[mffjm8509]

I went through the course as a SSG in 93-94 timeframe. At that time I was tired of training with my guys, post cold war, with no real emphasis or impact on anything in the world. Essentially it was a 9-5 job with no real production. I decided to either get out or to try something where my effort would have an impact immediatley on those I was working for/with.

I believe that FID is the vehicle by which we can conduct DA today in most areas, at least in my current theatre. We are trainnig both with specific elements that are prosecuting the results of targeting, and with conventional type indigenous forces that conduct routine operations. Either way, the way SOF is operational here is in a training/advisory role.

DA is fun, and you have to do it, understand the fundamentals and be good at them in order to train others to do the same, but there is an satisfying element to taking and selecting raw talent, and helping them develope into a force capable of conducting complex urban operations.

just my .02

mp