Is Cavalry Scout Special Forces?
The cavalry scout is a specialized role within the United States Army, and many people wonder if they are considered special forces. In this article, we will delve into the details of the cavalry scout role and explore whether they are indeed special forces.
What is a Cavalry Scout?
A cavalry scout is a member of the United States Army’s cavalry branch, responsible for conducting reconnaissance and surveillance missions to gather intelligence and provide real-time battlefield information to commanders. They are trained to operate in a variety of environments, from deserts to forests, and are equipped with specialized vehicles and equipment to support their missions.
Training and Qualifications
To become a cavalry scout, one must first enlist in the Army and complete basic training. After basic training, they will attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at Fort Knox, Kentucky, where they will learn the skills necessary to become a cavalry scout. This training includes:
- Reconnaissance and surveillance techniques
- Map reading and navigation
- First aid and combat casualty care
- Marksmanship and weapons training
- Vehicle operations and maintenance
Cavalry scouts must also pass a rigorous physical fitness test and complete a 30-day survival, evasion, resistance, and escape (SERE) training course.
Special Forces Training
So, are cavalry scouts special forces? The answer is no. While they are trained in many of the same skills as special forces operators, such as reconnaissance and marksmanship, they are not part of the special forces community.
Special Forces Qualifications
To become a special forces operator, one must complete the Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS) course, which is a 21-day assessment of physical and mental toughness. Those who pass SFAS will then attend the Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC), also known as the "Q Course," which is a 62-week course that covers advanced skills such as:
- Language training
- Demolitions and explosives
- Unconventional warfare
- Counterterrorism
Key Differences
So, what are the key differences between cavalry scouts and special forces operators? Here are a few key points:
- Mission focus: Cavalry scouts are focused on conducting reconnaissance and surveillance missions, while special forces operators are trained to conduct a wide range of missions, including direct action, unconventional warfare, and special reconnaissance.
- Training: While both cavalry scouts and special forces operators receive advanced training, special forces operators undergo a more extensive and rigorous training program.
- Equipment: Special forces operators are equipped with specialized equipment, such as night vision goggles and advanced communication devices, that are not typically used by cavalry scouts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while cavalry scouts are highly trained and skilled warriors, they are not considered special forces. The role of a cavalry scout is to conduct reconnaissance and surveillance missions, while special forces operators are trained to conduct a wide range of missions that require advanced skills and specialized equipment.
Comparison Table
| Cavalry Scout | Special Forces Operator | |
|---|---|---|
| Mission focus | Reconnaissance and surveillance | Direct action, unconventional warfare, special reconnaissance |
| Training | 30-day AIT, 30-day SERE | 21-day SFAS, 62-week SFQC |
| Equipment | Standard issue Army equipment | Advanced equipment, including night vision goggles and communication devices |
| Role | Conduct reconnaissance and surveillance missions | Conduct a wide range of missions, including direct action, unconventional warfare, and special reconnaissance |
Bullets List
Here are some key points to remember:
- Cavalry scouts are trained to conduct reconnaissance and surveillance missions.
- Special forces operators are trained to conduct a wide range of missions, including direct action, unconventional warfare, and special reconnaissance.
- Cavalry scouts are not considered special forces.
- Special forces operators undergo a more extensive and rigorous training program than cavalry scouts.
- Special forces operators are equipped with specialized equipment, such as night vision goggles and advanced communication devices, that are not typically used by cavalry scouts.
