US Army Special Warfare Center and School

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Branch

U.S. Army

Members

About US Army Special Warfare Center and School

The US Army Special Warfare Center and School (SWCS), established in 1952 at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, serves as the premier institution for training and educating Army Special Operations Forces. Originally created to oversee the training of psychological operations and unconventional warfare, SWCS has since evolved to direct the development and instruction of Special Forces, Civil Affairs, and Psychological Operations personnel. Over the decades, the center has adapted its curriculum to meet the changing demands of modern warfare, ensuring operators are prepared for a wide array of global missions. Today, SWCS remains at the forefront of special operations training, shaping the capabilities and leadership of the Army's elite unconventional warriors.

Unit Members

Michelle Sheppard

U.S. Army

US Army Special Warfare Center and SchoolView Profile

Michael Moore

U.S. Army

US Army Special Warfare Center and SchoolView Profile

Photos

Boot Camp

Company C 1st Bn. 38th Inf. Regt. • U.S. Army • 1989

1980

101st airborne division • U.S. Army

U.S. Army

New uniform for wedding

82nd Airborne • U.S. Army • 2018

About US Army Special Warfare Center and School

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins in World War II: The US Army Special Warfare Center and School (SWCS) traces its roots to the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) during World War II, which pioneered unconventional warfare and special operations. • Founding Year: The official establishment of the school was in 1952 at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, to train soldiers in psychological operations and unconventional warfare. • "The Schoolhouse" Nickname: SWCS is often called "The Schoolhouse" within the Special Operations community, as it is the primary institution for training Special Forces (Green Berets), Civil Affairs, and Psychological Operations soldiers. • Green Beret Qualification: The renowned "Q Course" (Special Forces Qualification Course) is run by SWCS, a rigorous program that produces the Army's elite Green Berets. • Language and Cultural Training: SWCS emphasizes foreign language proficiency and cultural training, reflecting the global scope of Special Operations missions. • Influence in Vietnam: Graduates from SWCS played a pivotal role in the Vietnam War, including the formation of the famous "A-Teams" that worked closely with indigenous forces. • Expanded Role Post-9/11: After the September 11 attacks, SWCS expanded its training programs and curriculum to meet the increased demand for Special Operations forces worldwide. • John F. Kennedy’s Support: President Kennedy was a strong advocate for Special Forces, and his legacy is honored at SWCS, including a statue at Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg). • Training International Allies: SWCS regularly trains soldiers from allied nations, strengthening global partnerships and interoperability in Special Operations. • Comprehensive Curriculum: The school offers over 100 courses in areas such as unconventional warfare, survival, evasion, resistance, escape (SERE), and advanced marksmanship.