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Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS)

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Special Forces Qualification ('Q' Course)

Earning the Green Beret - Article

AAFES Offers Checklist for Special Forces 'Q' Course - The Army and Air Force Exchange Service's Military Clothing and Accessories Strategic Business Group offers a list of required and optional items authorized for Special Forces Assessment and Selection training and the three phases of the SF qualification course. AAFES' goal is to make it easier for soldiers to select and purchase the items they need.

Current information from US Army Personnel Command (PERSCOM)

The Special Forces accessions cycle is a two-part program which first assesses in-service volunteers and then sends selected high quality applicants to attend the Special Forces Qualification Course. Because Special Forces entry level is at the staff sergeant level, Special Forces training builds on the experience gained through service in other career management fields (preferably combat arms) to develop skills and knowledge on subjects required to perform primarily in an unconventional warfare role. Special emphasis is placed on cross-cultural sensitivity and language training. Accessions into CMF 18 are handled through an in-service recruiting effort by the United States Army Recruiting Command.

Special Forces training is available for all male soldiers with any MOS, however, combat arms is preferred. Applicants must be in the rank of SPC(P) through SSG and meet the course criteria as outlined in AR 614-200, Chapter 6, Section IV, Selection of Enlisted Soldiers for Training and Assignment. Information is currently being updated in AR 600-8. Once an applicant's packet has been approved by the SF recruiting team, he will be scheduled to attend the Special Forces Selection and Assessment Course (SFAS). The SFAS is a three week TDY and return course designed to screen suitable candidates for the Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC). Upon successful completion of the SFAS a board directs which MOS each soldier will be trained in based on preference, aptitude, and needs of the force. Applicants are scheduled for a PCS move (with airborne training enroute if necessary) to attend the SFQC. Course lengths vary from 24-55 weeks, depending on the MOS.

Application procedures. Applications for training should be forwarded to the Special Forces recruiting team at:

Commander

USAJFKSWCS

ATTN: ATSU-SE-R

Fort Bragg, NC 28307-5000

Soldiers interested in the program are encouraged to contact the recruiting team to obtain information and assistance on the entire application and training process at DSN 239-1818 or commercial (910) 432-1818.

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