One of the hardest things to do for all of us is to break out of our comfort zone. And that not only goes for training, which we’re talking about today but in everyday life situations. However, that same comfort zone can and will lead to stagnation both personally and professionally. And we have to […]
US ARMY SPECIAL FORCES
Get out and ruck for a cause while prepping for selection
We have frequently in the past advocated for many of the fine organizations that support our Veteran community here at SpecialOperations.com, especially those who care for our Special Operations Forces and/or are conducting a fundraiser thru rucking. During the past weekend, the 30th annual Bataan Memorial Death March drew its largest field of ruckers and runners […]
Having the proper boots and socks at selection is essential
About 8-9 months ago we posted a piece on boots and not only having ones that fit properly but having at least one backup, broken-in pair when you start Selection. With new classes starting up, we’ve gotten some questions about the different gates and events at Selection and we’ve posted on those and will revisit […]
Triple Frontier, An Action-Packed, Thriller About SOF Guys on the Edge
Art imitating life? The latest action film to come out on Netflix is a must-see, big-budget production directed by J.C. Chandor, who also co-wrote the script. It has a big name, an outstanding cast including Ben Affleck, Oscar Issac, Charlie Hunnam, Gareth Hedlund, Pedro Pascal, and Reynaldo Gallegos, and an intriguing story. The story is […]
SFAS Wasn’t All Serious, Some Funny Cadre Anecdotes
When we think about Special Forces Selection and Assessment (SFAS), nothing fun, funny or silly immediately comes to mind. You’ll hear about the horror stories of the ruck marches, the soft sand of nearly every Camp Mackall firebreak, the Star land navigation course and the various conveyances constructed during Team Week. It is known more […]
Paratrooper: Following in my Father’s Footsteps
Today we’d like to share another story from one of our readers. Heath Hansen is a paratrooper and grew up watching his dad jump out of a perfectly good airplane with the 12th Special Forces Group, while a youngster. His story is one about continuing the legacy between father and son and the bond of […]
Talos “Iron Man” Was Always A Pie in the Sky Option For SOCOM
Opinion: Coming back to reality was the first order of business for USSOCOM this winter. The command finally admitted that the Tactical Assault Light Operator Suit or TALOS project was not even close to being a reality, which we reported after attending the SOFIC Conference in Tampa two years ago. The entire concept was flawed […]
Rucking Questions Answered, More Advice, Practice…Less Worry
As always during the winter months, we get a lot of questions about Selection once the cold weather classes begin. And as per usual, the majority of questions pertain to rucking, land navigation (the Hoffman “Dagobah System”) and general preparedness. So, to answer the questions, the best way to answer is to actually go out […]
Rucking in the snow: It just adds to the workout benefit
With the winter months upon us, the cold, wet weather has been a frequent visitor. If you are preparing for one of the Selection Courses, you have to prepare for the conditions that you’re dealt with. It is what it is. And when it involves rucking, it can be challenging, but actually, if you look […]
Photo of the day: Ranger earns Thai Jump Wings
It’s been so long I can’t remember the exact date. Let’s say 1995 based on my rank and sometime around monsoon season in Thailand. Alpha Company 2nd Ranger Battalion in support of Operation Cobra Gold, deployed to Thailand to work with and train the Thai Commandos. In this picture, I’m standing with my non-smiling Ranger […]