To understand what it takes to be a Green Beret, one must understand the honor behind the title. Only then can someone understand why soldiers are willing to undergo the extreme measures required to be one.

During WWII, US Army Rangers partook of a joint training exercise from the Royal Marines in Scotland. This grueling and revolutionary commando course trained the men for covert operations. Upon completion they were awarded the Green Beret. This was an unauthorized piece of uniform for them until 1961. President John F. Kennedy authorized the wearing of the Green Beret for the US Special Forces Unit. He felt they should have something that set them apart. He called the green beret "a symbol of excellence, a badge of courage, a mark of distinction in the fight for freedom."

In order to be considered for Special Forces training, a soldier must pass the Special Forces Assessment and Selection Course (SFAS). This course has some very strict requirements for entry. A minimum score of 260 on the physiacal fitness test, (maximum score is 300). Have 3 years of service with a perfect record, and a level of motivation beyond normal. The 3 week course takes place at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Three weeks of the most grueling physical and psychological testing a body can endure. A recent class started with 185 men and only 23 were chosen as fit to continue to the "Q Course". Most failed to even complete the course.

The Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC), Q Course, is the training ground for occupational specialties. It can take 6 months to over a year. Time frame is based on your course of study. Fatigue and stress are the best words to describe what happens during the Q Course. A soldier must be able to perform the following with ease to pass: Swim wearing uniform and boots for 100 meters. Swim wearing fins for 100 meters. Swim 1000 to 2000 meters. Run 3 to 5 miles as fast as you can. Be able to march with 50 pound rucksack for 15 miles at a fast pace. Pull-ups- 75 to 100 repetitions, push-ups- 200 to 300 repetitions, sit-ups- 200 to 300 repetitions. And be able to do all of these 3 to 5 times a week.

Then pass the psycological testing under stress and fatigue. Prove leadership abilities and problem solving under stressful situations. Be able to perform duties without hesitation. If a soldier can do all of this, then he can wear the Green Beret.

"De Oppresso Liber" - to free the oppressed, is the motto of the Green Beret, and they do not take lightly their duty. Neither should anyone who wishes to join them.