--- title: "6 ways the infantry prepares you to be in special ops" description: "The infantry may seem a world away from special ops, but it's great preparation. Here's how infantry and special operations teams are alike." date: "2022-02-23" modified: "2023-02-21" authors: - name: "Sean Dodds" link: "https://www.wearethemighty.com/authors/seandodds/" url: "https://www.wearethemighty.com/popular/6-similarities-infantrymen-special-ops/" categories: - "Join the Military" - "Military Culture" - "Special Operations" - "Tactical" --- # 6 ways the infantry prepares you to be in special ops ![]() Special ops have earned their prestige. There is no denying that these men are absolute badasses; relentless warriors with no room for quit. SOF teams are often described as surgical [tools for the Department of Defense to use]() when a less overt maneuver is required. Conversely, America's infantry is used when the U.S. wants to figuratively and literally kick down the enemies' front door and punch them in the face. But I digress. Here's how infantry and special operations teams are alike. ## These are 6 ways the infantry prepares you to be in special ops ### 1. Being physically fit Special operations are known for being extremely fit — the reputation is well deserved. However, the military, in general, is expected to maintain a high level of fitness and the infantry holds their personnel to an exceptional standard. ![special ops preparation push-ups]() *Buddy push-ups as far as the eye can see... (Photo by Sgt. Jamean Berry)* ### Related: [7 tips on how to get selected by MARSOC instructors]() ### 2. Attending advanced training Infantry units are trained to excel in the most austere environments. All units send their troops to advanced schools and, depending on their upcoming area of operations, soldiers and Marines will receive advanced, specialized training to expand the capabilities of the unit as a whole. ### 3. Showcasing tactical prowess in combat Locate, close with, and destroy the enemy using fire and maneuver. No matter your status, the tactics for room clearing, close-quarters combat, fire, and maneuver are all about mastering the basics. There is no shortage of expertise among the U.S. infantry who are winning America's battles. ![Marine infantry on beach]() *Amphibious landings *en masse*? No problem. (Photo by Phan Shannon Garcia)* ### 4. Utilizing inter-service augmentation A major component of SOF's arsenal comes from calling in accurate fire from Army/Marine artillery, Navy guns, and Air Force strikes. Coincidentally, forward observers within infantry units possess the same radios and they use them for communicating with the artisans of mass destruction from all branches. ![JTACs]() *JTACs all around. (Photo by Master Sgt. Andy Dunaway)* ### 5. Possessing the ability to f\*ck sh\*t up SOF surely kicks the enemy's ass. Infantry does as well — with way more guys, munitions, and, when Congress allows it, they don't leave until all enemies are either dead or have surrendered. ![special ops preparation door kicking]() *Knock, knock, knocking — soon you'll be at heaven's door. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Stacy L. Pearsall)* ### Also read: 7 ways 'Starship Troopers' is the most outstanding moto film ever ### 6. Prioritizing mission accomplishment The mission is number one for everyone in the military, regardless of job. It's the reason we are here. Infantry, just like SOF, has cultivated a culture dedicated to defending America's interests, the country itself, and, most importantly, its people. Regardless of how they do it, all servicemen and women understand the priority: doing the hard job that needs to be done. ## Author Check out the stories written by Sean Dodds. Engage with thought-provoking content that offers unique perspectives on military endeavors.