New guy with 20th SFG(A) Old guy with 1st BN 1/75th INF

[Chuck]

I am 32 and a police officer in Orlando, Fl. I just recently enlisted with 3rd Bn. 20th SFG(A)in Ocala, Fl. I was formerly active duty in 85-89 and used to be assigned to 1st Bn. 1/75th Inf. Rangers at Hunter AAF in GA. Can't seem to shake this shit it's in my blood! I would like to hear from any operators who might have insight into prep for SFAS or who just want to jaw about unconventional warfare. I have been doing alot of reading on the subject as the majority of my experience comes from Ranger operations which were for the majority conventional in nature. Feel free to drop me a line at SpecOpsSF@aol.com. Out.


[This message has been edited by Chuck (edited 01-18-2000).]

[This message has been edited by Chuck (edited 01-18-2000).]

[Mike]

Chuck, this may be a stupid question but how can you be in SF if you have not passed SFAS?

[E19]

Mike,

You can enlist in the 19th or 20th SFG and they will put you in a training program to prepare to for SFAS. If you cut the mustard
you go to SFAS...if selected you go the Q.
The success rate is very high, since they eliminate the unmotivated before sending them to SFAS. The guys that dont make the grade wind up in support jobs or are transfered to another unit.


[This message has been edited by E19 (edited 01-18-2000).]

[Chuck]

Mike, E19 is on the money. You enter 20th Group as an NQP ( Non-Qualified Person )and must be able to pass all SFAS entrance requirements at 80% or better before you can be sent TDY to SFAS. If you are selected you return to your unit NQP Program where you maintain your proficiencies until getting a slot for the Q-course. The only dumb question is the one we dont ask so thanks for the interest.

[Scout]

What are the entrance requirments for SFAS that the NQP requires 80% on? APFT, I'm sure. 5mi timed run? Ruck march? Swim test? what else?

[Chuck]

Scout,The requirement is 80% on the army APFT in the 17-21 year old age category regardless of your age. That is the two mile run, push-ups, and sit-ups. You are also required to hump a minimum 55lb. ruck not including water weight w/LBE and a weapon. The distance requirement is 12 miles in 3 hrs. and 50 min. You are also required to swim 50 meters in BDU's and boots.

[recce_o]

Is the 12 miles in 3 hours 50 minutes the requirement just to go to SFAS? What is the requirement to pass SFAS? I thought the time was closer to 3 hours.

[Mike]

Thanks Chuck and E19 for your replies.

[Razor]

I'm not 100% positive, Chuck, but I think the swim test has been dropped from the SFAS requirement.

[Chuck]

Reece_o and Razor, The ruck time is 3hrs. & 50min. for 12 miles with the weight requirement. An EIB 12 miler is around 3hrs. but that is with a nerf ruck not 55lbs. or better. Keep in mind though that 3hrs. & 50 mikes is a minimum standard. I am currently doing it in about three eighteen. The faster the better if you wanna get selected. Razor, your right about the swim. They still give the test but it is not required to get through SFAS. However, you do need to meet that standard to get through the Q-Course. Why they would want to get a soldier as far as the Q-Course and then find out he can't remediate on the swim test I don't know. I don't make the rules I just enjoy the pain & suffering. Take it easy guys.

[Razor]

True, the faster the better, Chuck, but don't forget the 3 L rule of Selection: don't be light, late, or last. And after getting used to SF rucking and land nav standards, the EIB is pretty entertaining.

[Chuck]

Razor, you got that right! Always give it everything you got! Nobody is gonna hand over a green beret to someone not willing to give their personal best. The three L's hunh, I like it and i'll remember it. Take care and thanks for the advice.