Canada’s Special Operations Regiment (CSOR)

Canada’s Special Operations Regiment (CSOR) is a battalion-sized unit under the Canadian Special Operations Forces Command.

Though it is a relatively young force in the world of Special Operations, coming to fruition in 2006, CSOR can trace its history back to the famous Canadian/U.S, 1st Special Service Force, better known as the “Devil’s Brigade,” which distinguished itself in Italy in World War II. Its concept, like then, is of a highly-trained, special infantry unit along the lines of the U.S Army Ranger Regiment. These focus on direct action, reconnaissance, support of other Special Forces units, and foreign forces training.

Recruitment drives occur every September 11-22. The Regiment’s training is open to male and female applicants from the Army, Navy and Air Force who pass the 2 day evaluation course. The prerequisites of this course are that applicants have at least two years service, (reservists three), and have a security clearance.

There are two categories to which an applicant may apply for one to begin the evaluation:

Category 1

Applicants must not have phobias to heights, water or confined spaces. Applicants must be Basic Para qualified or volunteer for Basic Para training if not qualified. Personnel must be prepared to conduct Insert/Extract training which will require an absence of phobias to heights and a high level of physical fitness.

• 20 meter shuttle run(minimum 5 minutes rest).
• Minimum 40 pushups(2 minutes rest).
• Minimum 40 situps (in one minute) (minimum 2 minutes rest).
• Minimum 5 pullups (15 minutes rest).
• Combat Swim Test( 25 Meter swim in uniform, boots, rifle,
• absent flotation.
• 13 Km march with 35kg. in 2 hours, 26 minutes.(10 minute break).
• Casualty evacuation of similar size soldier to 100 meters distance in under 60 seconds.

Category 2

• Basic Military Swim Test (Water safety knowledge, abandon ship emergencies, rudimentary swimming skills).
• 13km weight loaded march with 24.5kg in 2 hours, 26 minutes (Army Fitness Standard)(minimum 10 minute break).
• Casualty evacuation of similar size soldier to 100 meters distance in under 60 seconds.

Those who pass undergo final review by a Base/Wing personnel officer and may be recommended for training. This will involve several arduous months of physical and mental exercises, focusing on combat skills, and survival methods. The small number who pass, receive the regiments tan beret, and are assigned based on their category, to either of the three Direct Action companies, Special Forces company or Support Company. The eventual size of the Regiment is expected to reach 800 personnel. One unique fact is, before becoming members, candidates need not have been in combat occupations, but could come from areas such as, cooks, drivers, and clerks.