
How to Join the Black Ops: A Comprehensive Guide
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To join the Black Ops, also known as the U.S. Special Forces, you must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being a U.S. citizen, between 20-32 years old, and meeting the Army height and weight standards, as well as obtaining an ASVAB placement test TECH score of 110 or above. The process involves enlisting as an active duty or Army National Guard Soldier, qualifying for Airborne School, and obtaining eligibility for a secret security clearance, after which you can request assignment to an Army Special Forces unit and undergo intensive training to become part of the elite special operations forces.
Eligibility and Requirements
The Black Ops, an elite unit of the U.S. Special Forces, require a unique set of skills, physical and mental toughness, and a strong dedication to service. To qualify, one must meet a series of stringent requirements.
FAQs About Joining Black Ops
General Questions
- What is the age limit to join Special Forces?: The age limit to join Special Forces is between 20-32 years old for those not currently serving in the Army, and 20-36 years old for those already in service.
- Can I join Special Forces as a civilian?: Yes, for the first time in many years, the Army is recruiting civilians to join the U.S. Special Forces, allowing them to enlist on a Special Forces contract.
- How much do Black Ops get paid?: The estimated average salary for Black Ops employees is around $78,598 per year, with the highest earners in the top 75th percentile being paid over $87,945.
Training and Qualifications
- How long is Black Ops training?: Black Ops training is completed in six stages over 63 weeks, starting with a two-week Special Operations Preparation Course.
- What makes Black Ops the world’s most dangerous soldiers?: Black Ops are considered among the most dangerous soldiers due to their extensive training, physical and mental toughness, and the high-risk nature of their missions.
- Is it hard to join Special Forces?: Yes, joining Special Forces is extremely challenging, requiring candidates to be mentally and physically tough, endure difficult training, and face challenges head-on.
Career and Benefits
- How much do special forces get paid?: The average annual pay for an Army Special Forces member in the United States is $56,982 a year, equivalent to approximately $27.40 an hour.
- Do Navy SEALs get paid for life?: Navy SEALs are eligible for retirement after 20 years of service, with many continuing service for at least 30 years to maximize their retirement benefits, receiving 50% of their average base salary for retirement.
- How much does a Green Beret make?: The average hourly pay for a Green Berets in the United States is $19.02 an hour.
Age and Service Limitations
- Is 22 too old to join Special Forces?: No, 22 is within the 20-32 years old range for those not currently serving in the Army, making it an acceptable age to join Special Forces.
- Is 30 too old for Special Forces?: While 30 is still within the acceptable range for those already in service, for civilians, the cutoff is 32 years old.
- Is 27 too old to join the Navy SEALs?: Yes, Navy SEAL candidates must be 28 or less prior to arriving at the Naval Special Warfare Preparatory School (NSWPREP).
Comparison and Rankings
- What is the hardest branch in the military?: The Marine Corps is often argued to have the hardest military training, with its personnel sometimes going on to become SEALs or part of the Marine Raider Regiment (MRR).
- Who is tougher, Rangers or SEALs?: Both Rangers and SEALs undergo intensive training, but the route to SEALs training is more direct, with candidates needing to meet strict physical criteria and pass several tests.
- What is the most secret Special Forces?: SOG (Studies and Observations Group) is considered the most secretive special operations force within the United States, with fewer than 100 operators, generally recruiting from special mission units within the U.S. Special Operations community.