SWCC career?

[jake6666]

Hey, guys. My name is Jake and I was wondering if you could answer some questions for me.

I'm currently in the process of enlisting in the Navy, and am seriously considering it as a career; this is something I would have to decide once I'm in, obviously.

How realistic is it for someone to have SWCC as a career for 20 something years? Do guys typically do it this way? Due to the inherent danger, I'm not sure how things work as far as time in SWCC goes.

I know if someone signs a SWCC contract as a civilian and they DOR, they are rephased into a rate that the Navy needs to fill. If I Enlist in the Navy first with a specific rate other than SWCC, such as PS, then try out for SWCC and DOR, would I go back to being a PS, or would I be rephased into a different rate?

Thanks, Jake

[ddssdv]

Hey, guys. My name is Jake and I was wondering if you could answer some questions for me.

I'm currently in the process of enlisting in the Navy, and am seriously considering it as a career; this is something I would have to decide once I'm in, obviously.

How realistic is it for someone to have SWCC as a career for 20 something years? Do guys typically do it this way? Due to the inherent danger, I'm not sure how things work as far as time in SWCC goes.

I know if someone signs a SWCC contract as a civilian and they DOR, they are rephased into a rate that the Navy needs to fill. If I Enlist in the Navy first with a specific rate other than SWCC, such as PS, then try out for SWCC and DOR, would I go back to being a PS, or would I be rephased into a different rate?

Thanks, Jake


Please us the search function. After it has been exhausted, ask questions.

[jake6666]

I couldn't find anything related to what I asked by using the search function.

[joshdupre]

Hey, guys. My name is Jake and I was wondering if you could answer some questions for me.

I'm currently in the process of enlisting in the Navy, and am seriously considering it as a career; this is something I would have to decide once I'm in, obviously.

How realistic is it for someone to have SWCC as a career for 20 something years? Do guys typically do it this way? Due to the inherent danger, I'm not sure how things work as far as time in SWCC goes.

I know if someone signs a SWCC contract as a civilian and they DOR, they are rephased into a rate that the Navy needs to fill. If I Enlist in the Navy first with a specific rate other than SWCC, such as PS, then try out for SWCC and DOR, would I go back to being a PS, or would I be rephased into a different rate?

Thanks, Jake

Ok it is very realistic for someone to have a SWCC career for 20+ years. If you do enlist in the Navy as a PS for example and want to apply for SWCC then more than likely you will have to wait out your minium time before being able to apply for the program I believe is 2 years when you first come in. If you DOR then you would go back to being a PS. Hope that helps.

MR2

[jake6666]

Thanks for your help, I appreciate it.

[Kinnikinik]

First off, welcome to the site Jake, and Josh, thanks for the great answer to his question. One thing we do not do here in the SWCC forums is answer a question with "Use the search function." Everyone coming on here should look through the forums, but there is a TON of stuff here. Those of us who have been around can easily point them where they need to go.

So, may I suggest a different tactic. Answer a new person's question, and then link them to the thread you are referring to. Also, show them where to get their answers. "You can find that information at the CrossFit forums..." for example.

Remember, we are the first impression some people get to the military and Special Warfare. We want to shake that prima donna image and give out good gouge.

Finally, I do not care about arguments that "that is how they do it on other parts of these forums." This is the SWCC forums. We do it our way.

K

[jake6666]

Thanks for the welcome, K.

I have been lurking around the SWCC forums for quite some time but I just registered. I've also read a lot of the previous posts and you have been very helpful throughout my research.

[joshdupre]

K did you see my blog?

MR2

[Blenk11]

Jake,

Things are always changing in the Navy. I had a guy I went to Basic Enlisted Submarine School with and he went SWCC right after we graduated. At that time we had only been in the Navy about 6 months so unless the rules have in fact changed, you may be able to go faster. I would recommend getting the SWCC contract vice getting a rate first. I originally wanted to go to BUD/s before I joined but decided to go get a rate first. From my experience I would have probably done the SEAL/SWCC contract now. With that said, I have had great experiences in the Submarine Navy and I have had great success with that community. I made E-5 in a little less than 2 1/2 years and worked with some of the most intelligent people you will ever surround yourself with. If SWCC is the last thing you think about at night and the first thing you think about in the morning the contract might be good for you. If not maybe try out the regular Navy and see how that works for you and if you still want SWCC go for it then... Hopes this helps.

STS2/SS

P.S. Not trying to discourage you but in my opinion PS isn't the most rewarding nor exciting rate in the Navy. Pushing paperwork all day just doesn't seem to be very fun... but that's just me.

[jake6666]

Thanks for the advice, Blenk11.

I do think about SWCC a lot. I also think about becoming a Legalman and Counselor (I know those two aren't entry level jobs).

I guess it just boils down to what I really want. I'm having a really hard time deciding...

Jake

[jake6666]

Looks like no dice with SWCC. I've researched relentlessly and although I couldn't find a definitive answer, I know SWCC are trained to jump out of planes. I don't think I could ever do that. I'm kinda affraid of heights. I think I would be terrified of jumping out of a plane.

If anyone can offer advice, or a definitive answer on that, feel free...



Jake

[joshdupre]

Looks like no dice with SWCC. I've researched relentlessly and although I couldn't find a definitive answer, I know SWCC are trained to jump out of planes. I don't think I could ever do that. I'm kinda affraid of heights. I think I would be terrified of jumping out of a plane.

If anyone can offer advice, or a definitive answer on that, feel free...



Jake

If jumping out of plans is your reason for not wanting to go SWCC that isn't a very good one. Only few get the opportunity to do that, chances are you won't ever have to but if you wanted to you could possible get stationed with a team that jumps and if you are squared away then you could request it but I would turn away just because the possiblity of it is there. If that scares you off then maybe sticking to legalman or whatever is a good idea for you SpecWar isn't for everyone but make sure you research each one and base your decisions on good sound facts and information not he said she said info.

MR2

[Blenk11]

I agree 100% with what you said Josh. If jumping out of a plane sounds scary, what do you think about getting dropped from a plane THEN flying down a river in the middle of the night in sub-freezing degree weather all the while you are getting shot at? This job isn't a regular job in the Navy. It is Special Warfare and as Josh stated it is not for everybody. I don't know if you recruiter has told you anything about the expeditionary boat units but that may be more your speed. This has been talked about on this forum and from what I have heard it seems like a good mix between fast boats and less danger.

Me on the other hand want that danger, I want to be scared of not knowing of what lies ahead. 3 1/2 years of mind and body numbing boredom makes you want to live again. If what I said above doesn't get your blood pumping and that little tingle in your stomach then maybe think your other options. That helps me train everyday with my rigorious workout schedule for that reason, for that chance.

STS2/SS

[jake6666]

Good posts.

I can't really come up with a response. Although, I think the anticipation and fear of jumping out of a plane is different than what you mentioned about reezing temps. and being shot at. I know that SWCC goes through those things, but when you're in the moment, it's different than anticipating it. I don't know if that makes sense.

The above is all irrelevent since it's unikely that I'll have to jump.

This is all apart of the process and I have yet to make a decision. I'm currently looking at all of my options, SWCC just so happents to interest me the most.

Jake

[joshdupre]

The thing about these programs is they are different than choosing PS, MM, MR, or any other rate. These programs are not to be taken lightly you don't just go to the classroom and learn a few things and get sent out the fleet. These programs are the toughest military training in the world they do not hold that title for no reason. If you want to go SWCC then basically you need to be just as physically/mentally ready for it as a person would BUD/S.
This is something that you need to be thinking about and know deep down inside that you want this more than anything. Not trying to scare you, but when your cold, wet, tired, etc that is the kind of thought that will get you through that evolution and the next. If you don't quite understand the detication that it takes then read some of the books that people on the site recommend such as Lone Suvivor, The Warrior Elite, etc. these books will give you a great insite on the type of commentment that it takes for these programs these books are SEAL books but the commentment and the brotherhood is none the less the same for SWCC. Hope this helps, don't rush any decision take your time read/research ask questions etc make a decision that you will be able to stick with and standby for years to come good bad or otherwise.

MR2

[jake6666]

I understand everything you're saying. I know the training these go through is like no other. I'm merely doing everything I can to help me make the right decision that will dictate the next four years of my life, and possibly many more.

I appreciate everything suggested and all of your help. I will be asking more questions.

J

[Blenk11]

Ditto to what Josh said, I am sure some of the team guys will agree as well. I think you need to do some sole searching to find your answer.

STS2/SS

P.S. Have you heard anything new Josh?

[joshdupre]

No not yet, it will be a wait I believe.

[swcc-wife]

The above is all irrelevent since it's unikely that I'll have to jump.

Just wanted to add that while you may be able to avoid MCADS, there is still the possibility of doing MEATS, and EVERYONE has to do fast-roping. All of those mentioned are done at what you may consider "uncomfortable" heights. Also, once (if) you get to a Team, if your unit has to get jump qual'd, do you think your Chief will say, "Oh, I know you are afraid of heights so you don't have to go"? Probably not.

I wanted to put those out there since no one else mentioned them. Not trying to discourage you, just want you to be informed.

[gh0va]

3 1/2 years of mind and body numbing boredom makes you want to live again.

STS2/SS

God man, please tell me that sub duty isn't really *that* boring?!

[jake6666]

I've decided I'm going to try for SWCC. I'll worry about those things when the time comes. I'm not going to let it deter me from doing something I want to do.

I have some other concerns...A secret security clearance is needed, right? I took steroids (one capsule) about 5 years ago, will that prevent me from getting the required clearance? I haven't done anything else.

Also, my sister is married to a muslim guy, who I don't associate with. Will this prevent me from getting the clearance?

Jake

[overcome.101]

Don't bother saying anything about the steroids thats a mute issue, it wont prevent you from joining and itll just present more paperwork and suspicion for nothing. Your sister being married to a Muslim shouldn't be a problem either, but don't quote me on it...ask your salesman i mean recruiter.

[jake6666]

^^^^^^^^^^^

And what happens when they do a search on me and find out that I lied about taking illegal drugs?

I'm disclosing everything.

[overcome.101]

Good for you...your right they do search and know everything about you. They will know that you took that steroid pill...they also know every time you've ever taken a piss, and every time you laughed at handicapped and fat people. It's important to believe everything you are told by your recruiter, after all they are looking out for your best interests ONLY, it doesn't matter at all to them if they recruit people.

[duquema]

If you weren't caught by the cops then you probably don't have anything to worry about. Anything you think will keep you from joining never happened. If everyone in the military disclosed all their info we would barely have a military force. Just make sure that everything you tell the people at MEPS stays that way.

And to anyone who has info about SWCC, I plan on going into the program after a few years in reg Navy. Is the initial training similar to BUD/s?

[jake6666]

^^^

From what I have read on this forum, BUD/S and SWCC training are very similar as far as difficulty is concerned. They differ in training only. Also, they go through Hell week which is one week long, SWCC goes through something similar to that but it's 72 hrs, not a week.

Jake