18X Contract | Worth It? | Former Green Beret

[@FNGACADEMY]

Hit that subscribe button and follow on IG homies! Giveaways coming soon! instagram.com/seanbuckrogers/?hl=en

[@raysteigerwalt5272]

Got a question for you. What would you say to someone who's 5 ft and wanting to go sf.

[@Zmack23]

Hey what’s the prep course they go to first in 18x called ? Sobsi ? How is it spelled? ...do you also recommend the privately run camps for selection prep?

[@Monkemodenigga]

Hey man love your channel. Are prior enlisted able to get that 18x ?

[@DarthVader-br9rc]

US: we don't recognize any organization known as Delta Force Buck: yeah, I know 2 guys in Delta Legends confirmed 👍

[@sauljahboi5965]

Pat McNamara was an 18x from in the 80's.

[@virginialoverproductions]

The US will occasionally mention Delta

[@sethheaddress2651]

18x didn’t exist back then

[@ethanhumrich3862]

Yes he went in as an SF baby, they might’ve called it something different back in the day though. Talks about it on jockos podcast

[@ChanceMaurin]

Grate perspective! I appreciate your humility, had to be hard to watch from your shoes. I get why guys can feel salty, but we are all on the same team( America )! and we must evolve. And despite sore sacks and sore toes. I appreciate all of you that have and are serving and defending the still greatest country in the world.

[@seanlim864]

I NEEDED THIS! The comments dont make sense though? Why would recruiters/others turn people down? My recruiter and his office are rooting for me

[@moistjohn]

Likely assuming people are of the wrong mindset. Have the same experiance as you including one who got dropped helping me. 18x is a brutal contract (5-6 years, by needs of army if fail, vast majority fail, only get bonus if you pass not just sfas but q) can't blame them.

[@phycofeeds]

I’m not in the absolute best of shape but in in decent shape. And I am trying to work out to get better at my mile runs. I want to be an 18B so bad! I am going to get it! I’m going to work my ass off and get what I want and what my Family needs!! Thank you for this video! Gave me some more confidence in myself! Btw I’m a newer subscriber. Just found you last night tbh 😅😅

[@phycofeeds]

Also I thought Green Berets were E-5 to start out.

[@christiandinero8083]

@@phycofeeds it got changed to e6 recently

[@Gorillawarlord]

thank you bro, i’m working towards an option 40 within the next year and i’m fuckin pumped 💯

[@Tesla_ofthe_Skies]

And if you are truly worried about having No experience even before SOFC/SPFC then there are ex spec ops guys running like 2-3 “simulated selection” in nearly every state and they don’t just beat you down, but give you teach you on landnav, knot tying, rucking, foot care...etc

[@AFGixxeR88]

Who?

[@alewis9735]

The only one you have to impress, is the one in the mirror. Fuck the haters! Great video Buck!

[@Calcific9]

Great knowledge as always 🤙🏼

[@russharden4374]

Went to the SF recruiter last month, active can’t do SOPC anymore because it wasn’t increasing overall pass rate and a lot were getting injured

[@josem.castorena4853]

Like a former Delta guy said to make it into Delta it not always the best guy that makes it its the right guy that's the key.

[@arcticapache1058]

Awesome stuff here I was worried I made the wrong choice on signing the contract 😅

[@FNGACADEMY]

NO WAY!

[@beastmodegreens7287]

Very good info, thank you once again for sharing your knowledge with us! I'm 40 and working on an age waiver with my recruiter hoping to get an 18x contract with the National Gaurd!

[@Shitbro247]

Nice i thought i was too old i'm 35 ready to rumble cool to hear other older dudes will be there

[@beastmodegreens7287]

@@Shitbro247 Heck ya bro! Get after it! I think you can enlist with out an age waiver at 35 into the Army National Guard. From ages 36-42 is when you need a waiver from what I understand. I'd for sure talk to a recruiter if you're at all interested. Hit me up if there's anything I can do to help. Us older dudes need to help each other!

[@beastmodegreens7287]

@@Shitbro247 bro, so I just talked to a National Guard SF recruiter and the age waiver to enlist does not carry over into the 18x contract. The max age limit of 35 for the 18x contract is non waiverable. So for me, I will have to enlist under a different MOS and then try out to go to SFAS. Just thought I would share this info since you are currently at the cut off age for 18x. Good luck my friend!

[@AFGixxeR88]

@@beastmodegreens7287 damn bro I’m 30 and have been sweating my age

[@AFGixxeR88]

@@beastmodegreens7287 why the national guard?

[@itsurben6890]

Just got the 18xray contract yesterday

[@AlchemyOfTheFourthKind]

Update?

[@thelmadickinson6811]

Update?

[@josemexjr2844]

Updates?

[@odsenseless]

Was anyone in your family opposed to you joining the military and then SF if so how did you stay motivated, because I wanna join the marines then from there train for marsoc but my family feels like it’s chicken shit and the military is just going to hold me back I mean I’m going to do what I wanna regardless but I just want your POV of the situation!

[@FNGACADEMY]

My dad left when I was 1 and my mom was a drug addict, nobody cared what I did good or bad. BUT that had benefits like not being pressured by them.

[@brunobalkcom2949]

I qualified for an 18x contract and option 40 for rangers can’t decide between the two. I’m worried about going to random mos if I do 18x

[@FNGACADEMY]

Pick based on mission set

[@brunobalkcom2949]

@@FNGACADEMY thank you. I still haven’t decided between them. Trying to do some more research

[@brunobalkcom2949]

@@FNGACADEMY just signed an 18x contract I start basic the 15th of feb

[@AFGixxeR88]

@@brunobalkcom2949 you have an iG?

[@josemexjr2844]

@@brunobalkcom2949did you pass SFAS???

[@rsblackpanther94]

Hey Buck, got an important question. You must be active duty to join special forces/18x ??? Did it changed? Your KZbin channel is great, love it, so much good information. Thanks 🙏👍🏾

[@FNGACADEMY]

Nope guard can join 18X

[@rsblackpanther94]

Thanks for the quick response 👍

[@roguestudios2189]

I was always told you had to be a Sgt before you could go to selection

[@mkz1170]

Can u do reviews on footage from operations and helmet cams

[@FNGACADEMY]

sure

[@kenshindoman9757]

Can I ask...seeing as how Green Berets do the whole Unconventional Warfare stuff, do they have to 'unlearn' any of the Regular Army stuff or mindset? Do 18X's have any advantages (post selection) over a time-served soldier?

[@thelmadickinson6811]

ADE guys that go in with a chip on their shoulder and a know it all vs a wise experienced teacher, doesn’t bode well as a leader. ADE selection rates are typically lower than 18x. Then they want to pull rank in the Q and that doesn’t work well when it’s a “because I said so” mentality. So yes, there are disadvantages for the Inservice ADE. Leadership is hard and maturity matters.

[@maxgould2461]

My recruiter said there are no option 40 contracts available for a year. He suggested i volunteer at OSUT. Should i wait for option 40, or volunteer at OSUT?

[@mikoyyuy13]

Can you apply for SF as a 45 year with prior service or even in active duty but as 45 year old?

[@FNGACADEMY]

each year of active duty subtracts from your age for prior service, I am pretty sure

[@jaredmartin4324]

I'm still in OSUT as an 18x are oldest guy is 41 with the same contact no prior service. He did need a waiver and he also did some pre course that the national guard put him through. I would talk to multiple recruiters, national and army to make sure you get all the answers.

[@victornargas9415]

How readily available are option 40 or 18x contracts

[@huskyaonecee7568]

How long does it take to go from basic training to completions of Q course if you're are weapons mos

[@JJ-pn5ut]

If you get an opinion 40 contract as a civilian off the batt what would be your rank? Like would you immediately become an E5 of the gate ?

[@Paleotech1]

No.

[@ShadowSid_]

So one question I have is that someone told me that if I went to ranger school before I went to SFAS that the Q course would be hell because they would expect more of me and I’d be responsible for more. I personally don’t care because the top is what I’m shooting for but is that true in any way?

[@FNGACADEMY]

They would expect more yes, but you would know more so it would not be a problem

[@iRagin179413]

You know if any short guys that have become green berets? I’m talking 5’0-5’5

[@Matthew-im4rw]

Height doesn't matter. I've seen some shorties. As long as you have good grip strength and can carry heavy shit then it doesn't matter

[@odanisfernandez4618]

When applying for the 18x contract, will you have to be 20 y/o

[@bubbabutter555]

can somebody tell me if u can join with glasses or bad eyesight

[@edwardcarroll7152]

Just wanted to add that it isn’t called SOPC anymore it’s called SFPC (Special Forces Prep Course) and it’s 5 weeks long at Fort Bragg. Current 18x and just finished the prep course heading to selection in Jan.

[@FNGACADEMY]

thanks man! and keep us posted!

[@brandonpike7046]

How do you get into this. I was told this was discontinued (going back in April)

[@edwardcarroll7152]

Not sure why someone told you it was discontinued, but I can confirm it’s alive and well

[@madisonsquaredoit2629]

How was the prep course?

[@alexmiller1943]

Good luck dude. Get selected!

[@robertevans428]

My grandson went 18x and came in as E-4 when he went to Benning. When he graduated 2 years later he made E-5 and 2 years later he was E-6 and he was 25 at the time. SF guys get promoted pretty fast if they have their stuff together, which 99.9% of the guys do.

[@JohnDoe-cz3dh]

It’s like being e5 and e6 is like a private in sf

[@eastonbradshaw5441]

@@JohnDoe-cz3dhany way to put down someone else doing better right?

[@thelmadickinson6811]

My son went in as an E4 in Aug 21 as an 18X. He will graduates the Q course as a GB Next week, Oct ‘23 as E5. He still has language (Category 4) so it will be minimum 6 months before he gets to his group (which they now assign after SERE instead of Robin Sage). 6 months at group then he becomes E6

[@calebschmutzler9010]

What age did he join at?

[@brandonpike7046]

The X-rays were something else when I went through. They were the fastest runners, fastest ruckers. And most high energy guys there.

[@mortalcoil8585]

Bro for real though my buddy had a 10 : 30 2 mile he literally could fly.

[@JesusChrist2000BC]

Yeah because they havent been jaded or broken down by the regular Army. They SHOULD be high energy. They have fresh knees and backs unlike a guy coming from the regular Army.

[@roberto125919]

@@JesusChrist2000BC lol so true but maybe thats what they realize they need especially when they run these special forces guy really hard.

[@justinmullins604]

@@JesusChrist2000BC not always true. Alot of 18x could be prior service, correct?

[@cruzmissile25]

@@mortalcoil8585 that's just sickening. Haha my best 2mile ever was 13:05, and I was 18 in my prime. My final years I barely did the min. 16min 2mile.

[@traviswhite3488]

I think if you did a vid on how to be prepared physically, things like push up/pull minimums, ruck and distance times, running times, etc. as well as do’s and dont’s of getting prepared would be great (working on land nav on your own, books to read, etc). Thanks!

[@caleb.a11]

this would be so helpful

[@FNG_Reggie]

signed my 18X contract today, ship out July 24. I want to say you have been a big reason as to why I made that decision, made me believe in myself. Will definitely be watching your videos on repeat to continue to help me prepare for the pipeline. Thank you for your service, both active and retired 🫡

[@squidbra]

Hope it’s going well for you

[@AQlock]

does your recruiter have to put 18x himself or is that something you can do at meps, i honestly feel like my recruiter has been lying to me this whole time and after watching this video i know why

[@macvsogtaino2350]

How is it going? I signed my 18x and am going to basic in November

[@AQlock]

@@macvsogtaino2350 wow congrats man, i couldnt get 18x because they said i was to old im 33 but i got in as a combat medic and will still try to get into rangers at least or i heard i could still try out and drop a packet after ait for sf. either way im excited i leave nov 6 too

[@josemexjr2844]

​@@macvsogtaino2350can prior service get a 18x???

[@swiftghost1319]

As an 18X I would day there is a lot of benefit to being an X ray. As buck pointed out land nav was key. We basically ran the Star course in SOPC and not a single 18X I was with failed land nav. Additionally I would say physically you are generally more prepared than others. Your body is used to running longer distances and holding ruck weight. Having said that I started basic with 100 xrays and graduated the Q with only 5. The individuals that didn't make it typically self selected themselves or failed to be mature enough and do the right thing when nobody is looking. Its a double edge sword, and many get lackadaisical with militsry bearing. Lastly just because your an Xray doesn't mean you know everything and acting like you do will only hurt you, especially during team week.

[@AFGixxeR88]

How did you do before?

[@swiftghost1319]

@@AFGixxeR88 I had my uos and downs during selection, just like everyone else. The individual tasks such as running and rucking we easy, mainly because x-rays typically were smoked (punishment consisting of running, push-ups, flutter kicks, ect) frequently. That is why they say z-rays do very well on all physical events. The ability to conduct land nav is esky dependent on how quickly you pick up the concept and apply what they teach you. I had 0 experience doing land nav growing up, however the concept came easy to me and I often found myself finishing in the top 5 every time. Team week was rough, as I mentioned it most often is. Then members of my team I will say were not great. 0 individlas wanted leadership and if someone tried most of the team bitched about it. I don't want to call them leaf eaters but we spent a lot of time completing the evolutions the hard war. Being an x ray and my personality I almost failed myself by not stepping up. Xrays tend to sit back observe what's going on and have the mentality of "in faster and stronger than the rest of you, I've been punished like a stray dog before, so give me some heavy shit and let's roll"

[@AFGixxeR88]

@@swiftghost1319 you have a iG or Facebook we can chat?

[@swiftghost1319]

@@AFGixxeR88 IG: c.w.dowd44

[@josemexjr2844]

Hey man,i want to go 18x but am 16 what you recommend me get a degree and then go 18x or go option 40 and then go 18x,thank you for the response

[@pyeitme508]

Very detailed dude 😉. Wish for video about your favorite camouflage pattern uniforms with gear u used during your times as a Green Beret Operator.

[@FNGACADEMY]

I can do that

[@pyeitme508]

@@FNGACADEMY cool thanks for telling.

[@ShadowSid_]

Finally have off time and I’m early. Keep crushing it ! 💯

[@FNGACADEMY]

thanks bro

[@venomsnake64]

Oh yeah, this is exactly what I needed, thank you so much Buck! Also, are you planning on covering 18F / Intelligence Sergeant?

[@oldsoldier181]

As a side note, my nephew just got selected for CAG (we used to call them the Hardy Boys lol). He is a combat engineer. He worked with some of them, and actually has selection, or whatever their training, is called, coming up. He's super excited to do it. So, yes, they DO select from RA. Its rare, but it apparently does happen.

[@dripxfr]

You shouldnt be telling us that. CAG/Delta Force is a secret Tier 1 Unit and not even he can tell his family. If his supervisors found out he could be fined, jailed and kicked from the army.

[@oldsoldier181]

@@dripxfr their selection process isnt secret. Hell, they do it twice a year, and you sit in a theater, watch videos, and ask questions. Being selected isnt a secret...

[@CanYouBlameMee]

@@dripxfr none of it is secret anymore

[@hamertime8468]

Just had an ex-green beret tell me my son couldn't go 18x because he needed 10yrs experience and to be Ranger school qualified to become a green beret??? Which I knew wasn't true. 12yrs experience myself and his mom 6yrs in the military. His wife, him and I went back and forth so you're gonna have people that don't know or may be haters. It was a tough conversation but take those people with a grain of salt and continue to get after it everyone. Thank you Sean "Buck" Rogers!

[@resolute123]

I always assumed the 18X was a way for big Army to get a lot of paratroopers. "Sure we'll give you a shot a trying SF, but if you fail, you're airborne infantry. "

[@wuotanaz1106]

Incorrect, it's 'if you fail, then here's your spatula, you are now a cook. Congrats."

[@dirtysok9856]

@@wuotanaz1106 nah, infantry is always in high demand. and why would they spend money to train you more when you're already airborne qual

[@wuotanaz1106]

@@dirtysok9856 You would be surprised. Doing things that make absolutely no sense is something that is 100% what the military has done for years, and is always guaranteed. As someone from the Army reddit put it, if 3 people can quit 18x, 1 may get sent to 82nd airborne, 1 may be sent to leg infantry, and the 3rd might end up as a cook. Air Force and Navy do it the same way for their special ops. Everyone goes into special ops with the mentality "If I fail at least I'll be infantry/mil police", but if you're not prior service or in an Option 40 for rangers, then that isn't necessarily the case. That's why to me it makes more sense to do 3 years in regular or airborne infantry then go for SF, because you can at least go back to that if you get injured or dropped for a stupid timed ruck.

[@sauljahboi5965]

@@dirtysok9856 there was a KZbinr who had been Airborne Infantry - who talked about how his enthusiasm got affected. Because his unit(82nd) was filled with bitter SF and Ranger contract washout.

[@Pyraer]

Sometimes it is, and sometimes people dwell as an 18x waiting for more selections for years. I have heard of people spending 2-3 years or more there, or even more than that if medical is involved, getting paid and not really having a job yet. It has perks for some people but it's a problem when people don't know all of their options up front. The Army would be a lot better if people were more informed.

[@Leumas34676]

I had some people tell me not to go 18x, but this video was really helpful, once I finish up my degree I plan on going 18x and I’m really excited.

[@anonymousm9113]

I've been Infantry for over 19 years, and served as a Recruiter and later as a Drill Sergeant. 18X (and Option 40, for that matter) contracts are valuable, and from what I saw as a Drill, most Candidates are driven and motivated to succeed, limited only by themselves. Also, the bad (good?) habits picked up from time in regular MOS' won't come into effect. Let's face it, a lot of us Infantry types fall back on a false sense of superiority over others, while "softer" MOS' usually lack the core retentive training required for combat skills, focusing instead on their day to day jobs. In the former case, pride may be hurt while in the latter a sudden rush of uncomfortableness may overwhelm someone trying for SF. An 18X has the advantage of fresh knowledge being supplemented by the skills taught in the SF pipeline, along with a gradual introduction to the world of sucking. I have immense respect for those who go from civilian to SOCOM, and will always remember the only Muslim funeral my Casket Team conducted in Arlington National Cemetery, SSG Ayman Taha, a Green Beret born in Sudan who enlisted as an 18X... With that said, the Drill Sergeant and Infantry NCO in me has to say: if you take an 18X or Option 40 contract with the intent of quitting after Airborne School (in my experience this is all too common), quit now. The Infantry is full of 5-jump quitters, and as a Drill I had the satisfaction of watching at least one previous 18X who thought he'd be Infantry get sent to the Culinary School (no offense to Buck intended). Others went over to Harmony Church and became tankers.

[@stevefromwork6136]

I'm a civilian planning out my training for the next 5 months before I test fo an 18xray contract with the guard. Being 28 iv got some concerns but I feel confident in myself. Any tid bits of info would always be appreciated.

[@anonymousm9113]

@@stevefromwork6136 @steve fromwork Get as much time with your future unit as possible. If you are unable to gain access to whichever SF unit 19th or 20th Group you hope to be assigned to, take every advantage of the Guard's pre-IET training. I forget what it's called, but I know they have a group of NCOs whose sole job is to prepare those waiting to ship for their upcoming training. As a former Leg Infantry Drill Sergeant I can tell you that ARNG Trainees tend to be a little better prepared for Infantry OSUT than their AD counterparts. After all, they already have unit assignments and know most of their coworkers and leadership. Active Duty Trainees know only their Recruiter and have no idea what they're heading into. I was looking into the Guard after my first contract. I knew a WO in 20th Group and was planning on going that route. My understanding is that I'd hold my 11B MOS and attend SFAS and Airborne School, be on Jump status with a maroon beret, train with the 18-series, and as civilian life allowed, go through the training pipeline. The first cycle I had as a Drill was full of studs. It was a summer cycle and full of ARNG, 18x, Option 40, and Prior Service. The Trainees set expectations that following classes never met. As an 18X, don't hold yourself higher than the 11Xs, and keep in mind that your Drills might lack tabs and badges, and many nowadays will lack combat experience (very few had it when I came Sand Hill through in 2001, and I'd consider those Drills to be every bit as good, and better on many cases, than my generation). What they don't lack, though, is competency, knowledge, and experience that no Trainee has. Unless you're Prior Service with some combat or unique qualifications, your future MOS doesn't make you special. The SF Liaison on Sand Hill does listen to the Drill Sergeants and company and battalion leadership. I've seen 18Xs do wrong and lose their contracts. Otherwise, at 28 you might have an advantage. Life experience, knowing your limits, and having had a life besides high school prior to enlisting can make a difference.

[@stevefromwork6136]

@@anonymousm9113 they say to learn to be the best soldier you can be. Master the basics. Iv always tried to Work hard and with integrity and know character can make good or bad soldiers the same way it can make good or bad employees. Respecting my NCOs wouldn't be an issue. And I wouldn't look down on an army cook if he came up to me, most likely id ask what I can learn about army cooking. Because you can lean something from anybody event if it's only what not to do. I'm planning a routine around pt, studying for the asvab and learning as much as I can about basic soldering. So I can get an 18x contract and I can be as much of an asset as I possibly can be. Thank you so much for your advise I'll make good use of it.

[@scottsmith6861]

I don’t know if it’s the same way, but for what it’s worth; I enlisted as an 18x in 2016. Ended up finishing SFAS and was unfortunately a 20 day non-select. Two months after that, the army reclassed me to 92G (cook), which devastated me. After fighting for it, I was able to go to rasp and ended up in ranger battalion as a cook, and now also have a ranger tab. Just understand, that 18x can be a serious roll of the dice.

[@samtorres4996]

Facts

[@byronmiller3877]

The joke everyone jokes about but doesn't realize it could actually happen

[@scottsmith6861]

@@Ash12428 no

[@lioncelica5170]

Can you change your mos at the end of your contract to another one? At least you get to flex on the other cooks when you get to show off your blue cord.

[@AFGixxeR88]

That’s sucks man!

[@Matthew-im4rw]

If you go as an 18x, just remember how to act like a soldier. Get your hair cut, render proper customs and courtesies, and show some respect for dudes who've already done a lot of "big army" time or come from other services. Some 18x guys get selected and act like they've made it, or they'll complain about getting selected for details etc. when in reality, they haven't done a damn thing in the army yet except work out 😂. People are always watching you

[@odanisfernandez4618]

Facts good point

[@NoRunningPolicy]

My dad got out of the army national guard in 2011 as an E6 with a bronze star after signing up in 1990 and being deployed to Iraq 4 times, racking up a good amount of kills and being ES for the Prime Minister. Undergoing numerous IED attacks, and overwhelming enemy numbers. My big brother signed an 18X contract about 2 years ago and is currently and E7 with one 3 month deployment to Africa under his belt. Dad is pissed

[@jonathanallen8473]

Unfortunately me being prior service, I cannot re-enlist for 18x. I have to try out at the SFRE (Special Forces Readiness Evaluation/Assessment) with the 19th in August. Could you possibly make a video with an overview?

[@johnnyjeffrey3847]

I'm prior service and just got an 18x contract a couple months ago

[@jonathanallen8473]

@@johnnyjeffrey3847 what branch were you previously in?

[@johnnyjeffrey3847]

@@jonathanallen8473 I was in the Marines before

[@jonathanallen8473]

@@johnnyjeffrey3847 that’s probably why. I was previously in the Army before. If you come from another branch you have that option.

[@johnnyjeffrey3847]

@@jonathanallen8473 Oh okay yeah sorry man. Not sure if you've heard of the "try one" option, but might be worth looking into if you're going the NG route

[@Scotdooooi]

What happens if you enlist as an 18x and fail at some point? Do you get transferred to 11b or do you just go to the needs of the army?

[@johnnyson7474]

Most likely the Needs of the Army

[@betjoshar]

Agree. I encouraged college friend of my sons who was a Russian speaker and totally dedicated to going Seal after graduation. I had a long talk with him and encouraged him to switch from Navy to enlist 18X. After he went to Benning I stopped at the SF recruiter on base and gave him the guys name and unit. He made it and went to the 10th at Carson.

[@thelmadickinson6811]

Carson is hard to get. My soldier speaks German and Russian and didn’t get 10th, his first choice. No one he knew in the class before him got 10th either. They had no slots for his MOS.

[@user-xo2th7xo4w]

Hey man, I recently got back from deployment and just last week I was diagnosed with mild ptsd. I was fine over there but just having some problems back home. Will this disqualify me from ever attempting sf?

[@sofspecialforces1st488]

I am a seal of the navy I do not know how the army works, so, I will tell you something guys always ordinary soldiers will tell you stupid things like do not do civilian to the special forces rangers of the navy or green beret, if you want to make civilian to the special forces you can I was a civilian before being a seal and then enter the buds, and many Marines who were in the buds told me that I am stupid for not going to the marine corp first before going to the buds and they did not make it and I did it.

[@blkwidow99]

I really appreciate these videos, makes things actually seem obtainable or reachable. I’ve been busting my ass losing weight so I can join the Army in hopes of doing my “dream job” of literally anything in special operations, it’s just something I have to do otherwise I’m lost and have nothing more I’d want to do than just that. My calling I guess you could say, so I really appreciate these videos. I’m gonna keep grinding and keep studying up so I can achieve what people around me believe I cannot do.

[@odiespunkmeyer6016]

I've been prepping myself for last couple months for the 18x contract. I've lost weight, I've been running more, and feeling more confident for myself. Some have called me a fool for going for this, while others push me to want this. This video is the cherry on top. Thank you.

[@Ghostweston]

Same here man, you finding any difficulty with anything specific? I’ve been having issues with running. Trying to get that 13:30 2 mile and under 40 5 mile is a pain in the ass for some reason. Other people seem to think that’s the easiest part. Lol

[@odiespunkmeyer6016]

@@Ghostweston I've been starting small. I run 4-5 times a week for 1-1.5 miles. Once I shave off a certain amount of time from that I will add more distance. I've never been the greatest distance runner, but I excel in bursts of speed.

[@Ghostweston]

@@odiespunkmeyer6016 Nice man. Sounds like you got a good program set up for yourself. Good thing your starting small too. I was dumb and jumped the gun thinking I was just as fast as I was back when I was younger. Shin splints and IT band problems teach you not to think like that. Haha good luck man! Stay strong and keep going for it.

[@AFGixxeR88]

@@Ghostweston same bro

[@josemexjr2844]

@@odiespunkmeyer6016 are you an 18x???

[@jonverissimo5348]

Hey Buck, I have a question for you. I’m wondering how good of shape/physically prepared someone needs to be before heading to OSUT with an 18x contract. I am working on a contract and I am conflicted whether I should delay shipping out in order to be the best physically prepared or if I should just let the process get me in shape.

[@anthonydelarosa2642]

I’m halfway through OSUT and I can share my opinion. It’s best to be in the best shape you can be in but don’t be too concerned about being as fit as you will be once you get through. I trained as much as I could and got in the best shape of my life before shipping and I feel like I’ve lost a lot of strength because of all the time I spent at reception and the PT we do in OSUT is more geared towards getting the out of shape dudes into better shape than they were. All the guys I know that worked out hard lost a ton of progress being in OSUT. The only thing I got better at was running. Went from a 14:00 2-mile to a 12:55. At the end of the day, keep the mindset of always being the best version of you that you can be. Always give 100% and you will be okay.

[@AFGixxeR88]

@@anthonydelarosa2642 I heard you need to be top physically before signing that’s why do many dudes fail selection

[@Lifechanging99999]

Lol... sometimes I wish I had joined the Army. Rank is much more easily earned there. Not saying it’s easy or trying to talk shit. Getting out of the Marine Corps as an E-3 after four years makes you very salty. Just fyi Buck I enjoy your videos. Thanks for the content.

[@JesusChrist2000BC]

Hard in the Army as well man. Ive seen some very young Sgts in the Marines. Seems some Marines get promoted very fast.

[@Lifechanging99999]

@@JesusChrist2000BC I know basically every grunt in the Corps should be hitting corporal now in 4 years. Probably Sgt no later than 5.5 years.I should also reference I left in 2012. What’s the average amount of time to pick up Sgt in the Army? In 2012 it was about 6-7 years in the Corps. Most pogs will hit sgt in 3-4 years in the Corps.

[@JesusChrist2000BC]

@@Lifechanging99999 Fastest you can pick up SGT is 3 years but rarely seen it happent that fast. Its usually 2-3 for specialist. And then 4-5 for SGT. Similar to your situation except reversed. In the Army grunts get promoted quick and for everybody else its slower. My old PSG was a Marine he came over at E5 and made E7 super quick. He was like 26. Ended up being like a 30 year old 1SG.

[@TheUsername217]

The thing about 18x contracts is that if you don't get selected, you'll end up in an MOS based on what the Army needs and be stuck there 4 years minimum.

[@jacob11b]

Wtf ? No. Youre an infantryman .

[@MrJamestreynolds]

Seems like good motivation.

[@Matthew-im4rw]

@@jacob11b its happened before to some guys, but it isn't common. also depends on if you VW or just simply are a 19 day non select

[@TheUsername217]

@@jacob11b 11B isn't always a guarantee

[@moistjohn]

@@jacob11b 11b is not guaranteed, if you plan on going back to sfas it's not neccesarily the end of the world though (unless the guys above you refuse to let you go back)

[@mnoble2288]

I wish I had this kind of info when joined the Army back in ‘80.I would have chosen a lot different.

[@stanimirkrastev1768]

Hey Buck, Really appreciate all the info you’re putting out 👍👍. Really helpful. About signing an 18X contract, i have couple of questions: 1) I read that the length of the contract is 6 years, and that 2 1/2 of those years you spend in training ( correct me if I’m wrong). My question is: during these 2 or 2 1/2 years of training, do you get deployed? 2) is it true that : when you enlist directly with an 18X contract, and at some point you end up washing out, you get reclassified for the remainder of your contract with an MOS based in the army’s needs? 3) During the training/prep portion of your time, what does time spent with your family look like? For instance week-wise? What i mean is, for these 2 1/2 years, you don’t go without seeing your family right? They can live with you to whichever post you are stationed for training? I appreciate your help. Thank you sincerely 👍

[@TimRHillard]

I would be eager to find out the answer to these questions as well. You are going directly to the heart of the matter here.

[@stanleykowrach1957]

Any large bureaucratic organization . Once you train and become skilled at your job. They don't want you to leave.

[@nicholaspapoulias9280]

Why doesn't everyone go into SF as an 18X?

[@nicholaspapoulias9280]

That’s very risky…

[@josemexjr2844]

@@Tovashi nop you go 11b a got a friend of mine that is a 18x and i asked the same question and he say you go infantry,a will enlist 18x after a finish college

[@thelmadickinson6811]

@@Tovashithis is a rumor and not true. Army isn’t going to pay to reclass all of those guys they just paid to go through OSUT and airborne. If you fail the PT to go to airborne, you go somewhere as an 11 series. If you make it through airborne but not prep course, or don’t get selected, you go to 82nd, 173rd in Italy, or 11th in Alaska.

[@thelmadickinson6811]

When you get an 18x contract, it’s really an 11x contract with the option to pick up an 18 series MOS if you get selected. If you don’t get selected, you are still an 11 series. Everyone doesn’t want to be an 11 series so they enlist in an MOS that they want. Any MOS can drop a packet to attend selection. If they fail, they go back to their MOS unit.

[@D-F-T]

Question, what if I’m 18 (I have to be 20 for an 18X contract) aspiring to be SF? That would mean I would have to go into Big Army, college, or Ranger Regiment. What do I do?

[@novadronetechnologiesinc.3299]

wait a year man work out and train hard, don't rush

[@PaulTPerez]

Same imma be 18 but you got to be 20 my recruiter said so like I think imma go to school first and continue playing football then after get that 18X contract. If not school imma go ranger option 40 after high school 💯

[@AFGixxeR88]

Do option 40

[@Pyraer]

Nobody will ever read this but hey something to be aware of is the amount of scam artists targeting 18x both on base and as civilians during and after their careers. While it works out beautifully for some, there is no need to get targeted by these kinds of scammers. Just take a conventional contract and if you're in exceptional shape, sometimes you can get an invitation to SFAS during basic and otherwise you can just drop a packet later on.

[@Promo-j8m]

Something to go into your thought process here for 18x is the amount of scam artists floating around the 18x sort of pipeline. If you go to SFAS from conventional, then it is not really an issue. If you are in a situation where you're hurt, want to do something else, or could be stuck in hold for ages, or just get to a real conventional unit, scam artists are really targeting people who voluntarily drop here, even if the alternative means being paid a salary to do basically nothing.

[@Promo-j8m]

Careful if you pick up 18x and look to drop it. Loads of scam artists targeting people who drop from this, even if it leads to a better/more productive situation for the individual.

[@loganenglish6302]

I wish I had come in as an 11X. Im going to have to make up time training for missing out on SOPC

[@R2WSF]

You’re a stud man. Thanks for the great videos and extremely helpful information. It’s cool to see how humble you are about everything, and just genuinely want to help.

[@opaca512]

That promotion is ridiculous. Why do these career fields need to have accelerated promotions? How does that benefit the military? Is it just a pay incentive to recruit?

[@shabaddeepsingh6577]

Thank you for this video. I enlisted in the Army as a 11B because a former Grunt told me the same thing about being enlisted first is better than going straight into it. Biggest bullshit ever, I hate to say it but being in the normal Army does not help with preparing for SF Selection at all. I wish this video was out and I saw this before I joined the Army.

[@HIGHTJ813]

I enlisted as 11b and I was told the same thing! So I leave to boot camp Jan 13 I heard they offer 18x at boot camp is that true?

[@HIGHTJ813]

Sorry OSUT*

[@shabaddeepsingh6577]

@@HIGHTJ813 bro, that is straight bullshit. If you didn’t get an 18X ray contract, your not gonna get it in basic. You can volunteer once you get to your unit but you have to be atleast a PFC ( which is about a year to a year and a half in the Army) and I believe 21 years old. Tbh honest if your heart is set on being SF I would cancel your contract and demand an 18x ray contract. Remember you don’t owe anything to recruiters. They don’t give af about you, their job is to just get you in. Nothing wrong with just enlisting but if you really want SF don’t sign up unless you get 18X ray contract. Also how old are you?

[@joevil6259]

Isn't this basically like the Navy Seals but now for the Army. They get you when you are still young. The rank situation is different of course, skipping ahead like that.

[@jasonwhite4768]

Im looking at going 18x i will be watching more of your videos so i can learn of what i need to prepare for both mentally and physically.

[@chrishall2188]

Did you ever meet guys who came over from the Marine corps? If so what was it like for them? And in your opinion when is it considered to old to try out for SF?

[@damianmonreal1652]

Damn man I’m going from Air Force to army shooting for an 18x! But the recruiters I talked too say it can’t be done for me

[@SomeGuy-fl1gz]

Go to a different recruiter

[@Fyiaa95]

I’m so fucking lost as to how exactly was this informative lol. Fuck what other guys think, tell us how to get there.

[@19delta25]

What up buck I wish I knew about the 18x -ray program back in 03 when I enlisted…

[@robertbaker9012]

i was one of the first So called SF Babies in 1978. I worked my way through the ranks from E1 to E8 and held the position of a team sergeant as a E-7 then again as an E-8. I've seen people from every aspect serving as a team member. Twillingness to guide his 'team to understand, I'm here not just take you into harms way and bring us back. But also I'm grooming you to someday to take my place. My 22 years in SF served me well, I had jerks as team sergeants and team leaders, not to mentions some real jackasses as CSMs and BN Commanders.

[@FNGACADEMY]

DOL brother

[@betjoshar]

Gotta take the good with the ugly…

[@Bull1535]

If you have a DUI on your record, don't even think twice.

[@zidensonfit7485]

Is 18x contracts only through national guard or regular army too?

[@opaca512]

A catered military experience? What dat like?

[@Erick-hr5mv]

Are they saying this because most folks drop out or wat

[@seancollier2621]

Didn’t realize I needed to hear this until I heard it. Thank you!

[@AC-uw4il]

even though this video is old I just wanna say take it, its an opportunity and like he said ignore those people and even though my army career isnt as awesome as Ranger or Green Beret I was Airborne and god damn im so glad I did it because its so hard to get airborne apparently, especially if your MOS doesnt really need you to have them and ill also add this if you go in as regular army and you wanna go do a school or progress your career you have to rely on your chain of command to get you there and if they dont like you the battle is gonna be twice as hard instead of taking the contract and be heading on that trail from the beginning and not dealing with shit head leaders You dont know how valuable these contracts are till your actually in it and experiencing it what you said goes with airborne too even though its not as high demanding like Ranger or Green Beret we see it too or atleast something similar

[@Giskeoutdoors]

I'm neither american nor planning to join up, but these videos are great. Keep the videos coming, hope you get the growth you deserve! Thanks for keeping us all safe.

[@FNGACADEMY]

thanks man!

[@palpichulo6969]

I was in the 82nd right up the st on Ardennes I've been out for 3 years but I wanna go back n do something special would being prior service prevent me from getting an 18x?

[@jonathanflores3748]

It would be cool to see a video of the Rep 63 contract and your input on that. Thanks!

[@invokedawolf]

29 years young. Sharp. Team Orientated. Omw in 18x.

[@FNGACADEMY]

with age comes wisdom use it

[@gameocalypse6040]

When you mentioned we'd be coming out with an E-6 for our family, are there added perks over E5 and below for families, or just the pay increase? Big thanks on the video btw, keep em coming.

[@FNGACADEMY]

pay increase is what i meant, and it is substantial, E6 demo pay, jump pay, language pay, Haz duty

[@gameocalypse6040]

@@FNGACADEMY Got it. Thanks for the quick response!

[@jordanjohnson7791]

My recruiter said hes seen many people go 18x and werent selected. Would advice would you give? Im 28 and been getting knocked down and back up again my whole life. Im not intimidated by my odds of making it bc i know how bad i want this. Nothing great comes easy or without sacrifice. I understand mental fortitude and heart is super important and thats what i have the most of. Physically ive been working out and putting in effort and even using asvab study. Also the 18x contract currently offers a 20k bonus. Sounds like a no brainer , but what does FNG Academy think. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. -jordy

[@AlchemyOfTheFourthKind]

Either go for it or forget it. It's a way of life

[@jordanjohnson7791]

@@AlchemyOfTheFourthKind its between that and 19d cav scout. My recruiter said i may not get a security clearance based off my credit :/ sounds silly but i gotta respect and trust the process

[@thelmadickinson6811]

Not sure if it will help at this point. My soldier went in at 26 and turned 27 during team week. He graduates the Q next week at 28. Another guy is 42. You must be strong. And smart. Lots of classroom time if you get selected and taking notes, tests in MOS where you learn by firehose. The cognitive load is as heavy as the physical load. Performance matters every second. Be the first to stand and the last to sit. Never rest. If you aren’t doing something, find something to do. Read Ruck UP or Shut Up. New book on selection.

[@evanolson8819]

I enlisted in the NG with an 18X contract, I joined as an E4 (I have a degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering). I was under the impression that you come out of the Q as an E5, so interested where the E6 rank would come from? Does this only apply to dudes who are coming into the Q as E5's? I know part of the Q course is an NCO course to get you to E5, or does it automatically start at E6 now? Sorry for the questions, a lot of the process has changed recently especially with the focus shifting to HTD. All the guys I drill with in 19th group have all been in for years and the process they went through is not the same.

[@AIRBORNE916]

It use to be E5 and its changed to E6

[@AFGixxeR88]

When do you go

[@HeyItsJoe1]

Whose the smallest guy you've seen pass selection? I'm 5'4 and 135-140. My best lifts are 305 squat 355DL 215 bench. I run a 13:12 2 mile and a sub 40 5 mile. I'ma be honest I'm really worried I'm not physically strong enough to pass. I'll never quit though.

[@shootingbricks8554]

I met an SF Soldier who was 5'5" and he was a prior service Marine so he was older than your average candidate. He told me being a Scout Sniper helped in terms of rucking, water training and land navigation.

[@saltycelery2045]

Can you do a video on the process of applying for SF from conventional forces? How do you apply?

[@BlackWhiteboySwagg]

It’s just going to your SORB and dropping an packet man. FY 21-22 the GT requirements are 100

[@saltycelery2045]

@@BlackWhiteboySwagg ok thanks! I have seen videos of how to prepare and stuff, but not how you actually submit your paperwork and requirements and stuff

[@ninobreznik9354]

Instant click content!

[@Themaneman464]

This is great shit dude and thanks a lot! They were trying to hardball me at MEPS to go infantry but I stood my ground and with the help of my recruiter, I got the 18x.

[@samtorres4996]

Lol they were trying to help you man. If you don't pass selection which you probably won't just being realistic, youll go to needs of the army and end up being a cook or some dumb shit. I'd try to get out of it and just drop a packet at your unit.

[@josemexjr2844]

Updates???

[@BTL0523]

Did you ever try getting into Delta? And if not, do you wish you would've tried?

[@davelaserik3898]

I knew all the shit they were trying to feed me about “just drop a packet and go through it the right way” was all bullshit

[@chrisstuart9733]

love the content smashing the like button eve time. cant wait to get option 40 in march

[@collingalbraith4343]

I don’t know much about a 18x contract what exactly is it and how do you go about getting one?

[@lost6672]

can you make a video about what it was like for you when you first arrived to group. Like your first few weeks/months? Nobody talks about that

[@troyyoung953]

You can polish a terd...

[@therealtinytalk1009]

Question I’m 31. Am I told to get an 18x contract?

[@thelmadickinson6811]

Do some research. It’s all online. Anyone over the age limit can get a waiver. A soldier graduating the W course with my son next week is 42.

[@malcolmcoker9724]

Loved this video, I needed this I’m coming off of deployment and I’m 92A but I didn’t want this mos but I’m going go sof when I get back to the states.