Introduction
 

Hi everyone,

I have been reading up on this forum for a few months now and have found the information to be extremely helpful in learning about the SF profession. I am 26 years old and recently enlisted with a REP-63 contract. I am very excited about getting the journey underway. Thank you to the QPs for taking to time to provide such an invaluable resource for the rest of us.

Introduction
 

Hello everyone,

I first would like to say thank you to all of the administrators and QP's of this website for letting me be a part of it and for even making the site. I am 22 years old and have an 18X contract and ship out Wednesday, May 27th. I am currently a medic in the Illinois Army National Guard and have been in for about 2 and a half years now. I've been reading threads on this site for months now and I just decided to make a profile before I left. Again thank you.

Hey guys, I'm currently going to school in New York and training for SFAS. I haven't enlisted yet but am in contact with a recruiter and keeping him posted on my progress. I don't want enlist until I feel I'm fit enough that I won't be wasting the cadre's time at selection.

A few things I'm hoping to get out of this forum is all the HUMINT from current and past QP'S and to find a mentor in the NYC area. As fun as rucking around Central Park with a 45 plate in my bag is, a human connection to guide me would be a lot more constructive.

Looking forward to interacting with everyone and gleaning some solid advice.

I am currently finishing my third year as a Drill Sergeant in the wild and wonderful Palmetto State. I started my military career with a short stint in the VAARNG before being released to persue a full time career on Active Duty. I recently attended and completed SFAS and am looking forward starting my training in the "Q".

I have been using this forum as a resource for some time now. I greatly appreciate all of the of the advice and experiences shared by the admins and QPs. The ainformation shared here was of great use during my time at SFAS. I hope it proves to be equally as useful during the Q and beyond.

Greetings to all. I m a former ODA member from a few years ago now. I went through the Q-Course in the 80s and found this site because someone posted a picture of their class out at MacKall from my era. It was good to see and if any others have anything from phase training back then, from MacKall to Smokebomb Hill, I would really like to see them

Hello all. Been browsing these parts for a couple of months now, decided to join so I could get the opportunity to ask questions should they arise. A little bit about myself, I am Norwegian and 18 years old. I will be attending selection for the airborne unit in the norwegian army in roughly a month. Understand this forum mainly pertains to SFAS and related subjects, but from what I could gather the knowledge posted is relevant for my "case" as well.

Cheers

Wingless

Firstly, I want to thank y'all for your service, and what you do on this board. The wealth of information contained here has helped me immensely, and I am sure it will continue to be of great assistance as I pursue my goal of earning an opportunity to prove myself at SFAS.

I spent the first ten years of my adult life in the business world. I ran a longboard skateboard company based out of New Jersey. It was a hell of a slog for the first six years but then we hit a tipping point, and things just sort of fell into place. It was the family business and from seventeen onward it was all I knew. I wouldn't trade the experiences of my youth for anything, but it never felt truly right for me. After ten years I realized I wanted to do something more with my life. My parents were incredibly supportive, my brother (and primary business partner) had a harder time accepting it. That was three years ago.

It was camping in the high peaks of the Rockies that I came to the conclusion that I am a warrior and a healer above all else. From a young age I felt the pull of leadership, helping people and the warrior spirit. The military has always appealed to me, but I come from a highly liberal household and had a hard time reconciling my desire to serve with the effect it might have on those who love me most.

It took me another year to decide it was the right thing to do, so I sat my family down and began the long and painful discussions that helped them understand why I was so moved to pursue this path. As you might imagine, my mother and fiancé had the hardest time accepting it. They've since come around and are just about as supportive as any many could hope for. I am truly blessed.

Shortly after those initial conversations I spoke with a recruiter about pursuing a career as a 68W. My initial pretest scores were "Good enough" in their opinions to head to head for Meps. I had my doubts, and assumed that scoring as high as possible would probably be in my best interest (To the annoyance of the recruiters). I had not studied much of the math since high-school. I reach out to an old friend that I grew up with, who served as an SF operator. During one deployment he was shot in the femur and spent many years fighting to recover, he ended up with a medical discharge. I was concerned that he might regret his choice of path, and might discourage me from mine, but nothing could have been further from the truth.

He gave me a clear picture of how much his service meant to him, and fully supported the direction I was moving. He gave me a clear idea of what it means to be a part of the SF brotherhood, and why it's worth devoting my whole being to pursuing a place at SFAS. He has been an incredible asset in my research and training since that initial phone call.

My current directive is to continue training, researching and studying until September when I will start EMT training at UCLA CPC. I have a job lined up in a bad part of LA where I hope to gain some real world experience in the EMS field. I had considered 18-Xray but I will age out by the time I'd feel prepared for SFAS. In October I'm getting married. From there I'll continue working as an EMT and training/studying until spring when I'll head for Meps. With luck I'll get a 68w position and an opportunity to go to jump school, where I'll continue working my ass off and praying for an opportunity to prove myself at SFAS.

Thank you all again for what you do. Even if I don't make it into your brotherhood, your community will always stand out to me as one of the most exemplary fighting forces the world has ever known.

All the Best,

Bradley

Hello All
 

My name is Dan, I am 26 years old. I joined the Army in the summer of 2014 on the DEP with an Option 40 contract. A few weeks before my ship out date I was hit and run by a truck on my motorcycle. I sustained pretty severe injuries. I had many breaks and fractures to my hand(to the point of having to sign consent for amputation). I had multiple compound fractures to my foot. I lost all the skin on my back, down through bare muscle. I spent 31 days in the ICU, and 118 days in a wheel chair. I had 3 external pins inserted into my foot(have since been removed), and 4 external pins inserted into my hand(have since been removed. I now only have 1 screw remaining in my hand from a revision surgery.

I was told I would only have 35% use of my hand and would have trouble running for the rest of my life. Being the stubborn type, day 1 out of my wheel chair I jogged a mile. Today, 9 months later I am feeling terrific, and my will to pursue my dream is stronger than ever.

I have spent a lot of time weight training over the past 9 months, in order to increase the grip strength to my damaged hand. After being told I would only have 35% use of it, I am back to 95% at a minimum now. In the recent weeks I have really been trying to put miles on my feet to make sure they will hold up. I have done several rucks with 35lbs, and have had no issues what so ever.

My only downfall currently seems to be my cardio, struggling with running. I am pushing this as my number 1 priority currently, as I would like to grab up an 18x contract by August or September.

introduction
 

Hi everyone.
I'm a 22 year old undergraduate mathematics student.
I want to thank you for building and maintaining this forum. I'm very grateful that there are active and former special forces soldiers who take the time to advise prospective candidates, especially considering the odds of someone actually making it into the unit. I think special operation forces candidates from around the world can profit to some extend from the advice given on this forum.

Sincerely,
eragon

Good Morning/Afternoon,

Been in the army 12 years now, been a part of this site since 2010 just lurking an listening. Currently working on my packet an wanting to transfer to the NG. Just looking to ask a few questions.

Introduction
 

25 Years old, 11A, BS in international Business concentrating on Supply Chain Management and a minor in East Asian Studies.
Branched Military Intelligence detailed to Infantry.
Currently Rifle PL in an SBCT on JBLM, PL time will be complete in a few months.
Schools - Ranger, IBOLC, Stryker Leader's Course.
Language - Chinese Mandarin R1+/L2+ (test date MAR13, proficiency no longer at that level, never tested speaking but was consistent with my listening ability.)

Time abroad: 14 mos in China, mostly Beijing - Studying International Supply Chain at Peking University and volunteering as an English teacher. My Mandarin was proficient enough to learn the language using only Chinese, however my ability has greatly degraded since I returned home (August 2012). I chose to volunteer as an English teacher instead of working for a large international coorporation because it provided me a better opportunity to develop my Chinese and also gave me a fantastic understanding of Chinese education, learning and culture. I volunteered at a migrant school. This means that my students came from every corner of China and were from one of the poorest demographics. I chose this because it allowed me an opportunity to learn about Chinese culture in a way that I can honestly say no other 11A in the US Army has and an understanding of just how diverse China is as a country, not only cultrally, but also from an social and economic standpoint. I am also really really good at ordering Chinese food.


I have been on this site for many years now, reading and figuring out my path. Will be putting my packet in early next year. Still focused on my time as an Infantry Officer but starting to get to the point where I need to begin on what's hopefully to come. I have wanted to be an 18A since I was in high school. My choice of education and branch were made to hopefully set me up for SF. Other possible options for my future include, but are obviously not my first choice, Civial Affairs or continue to branch MI and sepcialize in HUMINT. In the long term I hope to one day become a FAO or make the leap to another organization. Looking forward to learning more from this forum.


-Icarius

Introduction
 

Hello gentlemen. After a few years of browsing, I owe you an intro. I'm a current 180A (former 18D) and all my time has been in 5th. I'm married with a couple miniature Legionnaires of my own. I enjoy this place because of the Quiet Professionals who run and visit the site and because I can always trust the ground truth they give. De Oppresso Liber.

Introduction
 

Hello,
I go by JJ. I'm 30 years old and former mil. Currently working as contractor mainly on East coast and spend my non working time at the house in South America. I just was turned onto this site by a few colleagues and look forward to learning more through the forum in the future.

Intro
 

QP's,

Grew up in the Pacific NW, playing contact sports, doing metal fabrication and turning wrenches while the odds were not in my favor.

Came in at 17 as an 89B(Ammo Specialist, the guy who could either says your brass isn't sorted enough or trades you a pallet of 7,62 and a few LAW rockets for a case of Rip-Its and Myoplex's) to get my foot in the door, but originally wanted 89D and was not eligible upon initial entry. It was not hard to remember every day that 89B in a support company was only a stepping stone in my career.

After three years TIS including 9 months in AFG(2012-2013) getting my feet wet with full scale demo and later a few CONUS demo classes taught by a local group team, I decided it was time to move up. This gave me an adequate window to reevaluate EOD, and began researching and training for SFAS.

I also think this time in a conventional support unit was beneficial time to mature, and learn a bit about the Army before I jumped in deep.

Met a guy who was also training up, and he introduced me to the forums; he warned me to make a proper intro if I didn't plan to find my rucksack in the hallway, but decided to lurk for many months before I considered taking anyones time with my questions, and here I am now.

Worked my a$$ off getting ready, went to 07-15 and got selected(18C), and hope to go to 1st SWG one day. Met some great men in selection, and only got one blister. The relief was very short lived, as I know selection was 'just the tip'. I spend my days training up hard, while finishing out my time here at JBLM, the right way.

Any questions, feel free to contact me. Thanks for taking the time to maintain and contribute to these forums, QP's. They're certainly helpful, and I am appreciative having an opportunity to be here.


Humbly,
inthewoodline

Intro
 

Hey ya'll,
Spent a few great years as an 18E in 20th. Recently followed my heart and changed my MOS. Long time lerker. Lots of knowledge and great insight from experienced guys around here. Lately the situations in Iraq and Syria have intrigued my interest so I like seeing what others are talking about and their opinions on current events.

And for exposed poser drama.

Hello, my name is David. I am currently a high school senior living in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. My father is a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army and my mother is a teacher. After I complete high school, I plan on enrolling in college to pursue an undergraduate degree in either English or Philosophy or enlisting after working for a year or so. I have always been fascinated by the military, and would like to serve my country by enlisting. Even if I do attend college, I would still like to enlist after completing my undergraduate degree, whether it be 18X or some other contract option.

In my later (later, later) years, I would like to teach at a high school or undergraduate level. I firmly believe teachers are incredibly large influences on younger minds and can shape and mold the future citizens of the United States.

I would like to thank everyone on this site who contribute to helping aspiring Quiet Professionals such as myself complete their goal, whether that be through words of encouragement or realistic advice.

Thank you all for serving and for the sacrifices you have made.

Introduction
 

Hello,

My name is Nathan. I am currently 16 years old and I am now in the eleventh grade. I plan on attending a college and earning a Bachelor`s degree. I am a Boy Scout (working towards Eagle Scout), and within my troop I have been senior patrol leader twice, quartermaster once, and have attended Philmont and Northern Tier (Charles L Sommers) . I am currently a LET 3 in AJROTC; I participate in the Raider Team and Color Guard, and I am now cadet S-1.

I have had several relatives who were in the US military (various branches) as well as relatives who were in the British military.

I first noticed this website when I was reading "Get Selected for Special Forces" by Dodson and Martin (page J-4). I am very interested in the military and I plan on having career in the military.


NW39

Introduction
 

Hello all,

31 y/o Firemedic from Florida. I'm joining the Guard next week, eventual goal is SF, focused on 25m targets first. I've been reading the forums for more than a year, finally needed the search button.

Thank you all for picking up the sword, putting this together, and sharing your knowledge.

Introduction
 

I am an 18X-Ray contract in the DEP until my ship out date 7/21/15.

I always wanted to work with highly motivated and driven soldiers and dreamed as a youngster of being a Ranger until I read "Chosen Soldier" by Dick Couch. The specific use of SF groups in theater and the unique training that required more brains than just bronze really struck me. I finished college recently (took me a while as I never could settle on a major and worked FT) so now I am 26 and ready to pursue my dream.

SF stands out to me from other specialty units because of their unique mission involving training other nations and their need to be intelligent and possess interpersonal skills to get the job done.

For preparation I am reading "Get Selected" and following the workout, reading Chosen Soldier again, and this forum.

Howdy!
 

Howdy! My name is Mikal. I am a Captain with the Amarillo Fire Department, a husband of over 16 years and a father of an 8 year-old daughter. I have been a fireman for a little over 13 years. I have been a member of this forum for about 4 years and I am extremely appreciative for the opportunity to read the varied and valued perspectives of the Quiet Professionals. In all honesty, I have never intended to post on here, but I need to add a post, so here is my intro. Thank you, again, for allowing me the privilege of participating in this awesome forum.

Twitchy

Intro
 

Hello all,

My name is David and I'm currently AD Army. I'm a 35F (Intel Analyst) and just a little disenchanted with the conventional Army. I'll soon be getting out and looking to reclass into either 35L or 38B with the TXARNG. Just looking for something more! I look forward to being in contact with you all.

DC

(Only Richard still uses a sword, the rest of us have all taken up guns, FYI)


Welcome aboard Gents! ;)

My name is Kyle Darnell and I am a Narcotics Investigator in Clarksville TN.
I recovered a Yarborough Knife in a meth lab. The serial number has been obliterated and I have come here looking for some help in finding the owner of this Knife.
I will be posting in the Edged Weapons forum with more details.

Introductions
 

Hello i'm posting my first post here in the introductions V thread to say hello and introduce myself. I'm 33 and signed a REP 63 contract with the National Guard;I ship on November 2 so i'm trying to get better each day between now and then. My interests are history, fitness, camping and fishing. I spent several years teaching people with special needs in the public school system and still do but now in the private sector.
This site seems invaluable in regards to the information that is posted here, i'd like to thank the staff for all the work you do and all the great information. I'll try not to ask things that have been asked a hundred times before. To train for the SF pipeline i'm currently in week 4 of stew smiths ranger/special forces training ebook and it's really helped my running and rucking, if anyone has any tips that may be a more optimal training program i'm also open to hear new ideas.

Nice to meet you all.

Introduction
 

Thank you to all the Quiet Professionals that have made their home open for the opportunity to sit in and read all these amazing posts, and large libraries of information on SF life, and very helpful information. Thank you for making your home open to us, it is a great honor. Thank you to all those who have served.
I am a 25 year old Angeleno that has recently moved out to Eugene, and am currently working as a caregiver/Medications aide enlisting as 68W, as soon as i pay off some traffic tickets. I am doing as much research as i can about the 18x contract, and SF life. Perhaps i may pursue that first, although as for now my main OBJ is to pay off any fines and keep my nose clean as to enlist and serve my country as best I can. I look forward to my future in the ARMY, and hopefully as an 18 series member. I will be reading more and posting much less. :lifter

Hello all and thank you for the wealth of knowledge here. I have been lurking and learning a lot the past month. I decided to register to continue learning and using the search function.

I am 21 years old and hoping to sign an 18x contract this fall. I found the Get Selected book from here and have read it as well as doing some Stew Smith seal grinder pt. I also work full time as a systems analyst as well.

again, thanks to all of you for the information readily available.

Greetings,
I am a 49 year old male who regrettably has never served in the military. My dad fought in Korea. I run a handful of niche websites that caters to providing gear to serviceman and aficionados.

Introductory
 

Gird up your loins, my son - seek truth, and endure!

and....

Get runnin'!

Thanks for the opportunity to be here.

Andrew Mitchell Kornrumpf

My name is Ben, I'm 21 years old and from Texas. I'm looking int enlisting with and 18X contract. I'm working a lot on my fitness and looking to learn land nav. I don't really plan on posting much, I will just read and learn for now. Thank you in advance for the help.

Greetings all. I am a former 1st Group 18C that followed a link here last year. I am finally getting around to posting an intro and checking out the forum.

Greetings
 

Hey all, I'm 26 prior service currently working in sales and looking to enlist again. Just wanted to say thanks to those responsible for this site. It's very well done with what seems to be a lot of useful information.

I was all for you guys...
 

When the gun confiscation false flag of Sandy Hook was going on. I really thought you were the quiet professionals, boy have I learned differently.

You have my attention.

Please elaborate.

TR

Hey all, my name is Omar. Prior service working with a recruiter for the 18x contract. Theres been quite a few times that i have had a question that he couldnt answer so i took to google, only to find most information i found were published a few years ago and on. I was referred to this forum, and most, if not all have been answered that i found browsing through here. I am hopeful and excited to start the next and only chapter in my life soon. I dont know if that was too long or not, just figured and intro meant an INTRO.:D

Introduction
 

Hey everyone,

I'm a 25 year old reservist looking to get back on active duty to chase the dream if being a green beret. I first enlisted on active duty back in 08 as a 14E and spent a couple years over on Okinawa. After that I spent 2 years on Bragg where I faced the ultimatum of either extend my contract to stay at my unit or goto the reserves to help my wife finish up her degree and hopefully get some exposure to SOF as a 38B to expand my skillet and learn another language. After 2 years of pretty much sitting stagnant and not even reclassing due to budget issues and whatnot with the unit I've decided to go for reenlisting under the 18x program. So I'm here to research pt programs as well as just general knowledge.

Hello,

26 year old college student, prior enlisted 13F. Just want to learn about SF for now.

reintroduction
 

Gentlemen,

Its been years since I have posted so its probably time to reintroduce myself. Since graduating the SFQC, class 270 (18C), I have been on trips to OEF and multiple locations in Central and South America. Still currently on active duty and looking to give back to the community with some knowledge and experience that was once bestowed upon me when I went through SFAS and the Q-course.

V/R

Luk

Introduction
 

Hello
 

Hey everyone,

I'm 20 years old, however I'll be turning 21 thirteen days into OSUT, and I enlisted with an 18x contract earlier this summer. My ship date is 20150603 to Ft. Benning, GA. After two years in college, I couldn't wait any longer to do this.

I've been lurking on here for about a year now gathering information and insight into the process. I'm a football player so I've had a good level of fitness to start off with, but I've been training for SFAS and the Q course all summer and absorbing a lot of great things from the few quiet professionals that I know. I'm thankful for the opportunities to learn that this site provides, and I can't wait to serve.

Introduction
 

Hello, born and raised in the mountains of colorado. Not the cities. No prior service. My father did. Living in Texas. Here to study and learn. Career in combative sports. After finalizing my trips to meps hopeful to finalize an 18x contract. If there are other like minded individuals in the San Antonio area please pm me and let's go pt. Even come train with me at some of the gyms. Good day.