18A Special Forces

18A is the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) for an Army Special Forces officer. The “A” in the MOS code indicates that the position is for a commissioned officer.

Special Forces officers perform unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, and special reconnaissance operations. They may participate in short-duration strikes to capture, recover, or destroy enemy weapons or information. They may also organize, assist, and train the military and national defense forces of foreign governments.

Special Forces officers may command or serve on the staff of Special Forces units. They may also serve in positions that require general Special Forces experience or training.

Special Forces officers are members of the Green Berets, which are among the most elite groups in the world. They provide a pipeline to higher units, like the Army’s “Delta” CAG, and the CIA SAD.