As a prior-service AF who is in the process of enlisting into NG SF, must I first go 11B into a traditional infantry unit?

Sgt Ben Brewer — Sun, 31 Mar 2024 14:22:31 -0400

So, my recruiter claims they want me to enlist as an 11B into a NC Guard infantry unit with a memo showing an offer to attend SFAS. Does this seem legit? Or like a bait and switch? I’m considering pushing for a slot directly into the 20th Support with the memo instead, but getting some pushback on it. As prior-service, I’m naturally hesitant to trust the recruiter, but I don’t really have any SF guys I can reach out to for advice. Again, thanks so much for taking any time to answer me.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2024 2:42 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 31 Mar 2024 14:42:43 -0400

Lets get some help here....

any guidance gentlemen?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2024 3:09 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 31 Mar 2024 15:09:25 -0400

There are two ways of going SF (that I'm aware of).
1) Enlist as 18X. But, if you fail the course then you are Needs of the Army.
2) Enlist with any MOS then apply for, and pass, Selection and Assessment.

However, I would just say to locate the nearest North Carolina National Guard SF unit and ask them what the best path would be.

Here are the two I found for North Carolina:

Company B, 3rd Battalion, 20th SFGA
Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina
[login to see]

Company B, 1st Battalion, 20th SFG(A)
Albemarle, North Carolina
[login to see]

Response by COL Randall C. made Mar 31 at 2024 3:25 PM

COL Randall C. — Sun, 31 Mar 2024 15:25:05 -0400

Short answer - Yes it is possible that it is legit.

There are a couple of pathways to become a SF Soldier in the National Guard as a Prior Service candidate*. If the NCARNG is only following the "18X candidate" route, then that is through the traditional 11B pathway, attending to Airborne training, a Special Forces prep course and the finally going through SFAC SFAC for assessment and selection.

The other route for Prior Service depends on 'what you bring to the table' because "Prior Service" is a bit 'wonky' when it comes to Special Forces.
- If your not prior service with the Army, Marines, Navy SPECOPS or Air Force SPECOPS/Security Force, then you'll go through BCT as a fresh recruit.
- If you don't already have an Army MOS, then you'll go through AIT.
- After that, then the National Guard weeds individuals out with a Special Forces Readiness Evaluation/Assessment Drill (SFRE/SFAD). In essence, a NG SF unit "try-out".
- If you make it through that step, then you go to the traditional Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS) program, after which you'll attend Airborne school and (if your come in as an E-4/E-5 which depends on rank determination) then the Warrior Leader Course/Common Leadership Training (WLC/CLT).
- After all that, then you'll go to the Q course (SFQC - SF Qualification Course).

Frankly, it's going to depend on the state.

Are you working with a general National Guard recruiter or are you working with a Special Forces National Guard recruiter? There is a difference.

One option you could do is the "Try One" contract* if you are working with a SF recruiter
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* https://sfnationalguard.com/civilian-to-special-forces-national-guard/
* https://www.nationalguard.com/special-forces-prior-service-applicants
* https://sfnationalguard.com/prior-service-to-green-beret/

How to Become a Green Beret in the NG

Civilians who want to become a Green Beret in the National Guard should sign an 18X contract, which guarantees the candidate a shot at Special Forces training.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 31 at 2024 9:35 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 31 Mar 2024 21:35:00 -0400

The problem is that 18X is for non-prior service only.
Since you are prior service, and since you can only go to SFAS/SFQC if you already have an Army MOS, then your recruiter is telling you the truth. The only way you can get that 11B MOS training seat is to contract for an 11B position. That letter helps, but you will need to have an Army MOS, and then you will need to pass a SFRE with 19th or 20th before they can attach you and send you to SFAS.