Intro
Uncover the elite world of the 19th Special Forces Group, a US Army National Guard unit renowned for its expertise in unconventional warfare and foreign internal defense. Discover 10 key facts about this secretive group, including its formation, mission, training, and notable operations, shedding light on the Green Berets specialized capabilities and strategic impact.
The 19th Special Forces Group, also known as the 19th SFG, is a unit of the United States Army National Guard that specializes in unconventional warfare, direct action, and special reconnaissance. Here are 10 facts about the 19th Special Forces Group:
Fact #1: Formation and History
The 19th Special Forces Group was activated on May 1, 1961, at Draper, Utah. The unit was originally designed to conduct unconventional warfare, guerrilla warfare, and special reconnaissance missions behind enemy lines. Over the years, the unit has undergone several reorganizations and redesignations.
Early Years
In the early 1960s, the 19th SFG was focused on conducting unconventional warfare training and exercises with its sister unit, the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta (1st SFOD-D). The unit also provided training and support to other military units and government agencies.
Fact #2: Unit Structure
The 19th Special Forces Group is a battalion-sized unit that consists of several operational detachments, a headquarters company, and a support company. The unit is organized into several specialized teams, including Operational Detachments-Alpha (ODA), Operational Detachments-Bravo (ODB), and Operational Detachments-Charlie (ODC).
Operational Teams
Each operational team is designed to conduct specific missions, such as unconventional warfare, direct action, and special reconnaissance. The teams are trained to operate in a variety of environments and are equipped with specialized gear and equipment.
Fact #3: Training and Qualifications
To become a member of the 19th Special Forces Group, soldiers must complete the Army's Special Forces Qualification Course, also known as the "Q Course." The course is designed to test a soldier's physical and mental toughness, as well as their ability to work in a team environment.
Training Exercises
The Q Course includes a variety of training exercises, such as parachute training, combat diving, and survival, evasion, resistance, and escape (SERE) training. Soldiers who complete the course are awarded the Special Forces tab and are qualified to wear the Green Beret.
Fact #4: Missions and Deployments
The 19th Special Forces Group has deployed to several countries around the world, including Vietnam, Afghanistan, and Iraq. The unit has conducted a variety of missions, including unconventional warfare, direct action, and special reconnaissance.
Counterinsurgency Operations
In Afghanistan and Iraq, the 19th SFG has conducted counterinsurgency operations, working with local forces to build security and stability in the region. The unit has also conducted training and advisory missions with foreign military forces.
Fact #5: Awards and Decorations
The 19th Special Forces Group has received several awards and decorations for its service, including the Presidential Unit Citation, the Valorous Unit Award, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation.
Individual Awards
Members of the 19th SFG have also received individual awards and decorations, including the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, and the Silver Star.
Fact #6: Special Forces Culture
The 19th Special Forces Group has a unique culture that emphasizes teamwork, sacrifice, and self-discipline. The unit's motto is "De Oppresso Liber," which means "To Free the Oppressed."
Esprit de Corps
The unit's esprit de corps is reflected in its traditions and ceremonies, such as the annual "Change of Command" ceremony, which marks the transfer of command from one commander to another.
Fact #7: Special Forces Creed
The 19th Special Forces Group adheres to the Special Forces Creed, which emphasizes the importance of teamwork, loyalty, and sacrifice. The creed is as follows:
"I am an American Special Forces operator. A professional soldier. A member of a special brotherhood. I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life."
Special Forces Values
The unit's values are reflected in its emphasis on teamwork, self-discipline, and sacrifice. The unit's members are expected to embody these values in their daily lives and in their service to the nation.
Fact #8: Special Forces Training Facilities
The 19th Special Forces Group has access to several training facilities, including the Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) facility at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.
Training Capabilities
The unit also has access to the Army's premier special operations training facility, the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School (USAJFKSWCS). The facility provides training in a variety of special operations skills, including unconventional warfare, direct action, and special reconnaissance.
Fact #9: Special Forces and Interagency Operations
The 19th Special Forces Group has worked with a variety of interagency partners, including the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the U.S. Department of State.
Interagency Training
The unit has also participated in interagency training exercises, such as the annual "Robin Sage" exercise, which simulates a deployment to a foreign country.
Fact #10: 19th Special Forces Group Today
Today, the 19th Special Forces Group continues to deploy to various countries around the world, conducting a variety of special operations missions. The unit remains committed to its core values of teamwork, self-discipline, and sacrifice.
Legacy of Excellence
The 19th SFG's legacy of excellence is reflected in its history, its culture, and its continued commitment to serving the nation.
Gallery of Special Forces Group
Special Forces Group Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 19th Special Forces Group?
+The 19th Special Forces Group is a unit of the United States Army National Guard that specializes in unconventional warfare, direct action, and special reconnaissance.
What is the history of the 19th Special Forces Group?
+The 19th Special Forces Group was activated on May 1, 1961, at Draper, Utah. The unit has undergone several reorganizations and redesignations over the years.
What is the mission of the 19th Special Forces Group?
+The mission of the 19th Special Forces Group is to conduct unconventional warfare, direct action, and special reconnaissance missions in support of national security objectives.
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