WHAT WE DO
Falling under the umbrella of Special Operations Forces (SOF), Special Forces is the United States military's premier Unconventional Warfare force. The missions undertaken by Special Forces encompass a broad spectrum of capabilities, including Unconventional Warfare, Counter-Terrorism, Direct Action, Foreign Internal Defense, and Special Reconnaissance. Operating in self-sufficient teams comprised of 12 individuals, Special Forces Soldiers are well-suited for both sensitive and demanding missions that require mental agility as well as physical stamina.
Special Forces operates globally, from playing key roles in Operation Enduring Freedom to humanitarian work in Africa and counter-narcotics in South America. National Guard Special Forces have additional missions stateside providing unique resources in response to disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes.
History - Inception
1944
Special Forces traces its lineage back to World War II. The Office of Strategic Services (OSS) deployed small "Jedburgh" teams to occupied France to organize local resistance movements against the Nazi forces as well as conduct subversion and guerilla warfare.
1952
The first Special Forces Group was officially formed and activated. Later in 1961, President Kennedy authorized the "Green Beret" as the official headgear and prioritized the development and role of Special Forces, leading to the creation of 19th and 20th Special Forces Groups in the Army National Guard.
History - Cold War
1961-1971
Special Forces are deployed to Vietnam in their first combat role. SF Soldiers were a part of MACV-SOG units who conducted covert, unconventional missions deep behind enemy lines.
1980-2000
On 20 February 1991 the entire 20th Special Forces Group was activated for Operation Desert Storm. Members of 3rd Battalion, 20th Special Forces Group participated in Operation Provide Comfort, providing humanitarian assistance to Kurdish refugees in northern Iraq.
History - War on Terror
2001-Present
Special Forces play a key role in Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, including organizing the Northern Alliance in order to secure Afghanistan. National Guard Special Forces Soldiers continue the fight for freedom around the world, including the most recent conflict with ISIS in Operation Inherent Resolve.