From the commandant

When Special Forces was formed in 1952, the United States was facing the possibility of supporting guerrilla uprisings against communist forces in Eastern Europe. Although we live in a vastly different world today, the need for soldiers qualified to perform unconventional missions has not diminished.

Over the years, as the operating environment and the nature of SF operations have changed, SF training has evolved to keep pace. In response to lessons learned during the war on terrorism, we have added training in a number of skills, including close air support, adaptive leadership, marksmanship and urban warfare.

Having commanded the U.S. Army Special Forces Command during Operation Enduring Freedom and the initial stages of Operation Iraqi Freedom, I am intensely proud of the performance and the sacrifices of our Special Forces officers and NCOs. While I revere the accomplishments of our predecessors, I think we have never produced finer soldiers than those we have today.

Operations in Afghanistan and in Iraq have demonstrated the dedication, intelligence, technological skill and adaptability of our SF soldiers, and the number of Silver Stars that they have already earned is a testament to their warrior spirit. While some lessons learned during these operations have pointed out areas in SF training that need change, many more have validated our existing training.

As the global war on terrorism continues, SF may need to adapt further in order to find new ways of contributing with its unique capabilities. The Special Warfare Center and School must respond to field requirements while simultaneously ensuring that the SF training pipeline fills the force. The outstanding officers, NCOs and civilians of the command stand ready to do so.

COPYRIGHT 2003 John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group