mistake of being to close to 45 pounds, if the cadre don't use the scale you used to weigh your stuff you'll be in trouble. I also recommend being heavy because if it starts to rain the cadre "might" decide to factor in water weight. Lastly make sure you weigh your ruck without the MRE you plan to eat. This issue came up for most of the x-rays.

4. Land Nav Area- land nav is done in a public place. I will not explain this point any more, if you are SF smart you will do your own research and make your own decisions.

5. Don't cheat- it's not worth it. As crafty as you think you are, they are better. You are not a professional soldier yet, they will catch you, you will cry, they will laugh, you will never return!

6. Draws- If you can, walk around, if you can't make sure everything is tied down ( compass, map, watch, headlight, everything) and then do a personal inventory before you go in. Immediately after you bust the draw do another personal inventory. This way you know if you've lost something in the draw. When in the draw, check your compass every few steps. I was amazed at how after two or three steps I would go from walking North to walking South. Use your gloves. I decided to soldier on and used my hands through a drawl. I regretted it the rest of my time at SFAS. You're not selected for being a tough guy, use the gloves.

7. Land Nav Technique- checkpoints, handrails, backstops, attack points, distinguishable terrain features, intersections of unimproved and improve roads, azimuth, pace count. If you do not understand how to use these keywords effectively you are not ready. Important note on pace count. I personally terrain associate most of the time, however I suggest using a steady pace count at SFAS. I considered myself really good at Land Nav and my first day tried to use mostly terrain association. As a result of my cockiness I got turned around and wasted three hours figuring out where I was and only got two points my first day. I switched back to a steady pace count and had all four points by 10 o'clock my second day.

8. Getting Lost-most people at some point get lost or lose their bearing of exactly where they are. If this happens Relax, if you are using the previous words I mentioned effectively you should be able to walk back to a point of known location. Land Nav is meant to test your problem-solving skills. If you cannot handle the mental stress induced from being lost and having to figure out where you are you will fail. I personally suggest getting lost prior to SFAS, to practicing figuring out where you are. This helped me a great deal.

9. Team Week-don't be the gray man. The cadre will tell you this all the time. Even if you're a strong guy and pull your own weight the team needs to know you. If you are quiet make sure you speak up and voice your ideas. Don't be loud and obnoxious but make sure your team gets to know you. I will not explain more on this point.

10. Knot Tying and Lashings- know them well!

11. Map Case- Tie it down, also take a piece of MRE box cardboard that will fit into your map case and cover it with 100 mile an hour so it's waterproof. You will then have a flat surface to lay your map on and plot your points.

Physical Fitness

1. Show up in shape- strength is important, recovery is more important. I personally recommend combining Crossfit/Rucking/Running. Volume training is extremely key in these three areas, the more you stress your body and get it accustomed to volume the faster your recovery be. I suggest longer workouts as it teaches your body to recover from longer workouts. SFAS is not a Sprint, it's a marathon. CF is great but most workouts are under 15 min. Strength training is great but again a 500 pound squat is not as important as being able to squat 100 pounds 100 times. I personally recommend Crossfit Endurance or Military Athlete. I prefer Military Athlete. I used MA's ruck-based selection program and had no issues with my physical fitness level at SFAS.

I hope all this information helps!

Lastly
1. Don't be Light
2. Don't be Last
3. Don't be Late

And NEVER QUIT

[MTN Medic]

WITF would you need a book? Unless the course has changed DRAMATICALLY, you shouldn't ever have time to read a damn book. :eek:

All the stuff Cool Breeze said was spot on though. You don't need anymore information than that. It is a job interview. Make your best impression.

[koz]

I think the only books allowed when I went were the Ranger Handbook, FM 7-8, or the Bible.

[Red D]

In September's class you were allowed to bring any type of book you wanted, most had a Ranger Handbooks or Bible. Magazines are restricted.

[33army]

12. Gorilla Tape- like duct tape but stronger, I used it on hotspots before blisters formed. If your feet sweat a lot use the tape in conjunction with tincture of benzene which the medic has an unlimited supply of. I personally would tape my feet then apply body glide over top before putting on my socks.



Correct me if I am wrong.....is this not a horrible idea? Personally I have seen people pull the skin off the bottom of their feet using this "technique".

[hotshot]

Correct me if I am wrong.....is this not a horrible idea? Personally I have seen people pull the skin off the bottom of their feet using this "technique".

If done correctly it works well.

CH

[Sir topham hatt]

Correct me if I am wrong.....is this not a horrible idea? Personally I have seen people pull the skin off the bottom of their feet using this "technique".

I'm not an expert, and most of my ruck experience comes from SFAS, but I think powder would be a better plan. Thats what I used every day, powder on my feet, socks, and in my boots sometimes more than once a day.

[hotshot]

I'm not an expert, and most of my ruck experience comes from SFAS, but I think powder would be a better plan. Thats what I used every day, powder on my feet, socks, and in my boots sometimes more than once a day.

Powder would be preventative steps taken. After you have a blister powder isn't going to do much for that.

[Red D]

My comments regarding Guerrilla Tape in conjunction with tincture of benzene are personal suggestions. It's what personally worked for me. I never got one blister during my entire time at SFAS which included the trek, and I finished very well on all the rucking events.

Any suggestions should be tried prior to SFAS to see if it works for you. There are many different ways people take care of their feet. At times I have used moleskin and powder, however I switched because I knew my feet might be wet for long periods of time. Once boots are submerged fully in water, powder becomes irrelevant and moleskin often comes off. I found a system that worked for me and I literally had no issues at all, not one blister! At the end of an event when we were given time to take care of our feet, I would trim and or remove the tape then apply foot powder to accelerate the drying/hardening of the foot. Then reapply tincture and tape later that night or first thing in the morning.

Good foot care is not a supplement for the hard work of toughening your feet before you get to SFAS. If you don't ruck before you arrive at SFAS you will have soft feet, you will miss out on finding blister prevention methods that work for you, and you will not know how to take care of blisters when you do get them.

[The Reaper]

My comments regarding Guerrilla Tape in conjunction with tincture of benzene are personal suggestions. It's what personally worked for me. I never got one blister during my entire time at SFAS which included the trek, and I finished very well on all the rucking events.

Any suggestions should be tried prior to SFAS to see if it works for you. There are many different ways people take care of their feet. At times I have used moleskin and powder, however I switched because I knew my feet might be wet for long periods of time. Once boots are submerged fully in water, powder becomes irrelevant and moleskin often comes off. I found a system that worked for me and I literally had no issues at all, not one blister! At the end of an event when we were given time to take care of our feet, I would trim and or remove the tape then apply foot powder to accelerate the drying/hardening of the foot. Then reapply tincture and tape later that night or first thing in the morning.

Good foot care is not a supplement for the hard work of toughening your feet before you get to SFAS. If you don't ruck before you arrive at SFAS you will have soft feet, you will miss out on finding blister prevention methods that work for you, and you will not know how to take care of blisters when you do get them.

I concur with your process, if not your specific technique.

At least you knew if it would work for you ahead of time.

Thanks for taking the time to provide feedback.

TR

[mud slinger]

I used nothing but powder and changing socks whenever possible and still recieved a total of 13 blisters. They were not bad blisters, just from my feet swelling and the tips of my toes rubbing on my boots. Make sure your boots are at least a half size bigger. I've also tried taping my hot spot area's in training and when I tried taking it off afterwards it was pulling my skin off so I never tried that again. :lifter

[Sir topham hatt]

Powder would be preventative steps taken. After you have a blister powder isn't going to do much for that.

I just noticed I read it wrong. I was focusing on the bodyglide part.

To provide some actual feedback, preventative maintenance is the best way to negate foot problems. I followed Reaper's advice to a T, and added some of my own "foot hardening" things in about 2 months before SFAS and only got 4 blisters, and didn't get them until the 2nd to last day of team week. (HOLY RUN-ON) One of my additions was walking barefoot around the little town I live in every other day (about 5 miles, all sidewalk). I have very very sensitive feet, bad enough that I almost panic when somebody accidentally brushes against them. The advice Reaper gives is gold, so heed it for your own good.

[jurisdoctor]

Packing List
1. Uniforms 8 Pairs -you are not limited in the number of ACUs you are allowed to bring. I brought eight pairs, yes that is a lot. However I did not spend any time at all during SFAS washing clothes. While others were running half a click to wash their clothes during personal time I was taking care of my feet, resting, and drinking water.

2. Socks 21 Pairs- it has been said many times in this thread to bring a fresh pair of socks for each day. I took this advice even though it seemed ridiculous. I can honestly say this suggestion alone was the most valuable of all the advice I received in regards to the packing list. When your feet are shredded like hamburger, a fresh pair of socks that are soft and completely dry will make a difference. Also the current packing list clearly states any sock can be used as long as it is not a civilian color. I personally use Fox River socks, find what works best for you. I personally do not recommend using cotton issued socks.

3. Sock Liners 10 Pairs- the current packing list allows the use of a sock liner, this is not mandatory but highly recommended as sock liners reduce friction.

4. Under Armor- the current packing list allows moisture wicking underwear and T-shirts such as under armor. Spandex is prohibited. I brought five pairs of under armor underwear and five under armor T shirts. Not only did this help prevent heatstroke but also drastically reduced chafing.

5. Boots 3 Pairs-use whatever military boot you want!, let me state that again, USE WHATEVER MILITARY BOOT YOU WANT! So many people ask about boots, read the current packing list. It clearly states that any boot within Army regulations is allow. That being said I brought three pairs. All three were Nikes. I kept one in my Ruck, had one on my feet, and let the other pair dry.

6. PT's 4 Pairs/White Socks 8 Pairs- again I did not want to have to wash anything, which saved me a lot of time.



For those whose eyes went wide when you read this list don't worry. While he certainly didn't want for anything, this is grossly overpacked IMO. 4 pairs of ACUs, a set or two of PTs, and 10-12 pairs of socks is more than sufficient. Throw in a couple nice, synthetic tan shirts you can wash in the faucet and dry real quick and you'll be fine.

[mud slinger]

Read every post on this site pertaining to SFAS and take what you feel will benefit you and get fit and don't QUIT!. There will be a day or days that you want to just don't. :D Have fun with it.

[DocBrown]

Selected Class 08-12.

Most of the advice I have seen here is advice I would give myself. Even the "unconventional" tips and tricks are, at a minimum, worth considering and maybe even testing out prior to your SFAS date. Something I don't remember seeing was:

Don't be a hard-headed dumba$$. You will experience aches, pains, and even injuries. It's a fact of life at SFAS. If you hurt and want treatment, GO TO SICK CALL! Unless you have an injury that would prevent you from continuing SFAS or even your further on career, you're not going to get looked down upon. By halfway through "The Hoffman", the line for sick call was usually 15 or so guys. Most of it was for minor blister care(so much so that the medic had pre made "blister packs"), but occasionally there were some more serious things. We even had one guy that, upon physical exam, the medics basically told him,"we are pretty sure you have stress fractures, but if we take you to the TMC and xray it it will drop you from the course. We can give you stuff to manage it and you need to come see us everyday to assess so you can continue." He was on crutches and in a boot 30 minutes after team week was over, but he got selected!!

Good luck and dont quit!

[sean827]

A little advice to guys going to SFAS that may not already be listed... don't talk sh** to 18X guys. Most of them helped us regular Army guys out a lot with land nav advice and ruck set up. There well trained for the task at hand, use there skills to your advantage; because winning a combat experience argument will get you no where in this process. I was selected last class, April 13.

[That_Guy]

A little advice to guys going to SFAS that may not already be listed... don't talk sh** to 18X guys. Most of them helped us regular Army guys out a lot with land nav advice and ruck set up. There well trained for the task at hand, use there skills to your advantage; because winning a combat experience argument will get you no where in this process. I was selected last class, April 13.

A lot of them are good kids that want to do what most others wont.
They're a fun bunch to be around with, and are, for the most part, always looking for advice from us seasoned folk.
Everyone is equal at SFAS so treat each other as such. Be professional from the moment first call is to lights out. Take it one day at a time and don't quit. It may seem like certain days are taking forever but eventually SFAS will be over.
Good luck to all who attend.
-

[The Reaper]

You might also remember that the SOPC candidates have been together since Basic.

They will tend to self-protect on the peer reporting, and if you have been an asshole or less than a team player, they will mostly tend to vote along similar lines.

TR

[mhaggs]

To tag on to what The Reaper was saying about the peer evaluations. They are incredibly important. I saw some good guys go home because they pulled the rank/experience card. They performed well above the standard in general but could not get along with anyone. There is plenty of room in the course to be an NCO, but everyone's equal in SFAS. In fact they expect EVERYONE to act like an NCO during the course. I was an 18x, I guess still am, selected Dec '11. (To future X-Rays, even with an 18 series designator at this point, your an X-ray to most GBs, own it, its easier that way haha). From my experience my SFAS class was about 70% regular army 30% X-rays. The X-rays will pick the brains of the regular army guys for experience tips and general military knowledge and if you're a regular Army guy pick the X-rays brains for land nav tips like what was stated earlier. We are pretty damn good at Land Nav and rucking. They have incredibly high standards physically for the 18X's prior to Selection and show them plenty of tips.

And DON"T shame at team week, everyone will notice if your walking behind the apparatus all the time. Be the guy people have to tell to get off and take a break. If your that type of guy anyways, you've got a head start.

Remember, if you can't get along with guys at selection your going to have a hard time on a team.

[Jersey Dirtbag]

I don't know what goes on behind the scenes, but in class 08-13 it seemed as if the peer evaluations were hardly considered at all. After the trek, they IVW'd a whole crop of dudes based on their performance during team week, but there was no apparent correlation between who got an IVW and their peer evaluations. It seemed like it was based mostly on cadre members' assessment during team week. Additionally, there were several total shitbags (one guy had 12 pink slips, one of which he got from me) who somehow survived that cut and went on to get selected.

On the other hand, during my counseling at the end, I was told that I didn't get any pink slips and that if I had I'd probably have been a non-select because I'm an officer.

[Bortz]

deleted

[Hernando]

First off, I must qualify this advice with saying that I was essentially a non-select. That being said, my advice may help someone better prepare and achieve the goal of getting selected. I attended class 10-13.

I went into selection scoring a 300+ PT score. I'd prepared with crossfit, rucking, and various forms of cardio.

The best advice I can give is this. Don't worry so much about cardio, focus much more on your ability to ruck. I went into selection being able too ruck fairly well. Not well enough though. You'll run 3 times in selection. The rest of the time is spent with a ruck on your back all day long.

You don't want too just be good at rucking, you want too be able stand out above everyone else. When you've got unimaginable amounts of weight on your back you want too be strong enough too let the weaker guy have that break first. Your team should be able too think back about you and remember how you more than pulled your weight durning team week. Be able too accept pain you didn't know you could possibly endure and continue on for miles with that pain.

Farmers carries. Do them.

I didn't really specifically do this. It came back too bite me. My first team was very strong and I was the weak link on the water can carry event. I was able too pull my weight on everything else but when you're on a strong team someone has too be peered. My team didn't forget about my lack of forearm strength.

I successfully completed selection and was dropped 4 hours after finishing the trek as a team weak drop. It wasn't something I expected. Looking back now I realize my mistake. While I was good enough too meet the standard, I wasn't strong enough too stand out and leave no doubt in my fellow candidates and the cadres mind that I was cut out for the job.

To sum it up.

Rucking, rucking, and more rucking.
Farmers carries.

[The Reaper]

Excellent advice gents.

I am particularly impressed that unlike many of your peers, who will forever be in denial about why they were non-selected, you guys are able to accept the constructive criticism for what it is and determine the best path for you to return with your deficiencies corrected and be successful.

As noted, the SWCS prep program emphasizes rucking and that is most of what you will be doing. Spending time doing trendy workouts and ignoring rucking because you think anyone will be able to do that after getting into fantastic shape with the latest routine is a pretty certain path to failure.

Thanks for sharing, gents, and thanks for testing yourself at SFAS.

TR

[JWil]

First off, I must qualify this advice with saying that I was essentially a non-select. That being said, my advice may help someone better prepare and achieve the goal of getting selected. I attended class 10-13.

I went into selection scoring a 300+ PT score. I'd prepared with crossfit, rucking, and various forms of cardio.

The best advice I can give is this. Don't worry so much about cardio, focus much more on your ability to ruck. I went into selection being able too ruck fairly well. Not well enough though. You'll run 3 times in selection. The rest of the time is spent with a ruck on your back all day long.

You don't want too just be good at rucking, you want too be able stand out above everyone else. When you've got unimaginable amounts of weight on your back you want too be strong enough too let the weaker guy have that break first. Your team should be able too think back about you and remember how you more than pulled your weight durning team week. Be able too accept pain you didn't know you could possibly endure and continue on for miles with that pain.

Farmers carries. Do them.

I didn't really specifically do this. It came back too bite me. My first team was very strong and I was the weak link on the water can carry event. I was able too pull my weight on everything else but when you're on a strong team someone has too be peered. My team didn't forget about my lack of forearm strength.

I successfully completed selection and was dropped 4 hours after finishing the trek as a team weak drop. It wasn't something I expected. Looking back now I realize my mistake. While I was good enough too meet the standard, I wasn't strong enough too stand out and leave no doubt in my fellow candidates and the cadres mind that I was cut out for the job.

To sum it up.

Rucking, rucking, and more rucking.
Farmers carries.


Thank you for advice.. Very motivating to push even hard on my rucks.. Prior sfas.

[mariley85]

I have read this thread a handful of times, trying to retain as much as possible from of you who have completed selection.

This feels like common sense, but I figure I should ask the experts on the matter in case there is a reason I can't see. First off, I live in an area where short trails can scale almost 2000' vertical. I incorporate these steep grades (10-17%+) on dirt trails in my my rucking regimen, it skews my times, but this is better than training on low grade/flat terrain, correct?

Thank you.

[Jersey Dirtbag]

I have read this thread a handful of times, trying to retain as much as possible from of you who have completed selection.

This feels like common sense, but I figure I should ask the experts on the matter in case there is a reason I can't see. First off, I live in an area where short trails can scale almost 2000' vertical. I incorporate these steep grades (10-17%+) on dirt trails in my my rucking regimen, it skews my times, but this is better than training on low grade/flat terrain, correct?

Thank you.

Firstly, understand that I am not a medical or fitness professional and that any advice I give is based solely on my personal experience rather than formal education.

That said, I believe you are correct. Specifically, your ability to handle steep grades on rough terrain over an uneven surface will strengthen your body over a wider spectrum of motion and make you more resilient than training on flat, paved ground. There are guys who can bang out a 12-mile ruck in ~2 hours who fall apart once the loads exceed the standard ruck weight or the distances get crazy. Personally, I'd rather be the guy who needs 2:45 for the 12-miler but knows his feet, hips, and knees can sustain continuous abuse under an excessive load for 20+ miles. But I'm kind of tooting my own horn because there ain't no way in hell I'm covering 12 miles in 2 hours, period.

I did the vast majority of my ruck training in the southern portion of the Catskill Mountains without ever setting a time target. I would hike 6-12 miles per session, usually with several ~800 foot elevation changes over rocky, uneven trails. I never got a single blister or injury during SFAS or phase 1 of the Q. On the other hand, my mile split during ruck events is mediocre (13:30 to 14:00). If I had done more "ruck running" while training I probably would have performed better on the timed marches, but I'd also have increased my chances of injury.

I would still recommend doing at least one "full dress rehearsal" 12-mile ruck march on a relatively flat course just to see where you stand, if possible.

[Bechorg]

"You don't want too just be good at rucking, you want too be able stand out above everyone else. When you've got unimaginable amounts of weight on your back you want too be strong enough too let the weaker guy have that break first. Your team should be able too think back about you and remember how you more than pulled your weight durning team week. Be able too accept pain you didn't know you could possibly endure and continue on for miles with that pain. "

Good advice hernando. I will add that we just did a mass casualty medical exercise with 5 casualties (mascal criteria only has to overwhelm a medical units capabilities which 5 casualties does to an ODA). Guess what we had to do? Fireman's carries with dead weight! I have had 2 real world mass casualty events and guess what we had to do? CARRY HEAVY STUFF! It isn't just preparing you for selection, it is real world that we are dealing with.

Some musings....Train, train, train, until your wheels are about to fall off. When those wheels fall off you better know how to lash together a contraption to get your ass over that hump. Once you prove you are worthy to carry that ruck, your ODA will then channel your rough monkey grip abilities and turn you into a refined machine that will be able to sustain your physical abilities for a 20+ year career. We are not looking for guys who can move that 100 pound ruck to the top of the hill one time, we are looking for the guy who is smart enough to convince others to carry the weight and do it every single day for as long as it takes to complete the mission.

Are you going to be the chosen ones of your generation that do not accept mediocrity, learn from the thousands of lessons paid for in blood, maintain and even establish a new mental and physical standard, and take this Regiment to the next level?

If you are, then I am right along with you.

Tighten your laces, ruck up, get your azimuth, and step off. Shut your mouth and open your ears while doing all of that and I will find you on my ODA.

My last point, let us kill the Gray man today. Do not be the gray man. Gray men do not finish first and don't really have an issue with being last. You try to blend in on my ODA and sneak by without taking care of what needs to be done and you won't make it long. Gray men do the minimum and do not prepare for the worst. Gray men are too scared to treat you when you've been shot in the chest. Gray man will not grab the hand mic when the 18A has gone down. Today the Gray Man dies. Fall in line trying to be the gray man in selection and so will your career before it began.

[EatLiftRepeat]

Gentlemen,

I have tried to search for some advice for attending SFAS during winter months and had no luck. If someone could point me in the right direction I would be very grateful. Thank you

-Matt

[The Reaper]

Try to stay warm, dress in layers, try to avoid getting wet, eat all you can, and pray that the ice storms and snowfall passes your class by.

You have a huge advantage in that movement through the woods will be much easier, and the land nav points are a lot easier to find.

TR

[EatLiftRepeat]

TR,

Thank you for your quick response and wisdom.

Respectfully,
Matt

[DC87]

I got selected this past SFAS class and would like to pass on a few pointers that helped me through SFAS.

Personal Readiness and Personal Responsibility starts with the preparation for SFAS and continuous throughout SFAS. Showing up to SFAS other than physically ready will make your stay very long but also shows that you cant take care of yourself. Also having your equipment/gear ready at all times shows that you are prepared for any events (remember you don't know what is coming next). So take some time and prep your things. You got to have this mindset! Remember you are being assessed at all times.

Try not to G2 the course. Show up, be prepared to execute whenever and whatever the cadre need you to do. Cadre will know when you are "gaming it" and it is not a good look to have. All you need to know is that you will be rucking and running so prepare accordingly. Not knowing what or how far I had to go each day made me push myself even harder.

Keep a positive attitude at all times. SFAS is designed to be very physically demanding at times and it is your response to "the sucking" what the cadre are looking for. So don't worry if it hurts sometimes just remember that everybody has breaking point just don't let it become your failing point.

If you are an Officer/NCO be leader within your group. There are many junior enlisted soldiers attending SFAS and your influence on them goes a long way. So pass on lessons learned from your time in the army, step up when you need to be charge and always support the leadership.

The course was a great experience and teaches you much about you. I got meet great individuals. Good luck to all and don't hesitate to ask me any questions.

[DanHeller88]

I got selected this past SFAS class and would like to pass on a few pointers that helped me through SFAS.

Personal Readiness and Personal Responsibility starts with the preparation for SFAS and continuous throughout SFAS. Showing up to SFAS other than physically ready will make your stay very long but also shows that you cant take care of yourself. Also having your equipment/gear ready at all times shows that you are prepared for any events (remember you don't know what is coming next). So take some time and prep your things. You got to have this mindset! Remember you are being assessed at all times.

Try not to G2 the course. Show up, be prepared to execute whenever and whatever the cadre need you to do. Cadre will know when you are "gaming it" and it is not a good look to have. All you need to know is that you will be rucking and running so prepare accordingly. Not knowing what or how far I had to go each day made me push myself even harder.

Keep a positive attitude at all times. SFAS is designed to be very physically demanding at times and it is your response to "the sucking" what the cadre are looking for. So don't worry if it hurts sometimes just remember that everybody has breaking point just don't let it become your failing point.

If you are an Officer/NCO be leader within your group. There are many junior enlisted soldiers attending SFAS and your influence on them goes a long way. So pass on lessons learned from your time in the army, step up when you need to be charge and always support the leadership.

The course was a great experience and teaches you much about you. I got meet great individuals. Good luck to all and don't hesitate to ask me any questions.

I'm not sure if this is okay to ask or not, if not my appolgies. But how many attended/passed?

[x SF med]

I'm not sure if this is okay to ask or not, if not my appolgies. But how many attended/passed?

Why does that matter?
A big bunch attended, a small bunch got selected, same as every class.

Every class is a little different, and the student makeup is a little different. Be prepared to do 50% better than your best, and assist those on your team during team week. A good attitude, an unbreakable spirit and faith in your abilities are 3 things you bring with you that are going to be your mainstays. All of the advice in the quoted section of your post are great advice without G2.

[DanHeller88]

Why does that matter?
A big bunch attended, a small bunch got selected, same as every class.

Every class is a little different, and the student makeup is a little different. Be prepared to do 50% better than your best, and assist those on your team during team week. A good attitude, an unbreakable spirit and faith in your abilities are 3 things you bring with you that are going to be your mainstays. All of the advice in the quoted section of your post are great advice without G2.

Without a doubt agree with you. This was more of a curiosity thing, due to the Military.com "Trying to recruit 3500 new Special Operations personnel".

The response/result would have 0 effect on my performance or my preparation. As you have stated, the information provided to me was great, and I have been utilizing it.

[abc_123]

In all the talk of rucking and running, don't neglect your grip strength.

It's kinda hard to complete an obstacle course when you can't hold onto the rope that you are trying to climb. Hard to complete a team week event if you can't hold onto what you need to carry in your hands... and even if you do, it's kinda hard to not get peered if you are "that guy" who forces everyon to stop over and over...

just food for thought...

[Team Sergeant]

In all the talk of rucking and running, don't neglect your grip strength.

It's kinda hard to complete an obstacle course when you can't hold onto the rope that you are trying to climb. Hard to complete a team week event if you can't hold onto what you need to carry in your hands... and even if you do, it's kinda hard to not get peered if you are "that guy" who forces everyon to stop over and over...

just food for thought...

Grip strength also assists with weapons handling.... good idea to "get some"....

[Scimitar]

In all the talk of rucking and running, don't neglect your grip strength.

It's kinda hard to complete an obstacle course when you can't hold onto the rope that you are trying to climb. Hard to complete a team week event if you can't hold onto what you need to carry in your hands... and even if you do, it's kinda hard to not get peered if you are "that guy" who forces everyon to stop over and over...

just food for thought...

Grip strength also assists with weapons handling.... good idea to "get some"....

IMOO the best (and cheapest) grip strength training program. Gold. No BS machines.

HIH


S

[DanHeller88]

Or deadlifts...being able to yank 500+ pounds out the ground a few times does wonders for your hands. Thats how I rehabbed my hand after my accident.

[Scimitar]

Couple of things.

1) DL will absolutely develop part of your grip strength, but grip is a multi faceted skill, as discussed in the article, hence the need to expose it to multiple stimuli.

2) A lot of guys only have limited time to prep, and if you're DL aint big then you aren't gonna get a lot of grip stamina out of it.

S

[booker]

Heavy farmers carries will both work the grip and prepare the rest of your body for carrying items, many of the grip isolation exercises the article highlights are good assistance exercises to this. If you look at the folks that can close the No. 4 CoC (Magnus Samuelsson), he didn't train using grip devices, but he loved farmers carries (it also helped him to have incredible genetics, but talent without hard work is nothing).

[The Reaper]

Ropes.

TR

[Santo Tomas]

Ropes.

TR

Agree. Finger climbs are good as well.

[bobsmith123]

First, thank you all for all your own great advice. I read this thread in its entirety before going and it was all a tremendous help. Thank you too to the custodians Professional Soldier. You have a superb website and have a created a resource of tremendous value to all those in the USASOC community.

I am an officer and was selected in one of this year’s (2016) SFAS classes. I wrote up all my advice below. Making life at SFAS as easy as possible under the circumstances was a focus of my prep. You have limited time and energy (emotional and physical), and I found taking care of a lot of the little things below was key.

I’ve divided my advice into sections (“Equipment to Bring,” “Prepare Yourself Mentally…,” etc.) and posted them separately so each one isn’t too long.

GOOD LUCK!


EQUIPMENT YOU CAN BRING – There seemed to be no limit of how much authorized stuff you can take

A Really Good Book – There is a surprising amount of time hanging out in the barracks trying to stay awake, so bringing a book that will inspire or take your mind off things is critical. I brought Into Thin Air about the tragic climb up Mount Everest and it was the perfect book…highly recommended.
- http://www.amazon.com/Into-Thin-Air-Personal-Disaster/dp/0385492081?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00

An Inspirational Photo and Quote – I brought a photo of the trails where would ruck three times a week to remind me of how hard I had worked to get there. I also brought a laminated quotation by Tony Robbins about hard work. I looked at these several times a day and always before a big event. They did a lot to focus and reassure me of what I had to do. I kept them in my book so to keep them out of sight.

3 or 4 Combination Padlocks – one for each bag and one for the wall locker/s.

Sleep System – I brought mine, but CIF can issue you a complete one as well when you get there. However, if you have one, I would take it.

A Woobie Converted into a Sleeping Bag – I always loved doing this with my woobie. By folding your woobie in half and sewing a sleeping-bag replacement zipper along two sides of it, you can convert your woobie into a lightweight sleeping bag. Brigade Quartermaster used to sell a kit, but I think they stopped. I made mine by order a sleeping-bag zipper online and then sewing it on myself. Here’s a site to get a general idea of what a converted woobie would look like: http://www.survivaloutdoorskills.com/poncho_liners.htm.

Sheets and Pillows – You can bring your own sheets and a pillow and those who did slept like kings. I would recommend bringing at least a fitted sheet for a twin/full bed and your favorite pillow.

Canteen Cleaner – It’s up to you, but the canteens you are issued were used by 100 other Soldiers before you, so something like hydrogen peroxide or other sterilizing solution can help make it a little cleaner.

Gloves – A light pair of gloves for general stuff (walking during LandNav) and the heavy leather work gloves for team week are great. They also issued us the white repelling gloves at CIF, which will work as well.

Two+ Sets of Eye Pro – Set yourself up or success with a fresh pair of eye pro when you start the Star. It’s hard enough to see at night.

Glasses Defogger – If there’s a product that will keep eye pro from fogging up, I would get it. Once I started sweating, by eye pro fogged up and I couldn’t see anything.

Two+ Headlamps – Losing your one-and-only headlamp can be really bad, so bring two. If you can find one that has both Red and Blue lights, that would be the best as different colors can help show off different features of the map and especially anything marked with a highlighter.

Highlighters for the Map – You can bring map markers, but I would definitely bring a five-color pack of highlighters for marking boundaries, draws, and points of interest on your map; you can mark the map anyway you want.

Pen Light – I always felt best with more, so I took two AAA pen lights (one Blue, one Red) as backups for my two headlamps.

Liquid Detergent – You will be doing any washing in a big sink, and I found liquid detergent worked best. A scrub brush is also handy.

One Nice Taped Uniform – After you are selected, you will be in a lot of briefings, so it’s good to either keep one of your four taped uniforms relatively clean or have a fifth one ready to go. I had nothing but trashed uniforms and it was kinda embarrassing.

Extra Stuff for Others – Being generous and supportive of those around you is a great way to bond (and get future high peers). I brought a 1,000’ role of 550 cord, hung it on the end of my bunk, and encouraged everyone to help themselves. I also hung a bottle of sunscreen and a muscle roller there for people to use. It worked very well.

Clear 2” Packing Tape – A roll of this, the same width as 100 mph tape, is great for making quick laminations. After writing your roster number on the 100 mph tape, cover it with the clear tape and it will never fade.

MOLLE Web Dominators with Elastic String for Holding your Canteen Straw – Another little bit of equipment that made life so much easier for me was putting two of these on the sternum straps of my ruck and using them to retain the two hoses of my 2-quart straws.
- http://www.amazon.com/BCP-MOLLE-Dominators-Elastic-String/dp/B0116STCBW?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01

Two 2-Quart Straws, One for Each 2-Quart Canteen – Can’t imagine life without them…a must-have.
- http://www.amazon.com/Rothco-602-Canteen-Straw-Kit/dp/B001DKY1KG?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage

Camelbak Hydrolink Hydration Conversion Kit Bite Valve for 2-Quart Straws – The ones that come with the straws are very bad.
- http://www.amazon.com/CamelBak-90512-HydroLink-Conversion-Black/dp/B001LQWIB6?ie=UTF8&keywords=camelbak%20bite%20valve&qid=1459108068&ref_=sr_1_17_a_it&sr=8-17

Band-Aids and Hand Sanitizer – Just good to have for cleaning and protecting any cuts. Things don’t heal well out there.

FoxRiver Socks – I’m not a sock guy, but I tried them and I will probably never go back to the regular Army ones. They are nicely padded, offer foot support, function well when wet, and dry fast. This is just what I used…there are some other good ones out there too.
- https://www.foxsox.com/catalog/product.aspx?type=subcategory&sortorder=stylenumber&code=MILBT&selectedstyle=6036

Nice Kit Bag – To make life as easy as possible and thus maximize my emotional and physical energy at SFAS, I treated myself to the best kit bag I could find: a jumbo zippered kit bag with multiple compartments and wheels called the Sandpiper of California Rolling Loadout Luggage X-Large Bag. You will move several times at SFAS and you will be constantly diving in and out of your bag for stuff with often little time to find it. This kit bag made life easy and was the envy of many Soldiers there. For overflow equipment that I never used, I stored them in an Army-issue top-loading duffel and kept it under my bunk. If you don’t want to shell out the bucks for the fancy kit bag, the giant zippered duffel below is an adequate alternative. I actually took that as well, in case they said “no” to the wheeled kit bag…but they didn’t. – NOTE: I would only travel with military bags when absolutely necessary…it’s not safe these days to spotlight yourself as a Serviceman.
- Sandpiper Kit Bag: http://www.amazon.com/Sandpiper-California-Rolling-Loadout-15-5x37x17-Inch/dp/B004HPE91K?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00
- Giant Duffle: http://www.amazon.com/Rothco-Canvas-Zipper-Duffle-Olive/dp/B000FBWYOO?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00

Trash Bags – Take a couple…can make a good waterproof bag if needed.

Storage bags – I used several of the large oversized bags with the one-way valves for storing uniforms in my kit bag. Made things easier to find.

Two gallon bags – I would take at least 5 of them.

100 MPH Tape – Take some…you will need it. I also took a piece of cardboard and wrapped about 5 feet of tape around it and kept in in my pocket. It was great as I often needed a piece in the field.

Two Sets of Flip Flops – A tiny pair you leave in your ruck, and another you leave out for heading to the latrine.

Extra Fleece Caps and Neck Gators – I took three of each…nothing’s sadder than losing your fleece cap (or gator), especially in the chilly evenings.

Lots of Socks – I took twenty pairs and could have taken more. Once they get dirty/salty, they won’t treat your feet as well and washing them can be a pain.

Bring a Little Extra Engineer Tape – You can’t have a lot of it, but there will be someone who needs it for their uniform and will be glad you have it. Plus, you will need about a foot of it for putting your number on the road guard vest.

[bobsmith123]

MENTALLY PREPARE BEFORE YOU GO
The bad news is that you’ll be under some kind of stress all time at SFAS. The good news is that it’s all in your head and therefore you have some control over it. Stress is a person’s reaction to a situation. The cadre put you in situations that they know will stress a typical person. So strengthening your mental endurance and ability to handle stress will dictate your experience at SFAS. There are lots of techniques that work extremely well at SFAS and elsewhere in life. These are what worked for me and for thousands of others throughout time.

Learn Meditation and Relaxation / Breathing Techniques - What’s amazing about learning these techniques is that you can do them anywhere, anytime and they really work! Meditation and breathing can turn off the sympathetic nervous system…the fight-or-flight response. Deep breathing helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system which calms us. Forcing yourself to smile a hug smile and holding it for seventeen seconds releases endorphins. I am not a spiritual or religious person and that was not my approach to this. This is just science and these techniques have been used to thousands of years. If you want to add your own religious or spiritual elements to is as well, that would probably work too.

Here are some resources that helped me, though there are many out there and I encourage you to explore on your own:
1. How to Meditate - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wirV265ZYSw
2. 4-7-8 Breathing Technique for Relaxation - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRPh_GaiL8s
3. Breath Walking - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGkHVEnpVoY&nohtml5=False
4. Calming your Sympathetic Nervous System - http://www.newsmax.com/Health/Headline/anxiety-vegus-nerve-stimulation-brainstem/2014/09/15/id/594746/
5. Guided Meditation App for Android/iPhone – Insight Timer:
- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.spotlightsix.zentimerlite2&hl=en
- https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/insight-timer-meditation-timer/id337472899?mt=8

Listen to Experts on Emotional Wellbeing – Your emotions are one of the biggest factors at SFAS. Learn their techniques. These are what helped me:
1. Tony Robbins’ Hour of Power - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P3bvYhm7qcg&nohtml5=False
2. Believe yourself to be already selected - http://unleashyourinnerstrength.com/the-%E2%80%9Ci-already-have-it-i-already-am-it%E2%80%9D-technique/
3. Staying in your “Flow State” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jE1j5Om7g0U and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1MHyyWsMeE
4. Learning to learn from your mistakes - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pN34FNbOKXc
5. Motivational Videos. Anything that talks about the benefits of pure hard work or “Rise and Grind” was good for me.

Listen to Motivational Speeches on Hard Word - These are what helped me but there are many more great ones out there:
1. The Best Motivational Video Speeches Compilation 2015 - 1 Hour Long - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9V6BDnu35qs&nohtml5=False
2. Be Fearless - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjjYVROiJIA&nohtml5=False
3. Prove them Wrong - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPQ1budJRIQ&index=13&list=PL9XDPqN8lxBphPe-jqlu6cRejGpd54oqA&nohtml5=False

[bobsmith123]

PHYSICALLY PREPARE BEFORE YOU GO

Get Your Pace-Count – I bought a “Contractor’s Wheel” at my local hardware store and measured out several 100m courses over various terrains to get my pace-count. I also used it to see how long it would take me to cover 100m, which helped me later in my route planning. Having this knowledge locked in before getting to SFAS helped me focus and be confident about approaching the LandNav portion of the course.

My 3-Month Pt Training Plan – I am not a physical fitness expert, but here’s what I did that worked for me:

*Note: I rucked with a heavy ruck. This is not for everyone and, though this worked very well for me, I was experiencing some minor overuse injuries by the end of the three months, so train with caution!

Day 1:
- 5+ mile cardio (slow) run
- 3 sets of max pushups, going from regular, to narrow, to wide arm and then repeating
- 2 sets of max sit-ups in a minute
- 2 sets planks for 1:30 minutes
- Ruck off road on flat and up and down hills with 75lbs for 7+ miles
- 3 sets of squats w 75lb ruck


Day 2:
- 3 sets of max pull-ups, chin-ups, narrow pull-ups, and wide pull-ups
- 2 sets of max sit-ups in a minute
- 2 sets planks for 1:30 minutes
- Fartlek for 2+ miles


Day 3:
- 5+ mile cardio (slow) run
- Go to the gym
- Narrow Bench
- Regular Bench
- Bench Triceps
- Bench Butterflies
- Machine Butterflies
- Dips
- Fire Hydrants
- Shrugs
- Neck Bridges
- Planks
- Sit-ups
- 2 sets of max sit-ups in a minute
- 2 sets planks for 1:30 minutes
- Ruck off road on flat and up and down hills with 75lbs for 7+ miles
- 3 sets of squats w 75lb ruck

Day 4:
- 3 sets of max pull-ups, chin-ups, narrow pull-ups, and wide pull-ups
- 2 sets of max sit-ups in a minute
- 2 sets planks for 1:30 minutes
- Fartlek for 2+ miles

Day 5:
- Rest

[bobsmith123]

WHAT TO DO WHEN THERE

Commit Not to Quit – I was 100% committed to completing SFAS and getting selected before I got there. However, as soon as I arrived, I started feeling overwhelmed with questions: is this for me, will I just embarrass myself, do I even want to go to the Q Course. Those voices were suddenly louder than the ones telling me that this is what I wanted. However, I was experienced enough to know that these were just nerves talking. If you get there and you feel the same way, then that just means you’re a normal human being at SFAS! Further, if you actually decide you don’t want to be in SF anymore, make that decision AFTER SELECTION when you can think clearly. There is no way anyone is capable of making a fully-rational life-decision at SFAS. It’s a school designed to stress you and to test you with stress. You’re under pressure, you’re sleep deprived, you’re in a new environment, etc. Even if you “know” SF is not for you, you deserve to at least finish SFAS and then make a clear, conscious decision when you get home. Then you can at least be proud that you are one of the few who gave it their best shot at Selection and even got selected. If you make an impulsive, emotions-based decision at SFAS, you will only regret it as there is zero benefit to quitting.

Be Social – Take every opportunity to meet and get to know someone new. Get your first name out there so people remember you; a good nickname is even better. You don’t want to be the gray man to/for your peers. If you are, they won’t know you come Team Week.

Treat your Weapon like it’s Real – Losing your fake M16/rubber duck is often an instant drop from the course. To prevent this, I saw some guys write the word “WEAPON” on the backs of their hands as a reminder to always have their weapons in their hands. Likewise, throwing a rubber duck to the ground, treating it like it’s a hammer or doing any other thing that you would not do if it was real will get you negative attention. To help with never losing a weapon, I did a couple things. First, I NEVER leaned it up against anything but my leg. Lots of candidates would lean their weapons up against trees to check their maps, and then walked off without them. Most recovered weapons were found like that. Also, to make things easier, I created a little resting area for my rifle by tying the end of the elastic cord of the cargo pocket to the nearest button of my back pocket. This created a little space between my leg and the cord where the barrel could easily rest if I needed to use both hands. If I ever forgot the weapon was there and walked off, I would feel and hear it fall away.

Practice Self-Healing Techniques – I used meditation and breathing techniques at SFAS to relax and perform better and I found that even just basic techniques worked amazingly well. Once when I was lost during LandNav and had just spent a frantic twenty minutes trying to find myself on the map, I decided to sit down and meditate. It felt contradictory to what I needed to be doing: “I am running out of time; is now the best time to sit down and relax?” However, almost as soon as I sat down and started calming myself with some deep breaths, a wave of relaxation came over me and I started to think clearly once again. When I looked at my map again two minutes later, I recognized where I was almost immediately. Another technique I used was whenever I was nervous about speaking in front of a group of other candidates, I would look away from everyone and smile the biggest smile I could and hold it for seventeen seconds. Smiling, even when it’s forced, releases a flood of endorphins which boosts your happiness and self-confidence. I was then able to speak in front of anyone without any problems.

Be Proactive about Chaffing From your Ruck – There are several things you can try that will help or even eliminate chaffing on your back from your ruck:
1. Put 100 mph tape on the areas you know there will be friction
2. Use suspenders with no belt to keep you pants high. Suspenders can be better than a belt as often it’s the interaction of the belt with the back pad that can cause the injuries. It also allows you to keep the waist of your pants loose.
3. Don’t wear a belt at all or only loop the belt through the front four belt loops. I saw several guys to this with a shortened belt. This will keep you pants tight while eliminating the need for the belt to go across the back.

LandNav Tips
1. PUT YOUR SCORE SHEET IN A ZIPLOC BAG AND PUT IT IN A SECURE POCKET. I saw many, many unnecessary LandNav drops from Soldiers that put their score sheet in their map case. Either their score sheet fell out, got hopelessly damaged, or was lost when the entire map case was lost. AVOID THIS TRAGEDY BY PUTTING THE SCORE SHEET IN AN MRE ZIPLOC BAG AND PUTTING IT IN A SECURE POCKET THAT YOU KEEP NOTHING ELSE IN. For me, the best pocket was the chest pocket: it was secure, covered by the FLC, and high up so out of the way of the water.
2. Tie a small loop of gutted 550 cord to your best compass and hang it off the sternum strap of your FLC. It makes getting a quick and accurate compass reading fast and efficient.
3. Modify your protractor
a. Carefully shave away the excess plastic from around the 1:50,000 triangle
b. Run a loop of 550 cord gut through the hole in the middle to get a quick and accurate azimuth
c. Take a permanent marker and create a 5k ruler across the top of the protractor. I marked out each kilometer with a long tick mark, and then every 200m’s in between with short tick marks. I found it very accurate.
4. Carefully write the grid-to-magnetic / magnetic-to-grid conversion numbers of the declination diagram on your map so that they are always visible, even when the map if folded.
5. When you get your compass, thoroughly check it and DX it if you need to. You may not be able to DX it for several days, but they will give you a chance to.
6. Mark your map up any way you need to. I highlighted stuff, wrote notes in the margins, and even put an inspirational quote in it.
7. Cut out a square of the hard MRE box cardboard to make a map table and keep it in your pocket.
8. ALWAYS replot your azimuth if you stumble across a “Happy Stake”. Happy Stakes have the exact grid coordinate on them and, even if you are super sure you know where you are, it’s always better to go to the stake you see and replot your azimuth. Too many times I was over confident and walked right by a Happy Stake, thinking I knew where I was and I was wrong.

Role your Ponchos in your Sleep Mat – This saves a lot of space in your ruck.

Bring PT Shorts to Field – Great for sleeping in.

Woobie - I found that my woobie was more than enough to stay warm at night and never used my sleep system.

Highlight Your Weapon – It’s up to you, but lots of Candidates put reflective and glow-in-the-dark tape on the weapons, presumably to help them find it during the day and night in case they lost it.

Monitor your Personality – SFAS isn’t always the best place to show off the uniqueness of your personality. It’s kinda like you want to stand out for your ability to fit in…so work to fit in.

[Pete]

A lot of nice info Bob but you failed to make an intro post in the intro thread.

Do a PLF over into the intro thread and get it done.

[mark46th]

2 pairs of flipflops? When do you have time to wear flip flops? I don't think I had time to take my boots off more than twice during Phase I.

[MR2]

Sleep? They let them sleep now?

Great posts. Next 25m target. :lifter

[The Reaper]

2 pairs of flipflops? When do you have time to wear flip flops? I don't think I had time to take my boots off more than twice during Phase I.

Very well done, Bob.

Please put your intro up as required.

Mark, SFAS is not Phase I. Things really have changed. They even have barracks to sleep in and a ten-million dollar shitter / shower facility.

The flip flops come in handy when you are admin and need to dry out your feet, and to prevent walking around in the shower water. You do not want to run barefoot on the gravel between the buildings.

Good gouge.

TR

[mark46th]

TR- After I got to group in 1971, I was sent to Camp Mackall as an ambulance driver while they figured out where to put me. I was shocked to see the snuffies standing around a stove, making hot chocolate. Pissed me off.

[Joker]

We did all of our runs, rucks, patrolling, and land nav in flip-flops. Wimps. :D

[miclo18d]

We did all of our runs, rucks, patrolling, and land nav in flip-flops. Wimps. :D
You had feet?

[xollie316]

WHAT TO DO WHEN THERE

Commit Not to Quit – I was 100% committed to completing SFAS and getting selected before I got there. However, as soon as I arrived, I started feeling overwhelmed with questions: is this for me, will I just embarrass myself, do I even want to go to the Q Course. Those voices were suddenly louder than the ones telling me that this is what I wanted. However, I was experienced enough to know that these were just nerves talking. If you get there and you feel the same way, then that just means you’re a normal human being at SFAS! Further, if you actually decide you don’t want to be in SF anymore, make that decision AFTER SELECTION when you can think clearly. There is no way anyone is capable of making a fully-rational life-decision at SFAS. It’s a school designed to stress you and to test you with stress. You’re under pressure, you’re sleep deprived, you’re in a new environment, etc. Even if you “know” SF is not for you, you deserve to at least finish SFAS and then make a clear, conscious decision when you get home. Then you can at least be proud that you are one of the few who gave it their best shot at Selection and even got selected. If you make an impulsive, emotions-based decision at SFAS, you will only regret it as there is zero benefit to quitting.

Be Social – Take every opportunity to meet and get to know someone new. Get your first name out there so people remember you; a good nickname is even better. You don’t want to be the gray man to/for your peers. If you are, they won’t know you come Team Week.

Treat your Weapon like it’s Real – Losing your fake M16/rubber duck is often an instant drop from the course. To prevent this, I saw some guys write the word “WEAPON” on the backs of their hands as a reminder to always have their weapons in their hands. Likewise, throwing a rubber duck to the ground, treating it like it’s a hammer or doing any other thing that you would not do if it was real will get you negative attention. To help with never losing a weapon, I did a couple things. First, I NEVER leaned it up against anything but my leg. Lots of candidates would lean their weapons up against trees to check their maps, and then walked off without them. Most recovered weapons were found like that. Also, to make things easier, I created a little resting area for my rifle by tying the end of the elastic cord of the cargo pocket to the nearest button of my back pocket. This created a little space between my leg and the cord where the barrel could easily rest if I needed to use both hands. If I ever forgot the weapon was there and walked off, I would feel and hear it fall away.

Practice Self-Healing Techniques – I used meditation and breathing techniques at SFAS to relax and perform better and I found that even just basic techniques worked amazingly well. Once when I was lost during LandNav and had just spent a frantic twenty minutes trying to find myself on the map, I decided to sit down and meditate. It felt contradictory to what I needed to be doing: “I am running out of time; is now the best time to sit down and relax?” However, almost as soon as I sat down and started calming myself with some deep breaths, a wave of relaxation came over me and I started to think clearly once again. When I looked at my map again two minutes later, I recognized where I was almost immediately. Another technique I used was whenever I was nervous about speaking in front of a group of other candidates, I would look away from everyone and smile the biggest smile I could and hold it for seventeen seconds. Smiling, even when it’s forced, releases a flood of endorphins which boosts your happiness and self-confidence. I was then able to speak in front of anyone without any problems.

Be Proactive about Chaffing From your Ruck – There are several things you can try that will help or even eliminate chaffing on your back from your ruck:
1. Put 100 mph tape on the areas you know there will be friction
2. Use suspenders with no belt to keep you pants high. Suspenders can be better than a belt as often it’s the interaction of the belt with the back pad that can cause the injuries. It also allows you to keep the waist of your pants loose.
3. Don’t wear a belt at all or only loop the belt through the front four belt loops. I saw several guys to this with a shortened belt. This will keep you pants tight while eliminating the need for the belt to go across the back.

LandNav Tips
1. PUT YOUR SCORE SHEET IN A ZIPLOC BAG AND PUT IT IN A SECURE POCKET. I saw many, many unnecessary LandNav drops from Soldiers that put their score sheet in their map case. Either their score sheet fell out, got hopelessly damaged, or was lost when the entire map case was lost. AVOID THIS TRAGEDY BY PUTTING THE SCORE SHEET IN AN MRE ZIPLOC BAG AND PUTTING IT IN A SECURE POCKET THAT YOU KEEP NOTHING ELSE IN. For me, the best pocket was the chest pocket: it was secure, covered by the FLC, and high up so out of the way of the water.
2. Tie a small loop of gutted 550 cord to your best compass and hang it off the sternum strap of your FLC. It makes getting a quick and accurate compass reading fast and efficient.
3. Modify your protractor
a. Carefully shave away the excess plastic from around the 1:50,000 triangle
b. Run a loop of 550 cord gut through the hole in the middle to get a quick and accurate azimuth
c. Take a permanent marker and create a 5k ruler across the top of the protractor. I marked out each kilometer with a long tick mark, and then every 200m’s in between with short tick marks. I found it very accurate.
4. Carefully write the grid-to-magnetic / magnetic-to-grid conversion numbers of the declination diagram on your map so that they are always visible, even when the map if folded.
5. When you get your compass, thoroughly check it and DX it if you need to. You may not be able to DX it for several days, but they will give you a chance to.
6. Mark your map up any way you need to. I highlighted stuff, wrote notes in the margins, and even put an inspirational quote in it.
7. Cut out a square of the hard MRE box cardboard to make a map table and keep it in your pocket.
8. ALWAYS replot your azimuth if you stumble across a “Happy Stake”. Happy Stakes have the exact grid coordinate on them and, even if you are super sure you know where you are, it’s always better to go to the stake you see and replot your azimuth. Too many times I was over confident and walked right by a Happy Stake, thinking I knew where I was and I was wrong.

Role your Ponchos in your Sleep Mat – This saves a lot of space in your ruck.

Bring PT Shorts to Field – Great for sleeping in.

Woobie - I found that my woobie was more than enough to stay warm at night and never used my sleep system.

Highlight Your Weapon – It’s up to you, but lots of Candidates put reflective and glow-in-the-dark tape on the weapons, presumably to help them find it during the day and night in case they lost it.

Monitor your Personality – SFAS isn’t always the best place to show off the uniqueness of your personality. It’s kinda like you want to stand out for your ability to fit in…so work to fit in.

Tons of good info there Bob. Future candidates would do well to heed your advice and lessons learned. I'll second the comments about being friendly and open with people. Continue that throughout the Q Course and time in the regiment. Respect and a friendly nature cost you nothing.

[Team Sergeant]

I don't think I had time to take my boots off more than twice during Phase I.

LOL, ditto.



Very well done, Bob.


Mark, SFAS is not Phase I. Things really have changed. They even have barracks to sleep in and a ten-million dollar shitter / shower facility.

TR


I heard they are placing tampon dispensers in that $10 million dollar shitter now.......:munchin

[The Reaper]

TR- After I got to group in 1971, I was sent to Camp Mackall as an ambulance driver while they figured out where to put me. I was shocked to see the snuffies standing around a stove, making hot chocolate. Pissed me off.

Hey, whatever you could get away with.

You could be drinking cocoa one minute and banging the gates the next.

TR

[bobsmith123]

Hi all,


I made the intro post...thanks for reminding me. I will also say it here that I'm a thirty-something National Guard Officer and I'm very happy to be of help to you guys. I'm just sorry I don't have time to get on this forum very often. It's truly a great resource!


Bob

[MH60]

I do not see the need to regurgitate any information so I will keep this post short and concise.

Training
Look up “workout regimen suggestion” posted in this section by Bechorg.

For ruck training stick to around 50 pounds, a good stride is your goal. Going over 50 pounds and or running will only increase your chance on injury.

Packing list items
Bring a good book to read. My recommendation is On Combat by Dave Grossman. This book will change your life.

Bring a sealLine medium map case. It is the perfect sized map case once it is folded; use a piece of an MRE box wrapped in 100MPH tape to use as a table top.

Bring 2 QT canteen straws!

Bring Ranger beads / panties

Bring body glide

Miscellaneous

Complete you’re TABE and DLAB testing at your unit station before you depart for SFAS. You will have fewer things to worry about once you get there.

Soak up all of the information that you can through this site and books.

Be prepared for plenty of down time while at SFAS.

[RedHawk12]

I have been reading this particular forum since I first considered Special Forces what seems like eons ago. I am forever grateful to the guys who brought back their lessons learned, both successful and unsuccessful, as well as the sage wisdom of the QPs here. My .02 from my own experiences at SFAS:

Packing list:
o Bring the 2 quart straws from the packing list and change the bite valves out for camelbak bite valves. A lot of candidates didn't bring these items, and it showed when they became dehydrated.
o Bring the bed sheets and pillow. It may seem silly, but it will prevent you from using either your woobie or sleep system which is supposed to be in your ruck. It will save you time.
o Bring lots of socks. And body glide. I used body glide on my feet before each ruck, and I never had any hot spots. Its just one method, but to each their own.

Physical Prep:
I used the Military Athlete 8 Week SFAS Prep program and was well prepared for the events. I was also able to recover relatively quickly after the events and after SFAS as a whole. I highly recommend it.

General:
You will see a lot of the same things repeated here on the forums, and you will more than likely hear them again when you get to SFAS. There is a reason for that. Chief among them: "focus on the 25m target" and "don't quit". This is the best advice anyone can be given who wants to go through SFAS. When asking what the key to success is, most people will answer "don't quit". To some this will seem like an oversimplification, but it truly is that easy. Just don't quit on yourself, and don't quit on your team. I'd add that another key to success training for and at SFAS is: listen. These forums are bursting with knowledge on how to be successful, on how to cultivate the proper mindset and physical attributes that are necessary. Find mentors within this community; seek out their knowledge and listen to what they have to say. When they talk, keep your mouth shut and your ears open; take notes and study. Continue this while you are at SFAS. Be a sponge. This tends to lend itself to more than just SF and the military in general.

If you have not read through every page in the SFAS Advice forum, you should start there.

Just one man's thoughts. Thanks again to the QPs for hosting us, and good luck to the future candidates.

[tom kelly]

We may get to meet depending on your schedule & time.???? I will be at the dinning facility at Camp MacKall on Tuesday, June 13,2017 @Noon...tom kelly

[RedHawk12]

We may get to meet depending on your schedule & time.???? I will be at the dinning facility at Camp MacKall on Tuesday, June 13,2017 @Noon...tom kelly

I will definitely be in the area at that time, though my official report date isn't until 19JUN and I won't begin the course until 05JUL.

[backdraft85]

I have read all the pages to the SFAS advice forum, and one question that has continued to come to mind. how much is the importance on nutrition prior to attending SFAS and while preparing physically for SFAS?

"Unless you do your best, the day will come when, tired and hungry, you will halt just short of the goal you were ordered to reach, and by halting you will make useless the efforts and deaths of thousands."- Gen. George S.Patton

[MH60]

You can not out work a shitty diet. Training is the easy part, consistently eating healthy is the hard part. The easiest way to think about nutrition is this - eat like you would feed your dog i.e. eat good food, measure your food, and eat your food at the same time everyday.

[Team Sergeant]

I have read all the pages to the SFAS advice forum, and one question that has continued to come to mind. how much is the importance on nutrition prior to attending SFAS and while preparing physically for SFAS?



He's the funny part of that and "training for SFAS". If and when you pass you'll most likely be assigned to an A-Team. And once on that A-Team you'll realize that training for SFAS was just the beginning. People quit after being assigned too.

So if you're not ready for a daily ass kicking don't even think about joining SF.

[N0MAD]

I was a non-select following team week for class 0003-19 January 2019. After permission was granted here are my lessons learned from the course:

- Pack everything on the packing list including those recommended items. You or another candidate will use it.

- Ensure the foot powder packed falls within the standard of non-medicinal. If it says medicated or contains menthol it is an unauthorized item and will be confiscated. Gold bond is medicated, do not waste your money.

- If you attend a winter class I would highly suggest packing multiple sets of silk tops and bottoms. You will sweat, and after the silk becomes soiled it will lose some of its heat containment properties.

- The best set of boots are those broken in over an extensive training period. I brought three pair and multiple inserts. I used them all.

- You are always being assessed. Do not choose to do the wrong thing, even if your entire bay is. The cadre will identify those who are sleeping when not allowed ect. Don't be that guy.

- Eat everything you're given. You will burn every calorie consumed, especially in a winter course.

- If you cannot pass the first week events you do not belong there. Nothing is in itself difficult. Walk fast, Run fast.

- Land navigation is a test of your skills over very long days when you are already tired. The key is to plot and then to MOVE. You can obtain all your points, but you cannot do it if you don't step off with a purpose.

- Pack everything required on the packing list for each event. I watched multiple candidates get removed from the course after a random shake down. Follow simple instructions.

- You will carry, move, drag, push heavy things all day long for several days during team week. If you are good at carrying heavy things but can't tie knots, then self identify so that those who are skilled and get your team moving faster.

- You are capable of moving further and faster than what your body tells you that you can. You will figure this out quickly if the cadre conduct a takeover. Do not let it get to that point. Move with a purpose.

- I learned more about myself in those 20 days than by any other single event in my life. Following my out counseling I was informed that I would allowed to return within a year if I wanted to. I chose then and there that I would be back. I believe the cadre saw potential in my failings and would not have invited me back had they thought I did not have what it takes to succeed.

- I had the opportunity to interact with those candidates who had quit or been withdrawn for failing to follow instructions before my return to Ft. Bragg. Words cannot express the depression of those individuals realizing their own self failings. Do not put yourself there.

Cast or tab. Don't quit.

[The Reaper]

Good feedback and sound advice.

Do your best at all times, whether you think you are being watched, or not.

Don't be late, don't be light, and don't be last.

Best of luck.

TR

[sean827]

Former 10th Special Forces posting a lot of tips and tricks to help guys out on the Tube search "FNG Academy" dont worry moderator plenty on there to "verify" me.