Arw selection/training

Rew

minidazzler wrote: »

b) It is not of high enough quality to be official. The DF are good at websites. and this is not a good website.

From an information and pictures point of view its far better then military.ie. From design and profesional product its not great then again neither is military.ie

The word on that site is that its the unofficial offical site i'd belive the info on it alot quicker then 99% of whats gone up here... :rolleyes:

twinytwo

Covenline wrote: »

heres a dumb question...

can you apply for the ARW from the RDF?:)

Wouldnt be much point if you could.. Rdf wouldnt have the fitness, knowledge or weapon handling.

twinytwo

eroo wrote: »

Tbh,this subject has been done to death!Quis/Pathfinder don't take everything you read on the internet as fact,it's like depending on the Star for news!:D

Btw,fianoglach.ie is NOT an official site..and wiki is the bare minimum.With all respect I think everyone is tired of ARW threads..because it makes the forum look walty imo.
Mods,PLEASE shut this thread!It will save you wearing out your banning sticks!!:D

if u want this thread closed.. y do u keep posting here?

twinytwo

Im sure everyone knows by now that Quis and pathfinder are one in the same

Rew

twinytwo wrote: »

Wouldnt be much point if you could.. Rdf wouldnt have the fitness, knowledge or weapon handling.

Really thats not what the ARW have to say wehn the work with the RDF, but im sure you know better...

twinytwo

Rew wrote: »

Really thats not what the ARW have to say wehn the work with the RDF, but im sure you know better...

Lets be serious for a min.... You think that a person in the reserves who train one/two night(s) a week would be able to pass selection... Which full time members of the pdf would find extremely hard to do... its called common sence

Manic Moran

Honestly, I don't see why they can't. US and UK have reserve Special Forces units. Obviously successful candidates would be incredibly few and far between, but a lot of the 'trick' to passing these high-dropout courses is determination and will.

NTM

Bam Bam

Personal conviction and commitment maketh the ranger.

RDF do have a special unit the "combat badgers"

minidazzler

twinytwo wrote: »

Lets be serious for a min.... You think that a person in the reserves who train one/two night(s) a week would be able to pass selection... Which full time members of the pdf would find extremely hard to do... its called common sence

I know at least two reservists who if they actually wanted to could go on Most SF selection courses and pass (physical aspects). Their only problem is they dont have the mind for it.

Rew

twinytwo wrote: »

Lets be serious for a min.... You think that a person in the reserves who train one/two night(s) a week would be able to pass selection... Which full time members of the pdf would find extremely hard to do... its called common sence

You would be surprised, one thing the the ARW look for which the RDF cann't atain is over seas experience. Anyone can achive the fitness level required with time, effort and training. The wing lads more and more look for RDF bods to help out on selection and skills courses because they get a group of willing and able troops who will do exactly whats required of them.

twinytwo

minidazzler wrote: »

I know at least two reservists who if they actually wanted to could go on Most SF selection courses and pass (physical aspects). Their only problem is they dont have the mind for it.

Eh ok... the hardest part of any sf selection is the Mentality aspect of it..And exactly do u no they would pass .. im assuming they have never tried?

twinytwo

Rew wrote: »

You would be surprised, one thing the the ARW look for which the RDF cann't atain is over seas experience. Anyone can achive the fitness level required with time, effort and training. The wing lads more and more look for RDF bods to help out on selection and skills courses because they get a group of willing and able troops who will do exactly whats required of them.

Im not saying they couldnt but the most guys in the reserves have full time jobs or are in college etc etc.. the time needed to train to a level to be able to pass selection cannot easily be found... I mean you would propbally want to run at least 40 miles a week as well as swimming ,circuits, hill walking/running.. the list goes on..

jim2008

twinytwo wrote: »

Im not saying they couldnt but the most guys in the reserves have full time jobs or are in college etc etc.. the time needed to train to a level to be able to pass selection cannot easily be found... I mean you would propbally want to run at least 40 miles a week as well as swimming ,circuits, hill walking/running.. the list goes on..

You must not be in the army mate! People with 9 to 5 jobs 5 days a week have lots off time to train, they have every night and weekends, a young soldier will have 24hr duties(which can take a few days to recover) plus cash escorts and other duties all which include long days doing nothing.Yes some units go mad on pts once in a while which is great for fittness levels but these usually dont last.

Running Bing

twinytwo wrote: »

Im not saying they couldnt but the most guys in the reserves have full time jobs or are in college etc etc.. the time needed to train to a level to be able to pass selection cannot easily be found... I mean you would propbally want to run at least 40 miles a week as well as swimming ,circuits, hill walking/running.. the list goes on..

Have a read of this book twiny



It was a real eye opener for me. About a guy who joins 21 sas which is basically a reserve force that trains one night a week and every second weekend.

I never even knew such a thing existed(I bought it thinking it was about the regular SAS). Really good read and the level these guys are at is quite amazing. Its got to be fvcking tough because by its nature your obviouusly gonna get plenty of walts showing up for something like that.

Running Bing

Sorry heres the link for the book.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Quiet-Soldier-Adam-Ballinger/dp/1857971582/ref=cm_lmf_tit_8_rsrsrs0

Ronan Raver77

Here is a story from Thursdays Evening Herald...

BOOM!!!! .. The whole truck shuddered as the explosion detonated.
A second later the rattle of automatic fire deafened me as we all dived from the vehicle and frantically returned fire in the general direction of the enemy ambush while we looked for cover in an attempt to form a fire base.

BOOM!!! .. I felt the shockwave of the next explosion through my chest, followed seconds later by a wave of heat. With my head spinning I dived for cover and let off a blast of automatic.
By this stage one of my fellow students had taken control of the situation and had a baseline formed. Straight away we all knew what to do and like clockwork our contact drills kicked in. My heart was pounding as we went into all-round cover and I roared for more ammo.

I was cold, wet, tired and hungry and all I had to look forward to was an all night forced march over some of the worst mountains in Wicklow with the weight of a small person on my back. Yet, to tell the truth, I wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else in the world as I knew I was within days of passing Army Ranger Wing (ARW) Selection.

I’m known as “Mono” and I’m 26 years old. I’ve been in the Defence Forces for five years and come from an infantry background. In March last year I passed selection course “Oscar One”, a small part of which I described at the start of this article. Selection was followed immediately by a five-month skills course. Since September, I have served as an assault team member and I’m currently forming up for deployment to Chad with the Rangers.

My interest in the Rangers started in my teens, when I first heard about the unit and has grown ever since. In my four years in the infantry I researched and acquired as much information as I could from people who were on selection and from the unit itself.
I was very fortunate in the fact that my previous unit was very encouraging when it comes to soldiering and also my section commander in recruit training was an ex-Ranger.

These, and many other factors, fuelled my determination to join. After failing at my first attempt to pass selection, due to injury. I started training straight away for my second shot at it. I had learned from the first course and I concentrated mostly on running, wearing kit of varying weights and spending time in the hills carrying heavy backpacks, starting off at low intensity, as my priority was to stay injury free.

There is an excellent training programme available from the Rangers before the course that can easily be adapted to suit the individual. Sleeping, resting and especially, eating, are very important during this phase of intense training and although it can be difficult to put on body weight, I achieved it through eating huge amounts of proteins, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats, which was important as I lost almost a stone during the course.

The night before selection began I was as nervous as hell and I remember frantically checking over every piece of my kit, no matter how small. I dragged everything out of my pack and renumbered everything, down to socks and the brushes in my rifle cleaning kit. I double-checked that all my spare warm gear and clothes, especially my sleeping bag, were sealed in waterproof bags.

I knew from previous courses that if your sleeping bag gets wet, you’ll find yourself in an unfortunate situation, to say the least! Although it may sound “soft” to some, one of the most valuable items I bought was Neutrogena hand cream which I used anytime I got a second, because when your hands are constantly wet and cold they can crack and are prone to cuts and infections, which can make the simplest of tasks very difficult.

As far as mental training and attitude are concerned, everybody has their own reasons for wanting to be a Ranger. One of the main reasons for me, the second time round, was that I had failed on my first attempt and it wasn’t going to happen again. No matter what your reason is, it should be rock solid in your head and something you can fall back on when you are cold, wet and tired.

Forty nervous looking soldiers turned up for “Oscar One” on a Friday night and exchanged small talk before the main event kicked off. I’m sorry I didn’t get to know all of them as only 10 of us finished; three officers, four corporals and three privates. No matter how much I suffered on selection the feeling of marching through the gates, with the whole unit clapping and cheering, was worth it a million times over. I passed the course.

The successful officers returned to their units proudly displaying the coveted “Fiannoglach flash”, while the remaining seven of us, joined by another guy remained to face the great unknown, the skills course. The skills course was a definite eye-opener, containing some of the hardest, yet most rewarding things I’d ever been part of. At the end of the course in September only four remained to receive the precious “Green Beret”.

Since I became a fully fledged member of the Rangers, things have been intense. The first week involved parachute packing and jump training, where we learned the techniques and mechanics of being flung out of a helicopter, and prepared ourselves to do our five mandatory unit jumps. By the end of that week the Chad mission was confirmed and, on my second week, the unit went straight into overseas training. Language training, combat PT and weapon skills were the flavour of the day for the rest of the unit, while the new guys were involved in driving courses and weapons courses. Tactical training was also a priority and we did a week of live fire training in the Glen of Imaal. This gave me a chance to work with my new team and learn all the new techniques I’d need to adapt to work in this new environment.

Now I can’t wait to deploy to Chad with my new unit.Since I’ve joined the Rangers I’ve been constantly busy and constantly learning, but the rewards are endless. No matter how tough and challenging the training, the end result is worth a thousandtimes over.

This article appears in the current edition of An Cosantoir, the Defence Forces Magazine.

I had to type it out myself so theres probably mistakes:)

Hagar

Thanks for that Ronan. Some of us* have no access to the Herald or An Cosantoir.





*Me.

Running Bing

Ronan Devitt wrote: »

Here is a story from Thursdays Evening Herald...

BOOM!!!! .. The whole truck shuddered as the explosion detonated.
A second later the rattle of automatic fire deafened me as we all dived from the vehicle and frantically returned fire in the general direction of the enemy ambush while we looked for cover in an attempt to form a fire base.

BOOM!!! .. I felt the shockwave of the next explosion through my chest, followed seconds later by a wave of heat. With my head spinning I dived for cover and let off a blast of automatic.
By this stage one of my fellow students had taken control of the situation and had a baseline formed. Straight away we all knew what to do and like clockwork our contact drills kicked in. My heart was pounding as we went into all-round cover and I roared for more ammo.

I was cold, wet, tired and hungry and all I had to look forward to was an all night forced march over some of the worst mountains in Wicklow with the weight of a small person on my back. Yet, to tell the truth, I wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else in the world as I knew I was within days of passing Army Ranger Wing (ARW) Selection.

I’m known as “Mono” and I’m 26 years old. I’ve been in the Defence Forces for five years and come from an infantry background. In March last year I passed selection course “Oscar One”, a small part of which I described at the start of this article. Selection was followed immediately by a five-month skills course. Since September, I have served as an assault team member and I’m currently forming up for deployment to Chad with the Rangers.

My interest in the Rangers started in my teens, when I first heard about the unit and has grown ever since. In my four years in the infantry I researched and acquired as much information as I could from people who were on selection and from the unit itself.
I was very fortunate in the fact that my previous unit was very encouraging when it comes to soldiering and also my section commander in recruit training was an ex-Ranger.

These, and many other factors, fuelled my determination to join. After failing at my first attempt to pass selection, due to injury. I started training straight away for my second shot at it. I had learned from the first course and I concentrated mostly on running, wearing kit of varying weights and spending time in the hills carrying heavy backpacks, starting off at low intensity, as my priority was to stay injury free.

There is an excellent training programme available from the Rangers before the course that can easily be adapted to suit the individual. Sleeping, resting and especially, eating, are very important during this phase of intense training and although it can be difficult to put on body weight, I achieved it through eating huge amounts of proteins, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats, which was important as I lost almost a stone during the course.

The night before selection began I was as nervous as hell and I remember frantically checking over every piece of my kit, no matter how small. I dragged everything out of my pack and renumbered everything, down to socks and the brushes in my rifle cleaning kit. I double-checked that all my spare warm gear and clothes, especially my sleeping bag, were sealed in waterproof bags.

I knew from previous courses that if your sleeping bag gets wet, you’ll find yourself in an unfortunate situation, to say the least! Although it may sound “soft” to some, one of the most valuable items I bought was Neutrogena hand cream which I used anytime I got a second, because when your hands are constantly wet and cold they can crack and are prone to cuts and infections, which can make the simplest of tasks very difficult.

As far as mental training and attitude are concerned, everybody has their own reasons for wanting to be a Ranger. One of the main reasons for me, the second time round, was that I had failed on my first attempt and it wasn’t going to happen again. No matter what your reason is, it should be rock solid in your head and something you can fall back on when you are cold, wet and tired.

Forty nervous looking soldiers turned up for “Oscar One” on a Friday night and exchanged small talk before the main event kicked off. I’m sorry I didn’t get to know all of them as only 10 of us finished; three officers, four corporals and three privates. No matter how much I suffered on selection the feeling of marching through the gates, with the whole unit clapping and cheering, was worth it a million times over. I passed the course.

The successful officers returned to their units proudly displaying the coveted “Fiannoglach flash”, while the remaining seven of us, joined by another guy remained to face the great unknown, the skills course. The skills course was a definite eye-opener, containing some of the hardest, yet most rewarding things I’d ever been part of. At the end of the course in September only four remained to receive the precious “Green Beret”.

Since I became a fully fledged member of the Rangers, things have been intense. The first week involved parachute packing and jump training, where we learned the techniques and mechanics of being flung out of a helicopter, and prepared ourselves to do our five mandatory unit jumps. By the end of that week the Chad mission was confirmed and, on my second week, the unit went straight into overseas training. Language training, combat PT and weapon skills were the flavour of the day for the rest of the unit, while the new guys were involved in driving courses and weapons courses. Tactical training was also a priority and we did a week of live fire training in the Glen of Imaal. This gave me a chance to work with my new team and learn all the new techniques I’d need to adapt to work in this new environment.

Now I can’t wait to deploy to Chad with my new unit.Since I’ve joined the Rangers I’ve been constantly busy and constantly learning, but the rewards are endless. No matter how tough and challenging the training, the end result is worth a thousandtimes over.

This article appears in the current edition of An Cosantoir, the Defence Forces Magazine.

I had to type it out myself so theres probably mistakes:)

Love to get a glimpse of that.


Really appreciate you typing that out Ronan, quality article.



Just a small silly question...what does PT stand for? I see it everywhere but I never knew what it meant (Im guessing physical training?)

Quis Separabit

Babybing wrote: »

Have a read of this book twiny



It was a real eye opener for me. About a guy who joins 21 sas which is basically a reserve force that trains one night a week and every second weekend.

I never even knew such a thing existed(I bought it thinking it was about the regular SAS). Really good read and the level these guys are at is quite amazing. Its got to be fvcking tough because by its nature your obviouusly gonna get plenty of walts showing up for something like that.

Three nights a week. You must also have served in the regulars, selection is the same as 22 and 23 SAS, but takes one year, the question is how many people can get months off work to go to or Brunei or Malaysia phase II initial continuation training, (even if they wanted to join) ?

21 SAS is also undermanned as its selection drop outrate is estimated at around 97 %.

Hence the possibility of it being amalgamated into of 4 Para (TA) in a pathfinder/ISTAR role.

With the SRR taking its role over in support of 22 and 23 SAS.

Unlike 22 SAS it has no CRW or CT role, only an ISTAR role, very similar to the Parachute Regiments Pathfinder platoon, there is talk of diabanding it and making it part of 4 Para in a Pathfinder role. 21 AND 23 SAS have Permanent 22 SAS Staff Instructors.

Running Bing

Quis Separabit wrote: »

Three nights a week. You must also have served in the regulars, selection is the same as 22 and 23 SAS, but takes one year, the question is how many people can get months off work to go to or Brunei or Malaysia phase II initial continuation training, (even if they wanted to join) ?

.

You dont have to have served in the regulars and 23 is a reserve force as well. 22 is the proper regiment. The SBS is different and you have to have served for that.

The official site is here http://www.army.mod.uk/uksf/special_forces_soldier_reserve_/sas/index.htm



As for time off work, I imagine that if you were dedicated enough to get to that stage it would be pretty high up on your priority list and you would manage somehow.

Quis Separabit

Babybing wrote: »

You dont have to have served in the regulars and 23 is a reserve force as well. 22 is the proper regiment. The SBS is different and you have to have served for that.

The official site is here http://www.army.mod.uk/uksf/special_forces_soldier_reserve_/sas/index.htm



As for time off work, I imagine that if you were dedicated enough to get to that stage it would be pretty high up on your priority list and you would manage somehow.

If you attempt to join the SAS(R) with no previous military experience your application will not be accepted.

"'L' Detachment, formerly 'R' Squadron, is a TA unit comprising former Regular soldiers and assigned to 22 SAS for the provision of casualty replacements. Optionally it also had its own role in the event of limited or general war."


21 and 23 SAS are also the "proper" SAS, some serving are ex 22 SAS, it simply does not have the same role as 22 SAS. It has the same test week, but simply longer selection.

If you think someone with no military experience can join 21 or 23 SAS with no military experience and can become a badged SAS member by attending 1 night a week, you don't have a clue. Members are ex 22 SAS and those who have recently left the fulltime army, many have previously passed the all arms Parachute course as Signallers, infantrymen, enginerers etc.



Special Air Service (Reserve) - (SAS(R))

HISTORY

21 and 23 SAS (R) were formed in 1947 and 1959 respectively, and together with the SBS (R) and 63 (SAS) Signals Sqn have evolved into the Reserve (R) Component of the United Kingdom’s Special Forces (UKSF) Group.
MISSION

UKSF (R) is to deliver a Tier 2 SF capability in order to provide depth to the UKSF group, conducting worldwide operations in support of the Government’s Foreign Security and Defence Policies.
ROLE

The role of SAS (R) is to provide depth to the UKSF group through the provision of:

* Individual and collective augmentation to the regular component of UKSF.
* Standalone elements up to task group (Regimental) level focused on Support and Influence (S&I) operations to assist conflict stabilisation.

SF (R) CAPABILITY

SF (R) operations require the skill sets and equipment to operate beyond the range and capability of conventional forces. The conduct of SF (R) operations predominantly focuses on Support and Influence and the provision of ground truth to achieve effect in conflict resolution. They require sufficient endurance, field craft, surveillance, communications, mobility and ‘life skills’ to work in isolation, whilst remaining in sync with multi agency effect across the spectrum of conflict.
OPERATIONS

Whilst the MOD does not comment on the specifics of Special Forces operations, SAS (R) have made a significant contribution to recent operational deployments.
AM I ELIGIBLE FOR SERVICE AS AN SAS(R) OPERATOR?

SAS (R) accepts male volunteers aged 34 and below from any part of the Regular or Reserve Armed Forces (RN, RM, Army and RAF). Applicants with no previous military experience may apply, but must be aged 32 or below and may be required to attend the Combat Infantry Course (CIC) prior to attempting Selection.

In line with current MOD policy regarding the employment of women in the Armed Services, service as an operator with SAS(R) is restricted to men.
SELECTION

SAS (R) Selection and training takes 12 months with two intakes per year. The components of the course are as follows:

1. APTITUDE

Candidates’ physical and mental endurance are tested, as well as their ability to navigate by day and night over arduous terrain. It culminates with ‘Endurance’ – a 64km march over the Brecon Beacons carrying over 60lbs. Aptitude comprises:

* 9 x weekends of endurance training.
* 1 x week endurance training in the Brecon Beacons.
* 1 x week assessment (Test Week) in the Beacons.

2. STANDARD OPERATIONAL PROCEDURE (SOP) TRAINING

Instruction in UKSF SOP’S and tactics comprises of:

* 9 x weekends patrol SOP’s including surveillance and reconnaissance.
* 1 x week live firing including patrol contact drills and Tp offensive action.
* 1 x 9 day battle camp comprising:
* Live firing assessment.
* Field training exercise to test the skills learned throughout Selection. This culminates in Conduct after Capture (CAC).

On successful completion of this training, ranks are badged as SAS(R) and are fit for appointment.

CONTINUATION TRAINING

Candidates who successfully complete Selection will enter a period of probation and must complete the following courses to be fit for mobilisation.

* Basic Parachute Course.
* SF Communications Course....to regular army signaller standard.
* Main Training Period.

When fit for mobilisation ranks will maintain currency by completion of UKSF Military Annual training Tests (MATTs) and attendance on one or more Main Training Periods around the Globe. In addition, ranks who are fit for mobilisation may gain one or more of the following additional qualifications:

* Patrol Medics
* Enhanced Surveillance and Reconnaissance
* Languages
* Emergency Close Air Support
* Support Weapons
* Close Protection

SUMMARY

SAS (R) provides an opportunity for soldiers to work within a unique, independent organization which takes pride in its heritage, role and professionalism. Service is physically and intellectually challenging, but the rewards are significant. In addition to a strong sense of purpose in embracing the challenges of a complex world, SAS (R) provides challenge and adventure with the additional benefit of Special Forces pay rates. Whilst the Regiment contributes to UKSF operational capability in its own right, it also provides an excellent grounding for those who aspire to serve with the Regular UKSF.

Rew

Babybing wrote: »

Love to get a glimpse of that.

Just a small silly question...what does PT stand for? I see it everywhere but I never knew what it meant (Im guessing physical training?)

PT is physical training. The training schedule mentioned was published in An Cosintor, have it here some where.

Running Bing

Rew wrote: »

PT is physical training. The training schedule mentioned was published in An Cosintor, have it here some where.

Is it this months issue Rew?


If not can you remember which issue it was? perhaps I could get a back issue?

Running Bing

Quis Separabit wrote: »

If you attempt to join the SAS(R) with no previous military experience your application will not be accepted.


21 and 23 SAS are also the "proper" SAS, some serving are ex 22 SAS, it simply does not have the same role as 22 SAS. It has the same test week.



Special Air Service (Reserve) - (SAS(R))

HISTORY

21 and 23 SAS (R) were formed in 1947 and 1959 respectively, and together with the SBS (R) and 63 (SAS) Signals Sqn have evolved into the Reserve (R) Component of the United Kingdom’s Special Forces (UKSF) Group.
MISSION

UKSF (R) is to deliver a Tier 2 SF capability in order to provide depth to the UKSF group, conducting worldwide operations in support of the Government’s Foreign Security and Defence Policies.
ROLE

The role of SAS (R) is to provide depth to the UKSF group through the provision of:

* Individual and collective augmentation to the regular component of UKSF.
* Standalone elements up to task group (Regimental) level focused on Support and Influence (S&I) operations to assist conflict stabilisation.

SF (R) CAPABILITY

SF (R) operations require the skill sets and equipment to operate beyond the range and capability of conventional forces. The conduct of SF (R) operations predominantly focuses on Support and Influence and the provision of ground truth to achieve effect in conflict resolution. They require sufficient endurance, field craft, surveillance, communications, mobility and ‘life skills’ to work in isolation, whilst remaining in sync with multi agency effect across the spectrum of conflict.
OPERATIONS

Whilst the MOD does not comment on the specifics of Special Forces operations, SAS (R) have made a significant contribution to recent operational deployments.
AM I ELIGIBLE FOR SERVICE AS AN SAS(R) OPERATOR?

SAS (R) accepts male volunteers aged 34 and below from any part of the Regular or Reserve Armed Forces (RN, RM, Army and RAF). Applicants with no previous military experience may apply, but must be aged 32 or below and may be required to attend the Combat Infantry Course (CIC) prior to attempting Selection.

In line with current MOD policy regarding the employment of women in the Armed Services, service as an operator with SAS(R) is restricted to men.
SELECTION

SAS (R) Selection and training takes 12 months with two intakes per year. The components of the course are as follows:

1. APTITUDE

Candidates’ physical and mental endurance are tested, as well as their ability to navigate by day and night over arduous terrain. It culminates with ‘Endurance’ – a 64km march over the Brecon Beacons carrying over 60lbs. Aptitude comprises:

* 9 x weekends of endurance training.
* 1 x week endurance training in the Brecon Beacons.
* 1 x week assessment (Test Week) in the Beacons.

2. STANDARD OPERATIONAL PROCEDURE (SOP) TRAINING

Instruction in UKSF SOP’S and tactics comprises of:

* 9 x weekends patrol SOP’s including surveillance and reconnaissance.
* 1 x week live firing including patrol contact drills and Tp offensive action.
* 1 x 9 day battle camp comprising:
* Live firing assessment.
* Field training exercise to test the skills learned throughout Selection. This culminates in Conduct after Capture (CAC).

On successful completion of this training, ranks are badged as SAS(R) and are fit for appointment.

CONTINUATION TRAINING

Candidates who successfully complete Selection will enter a period of probation and must complete the following courses to be fit for mobilisation.

* Basic Parachute Course.
* SF Communications Course.
* Main Training Period.

When fit for mobilisation ranks will maintain currency by completion of UKSF Military Annual training Tests (MATTs) and attendance on one or more Main Training Periods around the Globe. In addition, ranks who are fit for mobilisation may gain one or more of the following additional qualifications:

* Patrol Medics
* Enhanced Surveillance and Reconnaissance
* Languages
* Emergency Close Air Support
* Support Weapons
* Close Protection

SUMMARY

SAS (R) provides an opportunity for soldiers to work within a unique, independent organization which takes pride in its heritage, role and professionalism. Service is physically and intellectually challenging, but the rewards are significant. In addition to a strong sense of purpose in embracing the challenges of a complex world, SAS (R) provides challenge and adventure with the additional benefit of Special Forces pay rates. Whilst the Regiment contributes to UKSF operational capability in its own right, it also provides an excellent grounding for those who aspire to serve with the Regular UKSF.

21 and 23 SAS are also the "proper" SAS, some serving are ex 22 SAS, it simply does not have the same role as 22 SAS.

I have no knowledge of it besides what I have read on that site and in the Ballinger book and I may be interpeting that wrong but it seems pretty clear cut.


Also I know 21 and 23 are proper SAS as well I was just saying that to distingush them from 22 given they are both reserve forces.

Quis Separabit

As you state, you have no knowlege of it.

I know for a fact applicants are only accepted with previous military experience, those without are recommended and talked into joining other units.

By proper "SAS" I presume you mean regular.

Since 9/11 SAS (R) has been operating in a virtually fulltime role anyway.


They undergo the the same test week and training as the regular SAS, they are simply reserves.

As I stated their role is ISTAR, (and since 9/11 a CT role) which was the SAS's original role, before CRW, CT etc.


(BTW, its not me who derailed the thread).

Running Bing

Quis Separabit wrote: »

As you state, you have no knowlege of it.

By proper "SAS" I presume you mean regular.

Since 9/11 SAS (R) has been operating in a virtual fulltime role anyway.

They undergo the the same test week and training as the regular SAS, they are simply reserves.

As I satated their role is ISTAR, which was the SAS's original role, before CRW, CT etc.

Isnt that everything I just said?

I assume you do have first hand experience yourself then Quis?

Quis Separabit

Babybing wrote: »

Isnt that everything I just said?

I assume you do have first hand experience yourself then Quis?

No, but I know some who have.

Many SAS members have previous ISTAR experience with the units they served with. The most common one being the Parachute Regiment/SFSG.

Quis Separabit

To get the discussion back on track,yes, the ARW wing are a professional SFs unit, who undergo ardouous selection and training,agreed.

Its just a pity the ARW and IA in general don't operate as part of NATO and alongside British and other NATO forces, thats my opinion.

I would like to see the ARW operate with the SFSG(1Para)/SAS/SBS/SRR in places like Afghanistan.

Maybe some IA units if part of NATO, operating with 16 Para AA and other units.


(Imagine the protests lol).


I would also like to see the Irish Army send over perhaps 1 company a year to undertake P coy/Para selection, on an exchange basis as the Yanks and others have done in the past.

And perhaps 1 company for the all arms commando course.

The ARW doing exchanges with the SAS/SAS/SFSG/SRR, Royal Marines mountain and arctic warfare cadre etc.

twinytwo

Quis Separabit wrote: »

To get the discussion back on track,yes, the ARW wing are a professional SFs unit, who undergo ardouous selection and training,agreed.

Its just a pity the ARW and IA in general don't operate as part of NATO and alongside British and other NATO forces, thats my opinion.

I would like to see the ARW operate with the SFSG(1Para)/SAS/SBS/SRR in places like Afghanistan.

Maybe some IA units if part of NATO, operating with 16 Para AA and other units.


(Imagine the protests lol).


I would also like to see the Irish Army send over perhaps 1 company a year to undertake P coy/Para selection, on an exchange basis as the Yanks and others have done in the past.

And perhaps 1 company for the all arms commando course.

The ARW doing exchanges with the SAS/SAS/SFSG/SRR, Royal Marines mountain and arctic warfare cadre etc.

Fact is Ireland is netural as we all no..For us to deploy with NATO would cause alot more trouble than its worth... Why do u think our troops are respected all over the world.. cause we dont go getting involved in other countries business.

twinytwo

Ronan Devitt wrote: »

Here is a story from Thursdays Evening Herald...

BOOM!!!! .. The whole truck shuddered as the explosion detonated.
A second later the rattle of automatic fire deafened me as we all dived from the vehicle and frantically returned fire in the general direction of the enemy ambush while we looked for cover in an attempt to form a fire base.

BOOM!!! .. I felt the shockwave of the next explosion through my chest, followed seconds later by a wave of heat. With my head spinning I dived for cover and let off a blast of automatic.
By this stage one of my fellow students had taken control of the situation and had a baseline formed. Straight away we all knew what to do and like clockwork our contact drills kicked in. My heart was pounding as we went into all-round cover and I roared for more ammo.

I was cold, wet, tired and hungry and all I had to look forward to was an all night forced march over some of the worst mountains in Wicklow with the weight of a small person on my back. Yet, to tell the truth, I wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else in the world as I knew I was within days of passing Army Ranger Wing (ARW) Selection.

I’m known as “Mono” and I’m 26 years old. I’ve been in the Defence Forces for five years and come from an infantry background. In March last year I passed selection course “Oscar One”, a small part of which I described at the start of this article. Selection was followed immediately by a five-month skills course. Since September, I have served as an assault team member and I’m currently forming up for deployment to Chad with the Rangers.

My interest in the Rangers started in my teens, when I first heard about the unit and has grown ever since. In my four years in the infantry I researched and acquired as much information as I could from people who were on selection and from the unit itself.
I was very fortunate in the fact that my previous unit was very encouraging when it comes to soldiering and also my section commander in recruit training was an ex-Ranger.

These, and many other factors, fuelled my determination to join. After failing at my first attempt to pass selection, due to injury. I started training straight away for my second shot at it. I had learned from the first course and I concentrated mostly on running, wearing kit of varying weights and spending time in the hills carrying heavy backpacks, starting off at low intensity, as my priority was to stay injury free.

There is an excellent training programme available from the Rangers before the course that can easily be adapted to suit the individual. Sleeping, resting and especially, eating, are very important during this phase of intense training and although it can be difficult to put on body weight, I achieved it through eating huge amounts of proteins, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats, which was important as I lost almost a stone during the course.

The night before selection began I was as nervous as hell and I remember frantically checking over every piece of my kit, no matter how small. I dragged everything out of my pack and renumbered everything, down to socks and the brushes in my rifle cleaning kit. I double-checked that all my spare warm gear and clothes, especially my sleeping bag, were sealed in waterproof bags.

I knew from previous courses that if your sleeping bag gets wet, you’ll find yourself in an unfortunate situation, to say the least! Although it may sound “soft” to some, one of the most valuable items I bought was Neutrogena hand cream which I used anytime I got a second, because when your hands are constantly wet and cold they can crack and are prone to cuts and infections, which can make the simplest of tasks very difficult.

As far as mental training and attitude are concerned, everybody has their own reasons for wanting to be a Ranger. One of the main reasons for me, the second time round, was that I had failed on my first attempt and it wasn’t going to happen again. No matter what your reason is, it should be rock solid in your head and something you can fall back on when you are cold, wet and tired.

Forty nervous looking soldiers turned up for “Oscar One” on a Friday night and exchanged small talk before the main event kicked off. I’m sorry I didn’t get to know all of them as only 10 of us finished; three officers, four corporals and three privates. No matter how much I suffered on selection the feeling of marching through the gates, with the whole unit clapping and cheering, was worth it a million times over. I passed the course.

The successful officers returned to their units proudly displaying the coveted “Fiannoglach flash”, while the remaining seven of us, joined by another guy remained to face the great unknown, the skills course. The skills course was a definite eye-opener, containing some of the hardest, yet most rewarding things I’d ever been part of. At the end of the course in September only four remained to receive the precious “Green Beret”.

Since I became a fully fledged member of the Rangers, things have been intense. The first week involved parachute packing and jump training, where we learned the techniques and mechanics of being flung out of a helicopter, and prepared ourselves to do our five mandatory unit jumps. By the end of that week the Chad mission was confirmed and, on my second week, the unit went straight into overseas training. Language training, combat PT and weapon skills were the flavour of the day for the rest of the unit, while the new guys were involved in driving courses and weapons courses. Tactical training was also a priority and we did a week of live fire training in the Glen of Imaal. This gave me a chance to work with my new team and learn all the new techniques I’d need to adapt to work in this new environment.

Now I can’t wait to deploy to Chad with my new unit.Since I’ve joined the Rangers I’ve been constantly busy and constantly learning, but the rewards are endless. No matter how tough and challenging the training, the end result is worth a thousandtimes over.

This article appears in the current edition of An Cosantoir, the Defence Forces Magazine.

I had to type it out myself so theres probably mistakes:)

Thanks for that ronan