Expert: Aaron Shifferly - 11/27/2009

Question
I am currently a freshman and can't decide which path to choose. I could either go to West Point or join the Army right away. Getting into West Point would be fairly easy for me seeing as my qualifications are and still will be far above the average. However, my ultimate goal is to become a Green Beret. Which path should I choose and what do I need to do to make it possible to become one? Also, what is the difference between an Army Ranger and a Green Beret and what do they do workwise? What are the physical requirements for both? Any advice is welcome.. Thank you for your time, Brian.

Answer
Well you don't just get to join the Army and go special forces you have to try out and earn it after some time in the military. As an officer this chance comes after you make First Lieutenant and are close to making Captain. You should choose whichever path you feel you'd enjoy.. enlisting is a good thing, but an education is also a great thing to have. You'll need superior physical fitness and mental toughness to become Special Forces along with a clean background so that you can get the required security clearances. The difference between a Ranger and Special Forces is that Rangers are infantry and specialize in light maneuvers and airfield capturing whereas Special Forces have other missions as well. Physically they both require you be able to run/jump/walk long distances with heavy loads on your back.