The Green Berets: Unconventional Warfare Specialists

The Green Berets

The United States Army Special Forces, more famously known as the Green Berets, are the leading tier 2 Special Operations Force (SOF) of the US Army. The Green Berets’ primary function is to conduct unconventional warfare (UW) while deployed in foreign nations. Under the rubric of UW, Special Forces teams known as Operational Detachment Alphas (ODAs) are trained to conduct full-spectrum special operations in hostile, denied, or politically sensitive environments. Unlike many other special operations forces (SOF) units, the Green Berets train in foreign languages in addition to advanced military skills and fieldcraft to assist in the conduct of unconventional warfare, a core component of which is training and employing indigenous partner forces. Since their formation in 1952, Army Special Forces have been involved in every major American military conflict. 

1 Motto, Symbols, Insignias, and Patches

1.1 Motto (source)

“De Oppresso Liber”

Their motto loosely translates in Latin as ‘To Free The Oppressed.’ It reflects the Green Berets’ commitment to fight for freedom and humanity around the world. Its origins can be traced back to World War II, when Special Forces predecessors of the Office of Strategic Services parachuted into France and Holland in three-man teams to coordinate with local resistance forces against Nazi occupation, embodying the spirit of liberation that the Green Berets continue to uphold. 

1.2 Branch Insignia

The Green Berets symbol comprises two golden arrows crossed together. The arrow symbolises the U.S. Native Americans and their highly skilled warrior training, a metaphor for the SOF groups within the Green Berets. This emblem has become a symbol of excellence and distinction within the U.S. Army, reflecting the elite status of the Green Berets. 

1.3 Crest (source)

Their insignia is a black and silver crest, featuring the crossed arrows in silver with a V-42 Stiletto dagger placed horizontally, pointing up, symbolising the Green Berets history with the First Special Service Force from World War Two. Moreover, it features their motto ‘De Oppresso Liber’ at the bottom of the crest.  

1.4 Patches (source)

The history of the Special Forces patch dates back to 1952, when the Green Berets sought a distinctive symbol to set themselves apart from other Army units. Colonel Aaron Bank, the first commanding officer of the U.S. Army Special Forces, played a pivotal role in its development. Initially, Special Forces personnel wore the Airborne Command shoulder sleeve insignia (SSI), reflecting their airborne qualifications and connections to the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) during World War II. However, the desire for a unique identifier led to the creation of the current SSI, which was officially approved in 1955. The 1st Special Forces Command patch worn by all SOF groups features three lightning strikes, indicating their rapid reaction capabilities on land, sea, and air. The dagger symbolises their unconventional warfare abilities.

2 History of the Green Berets (source) (source) (Source) (Source)

2.1 Origins and World War II Foundations

2.1.1 Office of Strategic Services (OSS)

The Green Berets trace their origins to the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) during World War II. Established in 1942, the OSS was America’s wartime intelligence agency, responsible for conducting espionage and covert operations behind enemy lines. Army personnel were assigned to OSS Operational Groups, which were specialised units tasked with executing clandestine missions. These groups played a crucial role in supporting resistance movements and gathering intelligence across Europe and Asia. The experience and tactics developed by the OSS laid the foundation for the U.S. Army’s modern unconventional warfare doctrine, influencing the formation of the Green Berets in the post-war era.

2.1.2 First Special Service Force (FSSF)

1st Special Service Force (FSSF), also known as the “Devil’s Brigade,” was a joint American-Canadian special operations unit formed in 1942. Initially intended for operations in Norway to disrupt German heavy water research, and trained for harsh Arctic and mountain warfare, the FSSF was redirected to Italy in 1943. The unit gained a formidable reputation for its lethality and versatility, notably demonstrated during the assault on Monte la Difensa. The elite German paratroopers defending Italy grew to loathe the FSSF for its near-constant tactics of ambush and harassment, earning the nickname “Black Devils” due to their use of black face paint. The FSSF soldiers also placed cards on the German dead that read “Das dicke Ende kommt noch”, loosely translated as “the worst is yet to come”. The FSSF’s legacy is significant, as both Canadian Special Operations Forces and the Green Berets consider it a foundational element of their lineage.

2.1.3 Influence of WWII Veterans

Veterans of the OSS and FSSF played a crucial role in shaping the doctrine and organisation of the U.S. Army Special Forces after World War II. Their experiences in guerrilla warfare and covert operations informed the development of new military doctrines focused on unconventional warfare. Key figures, such as former OSS members and commanders from the FSSF, contributed to the establishment of the 10th Special Forces Group in 1952. This unit embodied the principles and tactics honed during the war, marking the formal inception of the Green Berets as a distinct entity within the U.S. Army, dedicated to unconventional warfare and special operations.

2.1.4 The role of John F. Kennedy

Formed as the 10th Special Forces Group, the Green Berets were conceptualised as the leading US Army unit in UW. Subsequently, their creation descends from Major Herbert Brucker, known as the godfather of US special forces. Major Brucker initially became involved in OSS and was later tasked after the war by the Pentagon to help continue special forces groups in UW methods. The newly formed Army Special Forces began to wear green berets due to frequent exposure to European airborne units who had already adopted the headgear; however, it was not officially authorised until John F Kennedy visited Fort Bragg (now called Fort Liberty) in 1961.

The President was impressed with the men of Special Forces and penned a letter to the Army Chief of Staff in which he described the green beret as “…a symbol of excellence, a badge of courage, a mark of distinction in the fight for freedom”. Despite institutional misgiving the Army henceforth authorised the Green Beret as an award for service in the Special Forces. This created a special relationship between JFK and Green Berets, whose respect for the Commander in Chief was later demonstrated when a commando laid his beret on the headstone of JFK’s grave as part of the burial ceremony; the laying of a green beret on JFKs grave is now an annual event. 

2.2 Cold War and Formation of Special Forces

2.2.1 Post-WWII Developments

In the aftermath of World War II, the United States recognised the need to formalise and expand its capabilities in unconventional warfare. Key figures in this development were Col. Wendell Fertig and Lt. Col. Russell Volckmann, both of whom gained significant experience leading guerrilla operations against Japanese forces in the Philippines. They used their wartime experience to advocate for a military doctrine that emphasised guerrilla tactics, psychological operations, and the training of indigenous forces. Their insights were instrumental in shaping the foundational principles of the U.S. Army Special Forces, emphasising flexibility, adaptability, and deep cultural understanding in military operations.

2.2.2 Establishment of the 10th Special Forces Group

The formal establishment of the U.S. Army Special Forces began with the creation of the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) in June 1952. This initiative was led by Colonel Aaron Bank, a former OSS operative, under the auspices of the U.S. Army’s Psychological Warfare Division. The 10th Special Forces Group was initially stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, which became the epicentre for Special Forces training and operations. In September 1953, the group was split, with half deploying to Bad Tölz, Germany, to prepare for potential operations in Europe, while the remaining cadre formed the 77th Special Forces Group at Fort Bragg. This strategic positioning underscored the importance of Special Forces in countering Soviet influence during the Cold War.

2.2.3 Early Deployments and Missions

During the early Cold War, the Special Forces were tasked with a variety of strategic roles designed to counter the spread of communism. One of their primary missions was to conduct “stay-behind” operations in the event of a Soviet invasion of Western Europe, a plan that included guerrilla warfare and sabotage. Additionally, Special Forces units were involved in training allied military personnel in unconventional warfare techniques, enhancing the capabilities of U.S. allies in regions vulnerable to communist insurgency. These early deployments and missions laid the groundwork for the Special Forces’ future operations, establishing their reputation as a versatile and highly skilled component of the U.S. military’s strategic arsenal.

2.3 Vietnam War and Expansion

2.3.1 Role in Vietnam

The first Special Forces operations in Vietnam began in 1957, with soldiers from the 1st Special Forces Group training Vietnamese Army personnel at the Commando Training Center in Nha Trang. By 1961, Special Forces units were deployed to Laos under Project White Star, marking some of the earliest U.S. military commitments in the region. As U.S. involvement in Vietnam escalated, the 5th Special Forces Group played a central role, leading Vietnamese units such as the Montagnards and Civilian Irregular Defense Groups.

2.3.2 Evolution of Tactics

Special Forces adapted their tactics during the Vietnam War, blending UW with Foreign Internal Defense (FID). FID involves training and leading indigenous military and police units in counter-guerrilla or counter-militia operations. The 5th Special Forces Group, a Special Forces Group permanently stationed in South Vietnam, became the most decorated unit of its size (a brigade level command), earning sixteen Medals of Honour. Green Berets also contributed the bulk of personnel who  participated in covert operations under the Military Assistance Command Vietnam Studies and Observation Group (MACV-SOG), conducting highly-classified reconnaissance and personnel-recovery missions in Laos and Cambodia.

2.3.3 Recognition and Challenges

While Special Forces were recognised for their heroism with awards such as the Presidential Unit Citation, they also faced significant controversies. The “Green Beret Affair” in 1969 severely damaged their reputation when members of the 5th Special Forces Group were implicated in the murder of Thai Khac Chuyen, a suspected North Vietnamese double agent. The charges were eventually dropped due to CIA intervention, highlighting the complex and often controversial nature of covert operations during the Vietnam War.

2.4 Post-Vietnam and Global Engagements

2.4.1 Latin America and the War on Drugs

In the 1980s, U.S. Army Special Forces were deployed to El Salvador to train the Salvadoran military during its civil war against the Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front (FMLN). This mission played a crucial role in reaching a ceasefire agreement in 1992, leading to the reactivation of the 3rd Special Forces Group in 1990. In Colombia, the 7th Special Forces Group addressed escalating narcotics trafficking and terrorism issues. By the late 1990s, they had trained three Counter Narcotics Battalions and established a Brigade Headquarters, known as “Batallón Contra Narcotraficantes” (BACNA), significantly impacting the region’s narcotics industry. These Special Forces detachments continue to rotate through Colombia and other areas under USSOUTHCOM, focusing on counter-guerrilla and counter-narcotics roles.

2.4.2 Middle East Operations

The Persian Gulf War began on August 2, 1990, when Iraq invaded Kuwait. The 5th Special Forces Group was the first to deploy, arriving in October 1990 along the Saudi-Kuwait border. They conducted reconnaissance, engaged Iraqi forces, and facilitated intelligence gathering from deserters. Special Forces teams also acted as liaisons with Arab coalition members, enhancing operational coordination. Their roles included missions behind enemy lines, contributing significantly to the coalition’s success in liberating Kuwait by February 1991.

2.4.3 Humanitarian Missions

U.S. Army Special Forces have engaged in various humanitarian missions, including operations in Somalia and Haiti. In Somalia during the early 1990s, they supported humanitarian aid delivery and infrastructure rebuilding amidst civil unrest. In Haiti, Special Forces played a significant role in Operation Uphold Democracy in 1994, assisting in the restoration of the elected government and stabilising the region. These missions highlight the adaptability and versatility of Special Forces in addressing both security and humanitarian challenges across diverse global contexts.

2.5 Modern Era and the Global War on Terror

2.5.1 Afghanistan and Iraq

Following the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks in the U.S., U.S. Special Forces were instrumental in Operation Enduring Freedom, aimed at dismantling the Taliban regime in Afghanistan. Task Force Dagger, led by the 5th Special Forces Group with helicopter support from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR), was deployed on October 10, 2001. In a textbook execution of the UW mission, two ODAs of Task Force Dagger mobilised the Northern Alliance and coordinated close air support (CAS) to facilitate an offensive. By November 2001, Task Force Dagger and its allies had captured the strategic cities of Mazari Sharif and Kabul, breaking the back of Taliban resistance in Northern Afghanistan. In the 2003 Iraq invasion, known as Operation Iraqi Freedom, Special Forces, including the 5th and 10th Special Forces Groups, conducted operations to neutralise Iraqi military capabilities and support Kurdish Peshmerga forces, facilitating the overthrow of Saddam Hussein’s regime.

2.5.2 Continued Global Presence

Special Forces have maintained a robust global presence, engaging in various operations such as Operation Enduring Freedom – Philippines (2002-2015), targeting insurgent groups like Abu Sayyaf. In Africa, under Operation Enduring Freedom – Trans Sahara (2007-2016), they have worked to counter terrorism across the Sahel region. Additionally, Special Forces have been actively involved in Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq and Syria (2014-Present day), providing advisory and assistance roles to local forces combating ISIL.

2.5.3 Evolving Roles and Capabilities

U.S. Special Forces have continually adapted to new global threats, expanding their missions to include counterinsurgency, counter-narcotics, and humanitarian assistance. They have enhanced their focus on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities to address asymmetric warfare. By developing strong partnerships with local forces, Special Forces improve their operational effectiveness in diverse environments, ensuring their ability to respond to both traditional and emerging security challenges in an ever-evolving global context.

3 Tactical and Operational Capabilities

Formed as a SOF unit with expertise in unconventional warfare (UW), the Green Berets have several  subordinate primary missions:

• Counter Terrorism (CT)
• Foreign Internal Defense (FID)
• Direct Action (DA)
• Special Reconnaissance (SR)
• Hostage Rescue (HR)
• Security Force Assistance (SFA)
• Counter Insurgency (COIN)

Like other SOF groups in the US and NATO, the Green Berets are capable of conducting other secondary missions on behalf of the nations they are deployed to alongside US and foreign forces. However, ultimately answer to their leading US commanders. Further activities include:

• Information Operations (IO)
• Humanitarian assistance, involving peacekeeping and demining 
• Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR)
• Counter-proliferation of WMD’s
• Counter Narcotics

3.1 Training

Green Berets undergo some of the US Army’s most intense training courses. The Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC) or the ‘Q Course’, is one of the longest training programs in the U.S. Armed Force (46-56 weeks long). Overall, there are six phases in which candidates must train and pass to become a Green Beret. Following U.S. Army Basic Training, Advanced Individual Training, and Airborne School (parachute training), Special Forces candidates coming from the civilian world must undergo a six-week Special Forces Preparation Course.

Once they have been indoctrinated into the higher standards of physical fitness, stamina, and discipline expected of long serving soldiers, these candidates coming from the civilian world will join veteran soldiers that have already served in Army line units for Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS). SFAS consists of 24 days of intense training at Camp Mackall.  Each SFAS class is a little different, but they all include one week of gated physical fitness events (basic Army Physical Fitness tests, 5-10 mile runs, 6-12 mile ruck marches, an obstacle course called the Nasty Nick, etc.), one week of extensive nighttime land navigation courses (map and compass navigation), and a “team” week where small groups of candidates are must improvise contraptions to move impossibly heavy objects under time-standard. A frequent final test is dubbed ‘The Trek’ which sees candidates endure a 32 km Long Range Individual Movement (LRIM). (Source)

Testing Limits and Independence

One of the most unsettling aspects of SFAS is the lack of direct communication with the instructors and cadre. Instructions are issued at a single location with no fan-fair or announcement. Soldiers are expected to figure out where and how to obtain the information that they need, and then to arrive at the event in question at the correct time, with the correct equipment, correct attire, and even the correct weight. Soldiers are generally conditioned to follow orders, and they have sergeants to give structure and substance to those orders in specific task assignments. Many soldiers find this lack of formal structure and guidance in SFAS unnerving, and they struggle to self-motivate and self-manage. As Special Forces is seeking to identify individuals who can work alone and isolated in austere conditions, this is a vital component of the selection process. 

3.1.1 Phase 1: Special Forces Orientation Course (7 weeks)

Phase 1 is split into six separate modules and dubbed ‘the orientation and history module’. The course includes educational and most core subjects necessary to be a Green Beret. These include:

• Module A Introduction to Unconventional Warfare
• Module B Introduction to Special Forces
• Module C Airborne Operations and Refresher
• Module D Special Forces Planning
• Module E Operational Culture and Analysis

3.1.2 Phase 2: Language and Cultural Course (18-24 weeks) 

Understanding languages and cultures is a time-consuming and difficult process for anyone. As such, phase two is the longest section of the course. The aim behind employing such language skills is to give Green Berets a linguistic advantage in the field. During this phase, the length of time spent on the course is determined by the difficulty of the language being studied (category 1 through 4, with category 1 language training being 18 weeks long and category 4 being 24 weeks long). Throughout these weeks, candidates are taught how to speak, listen, and read in their given language. This ends with a final exam where a minimum of 1/1 (speaking and listening) is achieved. 

3.1.3 Phase 3: SF Individual Training (13 weeks)

The action-packed part of the course, for many, is where they get to hone their skills as a Green Beret. Throughout phase three, candidates will endure small unit tactics training which will involve combat scenarios and critical decision-making skills. Beyond this, candidates will begin to prepare for Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape (SERE),, a three-week course. At the end, candidates will demonstrate their training at the resistance training laboratory to qualify for phase four. 

3.1.4 Phase 4: SF MOS Training (14 weeks)

Within phase four, candidates will have had to pass the previous phases before specialising. SF MOS training showcases five roles for which candidates will endure extensive training:

• 18A Special Forces Detachment Officer: trained in problem analysis, leadership qualities, and duties. 
• 18B Weapons Sergeant: Highly interoperable and trained in weapons systems globally and within the US. Training involves being able to teach others how to field and use certain weapons as a part of UW.
• 18C Engineer Sergeant: Technical experts, the skills employed by engineers range from demolition to the improvisation of equipment created in the field. 
• 18D Medical Sergeant: Highly skilled and endure lengthy amounts of training given their role in saving lives on the battlefield and assisting in UW operations.
• 18E Communications Sergeant: the final and equally essential piece needed to conduct UW. Communication is needed to relay information and intelligence back to the US command structure. This additionally includes the ability to teach and train those whom the Green Berets are assisting on deployment.

3.1.5 Phase 5: SF UW Culmination Stage (4 weeks)

In this phase, candidates undergo UW training involving subversion and guerrilla warfare for two weeks. Then, candidates take part in a final exercise, in which all their skills are tested. Lasting two weeks, Robin Sage takes place in the fictional country of Pineland in North Carolina and is held across 15 counties. Candidates will go up against an opposition team (OPFOR) of US forces with locals sometimes participating across the 130,000km squared ‘Pineland’.

3.1.6 Phase 6: Graduation (1 week)

Within the final phase, candidates successfully graduate into Green Berets. 

3.2 How to Become a Green Beret

To become a Green Beret, you must already serve within the US Army and qualify under the following criteria: (Source) (Source) (Source)

• Be a US citizen
• Be 20 years old and no older than 36 
• Not served for more than 12-14 years and a minimum of 36 months left of service after graduating 
• The rank of E-3 or above
• Qualified for Airborne school or ranger-qualified 
• An ASVAB score above 110
• Be eligible for security clearances

For Officers:

• The rank of First Lieutenant or Captain
• A Defense Language Aptitude Battery (DLAB) score of 85 or above
• Be eligible for further security clearance such as Top Secret
• Completed the Officer Basic Course

3.3 Language Capabilities

Green Berets are some of the leading experts in linguistic communication during deployment, aiding in their UW role. The SFG’s history behind this highly valued skill rests with the Allied invasion on D-Day. Known as the Jedburgh teams, consisting of one American, British, and French national with each member required to speak French. The aim of this was to be able to effectively communicate with both French resistance and civilians in UW attacks against German troops in the build-up of the Allied invasion. (Source)

Currently, Green Berets undergo basic special forces language training at the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School, covering both written and oral speaking. Overall, language training takes up 24 of the 56 weeks of the Special Forces Qualification Course, being an estimated 45% of the overall Q-Course. (Source) (Source) (Source)

4 Organisational Structure and Operations

U.S. Army Special Forces is one of several units that operate under the United States Army Special Operations Command (USASOC). USASOC is the Army’s component of  United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM) and constitutes over 65% of all personnel in USSOCOM. The primary commands in USASOC include:

• 1st Special Forces Command (Green Berets): This unit is responsible for unconventional warfare, counter-terrorism, and special reconnaissance. It oversees the other components, providing leadership and coordination. The Green Berets consist of several Special Forces Groups (SFGs), each with a distinct regional focus, role, and history. Additionally, the 1st Special Forces Command includes the 8th and 4th Psychological Operations Groups, the 95th Civil Affairs Brigade, and the 528th Sustainment Brigade.
• 75th Ranger Regiment: An elite infantry unit specialising in direct action operations such as raids and assaults. They often collaborate with other special operations forces for rapid deployment missions.
• Special Operations Aviation Command: Provides critical aviation support, including insertion and extraction of special operations forces. It works closely with all other components to ensure air mobility and support.
• John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School: The training and educational arm of USASOC, responsible for preparing soldiers for special operations roles. It supports all units by providing specialised training and developing operational doctrine.

These components collectively ensure a comprehensive approach to special operations, integrating various specialised units under a unified command structure within USASOC.

4.1 1st Special Forces Group

“First in Asia”

Headquarters: Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, USA.

Area of Operations: Pacific / PACOM.

Doctrinal Missions:

• Unconventional Warfare
• Direct Action
• Special Reconnaissance
• Counter Terrorism 
• Foreign Internal Defence
• Information Operations
• Counter-Proliferation

Regarded as the ‘First in Asia’ and operating in the Pacific positioned at Torii Station, Okinawa, Japan. The 1st Special Forces Group is one of the oldest formed groups dating back to 1955. In continuation, they are tasked with several doctrinal missions across the Indo-Pacific area. Upon the currently active groups’ inception in 1957, the SFG group was deployed to Okinawa and later involved in the Vietnam War as advisors and later involved in UW. Additionally, they assisted in humanitarian missions in the Philippines in 1972. Following the events of 9/11, the 1st SFG was involved in Operation Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan, assisting in UW methods with Afghan and coalition forces. (Source)

Other Notable Missions (Source)

• 1st SFG provide training on contingency operations overseas for US-CENTCOM and US-PACOM
• Additionally, they provide training to SOF groups in allied nations on a range of issues, mainly within the PACOM region. 
• Such training surrounds but is not limited to:
  • intelligence fusion
  • command and control
  • joint operations
  • sustainment
• In February 2022, 1st SFG conducted an exercise within the Indo-Pacific region (Source)

4.2 3rd Special Forces Group (Source)

“From the Rest Comes the Best”

Headquarters: Fort Liberty, North Carolina, USA. 

Area of Operations: Sub-Saharan Africa / AFRICOM.

Doctrinal Missions:

• Unconventional Warfare
• Direct Action
• Special Reconnaissance
• Counter Terrorism 
• Foreign Internal Defence
• Information Operations
• Counter-Proliferation

Reactivated in 1990, the 3rd SFG operates primarily in the Caribbean and Africa. Their most prominent missions include providing humanitarian assistance to Haiti in 1994 following a military coup in 1991; it was the most prominent SOF at the time. Additionally, the 3rd SFG deployed to Afghanistan and was the first unit to aid in building up the Afghan National Army, specialising in the development of their special forces and tactical police units. (Source) (Source)

Other Notable Missions

• In April 2022, the 3rd SFG conducted exercises at Fort Polk with the 82nd Airborne Division as a part of the Joint Readiness Training Center Rotation. (Source)
• In October 2017, four servicemen with the 3rd SFG were killed in an ambush in Niger by the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara.
• 3rd SFG provided training to the 10th Mountain Division in May 2023 on battle operations and reconnaissance. (Source)

4.3 5th Special Forces Group

“Strength and Honour”

Headquarters: Fort Campbell, Kentucky, USA.

Area of Operations: Middle East / CENTCOM.

Doctrinal Missions:

• Unconventional Warfare
• Direct Action
• Special Reconnaissance
• Counter Terrorism 
• Foreign Internal Defence
• Counter Insurgency
• Information Operations
• Counter-Proliferation
• Security Force Assistance

The 5th Special Forces Group is the most highly decorated active group amongst the Green Berets. They primarily saw combat during the Vietnam War, aiding in developing the South Vietnamese Civilian Irregular Defence Groups. Overall, their presence was across all four military districts and saw the most combat at this time. Furthermore, the 5th SFG deployed to the Gulf during Operation Desert Storm and Shield, assisting primarily with Saudi forces in Foreign Internal Defence. (Source)

Other Notable Missions

• In October 2001, the 5th SFG deployed to northern Afghanistan to assist Northern Alliance commanders and conduct UW against the Taliban. 
• In December 2022, the 5th SFG trained alongside Saudi Arabia’s 6 and 7th SOF at Fort Campbell. Both sides trained in counter-terrorism and conducted night raids to improve their interoperability with CENTCOM. (Source)
• In 2001, the 5th SFG conducted intelligence gathering and reconnaissance also known as sensitive site exploitation (SSE) in Afghanistan. The aim was to assist coalition forces in counter-terrorism efforts and provide actionable intel on Al-Qaeda. (Source)

4.4 7th Special Forces Group

“Whatever, Whenever, Wherever” or “Lo Que Sea, Cuando Sea, Donde Sea”

Headquarters: Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, USA. 

Area of Operations: North and Central America / USNORTHCOM.

Doctrinal Missions:

• Unconventional Warfare
• Direct Action
• Special Reconnaissance
• Counter Terrorism 
• Foreign Internal Defence
• Counter Insurgency
• Information Operations
• Counter-Proliferation
• Security Force Assistance

The 7th Special Forces Group is oriented within the western hemisphere, operating in the Caribbean, North, Central, and South America. Nicknamed the ‘Devil Brigade’, the 7th SFG originally conducted UW in Norway under the First Special Service Force and was trained for Arctic conditions. Reactivated in 1960 under the 7th SGF, their most prominent missions during the Cold War involved conducting counter insurgency operations (COIN) in El Salvador in 1987, along with participating in Operation Just Cause, Panama in 1989. After 9/11, the 7th SFG played a key role in UW throughout Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Freedom Sentinel in Afghanistan. (Source)

Other Notable Missions:

• 7 SFG acted as advisors for the El Salvador military throughout the 1980’s. Quickly, the armed forces grew from a small untrained contingent to a successful military able to conduct COIN. 
• Additionally, 7 SFG has been involved with the Joint Task Force Safe Borders as an observer between Peru and Ecuador border disputes in 1995. (Source)
• Operation Urgent Fury saw 7 SFG participate in the invasion of Grenada in 1983. (Source)

4.5 10th Special Forces Group

“De Oppresso Liber” 

Headquarters: Fort Carson, Colorado, USA.

Area of Operations: Europe / EUCOM.

Doctrinal Missions:

• Unconventional Warfare
• Direct Action
• Special Reconnaissance
• Counter Terrorism 
• Foreign Internal Defence
• Counter Insurgency
• Information Operations
• Counter-Proliferation
• Security Force Assistance

The 10th Special Forces Group, is the elite SFG amongst the Green Berets, acting as the longest and oldest activated force under the 1st Special Forces Command since 1952. Based in Europe, the 10th SFG was created to serve as a stay-behind group in the event the Soviet Union invaded Europe to conduct UW and assist with European allies. Additionally, throughout the Cold War, the 10th SFG actively recruited foreign nationals across Eastern Europe under communist rule to help develop their UW methods and knowledge in the event of invasion. Moreover, they provided training to nations in the Middle East throughout the Vietnam era, never deploying to the country. (Source)

Other Notable Missions

• 10th SFG deployed to Iraq before the initial invasion in 2003 with the CIA’s Special Activities Centre. Conducting UW, they coordinated the Kurdish Peshmerga in attacking Ansar al-Islam (Source)
• In 1995, 10 SFG deployed to Bosnia to assist the 1st Armoured Division in peacekeeping operations. Later, in 1999, 10 SFG became one of the first US military units to deploy to Kosovo focusing on COIN. (Source)

4.5.1 10th SFG Arctic capabilities

In 2022, the 10th SFG conducted further training exercises in the Arctic in conjunction with SOCNORTH, USNORTHCOM, and allied partners in the exercise of Arctic Edge. Additionally, the aim for placing the Green Berets in such conditions is coined by SOCNORTH as the ‘Northern Approach’, a plan that will see 10th SFG and others hone their Arctic capabilities, making them elite units within such conditions and developing their readiness. The deeper purpose behind such training is the relative strategic importance the Arctic is playing in North American defence due to foreign encroachment and climate change making the area easier to access. (Source)

Additionally in March 2023, the 10th SFG conducted Arctic exercises with Finland’s SOF Utii Jaeger under exercise Talvikotta. The aim behind the exercise was to further develop the 10th SFG in their Arctic training and winter warfare capabilities. Ultimately, such training demonstrates the 10th SFG’s preparedness to become a force specifically prepared for future UW, reconnaissance and direct action in Arctic conditions, matching the ongoing geopolitical circumstances in the Arctic Circle. (Source)

4.6 19th Special Forces Group

“Anything, Anyplace, Anytime”

Headquarters: Draper, Utah, USA.

Area of Operations: USA National Guard.

Doctrinal Missions: 

• Unconventional Warfare
• Direct Action
• Special Reconnaissance
• Counter Terrorism 
• Foreign Internal Defence
• Counter Insurgency
• Information Operations
• Counter-Proliferation
• Security Force Assistance

One of the two SFG national guard units, the 19th SFG is based at Camp Williams, Utah and follows the same functions as other active SFGs. Subsequently, during Operation Enduring Freedom, the 19th SFG were deployed to Morocco in 2014 to assist in joint exercise and training of local forces. Additionally, they were deployed to Afghanistan under the same pretence. (Source) (Source) (Source)

Other Notable Missions

• 19th SFG shares its area of operations in a reserve role with the 1st SFG in the Pacific along with the 5th SFG in Southwest Asia. 
• In June 2020, the 19th SFG was deployed through the National Guard to Washington D.C to protect  the White House during the George Floyd Protests. (Source)
• In December 2019, the 19th SFG trained with Polish Special Forces in airborne operations in conjunction with the US Air Force 352nd Special Operations Wing. The aim of the training was to improve upon SOF procedures and allied relations. (Source)

4.7 20th Special Forces Group

“De Oppresso Liber”

Headquarters: Birmingham, Alabama, USA. 

Area of Operations: USA National Guard.

Doctrinal Mission:

• Unconventional Warfare
• Direct Action
• Special Reconnaissance
• Counter Terrorism 
• Foreign Internal Defence
• Counter Insurgency
• Information Operations
• Counter-Proliferation
• Security Force Assistance

In addition to being the second unit of the SFG National Guard, the 20th SFG are orientated to Central America and the Caribbean along with the 7th SFG. Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, they have been actively deployed on missions in Afghanistan as well as more recently during Operation Inherent Resolve against ISIS. (Source) (Source)

Other Notable Missions

• Being primarily a National Guard unit, 20 SFG saw their first large-scale activation during the first Gulf War. 
• In 1995, during Operation Uphold Democracy in Haiti, 20 SFG saw several rotations in the country. Peacekeeping missions ensued in conjunction with 3 SFG that deployed at the start of the conflict. (source)
• In addition to other SFG units, 20 SFG have been involved in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom as support elements. 

4.8 4th and 8th Psychological Operations Group

“Verbum Vincet” and “Decisive Influence”

Headquarters: Fort Liberty, North Carolina, USA. 

Acting as a support group, the 4th and 8th PSYOP Group provides operational assistance to deployed SFG groups in the form of intelligence as well as print and broadcast activities. Overall, PSYOP uses clandestine and deceptive methods in psychological warfare capabilities. Furthermore, the 4th PSYOP Group is oriented towards media production and dissemination whilst the 8th PSYOP group handles more tactical scenarios. Moreover, both groups are the only two active PSYOP groups in the US Army. (Source) (Source) 

4.9 95th Civil Affairs Brigade

“Advise Support Stabilise”

Headquarters: Fort Liberty, North Carolina, USA. 

One of the two logistical units under the 1st Special Forces Command, 95th members act alongside SFG and the US Department of State to assist foreign nations during war and peacetime on humanitarian and development issues. The role in which UW applies to the group is they can either assist in establishing governance within a target nation or group or bring total counter-governance capabilities. (Source) (Source) 

4.10 528th Sustainment Brigade

“We Support To The Utmost”

Headquarters: Fort Liberty, North Carolina, USA. 

The main logistical brigade for the 1st Special Forces Command and SFG provides logistical supplies to units on deployment. Additionally, 528th is one of the only sustainment brigades with constant situational global awareness. Being an airborne unit like the rest of the Green Berets, they can deploy rapidly in support of SFGs in the field. (Source) (Source)

5 Equipment

The SOF groups within the Green Berets have access to a large arsenal of weapons, equipment, and vehicles within the US military. In addition, they are highly skilled with nonstandard weapons and vehicles that they may need to use when training and assisting partner militaries. (Source)

5.1 Weapons

Armaments used by Green Berets vary based on their function as a UW group, ranging from sniper rifles to assault rifles, explosive devices and unique weapons. Below is a non-exhaustive list of known weapons. (Source) (Source)

Assault Rifles

• SCAR platform (MK-16 and MK-17)
• MK-13 CQBR
• M4A1

Sub Machine Guns

• MP5

Pistols

• M9 Beretta
• Colt M45
• P228

Shotguns

• Mossberg Model 590
• M1013

Machine Guns

• MK-46
• MK-48
• M240
• M249 SAW

Sniper Rifles / Rifleman 

• M24 SWS
• SR-25
• Navy Mark 12 Special Purpose Rifle
• Mk 14 EBR
• TAC-338
• HK-G28
• M110 SASS
• Barrett M107
• Remington MSR

Launchers

• M32 MGL
• FGM-148 Javelin
• AT4

5.2 Vehicles

Due to their highly skilled training in unconventional warfare and designation as SOF, Green Berets typically use a large variety of vehicles. Green Berets train on a variety of platforms and adaptability for entering into combat via transport. (Source) (Source)

Ground vehicles

• Ground Mobility Vehicles (GMV), such as the Humvee and the General Dynamics M1228 GMV 1.1 variant.
• Mine Resistant Protect Ambush Protected Terrain Vehicles (M-ATV) and other variations along with the MRAP.
• Non-standard technical Vehicles (NSTV), commonly seen in conflict zones abroad such as across Afghanistan and Iraq 
• Ranger Special Operations Vehicles (SOVS)
• Light Medium Tactical Vehicles (LMTV)
• All Terrain Vehicles (ATVS)
• Armoured Ground Mobility Systems (AGMS)

Aircraft

•  Mi-8 and Mi-17 variations of helicopters in the initial stages of Operation Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan. 
• MH-60 Blackhawk Helicopters
• CV-22 Ospreys
• MH-47 Chinooks

Watercraft

• Mark V Spec Ops Craft (MK V SOC), is a carrier capable of transporting equipment and SOF groups at sea.
• Combat Rubber Raiding Craft (CRRC), Zodiac-based platforms capable of carrying 10 or so men. 
• Special Ops Craft–Riverine (SOC-R), a smaller craft capable of traversing along riverways.
• Diver Propulsion Devices (DPD), is an underwater system capable of transporting two divers at a distance of seven miles. 

5.3 Kit and Gear

Like other SOF groups, Green Beret SFG optimise their kit and gear to be as lightweight as possible whilst providing ample protection. Additionally, Loadouts are tailored specifically to the designated role or MOS ranging from medical sergeant to weapons sergeant. Overall, typical loadouts and kit will range from a couple of magazines, plate carriers, assault packs and their designated weapon. (Source)

6 The Green Berets, a Strategic Legacy 

The Green Berets, officially known as the United States Army Special Forces, represent a unique and integral component of the U.S. military’s strategic operations. Their specialisation in unconventional warfare, coupled with their expertise in clandestine tactics, positions them as a formidable force in addressing complex global challenges. Throughout history, the Green Berets have distinguished themselves in various conflicts, from Vietnam to recent engagements in the Middle East and Africa, demonstrating their adaptability and effectiveness in diverse operational environments.

Their focus on language proficiency and cultural understanding enhances their ability to train and collaborate with foreign military forces, underscoring their role as both warriors and diplomats. The Green Berets’ commitment to “De Oppresso Liber,” to free the oppressed, reflects their enduring mission to support freedom and stability worldwide.

As the global security landscape evolves, the Green Berets continue to adapt, facing new threats and challenges. The potential reduction in funding and personnel presents significant hurdles, yet the emphasis on innovation and advanced training at the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School ensures that they remain prepared for future demands.

In conclusion, the Green Berets’ legacy of excellence and their continued evolution make them a vital asset to U.S. national security, capable of executing complex missions with precision and effectiveness. Their unique capabilities and dedication to unconventional warfare ensure that they remain a critical component of the United States’ strategic military framework.