About this Unit
The 1st Battalion, 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne), commonly referred to as 1/20th SFG(A), is a unit of the Army National Guard with a distinguished history of special operations. Activated in 1961, 1/20th SFG(A) is headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, with subordinate elements across several southern states. The battalion has participated in a wide range of missions, including unconventional warfare, counterterrorism, and foreign internal defense, with notable deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq during the Global War on Terror. Known for their adaptability and professionalism, the soldiers of 1/20th SFG(A) continue to support both national and international security objectives.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 1st Battalion, 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne), known as 1/20th SFG(A), was established in 1961 as part of the U.S. Army National Guard, with its headquarters in Birmingham, Alabama.
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Green Berets: Like all Special Forces units, 1/20th SFG(A) soldiers wear the iconic green beret and are referred to as "Green Berets," signifying their qualification and elite status.
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Regional Focus: Their original area of responsibility was Latin America, and many soldiers became fluent in Spanish and Portuguese, conducting training and missions throughout Central and South America.
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Global Deployments: The battalion has deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq, and other locations worldwide since 9/11, often augmenting active-duty Special Forces units and conducting direct action, counterinsurgency, and foreign internal defense missions.
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Hurricane Katrina Response: In 2005, 1/20th SFG(A) played a vital role in humanitarian and security operations in New Orleans, Louisiana, following Hurricane Katrina.
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Valor and Awards: Members of 1/20th SFG(A) have received numerous awards for valor and meritorious service, including Bronze Stars and Purple Hearts, for their actions in combat zones.
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Training Partnerships: The unit frequently conducts joint training exercises with foreign militaries, such as the Colombian Army, to enhance counter-narcotics and counterinsurgency capabilities.
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Citizen-Soldiers: As part of the National Guard, 1/20th SFG(A) soldiers balance civilian careers with their demanding military roles, embodying the "citizen-soldier" tradition.
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Special Skills: Many members are qualified in advanced skills, including military free-fall parachuting, combat diving, and foreign languages, making them versatile operators.
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Legacy of Excellence: The battalion is known for producing highly respected Special Forces operators, some of whom have gone on to serve in elite units or as leaders within the broader Special Forces community.
