OP-ED: SOCOM’s TALOS ‘Iron Man’ suit: Still learning the wrong lessons

The US military has, especially over the last couple of decades, become convinced that high-tech is the solution to all problems.  Any battlefield or tactical problem can be solved with the latest piece of kit.  The result has been the F-22 (only 195 built at a unit cost of $150 million, and a program cost […]

Two Air Force Special Operators Receive Air Force Cross For Heroism

On Thursday of this week, two US Air Force special operators, Chris Baradat and Keary Miller were awarded the Air Force Cross for valor at Hurlbert Field, FL home of the 24th Special Operations Wing. Both men had earlier received Silver Stars for valor a few years ago, but as the Air Force and the […]

Green Beret Appalachian Trail Walk and Fundraiser- Support the Regiment

“Never Leave a Man Behind” The men of the Special Forces Regiment are doing a fundraiser for the Green Beret Foundation to help raise money by walking the entire length of the Appalachian Trail. A group of retired Special Operators from SF Brothers (a Facebook group of SF soldiers) are putting teams together to hike […]

SOF Selection PT Preparation 4.21.2017

It is Friday, that must mean it’s Leg Day at the gym but instead of a longer run at the finish of that, we’ll substitute the Shuttle run in there, to work on your speed today. For those who don’t have ropes available to them in the prep, substitute the towel pullups. Training: Continue to […]

Lockheed Martin Unveils New Special Operations “Raider” Helicopter

The ‘the next big thing in Army aviation’ may be a new Special Operations little bird with much-improved capabilities and performance. Lockheed Martin’s S-97 Raider is a light tactical prototype helicopter capable of carrying six troops and external weapons while reaching speeds in excess of 220 knots. This new little bird has a co-axial rotor […]

Special Operations Gear Review – Merrell Sawtooth: Perfect Desert Boot

We’re always looking for an edge. That’s what Special Forces guys do, anything that will make your job easier, or yourself a little more comfortable, that’s the ticket, right? And having a piece of equipment that works, is tough, comfortable and the troops like is like nirvana. Like I said in an earlier piece, in […]

SOF Selection PT Preparation 4.20.2017

A quick start of the day in the gym with some preparation for the UBRR, followed by a ruck march of 5-miles. Pick a route over varied terrain and remember to keep hydrated. Mark down your times in your workout log book Training: More Preparation for the UBRR: 3 x 12 Bench Press 3 x […]

SOF Selection PT Preparation 4.19.2017

Shoulders and back day in the gym before heading off to the pool for a swim which is an event you can’t neglect. Get used to swimming in fatigues and boots as this is a pre-requisite for the Selection PT test. Training: More Preparation for the UBRR: 3 x 12 Lat Pulldowns, behind the neck […]

US, Philippine Forces To Hold Annual Drill Despite Duerte

The military of the Philippines announced this week that the annual “Balikatan” military exercise with the United States will take place. There have been questions over whether the exercises will continue due to President Rodrigo Duerte, who has been critical of the US and wants to distance himself from the American government while courting the […]

SOF Selection PT Preparation 4.18.2017

Always a good day to for Leg Day at the gym, the lighter weight in the squats but higher reps helps with endurance. Weighted sled push builds up some explosion. Continue to prep for the UBRR. Training: 3 x Pullups 10 reps 3 x Front Squat 20-15-12 reps (lighter weight) 3 x Goblet Squats 20-15-12 […]

USSOCOM Turns 30, Command’s Impact Continues to Grow

Thirty years ago, a small headquarters opened its doors for the first time. The United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) was originally formed out of the debacle of the failed Iranian hostage rescue mission, Operation Eagle Claw in 1980. From small beginnings in April 1987 at MacDill AFB, FL the Special Operations Command now encompasses […]

SOF Selection PT Preparation 4.17.2017

Happy Patriots Day which is always the day for the Boston Marathon up this way. Don’t worry, there won’t be a 26-mile run today. Instead, we’ll focus on the shuttle runs and work on some speed. Training: More preparation for the UBRR 2 x 1-minute Pushups 2 x 1-minute Sit-ups 2 x 1 minute, Crunches […]