So, 

 

I'm Tom - 17 years old, Senior in ''High School'' in Ireland and have been playing football since I can remember, here's my story.

 

The last few years I've grown a huge flair for the Navy SEALS. I'm not some rookie 10 year old that likes the guns and action. But my god do I admire the work they do, the risk they live with but one thing I love is probably coming from from my football back-round of training 350 days a year then having those game days a fraction of your life, why do it? Because lets be honest that's what they do every day for them is game-day if they make a mistake they're gone....dead. I am learning daily on how to join what to do, preparation for the application process because lets be honest you'll have to start training in my opinion 5-10 years seriously before you even think about going to a prep school before applying. I've been honored to meet a marine on this site and got such an amazing insight into the US military. Then I'd say I've watched nearly every NAVY SEAL team film's and documentaries and what not so one of my favorite being  ''Lone Survivor'', I've grown a huge interest in former NS Marcus Lutrell and am amazed of his story.

 

 

Anyone have any opinions, information ,advice, stories? Please I'd love to discuss and share things on the topic with people who are passionate or even have experienced/experiencing such military lives.

 

 

Thank You,

Tom.

Edited March 21, 201412 yr by InnermostZero

You'll have to put in your time in the US Navy; don't just go straight into the SEALS. And a lot of it is mental, not physical. Just be prepared. Good luck to you.

I think that it's a interesting and promising dream. And I really love that you do not want to apply for SEALs because of some action-packed movie. I wish you best of luck and as devildog789 said, start with enlisting (or becomming a commisioned officer) before you think of the SEALs. Who knows, you might find another even more attractive once you're in. Now I'm not sure as to if you have to enlist (or become a commissioned officer) in the US Navy in order to apply for the SEALs or if any branch is accepted. I also have a interest in the military and I'm going to enlist in the Marines as soon as I graduate from high school.

 

^This is the poster who made me want to enlist in the Marines. I've always wanted to serve, I just couldn't decide if it were to be Go Army or the Devil dogs, but everything about this poster just told me that it's the Marines. No glory, no fancy uniform. Just the truth in a poster, love it

 

Anyways I wish you best of luck, as for advice I'd recommend for you to keep doing physical training so that you can focus on the mental stuff. If you listen to a lot of former SEALs they all recommend that. Since the mental stuff is something which you can't prepare for. So push yourself to the limit with the physical training part

Its going to be next to impossible to get into the special forces right now due to the budget cut in the military. A big chuck of the Navy budget is going to the Army same with the marine budget. (Come on army does most of the fighting and defending now a days anyways)

 

When I was going to join the Army (couldn't cause of a injury a few years ago) I talked to 3 recruiters to see about getting into ranger school and hopefully getting into the 75th someday

 

. Guess what each recruiter told me something different.

 

One told me "Yeah I can get you into ranger school just sign these papers"

 

Another one told me "Can't get you into ranger school but I can get into GI"

 

And the last one which told me the truth said this "Look I can't guarantee you getting into ranger school but I can try hard. I can let you know before you sign the papers if you'll be getting into ranger school and it'll be on paper too"

 

Recruiters are all the same, I just happen to find one that likes to tell the truth. So don't sign anything unless its on paper and has words that basically say "We can guarantee you a spot in seal training with in a reasonable time" Make sure it has reasonable time because they could put you in it at the end of your enlistment and say better luck next time.

 

Do I think its a good idea? I could go either way, just look around at other jobs, because chances are you won't get into the seals specially with the new budget. 

 

 

Edited March 22, 201412 yr by Darkangel

Being a SEAL is a great goal to strive for, from my Navy rotc experience I've had opportunities to meet active and retired SEALs, the only thing I'd say about considering joining them is realize you need a certain type of personality. People just don't walk into a recruiting office and become a SEAL and that is what makes them so special. Many special operators are type A personalities and must be willing to be away from friends and family on constant deployments with short notice (unlike the rest of the fleet). 

As said above, enlist first, then try to go SEAL, and if you have your heart set on the military in general remember there are MANY jobs in the service(some are pretty awesome SWCC, Rangers, Aviation crew chief, Infantry, ect.) so don't restrict your view to only one

 

But if I SEAL is what you set out to be, I say give it your all

Hooyah

Special Forces is exempt from budget cuts, All SOCOM elements are actually getting larger budgets to adjust from the shrinking budgets of 'primary' combatant forces. So, you'll actually see an increase of requests in those fields, not a decrease.

As for the SEALs, to my knowledge, you can be in the Marine Corps or the Navy and can be eligible for BUDs. However, if you fail out in the Navy, you're most likely going to be invested in a non-combat field where you won't have a chance to improve upon your skill set professionally. The Marine Corps will not only have a significant amount of room in their combat arms, they're just starting their own Special Forces element (MARSOC is still less than ten years old) and has an assortment of combat-related fields upon your interest. If I could suggest any one location, I'd drive toward the Marine Corps if that's the area you want to operate in. But check with a recruiter, and don't be swayed by the rhetoric.

As for my experience with the 75th Ranger Regiment, it's not a special position to be there, as long as you can get through RASP. While it is an elite unit, it's not anything most Airborne Paratroopers don't easily transfer into. That, and getting a Ranger tab (Ranger School) is not the same as being selected for Regiment. You can go to Ranger School and spend the entire military career in non-Ranger units. And, you can't stay in Regiment for your entire career, so you'll have to transfer to other units. That's why you quite often see a major concentration of Ranger-Qualified/Scrolled Soldiers in Airborne units. So, might want to evaluate what the recruiters said again, because they all sound like they said the same thing. Also to note, different offices have different focuses when it comes to meeting standards and numbers. So, other offices might have RASP slots whereas others do not.

Special Forces is exempt from budget cuts, All SOCOM elements are actually getting larger budgets to adjust from the shrinking budgets of 'primary' combatant forces. So, you'll actually see an increase of requests in those fields, not a decrease.

As for the SEALs, to my knowledge, you can be in the Marine Corps or the Navy and can be eligible for BUDs. However, if you fail out in the Navy, you're most likely going to be invested in a non-combat field where you won't have a chance to improve upon your skill set professionally. The Marine Corps will not only have a significant amount of room in their combat arms, they're just starting their own Special Forces element (MARSOC is still less than ten years old) and has an assortment of combat-related fields upon your interest. If I could suggest any one location, I'd drive toward the Marine Corps if that's the area you want to operate in. But check with a recruiter, and don't be swayed by the rhetoric.

As for my experience with the 75th Ranger Regiment, it's not a special position to be there, as long as you can get through RASP. While it is an elite unit, it's not anything most Airborne Paratroopers don't easily transfer into. That, and getting a Ranger tab (Ranger School) is not the same as being selected for Regiment. You can go to Ranger School and spend the entire military career in non-Ranger units. And, you can't stay in Regiment for your entire career, so you'll have to transfer to other units. That's why you quite often see a major concentration of Ranger-Qualified/Scrolled Soldiers in Airborne units. So, might want to evaluate what the recruiters said again, because they all sound like they said the same thing. Also to note, different offices have different focuses when it comes to meeting standards and numbers. So, other offices might have RASP slots whereas others do not.

 

Huh didn't know that, thanks for the info on that!!!

The Navy's official special warfare recruiting site (sealswcc.com; it's legit, it's linked from the Navy's main navy.com recruiting page) has a SEAL FAQ. You do have to be in the Navy; Marines aren't accepted for training, and a Marine who wants to become a SEAL has to transfer from the Marines to the Navy before being considered for SEAL training (funnily enough, the Coast Guard actually *did* send a few people to BUD/S, but they've now canceled that program).

Also, note: You have to be a US citizen to be a SEAL, as it requires being able to get a Secret security clearance; in addition, dual nationality is not permitted (I don't think that rules out a Secret clearance, but the SEALs in particular require you to renounce all non-US citizenship). After you become a permanent resident (non-permanent resident non-citizens generally can't join; there are exceptions for healthcare professionals and experts in certain languages and cultures, but those are special cases), you can get accelerated citizenship through military service -- if I'm reading USCIS right, *any* length of time of military service right now qualifies a permanent resident for the citizenship process. Once that's completed, *then* you could apply to be a SEAL.

I'd Join the Sisy-Dog Branch (National Guard) first N' get alot of the Basics done with while still

in School if you are. Then you can be Transferred N' have your Many Basics done etc.

I thinking bout Join But IDK, Not sure I want to "Fight" for People's Freedom that they do not even

appreciate or any thing. AKA, Kids that try to Act like African Americans, or those so called Cool

kids, or Bad As*es. They Appreciate absolutely nothing.

 

 

 

 

Sergeanto!

You'll have to put in your time in the US Navy; don't just go straight into the SEALS. And a lot of it is mental, not physical. Just be prepared. Good luck to you.

 

 

I think that it's a interesting and promising dream. And I really love that you do not want to apply for SEALs because of some action-packed movie. I wish you best of luck and as devildog789 said, start with enlisting (or becomming a commisioned officer) before you think of the SEALs. Who knows, you might find another even more attractive once you're in. Now I'm not sure as to if you have to enlist (or become a commissioned officer) in the US Navy in order to apply for the SEALs or if any branch is accepted. I also have a interest in the military and I'm going to enlist in the Marines as soon as I graduate from high school.

 

^This is the poster who made me want to enlist in the Marines. I've always wanted to serve, I just couldn't decide if it were to be Go Army or the Devil dogs, but everything about this poster just told me that it's the Marines. No glory, no fancy uniform. Just the truth in a poster, love it

 

Anyways I wish you best of luck, as for advice I'd recommend for you to keep doing physical training so that you can focus on the mental stuff. If you listen to a lot of former SEALs they all recommend that. Since the mental stuff is something which you can't prepare for. So push yourself to the limit with the physical training part

 

 

Its going to be next to impossible to get into the special forces right now due to the budget cut in the military. A big chuck of the Navy budget is going to the Army same with the marine budget. (Come on army does most of the fighting and defending now a days anyways)

 

When I was going to join the Army (couldn't cause of a injury a few years ago) I talked to 3 recruiters to see about getting into ranger school and hopefully getting into the 75th someday

 

. Guess what each recruiter told me something different.

 

One told me "Yeah I can get you into ranger school just sign these papers"

 

Another one told me "Can't get you into ranger school but I can get into GI"

 

And the last one which told me the truth said this "Look I can't guarantee you getting into ranger school but I can try hard. I can let you know before you sign the papers if you'll be getting into ranger school and it'll be on paper too"

 

Recruiters are all the same, I just happen to find one that likes to tell the truth. So don't sign anything unless its on paper and has words that basically say "We can guarantee you a spot in seal training with in a reasonable time" Make sure it has reasonable time because they could put you in it at the end of your enlistment and say better luck next time.

 

Do I think its a good idea? I could go either way, just look around at other jobs, because chances are you won't get into the seals specially with the new budget. 

 

 

Being a SEAL is a great goal to strive for, from my Navy rotc experience I've had opportunities to meet active and retired SEALs, the only thing I'd say about considering joining them is realize you need a certain type of personality. People just don't walk into a recruiting office and become a SEAL and that is what makes them so special. Many special operators are type A personalities and must be willing to be away from friends and family on constant deployments with short notice (unlike the rest of the fleet). 

As said above, enlist first, then try to go SEAL, and if you have your heart set on the military in general remember there are MANY jobs in the service(some are pretty awesome SWCC, Rangers, Aviation crew chief, Infantry, ect.) so don't restrict your view to only one

 

But if I SEAL is what you set out to be, I say give it your all

Hooyah

 

 

Special Forces is exempt from budget cuts, All SOCOM elements are actually getting larger budgets to adjust from the shrinking budgets of 'primary' combatant forces. So, you'll actually see an increase of requests in those fields, not a decrease.

As for the SEALs, to my knowledge, you can be in the Marine Corps or the Navy and can be eligible for BUDs. However, if you fail out in the Navy, you're most likely going to be invested in a non-combat field where you won't have a chance to improve upon your skill set professionally. The Marine Corps will not only have a significant amount of room in their combat arms, they're just starting their own Special Forces element (MARSOC is still less than ten years old) and has an assortment of combat-related fields upon your interest. If I could suggest any one location, I'd drive toward the Marine Corps if that's the area you want to operate in. But check with a recruiter, and don't be swayed by the rhetoric.

As for my experience with the 75th Ranger Regiment, it's not a special position to be there, as long as you can get through RASP. While it is an elite unit, it's not anything most Airborne Paratroopers don't easily transfer into. That, and getting a Ranger tab (Ranger School) is not the same as being selected for Regiment. You can go to Ranger School and spend the entire military career in non-Ranger units. And, you can't stay in Regiment for your entire career, so you'll have to transfer to other units. That's why you quite often see a major concentration of Ranger-Qualified/Scrolled Soldiers in Airborne units. So, might want to evaluate what the recruiters said again, because they all sound like they said the same thing. Also to note, different offices have different focuses when it comes to meeting standards and numbers. So, other offices might have RASP slots whereas others do not.

 

 

The Navy's official special warfare recruiting site (sealswcc.com; it's legit, it's linked from the Navy's main navy.com recruiting page) has a SEAL FAQ. You do have to be in the Navy; Marines aren't accepted for training, and a Marine who wants to become a SEAL has to transfer from the Marines to the Navy before being considered for SEAL training (funnily enough, the Coast Guard actually *did* send a few people to BUD/S, but they've now canceled that program).

Also, note: You have to be a US citizen to be a SEAL, as it requires being able to get a Secret security clearance; in addition, dual nationality is not permitted (I don't think that rules out a Secret clearance, but the SEALs in particular require you to renounce all non-US citizenship). After you become a permanent resident (non-permanent resident non-citizens generally can't join; there are exceptions for healthcare professionals and experts in certain languages and cultures, but those are special cases), you can get accelerated citizenship through military service -- if I'm reading USCIS right, *any* length of time of military service right now qualifies a permanent resident for the citizenship process. Once that's completed, *then* you could apply to be a SEAL.

 

 

I'd Join the Sisy-Dog Branch (National Guard) first N' get alot of the Basics done with while still

in School if you are. Then you can be Transferred N' have your Many Basics done etc.

I thinking bout Join But IDK, Not sure I want to "Fight" for People's Freedom that they do not even

appreciate or any thing. AKA, Kids that try to Act like African Americans, or those so called Cool

kids, or Bad As*es. They Appreciate absolutely nothing.

 

 

 

 

Sergeanto!

 

Thanks Guys,

 

 

 

That's what I mean, Like I enjoy learning things about the Marines ,Rangers and Army and you guys have just helped a lot. Hard to learn from Ireland and all you get is sugarcoated shite (sorry but that's the internet for you) but here, i fell this is raw true info.

 

 

How serious I am: I Heard a lot of you guys referring to not just going straight into the SEALS ,Of course. I know to be realistic, I have that as a goal but it's going to be mother fuckin' hard and anything short won't be bad. But I want this. As for a bit about me, I am a footballer and In my football club there's about 40-50% of the players in the Irish Defence forces. Some as Officers (Irish Army Cadets, higher ranked officer, I know ignore the word ''cadet'') and then the others Privates( In the Irish Army) .A matter of fact. The Lieutenant-General of ALL Irish armed forces (Navy, Rangers Cadets, Army) was apart of this club and he was well known to everyone. Recently passing away sue to cancer. Therefor I have my sights on going for the cadets(Irish Army Officer) next year and I have a lot of knowledge about them as a lot of the club is involved. Meaning that I'll get mock interviews and whatnot. 

 

So I don't just plan on going straight into the SEALS ,I plan on doing my time as an officer in the IDF ,then progressing maybe to the Irish Rangers. I might skip the Irish Rangers and go straight to the US Marines hoping that would help for the SEALS. I have to agree though I don't think you need to enlist in the Navy first, I heard a lot of people saying the Marines brought them onto the SEALS.

 

 

@DarkAngle just curious as to the recruiters. They are like reps for the SEALS right? Like what do they mean as to ''I can get you in'' what do they do for you ,then after that initial stage what do you do? And wow It's like the SEALS weren't hard enough!

 

@RexCramer Certainly. I realize they are away from they're families for 300 days a year and a 90% divorce rate.

 

@ArchAngleTwo What! I never knew you were a ranger! Tut I'm so bummed u never told me wtf lol but thanks a lot of valuable info learned sir.

 

@cp702 Sweet, I have talked with people about the citizenship issue ,hopefully I can get that sorted but it's down the line. But what most people are saying is basically Marines is a good route to take for Buds?

 

Few questions :

• Whats GI? 
• Whats MARSOC & SWCC?
• I did hear that they have their own budget and they aren't involed in the military budget ,meaning that the army etc. doesn't have an effect on their budget ?
• And I heard of a lot of people saying a lot of SEALS don't receive a pension due to them leaving before the 20 years due to life, injuries or just not good enough anymore so obviously the pay isn't great, I have to say I was surprised but I wasn't doing it for the pay but anyone have any info on this?
• Recruiters sound like doctors, they all have different opinions but when your talkign to one they sound great. What and where and who is the best one to talk to and how do I find them?

 

Thanks Guys,

 

 

 

That's what I mean, Like I enjoy learning things about the Marines ,Rangers and Army and you guys have just helped a lot. Hard to learn from Ireland and all you get is sugarcoated shite (sorry but that's the internet for you) but here, i fell this is raw true info.

 

 

How serious I am: I Heard a lot of you guys referring to not just going straight into the SEALS ,Of course. I know to be realistic, I have that as a goal but it's going to be mother fuckin' hard and anything short won't be bad. But I want this. As for a bit about me, I am a footballer and In my football club there's about 40-50% of the players in the Irish Defence forces. Some as Officers (Irish Army Cadets, higher ranked officer, I know ignore the word ''cadet'') and then the others Privates( In the Irish Army) .A matter of fact. The Lieutenant-General of ALL Irish armed forces (Navy, Rangers Cadets, Army) was apart of this club and he was well known to everyone. Recently passing away sue to cancer. Therefor I have my sights on going for the cadets(Irish Army Officer) next year and I have a lot of knowledge about them as a lot of the club is involved. Meaning that I'll get mock interviews and whatnot. 

 

So I don't just plan on going straight into the SEALS ,I plan on doing my time as an officer in the IDF ,then progressing maybe to the Irish Rangers. I might skip the Irish Rangers and go straight to the US Marines hoping that would help for the SEALS. I have to agree though I don't think you need to enlist in the Navy first, I heard a lot of people saying the Marines brought them onto the SEALS.

 

 

@DarkAngle just curious as to the recruiters. They are like reps for the SEALS right? Like what do they mean as to ''I can get you in'' what do they do for you ,then after that initial stage what do you do? And wow It's like the SEALS weren't hard enough!

 

@RexCramer Certainly. I realize they are away from they're families for 300 days a year and a 90% divorce rate.

 

@ArchAngleTwo What! I never knew you were a ranger! Tut I'm so bummed u never told me wtf lol but thanks a lot of valuable info learned sir.

 

@cp702 Sweet, I have talked with people about the citizenship issue ,hopefully I can get that sorted but it's down the line. But what most people are saying is basically Marines is a good route to take for Buds?

 

Few questions :

• Whats GI? 
• Whats MARSOC & SWCC?
• I did hear that they have their own budget and they aren't involed in the military budget ,meaning that the army etc. doesn't have an effect on their budget ?
• And I heard of a lot of people saying a lot of SEALS don't receive a pension due to them leaving before the 20 years due to life, injuries or just not good enough anymore so obviously the pay isn't great, I have to say I was surprised but I wasn't doing it for the pay but anyone have any info on this?
• Recruiters sound like doctors, they all have different opinions but when your talkign to one they sound great. What and where and who is the best one to talk to and how do I find them?

 

 

No the recruiters don't represent the seals. All they are there for is to get you into the navy and lie to you. I have no idea how you sign up for the seals so your going to have to do your research and talk to some recruiters. (Talk to at least 3 if not more) and see what they say. Chances are each one will say something different. 

Good for you Tom. I'm glad you have a good idea of where you want to set yourself. That's a big goal but you can achieve it! Best of luck and keep me updated

Good luck to you sir. Always strive towards your goals no matter what they are.

Not sure if it is of interest to you, but something closer to home for you might be the Special Boat Squadron a part of the interesting community of Special Operations Units in the United Kingdom. From what I've heard, they are a small, dedicated unit that does everything the Special Air Squadron does...only they also specialize in seaborne operations. Kind of like SWCC and SEALs rolled into one package (due to limited resources). I've also heard some things (not much, which is probably better if you're talking Special Forces) about the Irish Defense Force Ranger Teams. Particularly a Hostage Rescue Unit or something. Either way, there are a number of Special Operations forces that have a great relationship with the United States Navy SEALs and all of the great individuals who make up the Special Operations COMmand.

 

Of course, I would never discourage another individual from the Teams. I'm a huge fan of their work as well and enjoy learning and reading everything I can about them (for instance my presence in a topic simply based on the title "Navy SEAL"...I didn't need to read any further). If you plan on Enlisting, there is a "SEAL Contract" that you might be able to qualify for. The name is incredibly misleading, however. The "Contract" allows for you to participate in additional Physical Training during Recruit Training and allows you an additional chance or two at the Physical Readiness Test that can earn you a spot in BUD/S. The average Recruit is allowed a single chance. Something to be sure to ask a recruiter about. If you're interested in going in as an Officer, you may have a difficult time finding a slot open unless you manage to get into Annapolis (not even sure how someone in Ireland would do that). You could find a way to go through another service-affiliated university, such as Texas A&M or the Virginia Military Institute, or even make your way through a college/university and then apply for OCS but the available billets go to interested individuals in the order in which I've presented them to you. Of course it is possible to find your way into a similar field, such as Naval Intelligence, and apply for an open slot later in your career. Not sure where you see yourself in the Chain of Command, of course. If you'd like the opinion of some stranger, I'd suggest reading Warrior Soul by Chuck Pfarrer. He has a pretty good deal of focus on his time in BUD/S and his career on the Teams.

 

Best of luck to you in whatever field you pursue.

 

Thanks Guys,

 

 

 

That's what I mean, Like I enjoy learning things about the Marines ,Rangers and Army and you guys have just helped a lot. Hard to learn from Ireland and all you get is sugarcoated shite (sorry but that's the internet for you) but here, i fell this is raw true info.

 

 

How serious I am: I Heard a lot of you guys referring to not just going straight into the SEALS ,Of course. I know to be realistic, I have that as a goal but it's going to be mother fuckin' hard and anything short won't be bad. But I want this. As for a bit about me, I am a footballer and In my football club there's about 40-50% of the players in the Irish Defence forces. Some as Officers (Irish Army Cadets, higher ranked officer, I know ignore the word ''cadet'') and then the others Privates( In the Irish Army) .A matter of fact. The Lieutenant-General of ALL Irish armed forces (Navy, Rangers Cadets, Army) was apart of this club and he was well known to everyone. Recently passing away sue to cancer. Therefor I have my sights on going for the cadets(Irish Army Officer) next year and I have a lot of knowledge about them as a lot of the club is involved. Meaning that I'll get mock interviews and whatnot. 

 

So I don't just plan on going straight into the SEALS ,I plan on doing my time as an officer in the IDF ,then progressing maybe to the Irish Rangers. I might skip the Irish Rangers and go straight to the US Marines hoping that would help for the SEALS. I have to agree though I don't think you need to enlist in the Navy first, I heard a lot of people saying the Marines brought them onto the SEALS.

 

 

 

To go into the SEALS yourself, you're going to have to be in the Navy and do your time. Anywhere else, and the SEALS will COME TO YOU. If you prove yourself, they'll come to you. As far as proving yourself, you'll have to have combat experience. I'm talking like a few years combat experience. 

 

Recruiters are lying sacks of shit. They get almost like a "commission" when you enlist through them. So they'll lie to you and tell you you're the next Captain America, and before you know it, you'll be a lowly squid serving slop on an aircraft carrier (That's meant to be sarcasm, but you get the point). 

 

We don't mean to sound like we're crapping on your dream, but it's fucking hard as hell to even get selected. This is the premier league of SPECOPS forces in the world. 

 

As for being a non US citizen, if by chance you're selected it's going to be one of those, "Don't call us, We'll call you" type of recruitment. 

 

Best of luck to you, man. You sound like you have a ton of drive, but be prepared for Hell Week   

So like many of the others have said, you MUST be a United States Citizen, there are not if's, and or buts about it. Second, a basic internet search of the BUD/s frequently asked questions basically answered all of your questions it seems. Google: BUD/s frequently asked questions. Next, I know your passionate about the SEALs but which team? 1-9 +2 additional. The reason I ask this question is because you might find that you can join the Army Ranger Wing (Irish Army folks), or the Garda Emergence Response Unit. Both train with US Army Rangers, SAS and other elite tactical forces units. While the SEALs are well known, so are many other special force units throughout the world. You live in Ireland, is your dream to someday become an American or just work for the US Navy? You are at that stage in life that if you are serious about this career (yes that is what it needs to be) you need to look at the BIG picture and decide once and for all what you want to do. All special forces are just that SPECIAL FORCES, they are secretive, require you shut off you "real life" and devote every ounce of energy to the cause. Are you willing to cut off your loved ones for this? Can you live without falling in love, because if you do, can you (and that other person) have a strong relationship without seeing or talking to each other for weeks if not months at a time? I am in no way trying to change your mind or talk you out of anything but what it sounds like to me is you really don't have any "guidance", what you should look into is going to or talking to your local regiment, find out what is really needed. Don't rely on recruiters or even those of us on here, you need honest, from the source information. You are not making a light decision here, the choices you make with regards to this dream with forever shape the rest of your life. I wish you the best of luck and hope someone will take you under their wing and mentor you and help mold you into the solider you want to become.

I'd Join the Sisy-Dog Branch (National Guard) 

 

 I thinking bout Join But IDK, Not sure I want to "Fight" for People's Freedom that they do not even

appreciate or any thing. AKA, Kids that try to Act like African Americans, or those so called Cool

kids, or Bad As*es. They Appreciate absolutely nothing.

 

No offense but Sissy-Dog Branch? What about the National Guardsmen that were killed in Iraq or Afghanistan since 2001? One in 10 troops killed in action since 2001 was a member of the National Guard

 

You are thinking about joining but you don't know? You aren't sure you want to fight for people? You have the freedom of speech to bash the National Guard WHICH is not a Branch but a component of the United States Army. Unlike those and I quote "Kids that try to act like African Americans, or those so called cool kids and or bad as*ses that appreciate absolutely nothing" I actually respect the United States Military those Currently and those who have since retired. From what I've read from your comment you don't seem to appreciate the National Guard while they actually do fight for your freedoms aswell as many others. The National Guard is one of the most deployed Components/Unit in the US Military.

 

Few questions :

• Whats GI? My guess would be Government Issue or a nickname for a American Service Member
• Whats MARSOC & SWCC? MARSOC is a US Marine Corps Special Forces Unit known as Marine Forces Special Operations Command
• Recruiters sound like doctors, they all have different opinions but when your talkign to one they sound great. What and where and who is the best one to talk to and how do I find them? Recruiters don't always tell the truth. There are very few to actually tell the truth and you should try and find the one who sounds the most reasonable and honest. At my school we have a few Recruiters who are actually from around the area and are 99.9% honest with you.

 

 

 

D

Edited March 23, 201412 yr by DakotaM990

No offense but Sissy-Dog Branch? What about the National Guardsmen that were killed in Iraq or Afghanistan since 2001? One in 10 troops killed in action since 2001 was a member of the National Guard

 

You are thinking about joining but you don't know? You aren't sure you want to fight for people? You have the freedom of speech to bash the National Guard WHICH is not a Branch but a component of the United States Army. Unlike those and I quote "Kids that try to act like African Americans, or those so called cool kids and or bad as*ses that appreciate absolutely nothing" I actually respect the United States Military those Currently and those who have since retired. From what I've read from your comment you don't seem to appreciate the National Guard while they actually do fight for your freedoms aswell as many others. The National Guard is one of the most deployed Components/Unit in the US Military.

 

 

 

D

Estes buey, I call it the Sisy Dog Branch cause they are Basically Weekend Wirriors. N' is what an actual Weekend warrior called it. N' they are the first ones dispatched out first before the actually Army. N' I do know some Kids that are currently weekend warriors.

 

On an other note about 9 1/2 Years of being a weekend warrior is equal to one full year of Service.

Also you have to be able to view things from my Perspective. N' I already showed one of those African-American Wanna bees up. N' I am not being Racial.

N' Also buey I Mexican, mi prospective es different from Americans. Even Americans agree, N' other Race as well. N' I am talking bout 40 or so years of age people.

 

Sergeanto!

No offense but Sissy-Dog Branch? What about the National Guardsmen that were killed in Iraq or Afghanistan since 2001? One in 10 troops killed in action since 2001 was a member of the National Guard

 

You are thinking about joining but you don't know? You aren't sure you want to fight for people? You have the freedom of speech to bash the National Guard WHICH is not a Branch but a component of the United States Army. Unlike those and I quote "Kids that try to act like African Americans, or those so called cool kids and or bad as*ses that appreciate absolutely nothing" I actually respect the United States Military those Currently and those who have since retired. From what I've read from your comment you don't seem to appreciate the National Guard while they actually do fight for your freedoms aswell as many others. The National Guard is one of the most deployed Components/Unit in the US Military.

 

 

 

D

 

 

So like many of the others have said, you MUST be a United States Citizen, there are not if's, and or buts about it. Second, a basic internet search of the BUD/s frequently asked questions basically answered all of your questions it seems. Google: BUD/s frequently asked questions. Next, I know your passionate about the SEALs but which team? 1-9 +2 additional. The reason I ask this question is because you might find that you can join the Army Ranger Wing (Irish Army folks), or the Garda Emergence Response Unit. Both train with US Army Rangers, SAS and other elite tactical forces units. While the SEALs are well known, so are many other special force units throughout the world. You live in Ireland, is your dream to someday become an American or just work for the US Navy? You are at that stage in life that if you are serious about this career (yes that is what it needs to be) you need to look at the BIG picture and decide once and for all what you want to do. All special forces are just that SPECIAL FORCES, they are secretive, require you shut off you "real life" and devote every ounce of energy to the cause. Are you willing to cut off your loved ones for this? Can you live without falling in love, because if you do, can you (and that other person) have a strong relationship without seeing or talking to each other for weeks if not months at a time? I am in no way trying to change your mind or talk you out of anything but what it sounds like to me is you really don't have any "guidance", what you should look into is going to or talking to your local regiment, find out what is really needed. Don't rely on recruiters or even those of us on here, you need honest, from the source information. You are not making a light decision here, the choices you make with regards to this dream with forever shape the rest of your life. I wish you the best of luck and hope someone will take you under their wing and mentor you and help mold you into the solider you want to become.

 

 

To go into the SEALS yourself, you're going to have to be in the Navy and do your time. Anywhere else, and the SEALS will COME TO YOU. If you prove yourself, they'll come to you. As far as proving yourself, you'll have to have combat experience. I'm talking like a few years combat experience. 

 

Recruiters are lying sacks of shit. They get almost like a "commission" when you enlist through them. So they'll lie to you and tell you you're the next Captain America, and before you know it, you'll be a lowly squid serving slop on an aircraft carrier (That's meant to be sarcasm, but you get the point). 

 

We don't mean to sound like we're crapping on your dream, but it's fucking hard as hell to even get selected. This is the premier league of SPECOPS forces in the world. 

 

As for being a non US citizen, if by chance you're selected it's going to be one of those, "Don't call us, We'll call you" type of recruitment. 

 

Best of luck to you, man. You sound like you have a ton of drive, but be prepared for Hell Week   

 

 

Good luck to you sir. Always strive towards your goals no matter what they are.

 

 

Good for you Tom. I'm glad you have a good idea of where you want to set yourself. That's a big goal but you can achieve it! Best of luck and keep me updated

 

 

Not sure if it is of interest to you, but something closer to home for you might be the Special Boat Squadron a part of the interesting community of Special Operations Units in the United Kingdom. From what I've heard, they are a small, dedicated unit that does everything the Special Air Squadron does...only they also specialize in seaborne operations. Kind of like SWCC and SEALs rolled into one package (due to limited resources). I've also heard some things (not much, which is probably better if you're talking Special Forces) about the Irish Defense Force Ranger Teams. Particularly a Hostage Rescue Unit or something. Either way, there are a number of Special Operations forces that have a great relationship with the United States Navy SEALs and all of the great individuals who make up the Special Operations COMmand.

 

Of course, I would never discourage another individual from the Teams. I'm a huge fan of their work as well and enjoy learning and reading everything I can about them (for instance my presence in a topic simply based on the title "Navy SEAL"...I didn't need to read any further). If you plan on Enlisting, there is a "SEAL Contract" that you might be able to qualify for. The name is incredibly misleading, however. The "Contract" allows for you to participate in additional Physical Training during Recruit Training and allows you an additional chance or two at the Physical Readiness Test that can earn you a spot in BUD/S. The average Recruit is allowed a single chance. Something to be sure to ask a recruiter about. If you're interested in going in as an Officer, you may have a difficult time finding a slot open unless you manage to get into Annapolis (not even sure how someone in Ireland would do that). You could find a way to go through another service-affiliated university, such as Texas A&M or the Virginia Military Institute, or even make your way through a college/university and then apply for OCS but the available billets go to interested individuals in the order in which I've presented them to you. Of course it is possible to find your way into a similar field, such as Naval Intelligence, and apply for an open slot later in your career. Not sure where you see yourself in the Chain of Command, of course. If you'd like the opinion of some stranger, I'd suggest reading Warrior Soul by Chuck Pfarrer. He has a pretty good deal of focus on his time in BUD/S and his career on the Teams.

 

Best of luck to you in whatever field you pursue.

 

 

No the recruiters don't represent the seals. All they are there for is to get you into the navy and lie to you. I have no idea how you sign up for the seals so your going to have to do your research and talk to some recruiters. (Talk to at least 3 if not more) and see what they say. Chances are each one will say something different. 

 

 

Really appreciate the feedback and support. I've learned a lot, before I was looking at recruiters that would guide me where to go and how to do it. Now with what you have said I feel like I need that person/organisation to guide me, help me and answer questions when I actually plan on going for this like when I am in the US and when I want to go for t. Where do I go, what to do? Like It sounds like if possible avoiding these recruiters mightn't sound like a bad thing. I want realism, not some guy trying to sell me something. As for this being a big goal, I don't mean this in a one bit offensive way but you don't know me(not aggressive) as in you don't know what I offer in terms of communication skills and teamwork skills and motivation. I think going for the SEALs you need a unrealistic amount of motivation, where to like you just become obsessed with the idea, I do that when I want something. Nothing, but that.... Like last year playing football.......Bang!...out for 3 months with a serious operation in hospital then with the focus and motivation I was back plying within like 2 months. 

 

 

Motivation is not a problem, training daily, eating right, 6ft. 2 at 17 y/o. Look guys I plan on looking short term at the moment for the Irish Defense Forces(Officer) then onto the Irish Ranger Wing and hopefully after that Is where I would have enough experience, and maturity to see if I really want this and I'm sure by time I get to that stage I will be raring for the marines / Navy. I will remember all you guys when going  through this process and fuc* that lets go for it!

 

 

Keep sharing your info opinions I love it. Even some military experience would be amazing or any fun facts about the topic

 

 

 

Thanks.

I'd Join the Sisy-Dog Branch (National Guard) first N' get alot of the Basics done with while still

in School if you are. Then you can be Transferred N' have your Many Basics done etc.

I thinking bout Join But IDK, Not sure I want to "Fight" for People's Freedom that they do not even

appreciate or any thing. AKA, Kids that try to Act like African Americans, or those so called Cool

kids, or Bad As*es. They Appreciate absolutely nothing.

 

 

 

 

Sergeanto!

 

Excuse me? Might want to watch why you say. I have a brother in the National Guard, and its probably going to be deployed soon. No one in the military is a sissy, yeah some jobs are harder then others. The only thing that would make you a sissy is if you run away from your group. 

 

Oh by the way if we end up going back to pre WW2 military size that so called "Sisy" branch will be one of the only branches capable of defending the country. 

 

I know a few people that were in the national guard that have been killed, so if you want to be calling the national guard sisys I would like to see you go up to a active national guards man and say that to him.

 

Until you do that, do me and everyone else a favor and shut up and stop calling them there "sisy" branch. 

Edited March 23, 201412 yr by Darkangel