Editors note: MACV-SOG was organized and functioned as the first true joint special operations task force (JSOTF). Formed during the Vietnam War, the unit conducted special operations, to include providing intelligence, psychological operations, and personnel recovery, in support of the theater campaign plan. From John’s book Across The Fence: The Secret War In Vietnam, here’s […]
MACV SOG
The history and heritage of SOG Knives
In 1964, the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam – Studies and Observations Group (MACV-SOG) was formed to carry out unconventional operations. The strategic reconnaissance and clandestine missions were designed to secretly carry the fight to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam in order to dissuade them from supporting the Viet Cong insurgency in South Vietnam. The nature […]
Watch: The new MACV-1 Rucking boot by GORUCK
Mobility equals survivability. I remember getting both my jungle boots and leather boots issued to me in the Marine Corps. Those issued boots along with the issued socks did nothing good for my feet. The issued leather boots were worn for pretty much everything at the time. Everything from the dreaded long forced marches to PT […]
Jungle Boots | Footwear of the Salty
Before the days of Salomon, Merrell, Oakley (all of which I own and love) and the endless list of boot options available to soldiers (at least in the SOF community), and the “after market” desert boots available to all, there was one venerable, unchallenged boot for the grunt. Few items conjure a nostalgia like seeing […]
Think Like a Green Beret: Worst-Case Thinking
When the enemy attacks with a regiment, the Green Beret feels lucky it isn’t a division. Be grateful for the problems you face; things can always get worse.
Folding Knife Head-to-head: Emerson Commander vs. SOG Trident
Two of my favorite brands of knives are Emerson Knives and SOG Knives. They both bring top-quality materials and craftsmanship to the table. Both companies have roots with the United States military; Emerson Knives started with making custom knives for the West Coast SEAL teams, and SOG Knives originated with the MACV-SOG units over in Vietnam. […]