National Guard Green Beret Training

Introduction to National Guard Green Beret Training

The National Guard is a unique branch of the US military that allows citizens to serve their country part-time, while also maintaining their civilian careers. Within the National Guard, there are several elite units, including the Green Berets, also known as the US Army Special Forces. The Green Berets are trained to conduct unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, and direct action missions. To become a Green Beret in the National Guard, one must undergo a rigorous training program that pushes their physical and mental limits.

Basic Requirements for National Guard Green Beret Training

To be eligible for Green Beret training in the National Guard, candidates must meet certain basic requirements. These include: * Being a US citizen * Being between the ages of 20 and 35 (with some exceptions for older candidates) * Having a high school diploma or equivalent * Scoring well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test * Passing a physical fitness test * Having a secret security clearance * Being willing to serve in the National Guard for at least six years

Step 1: Initial Entry Requirements and Preparation

Before starting Green Beret training, candidates must first meet the initial entry requirements, which include passing the ASVAB test and obtaining a secret security clearance. They must also prepare themselves physically and mentally for the challenges of training. This includes: * Building their endurance through cardio exercises such as running and swimming * Increasing their strength through weightlifting and bodyweight exercises * Improving their flexibility and agility through stretching and mobility exercises * Studying and learning about the Green Berets and their mission

Step 2: Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS)

The first step in Green Beret training is the Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS) course, which is designed to test a candidate’s physical and mental abilities. The course includes: * A physical fitness test * A swim test * A ruck march (a long walk with a heavy backpack) * A series of obstacle courses * A battery of psychological tests * A review of the candidate’s background and experience

💡 Note: SFAS is a highly competitive course, and only a small percentage of candidates are selected to move on to the next phase of training.

Step 3: Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC)

For those who are selected, the next step is the Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC), which is also known as the “Q Course.” This course is designed to teach candidates the skills they need to become a Green Beret, including: * Unconventional warfare * Foreign internal defense * Direct action * Special reconnaissance * Language training * Cultural awareness

The Q Course is a challenging and intense program that lasts for several months. Candidates must learn to work together as a team, think critically and creatively, and apply their knowledge and skills in a variety of situations.

Step 4: Advanced Individual Training (AIT)

After completing the Q Course, Green Beret candidates attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT), which provides specialized training in a specific area, such as: * Weapons * Engineering * Medicine * Communications

AIT is designed to provide candidates with the advanced skills and knowledge they need to perform their duties as a Green Beret.

Step 5: Language Training

As part of their training, Green Beret candidates must also learn a foreign language, such as Spanish, French, or Arabic. Language training is an essential part of the Green Beret program, as it allows candidates to communicate effectively with foreign forces and conduct missions in a variety of countries.

Step 6: Robin Sage Exercise

The final step in Green Beret training is the Robin Sage exercise, which is a realistic and challenging training scenario that simulates a real-world mission. Candidates must apply all of the skills and knowledge they have learned during training to complete the exercise successfully.

Phase	Duration	Description
SFAS	24 days	Special Forces Assessment and Selection
SFQC	55 weeks	Special Forces Qualification Course
AIT	12-24 weeks	Advanced Individual Training
Language Training	12-24 weeks	Language training in a foreign language
Robin Sage Exercise	2 weeks	Realistic training scenario that simulates a real-world mission

In summary, becoming a Green Beret in the National Guard requires a significant amount of time, effort, and dedication. Candidates must meet the basic requirements, prepare themselves physically and mentally, and complete a series of challenging training courses. The training program is designed to push candidates to their limits and prepare them for the demands of being a Green Beret.

The journey to becoming a Green Beret is long and arduous, but for those who are successful, it can be a highly rewarding and challenging career. With their advanced training and specialized skills, Green Berets play a critical role in the US military, conducting missions and operations around the world.

In final thoughts, the National Guard Green Beret training program is a unique and challenging opportunity for those who want to serve their country and pursue a career in special operations. With its emphasis on unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, and direct action, the program provides candidates with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a variety of situations. Whether you are a seasoned soldier or just starting your military career, the National Guard Green Beret training program is definitely worth considering.