About this Unit
The 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), known as "The Legion," was activated in September 1961 at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. The unit gained distinction during the Vietnam War, conducting unconventional warfare, counterinsurgency, and direct action missions. Over the decades, the 5th SFG(A) has played a vital role in operations in the Middle East, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Renowned for their expertise in foreign internal defense and counterterrorism, the 5th Special Forces Group remains a cornerstone of U.S. Army Special Operations.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Origins: The 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), nicknamed “The Legion,” was officially activated on September 21, 1961, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, as part of the growing need for unconventional warfare capabilities.
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Vietnam War Legacy: The 5th SFG(A) played a crucial role in the Vietnam War, leading counterinsurgency operations, training South Vietnamese forces, and pioneering the use of “A-Teams” behind enemy lines.
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Green Beret Distinction: The 5th Group’s members are among the original "Green Berets," a term popularized by President John F. Kennedy, who authorized the wear of the distinctive headgear in 1961.
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Operation Desert Storm: During the 1991 Gulf War, the 5th SFG(A) was heavily involved in coalition operations, conducting deep reconnaissance, direct action, and working with local resistance groups within Iraq and Kuwait.
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Post-9/11 Operations: The 5th SFG(A) led the first U.S. troops into Afghanistan in 2001, famously working with the Northern Alliance and calling in airstrikes on Taliban positions during Operation Enduring Freedom.
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Horse Soldiers: Soldiers from the 5th Group became known as the “Horse Soldiers” after they rode horseback alongside Afghan fighters in the early stages of the Afghanistan war, a story later depicted in the movie 12 Strong.
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Area of Responsibility: The 5th SFG(A) specializes in operations within the Middle East and Central Asia, making it a key unit for U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility.
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Valor and Decorations: Members of the 5th Group have earned numerous awards, including multiple Medals of Honor, Distinguished Service Crosses, and unit citations for gallantry and heroism.
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Unit Motto and Insignia: The group’s motto is "De Oppresso Liber," meaning “To Free the Oppressed.” The unit’s crest features a silver dagger and crossed arrows, symbolizing their unconventional warfare mission.
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Cultural Impact: The exploits of the 5th SFG(A) have been featured in books, documentaries, and films, inspiring a new generation of special operations soldiers and increasing public awareness of their vital, often secretive, missions.
