You’ve probably heard of the Navy SEALs—but if you’re not one of them, you’ll never fully know what they do. These elite Special Operators are a team of highly-trained, highly-lethal individuals that embark on the Navy’s most classified missions. From targeted ground operations, to embedding in enemy territory, to anti-piracy and anti-terrorism strikes—as one of these warriors, you’ll do it all. It takes immense mental and physical stamina to make it into their ranks. Navy SEALs train and work in all manner of environments, including desert and urban areas, mountains and woodlands, and jungle and arctic conditions. Typical missions may involve insertion into a combat objective by any number of means: parachute, submarine, helicopter, high-speed boat, foot patrol or by a combat swimmer insertion. SEALs operate not only as highly capable individuals, but also as members of tightly knit units.
Established by President John F. Kennedy in 1962, the Navy SEALs are a nimble, elite maritime military force suited for all aspects of unconventional warfare. In this role, you will provide immediate military options amidst crises around the world.
Your duties as a SEAL may include, but are not limited to:
Conducting insertions and extractions by sea, air or land to accomplish covert, Special Warfare/Special Operations missions
Capturing high-value enemy personnel and terrorists around the world
Collecting information and intelligence through special reconnaissance missions
Carrying out small-unit, direct-action missions against military targets
Performing underwater reconnaissance and the demolition of natural or man-made obstacles prior to amphibious landings
SEAL training has been described as “brutal”, preparing you for the extreme physical and mental challenges of SEAL missions. Preparation consists of more than 12 months of initial training that includes Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL BUD/S School, Parachute Jump School and SEAL Qualification Training (SQT), followed by an additional 18 months of pre-deployment training and intensive specialized training. It’s all designed to push you to your physical and mental limits. If you’re up to the task, you’ll emerge in incredible physical shape and possess the necessary confidence, determination and teamwork to succeed in any combat environment. Promotion opportunities are regularly available, but are competitive and based on performance. It’s also important to note that specialized training received and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields.For those SEALs with further leadership aspirations and a college degree, Officer roles are available – providing opportunities to lead SEAL units and train aspiring SEAL warriors.
Members of the Naval Special Warfare/Naval Special Operations (NSW/NSO) community have any number of unique opportunities to advance their knowledge. Navy training provides everything from the fundamentals of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) to knowledge of chemical and biological warfare, military tactics, deep-sea diving or a number of other tactical military procedures. Beyond offering access to professional credentials and certifications, Navy training in the NSW/NSO community can translate to credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education. You may also continue your education through opportunities like the following:
Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance
Post-9/11 GI Bill
US NAVY SEAL
