Which U.S. military unit is the toughest?

Sgt Joe LaBranche — Sun, 07 Feb 2016 21:35:33 -0500

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2016 9:37 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Feb 2016 21:37:04 -0500

Are we really asking this question?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2016 9:42 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Feb 2016 21:42:10 -0500

Impossible to measure. Why waste the time contemplating?

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made Feb 7 at 2016 10:02 PM

LtCol Robert Quinter — Sun, 07 Feb 2016 22:02:02 -0500

The one that the last guy to beat me up was in!

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Feb 7 at 2016 10:10 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Sun, 07 Feb 2016 22:10:30 -0500

Sgt Joe LaBranche I realize you want to limit this discussion to the US military.
Each military service has some very tough units including Air Force Pararescue and Special Operations; Army Delta, Ranger and Special Forces; Marine Force Recon and other Special Operations forces, and Navy SEAL in alphabetical order. I would submit that every US combat unit has the potential to be the toughest under teh right or wrong conditions.
However I would suggest nepalese gurkhas may be one of the toughest units in the world. Thankfully they tend to be our allies.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2016 10:15 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Feb 2016 22:15:47 -0500

I am not trying to be biased but I would have to say the 75th Ranger Regiment. Those guys have a hard life. It is a tough unit to be. You have to try out just to be in it and then go to Ranger school beyond that. The deploy several times in a year and have a extremely high ops tempo. Most of the units in Spec Ops aren't that bad once you get into the unit. This is not the case. In the 75th they have to earn it everyday.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2016 10:59 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Feb 2016 22:59:18 -0500

I think you need to be more specific. I think other special operations units can be tougher or not as tough in certain aspects of what they do. At the end of the day we strive to complete the same mission so I don't think it's that big of a deal.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2016 11:09 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Feb 2016 23:09:44 -0500

Toughest over all is probably the 75th Rangers. Rough trial, rough job, rough missions, rough life. But the US Army Special Forces and USMC Recon aren't too far behind them.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2016 11:27 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Feb 2016 23:27:59 -0500

During periods of conflict, when military branches and units work together, the U.S. military is at its best.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2016 1:05 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 01:05:41 -0500

How about separate categories for toughness? Let's differentiate with what "tough" means to different people:

1. Discipline and military bearing in all conditions: Old Guard
2. Physical toughness: SEALs
3. Mentally challenging: Cyber Soldiers? Maybe submariners?

It all depends on who you ask. Everyone's job is tough in its own way!

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2016 6:13 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 06:13:02 -0500

Toughest may not be the best way to describe them but in my humble opinion it would be 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta. They are one of the United States military's primary counter-terrorism units. Of course the other one being United States Naval Special Warfare Development Group (DEVGRU) or commonly referred to as Seal Team 6. Thanks to Col. Charlie Beckwith's vision after spending time as a liaison officer with the British Army's Special Air Service (22 SAS Regiment). Delta become a highly adaptable and completely autonomous unit with a broad array of special skills for direct action and counter-terrorist missions. Delta Force recruits from other branches of the military, including the Marine Corps. During the 2012 Benghazi attack, two Delta operators (one from the Army and one from the Marine Corps) were awarded the Distinguished Service Cross the Navy Cross, respectively. With all due respect for all the other units, Seals, 75th Ranger Regiment, Pararescue etc. I would give it to this Army unit.

Response by SPC James Dollins made Feb 8 at 2016 7:55 AM

SPC James Dollins — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 07:55:57 -0500

SF/Delta, BUT they are the best taken care of as well!

Response by SSG Audwin Scott made Feb 8 at 2016 8:00 AM

SSG Audwin Scott — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 08:00:37 -0500

You are certainly trying to start a war against branches lol. I am not touching this one.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Feb 8 at 2016 8:29 AM

SGT Ben Keen — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 08:29:44 -0500

Oh lord, hey CPT Private RallyPoint Member do you think this will go as far as asking if a 2LT should salute a 1LT?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2016 8:32 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 08:32:10 -0500

Each unit (esp. Tier 1 units) have their strengths and weaknesses. For example: An SF ODA, is very good at squad (12 men) or team (6 men or less) sized action requiring mostly clandestine action that harasses the enemy rear, including training indigenous non-military/insurgent forces. A Ranger unit is best at company or battalion sized actions that are very overt, and require the take down or seizure of an asset, such as an airfield. SEAL teams work best at platoon sizes when a building with HVTs need to be captured/killed. CAG is best at taking down very specific threats, using multiple teams, as is SEAL Team 6 (think Hostage Rescue or very HVT elimination). As for Air Force commandos, they mostly provide support to the others, and MARSOC - well, I'm not sure what they're good at as I've never operated with them, but presumably, they're platoon type element that is good at getting in under cover of darkness to secure objectives when an airborne insertion is not the best way to go. For shear force of will, I'll hand it to the SEALs (team 6) and CAG. For outright battle against company or larger sized forces, the Rangers and SEALs (other than 6). For hits out of nowhere, SF. So there is no one clear winner - as I said.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2016 9:49 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 09:49:39 -0500

Fun question and impossible to quantify. But for the sake of fun I'll add some perspective. All of the combat units have their slice of the tough sandwich they have to stomach. The top tier guys are the top tier guys and I think it goes without saying that they're tough, but they are also really well taken care of. I know some of the missions that the tier two guys do would drive top tier guys nuts. Tier two SF and SEAL teams that had to live in villages in the middle of Afghanistan would lose 20-30lbs per guy. Along that same train of thought, I've seen infantryman living in conditions and doing missions that would drive any pampered special ops guy crazy. Because of that, I'd have to say that a grunt infantryman or ground combat marine would be toughest. SOF guys are better trained, better equipped, usually more experienced and older, but usually better taken care of, and when duty call can handle business. But the infantryman and combat marines live a day in and day out tough life with very few extras.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2016 10:22 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 10:22:57 -0500

The answer is all of the Special Forces from every branch. Green Berets, Rangers, SEALs, Marine Recon, PJ's, Delta.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2016 10:38 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 10:38:50 -0500

Toughest? Boy, that's subjective. What's harder, BUDs or RASP? Is it harder to jump from a plane, or swim in freezing water? Is Hell Week harder than when rounds start flying?Does it make any difference? Teddy Roosevelt took a bullet to the chest and finished his speech...I believe he was essentially a Reservist. The couple of thousand RN sailors lost at Jutland may not have been gym rats...but I think they had guts. What about those Russian guys who went in to repair a reactor, knowing they'd die a painful death? Yeah-tough is in the heart, and it's rare, but found everywhere.

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Feb 8 at 2016 1:17 PM

Sgt Tom Cunnally — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 13:17:03 -0500

Tough question to answer since each branch of the military has Special Operators who go through similar training. But when you consider which unit is the toughest you have to judge how they did in combat operations. So I would have to say 1st Marine Recon Company that served in Korea was the toughest unit that I have first hand knowledge. I was TAD to this unit when they had just returned from Korea & got to know them & learned about their training and how they did in combat.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2016 1:59 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 13:59:02 -0500

All good answers...but NONE of us are as tough as these guys

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Feb 8 at 2016 2:28 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 14:28:53 -0500

I guess it depends on what skills you are measuring and MOSs.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2016 4:34 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 16:34:29 -0500

the SEALs

Response by SGT Jose Perdelia-Torres made Feb 8 at 2016 11:12 PM

SGT Jose Perdelia-Torres — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 23:12:01 -0500

Whichever one that I am a part of. That was the Army, so the answer is the Army. Just depends wherever I go...

Response by SCPO David Lockwood made Feb 9 at 2016 12:29 PM

SCPO David Lockwood — Tue, 09 Feb 2016 12:29:58 -0500

As far as the toughest I would have to go with the Navy Seals.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2016 1:48 PM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 09 Feb 2016 13:48:50 -0500

hahahah Joe, you're only going to cause a problem with a question like that. Did you see the Air Force special/commercial and the Air Force DRill Sgt said "we're actually tougher than the Marine Corps in basic training"

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Feb 10 at 2016 1:49 AM

Capt Mark Strobl — Wed, 10 Feb 2016 01:49:38 -0500

Sgt Joe LaBranche - Going to grab a bowl of pretzels and a beer... and watch this one unfold.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2016 8:33 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 10 Feb 2016 20:33:57 -0500

I mean, it all depends, as many have said.. Clearly Air Force Pararescue can't Raid Airfields like Army Rangers and Army Rangers can't infiltrate small sized tasks forces because they operate as a large raid force. Every Special Operations Unit exists because they do stuff that others can't.

Response by Sgt Dale Briggs made Jul 16 at 2017 6:23 PM

Sgt Dale Briggs — Sun, 16 Jul 2017 18:23:01 -0400

The Special Ops guys in each beach are equal in difficulty if not different. Force Recon IMO are a SEAL equivelent, Army Spec Ops and Delta. I'd guess Delta is on par with Seal Team 6. Air Force Special Ops, and Para Rescue have a very high attuniation rate. Coast Guard rescue guys are as tough as anyone with an incredibly high failure rate. Hell they're all tough, just different.

Response by PO3 John O'Donnell made Jul 16 at 2017 6:41 PM

PO3 John O'Donnell — Sun, 16 Jul 2017 18:41:00 -0400

The life of a fleet sailor isn't very glamorous either

Response by MSgt Richard Randall made Jul 16 at 2017 8:28 PM

MSgt Richard Randall — Sun, 16 Jul 2017 20:28:16 -0400

Members of the NCO/Officer’s Wives Clubs. Gives a whole new meaning to the words “Mortal Combat.”

Response by SGT Tom Uran Jr. made Jul 16 at 2017 11:43 PM

SGT Tom Uran Jr. — Sun, 16 Jul 2017 23:43:22 -0400

19 Kilos. The toughest, most destructive SOB's on the battlefield. Of course we'll have to prove ourselves again when battlefields are a "thing" again.

Response by SSgt Jimmy Jackson made Jul 17 at 2017 2:38 PM

SSgt Jimmy Jackson — Mon, 17 Jul 2017 14:38:22 -0400

Bullets don't know your branch or unit.

Response by 1SG Russell S. made Jul 20 at 2017 10:21 PM

1SG Russell S. — Thu, 20 Jul 2017 22:21:40 -0400

I have always thought that unit casualty recovery teams were pretty tough. Bad job but one that has to be done.

Response by Lt Col Lanett Moser made Jul 3 at 2018 5:32 PM

Lt Col Lanett Moser — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 17:32:09 -0400

Navy Seals Green Berets Marine Force Recon Air Force Special Ops

Response by Sgt Dale Briggs made Jul 3 at 2018 9:33 PM

Sgt Dale Briggs — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 21:33:08 -0400

I only know what I've been exposed to, Anglico isn't easy, but Force Recon is insane. But I saw the point above about mission specifics, from what I've read Coast Guard rescue divers have the highest washout rate., I'd assume PJs are about in the same boat. But as mentioned they don't do air assaults, Rangers do what Rangers do, Recon units are incredibly difficult but they're all misson specific.

Response by SSgt Holden M. made Jul 5 at 2018 9:22 AM

SSgt Holden M. — Thu, 05 Jul 2018 09:22:34 -0400

It really depends on what time period, and the perspective as well. Also there are probably a few U.S. military units that their missions are classified and you won't hear about. Coming from my Air Force perspective I would like to think that some of the Para-rescue units are some of the toughest because they go into any and every situation. But I'm sure there will be some Navy/Marine people that will say the Seals, and some Army people will be split among the different special ops units.

Response by SP5 Ken Nerbak made Jul 27 at 2018 12:53 PM

SP5 Ken Nerbak — Fri, 27 Jul 2018 12:53:33 -0400

Airborne Rangers

Response by A1C David Rice made Jul 27 at 2018 2:49 PM

A1C David Rice — Fri, 27 Jul 2018 14:49:48 -0400

SEALS

Response by SSgt Rob Wright made Jul 27 at 2018 5:05 PM

SSgt Rob Wright — Fri, 27 Jul 2018 17:05:26 -0400

Only because I did it and have maybe 50% rights to be bias. I’ll definitely say Pararescue INDOC is without a doubt the most physically and mentally challenging. However, Navy SEALs are right there with it. We didn’t have the opportunity to get in the ocean (my briar patch), go on for days with sand in every orifice of our body, and so on. The one thing I’ve learned from my SEAL buddies is that Superman School (PJ & CCT INDOC) are damn near in the same ballpark except for “comfortability”. Then again in a live operations with the enemy trying to kill you, sand in your ass is the last thing on your mind. In all fairness I would have to say that the Pacific Ocean is the great obstacle. I swam and surfed all my life and I’ve seen good swimmers that couldn’t hack it in the Ocean on a really narley day. So with that in mind I would have seen more washouts (quiters) if I had the ocean. And if anyone wants to challenge my observation be my guest, but I’ve seen guys that were already battle tested Army Rangers, Delta Force, and 1 SEAL cross over to the USAF to be a PJ or Combat Controller and they quit before my eyes. However, it still doesn’t mean those guys can’t kick ass still, they probably just didn’t know what kind of hell was waiting for them. All I know is I feel bad for any officer in Special Forces Training, but I’ve never seen one quit! Hoo-yah

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2018 5:54 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Jul 2018 17:54:10 -0400

Well I have heard many different answers but It could be the Seabees, Green Berets or Rangers. I guess I should take a poll and see.

Response by SSG Rich Powers made Jul 27 at 2018 6:17 PM

SSG Rich Powers — Fri, 27 Jul 2018 18:17:07 -0400

Delta

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2018 6:44 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Jul 2018 18:44:41 -0400

Type One asserts like MARSOC Marines Delta and Devgru. I agree with 1LT that there are units that have elevated OPTEMPO and CPT that a submarine deployment can break a submariner down. Of course we have all had duty where things weren't squared away before leaving. Every service person has felt that pressure. Fact is duty is hard on every asset away from home. We make up the most sold, trained and capable force. It is our duty to be optimally ready for the tough times. Look ahead and behind. There is someone to support and motivate! Go Army!

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2018 11:07 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Jul 2018 23:07:23 -0400

82nd Airborne!

Response by SGT Mark Halmrast made Jul 28 at 2018 1:17 AM

SGT Mark Halmrast — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 01:17:26 -0400

The ones you never hear about.

Response by CPT Alton Blancher made Jul 28 at 2018 3:08 AM

CPT Alton Blancher — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 03:08:44 -0400

Army Ranger

Response by SGT Raymond Frankart made Jul 28 at 2018 8:12 AM

SGT Raymond Frankart — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 08:12:44 -0400

Rangers lead the way, but with so many variations of missions it’s an unfair question . Ground line dogs have it the toughest but, difficult to attribute the honor of toughest to any one unit. I have to say when combined and utilized properly, The U.S. military forces are the baddest M.F.ers in the vallley! RLTW

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2018 1:01 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 13:01:24 -0400

Top 5 on my opinion
1- 75th Ranger bat
2- tie 82nd 101st
3- Spcial Forces
4- All units under SF umbrella I.e CA, MISO
5- Delta Force
Why?- Is not just the selection but the continued hard Crazy Training

Response by SSgt Matt Faust made Jul 28 at 2018 2:43 PM

SSgt Matt Faust — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 14:43:28 -0400

Military spouse. Haven’t you seen the bumper stickers?

Kidding. I don’t think it’s a simple question to answer, but I think it’s been easy enough compiling a list of units that are in the running for such a claim.

Response by SFC Greg Lahr made Jul 28 at 2018 4:49 PM

SFC Greg Lahr — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 16:49:50 -0400

75th Ranger Regiment

Response by Greg Hearn made Jul 28 at 2018 5:12 PM

Greg Hearn — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 17:12:07 -0400

They’re all different. Challenging in their own way... SF guys probably most fit

Response by Cpl John Walters made Jul 28 at 2018 5:49 PM

Cpl John Walters — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 17:49:42 -0400

I'm going with USMC Recon guys... Nothing against any of the other "regular" nonS/O troops out there, but as for a unit sized group of guys that can go anywhere when needed, and train hard... The force recon guys get it done... Semper Fi

Response by MGySgt Dictionary Pate made Jul 28 at 2018 7:22 PM

MGySgt Dictionary Pate — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 19:22:32 -0400

Grunts

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2018 7:28 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 19:28:38 -0400

RLTW!

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2018 7:44 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 19:44:09 -0400

SF.

Response by SPC Lance Lauffer made Jul 28 at 2018 7:53 PM

SPC Lance Lauffer — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 19:53:12 -0400

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 28 at 2018 9:32 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 21:32:06 -0400

I think a lot of the toughness is due to the circumstances and how people respond to them. I have to give props to our revolutionary soldiers and militia who were underfed, sick, and under clothed fighting in the bitter winters. The civil war soldiers who marched in lines facing constant rifle shots and canons. Soldiers attacking a beach during D-Day. Marines fighting against well entrenched Pacific islands. The marines and soldiers fighting in the wintery conditions in Korea. The list goes on. Circumstances make units tough.

Response by Sgt Joel Smith made Jul 28 at 2018 10:28 PM

Sgt Joel Smith — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 22:28:01 -0400

I would say marsoc the operate in 2 to 4 man teams. They also get dropped in the middle of nowhere.

Response by PFC Michael LaFavor made Jul 29 at 2018 1:01 AM

PFC Michael LaFavor — Sun, 29 Jul 2018 01:01:35 -0400

Seal special operation

Response by SPC Kevin Hudson made Jul 29 at 2018 9:04 AM

SPC Kevin Hudson — Sun, 29 Jul 2018 09:04:46 -0400

Army

Response by SSgt Michael Hernandez made Jul 29 at 2018 9:56 AM

SSgt Michael Hernandez — Sun, 29 Jul 2018 09:56:38 -0400

Well...when its all said and done...I believe it would be the USAF CCT guys..they are ombedded with special ops and are certified sir traffic controllers

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2018 11:17 AM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Jul 2018 11:17:38 -0400

MSRT

Response by PO2 Wallace Whitley made Jul 29 at 2018 11:18 AM

PO2 Wallace Whitley — Sun, 29 Jul 2018 11:18:10 -0400

DEV GROUP ( SEAL Team 6)

Response by SGT Randy Edmondson made Jul 29 at 2018 7:54 PM

SGT Randy Edmondson — Sun, 29 Jul 2018 19:54:38 -0400

Rangers

Response by SPC Bill Payne made Jul 29 at 2018 9:21 PM

SPC Bill Payne — Sun, 29 Jul 2018 21:21:24 -0400

I always thought the grunts had it tougher than the Rangers. In Nam anyway. We did ambushes in small teams and usually we got to call where and when on the ambushes. The down side of that was when we came across a large amount of enemy. Things could get strange quick because there was only 6 of us on a team. But I still preferred it to what the grunts went through. In fact the brass kind of held up getting transferred to a line unit as a way to keep us in line.

Response by SGT Mark Colvin made Jul 29 at 2018 9:58 PM

SGT Mark Colvin — Sun, 29 Jul 2018 21:58:09 -0400

75th Ranger Regiment by far, I lived it, I loved it and I’m better because of it...

Response by SSG Curtis Mcneill made Jul 30 at 2018 3:08 AM

SSG Curtis Mcneill — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 03:08:01 -0400

All the units who accomplished their missions

Response by Cpl Kiko Rodriguez made Jul 30 at 2018 8:11 AM

Cpl Kiko Rodriguez — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 08:11:19 -0400

Recon

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 30 at 2018 10:21 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 10:21:07 -0400

Toughest on the battlefield? JTAC and Combat/SOF Medics

Response by 1SG Terry Johnson made Jul 30 at 2018 10:27 AM

1SG Terry Johnson — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 10:27:19 -0400

The Ranger Battallion .....

Response by SPC Jeff Norton made Jul 30 at 2018 1:03 PM

SPC Jeff Norton — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 13:03:15 -0400

Grunt infantry 10th mountain division

Response by PO1 Terry Rooker made Jul 30 at 2018 2:41 PM

PO1 Terry Rooker — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 14:41:58 -0400

Navy Seals

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 30 at 2018 2:54 PM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 14:54:20 -0400

Navy Seals.

Response by Capt Neal Meehan made Jul 30 at 2018 3:11 PM

Capt Neal Meehan — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 15:11:23 -0400

USMC FORCE RECON

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Jul 30 at 2018 3:26 PM

CPT Lawrence Cable — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 15:26:21 -0400

Let me be entirely different. If there was a unit that I don't want to be in front of as a bad guy, an Armored Brigade Combat Team would hit close to the top of my list. While the Rangers are as personal as a punch in the face, ABCT's are Armageddon by comparison. Just the organic firepower is simply massive. 90 M1A1's and 90 Bradley's, and 3 battery's of 155's is one hell of a lot of bang for the buck.

Response by SSG Timothy Smith made Jul 30 at 2018 3:53 PM

SSG Timothy Smith — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 15:53:51 -0400

The toughest would be the male nurses in a CASH, they have to endure sleeping in beds, 4 hot meals a day, 8 hour shifts, having enlisted medics do their jobs for them. It’s got to be tough duty. PS, wasn’t me.

Response by Eric Esquivel made Jul 30 at 2018 4:02 PM

Eric Esquivel — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 16:02:49 -0400

They’re all bad-ass and serve a strategic purpose. Long Live USA

Response by SSgt Milo Ratbottom made Jul 30 at 2018 4:11 PM

SSgt Milo Ratbottom — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 16:11:16 -0400

USAF Pararescue. 25 months of hard-core physical and mental training, just to make the cut.

Response by Austin Bihm made Jul 30 at 2018 4:16 PM

Austin Bihm — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 16:16:41 -0400

The us navy seals

Response by GySgt Jeremy Jones made Jul 30 at 2018 5:10 PM

GySgt Jeremy Jones — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 17:10:13 -0400

INFANTRY!!!!! I did it for 20 and it was a tough life. But your SF, Seals, Marine Recon, and Rangers r all better trained and better taken care of then us grunts but we live a hard and tough life.

Response by Sgt James Piatt made Jul 30 at 2018 5:21 PM

Sgt James Piatt — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 17:21:04 -0400

Marine Corps Infantry is pretty tough. The Infantry supplies a lot of Marines for specialized jobs; Fast Teams, BSG guarding special weapons, MEU-SOC capable Infantry Units, SPMAGTF, etc.

Response by SPC Nathan Montgomery made Jul 30 at 2018 6:26 PM

SPC Nathan Montgomery — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 18:26:01 -0400

I think the question needs rephrasing. There is no measure of the “toughest” unit. What exactly is “tough.” Now if you were to ask: “What unit is the most proficient at closing with and destroying the enemy? Or which military selection course is the hardest, you might get a somewhat accurate answer. I don’t care what selection course someone has been through, it is not as tough as being on a two-way range, or being away from loved ones for 15 months. Passing and getting selected in a 3 week selection course, is not as hard as combat. Lack of sleep? How about the bubbas that drove all the way to Baghdad, fighting along the way with 15 minute naps here and there for days! (Hell week you say?). Selection courses aim to replicate combat as closely as possible, but they do not replicate combat. They do this so that they can observe who can hold their mud under stress and perform, that’s it. Perhaps not the the toughest unit, but damn tough by any measure, was my old unit in WW2, the 307th Engineer Battalion during the crossing of the Waal river. There are thousands of examples of heroism and bravery for many units, both conventional and SOF. Combat is the real test, everything up to that is just preparation.

Response by MSG Robert Wise made Jul 30 at 2018 7:09 PM

MSG Robert Wise — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 19:09:45 -0400

Everyone has a perspective of what tough means when it comes to this question. When you take the three primary aspects of toughness mental, physical and psychological you need to look at which unit in compasses all three. I spent 4 years as a Marine, three years in the conventional Army and 14 as a Green Beret. I’ve worked with all units in JSOC, Rangers, SEALS, DELTA, MARSOC,etc. Each unit at various times and locations have had to deal with situations considered to be tough.
I will consede that ST6 and DELTA and difficult to make have have difficulty missions. I will also say from experience that Green Berets consistently have to endure all of the aspects of toughness on a continuous basis.

Response by SFC Jay Ward made Jul 30 at 2018 7:19 PM

SFC Jay Ward — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 19:19:06 -0400

Agreed, I think tough is a realative term. I never found 20 mile road marches tough. However you put me in a cubicle and I fall apart. Impossible question to answer but I think in combat a basic Marine or Army grunt truly has the hardest job imaginable.

Response by LT Clark Sarge made Jul 30 at 2018 8:03 PM

LT Clark Sarge — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 20:03:44 -0400

I’m biased, but I would go with the Seals. You have to respect the Force Recon Marines and Army Rangers as well.

Response by SCPO Jose Tillery made Jul 30 at 2018 9:00 PM

SCPO Jose Tillery — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 21:00:13 -0400

Navy Seals

Response by SPC Mathieu Dumond made Jul 30 at 2018 9:40 PM

SPC Mathieu Dumond — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 21:40:28 -0400

Response by SGT Paul Berger made Jul 30 at 2018 9:49 PM

SGT Paul Berger — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 21:49:57 -0400

The cooks supporting those of us in the Infantry Line units. They worked like dogs, every day.And KP was baaaaad.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 30 at 2018 10:21 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 22:21:58 -0400

My two cents? Infantry is engineered to take and keep the field . To that end, their field exercises can last months. Their deployments 365 days and then redeployments in 2-3 or so years again. Tough on family, tough on mentality and tough on balls; wetwipes only go so far if you haven’t showered in a few weeks!

Response by SSgt Jack Pomeroy made Jul 30 at 2018 10:48 PM

SSgt Jack Pomeroy — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 22:48:56 -0400

Marine Corps Force Recon. Nothing else needs to be said

Response by Cpl Shay Campbell made Jul 30 at 2018 10:50 PM

Cpl Shay Campbell — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 22:50:31 -0400

Mine

Response by CH (CPT) Madison Downs made Jul 30 at 2018 11:10 PM

CH (CPT) Madison Downs — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 23:10:43 -0400

Marines

Response by Cpl Matt Wilson made Jul 30 at 2018 11:17 PM

Cpl Matt Wilson — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 23:17:05 -0400

Navy Seals

Response by LtCol Don Kaag made Jul 30 at 2018 11:35 PM

LtCol Don Kaag — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 23:35:02 -0400

Strange question to ask military professionals...what’s the mission? That’s like asking a pro golfer which club he wants to use to play 18 holes. The answer is: It depends.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2018 1:04 AM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 01:04:34 -0400

4-25

Response by Sgt Travis Stanger made Jul 31 at 2018 3:29 AM

Sgt Travis Stanger — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 03:29:12 -0400

Delta

Response by SSgt Brock Fischer made Jul 31 at 2018 8:14 AM

SSgt Brock Fischer — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 08:14:28 -0400

Marine Corps

Response by SGT Kevin Gaona made Jul 31 at 2018 9:07 AM

SGT Kevin Gaona — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 09:07:06 -0400

One way would be to look at the training required for each unit. Additionally, you could assess the types of missions the various units execute. The problem with this last parameter is that we don't know much about what certain units are doing, Delta, for example.

If you go international, then you get even more subjective because national pride kicks in. It's an interesting discussion to have you you'll never get a definitive answer.

Just my two cents. ;)

SGT G

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2018 11:13 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 11:13:19 -0400

What about the hard chargers who get assigned to a unit that does not deploy, or whose leadership is just counting the days until they can retire?

The young pfc who has zero support from his NCOs, whose unit thinks pt is a suggestion? 'No money for schools, but oh btw you have a 24 hr watch tomorrow. The person who was going to do it is friends with platoon sgt, I mean on a no work profile, so youre replacing them'.

That kid is miserable, and there is little he can do about it. BTDT.

Response by SrA Robert Brouillet made Jul 31 at 2018 12:10 PM

SrA Robert Brouillet — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 12:10:09 -0400

I've seen crew chiefs get beat up pretty bad. Like others have said, no one has a monopoly on toughness .

Response by SSG Aaron Rivera made Jul 31 at 2018 12:28 PM

SSG Aaron Rivera — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 12:28:44 -0400

We're all tough just to sign the dotted line and take the oath that follows our moral character though the rest of our lives

Response by SFC Charles Harwell made Jul 31 at 2018 12:30 PM

SFC Charles Harwell — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 12:30:39 -0400

Ok - I'm gonna go out on a limb and say all of them are. Because we all raised our hand to fight for our country. Tough is what you make of it. It could be tough doing a mechanic job just like being an Infantryman. I spent most of my career in SOF. I've seen some hard and easy stuff.

Response by SPC Jack Rayburn made Jul 31 at 2018 12:40 PM

SPC Jack Rayburn — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 12:40:07 -0400

CAG

Response by SGT Colio Raynor made Jul 31 at 2018 2:02 PM

SGT Colio Raynor — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 14:02:49 -0400

3-187 Inf Combat Brigade RAKKASANS
101st Airborne
When i was there and deployed to afghanistan im telling you they beat being in tip top shape to deploy engage and destroy the enemy!

Response by SGT John Smith made Jul 31 at 2018 4:56 PM

SGT John Smith — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 16:56:02 -0400

Rangers when these guys come in they suck the air out of a room they leave no option to an opponent

Response by SMSgt Barry Kowald made Jul 31 at 2018 5:30 PM

SMSgt Barry Kowald — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 17:30:03 -0400

I would place all Special Operators into the same category of being the toughest military unit, regardless of branch.

Response by MSgt Grant Andrews made Jul 31 at 2018 6:02 PM

MSgt Grant Andrews — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 18:02:02 -0400

Infantry

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2018 6:16 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 18:16:59 -0400

2/7.

Response by CPL Juan Rivera made Jul 31 at 2018 6:23 PM

CPL Juan Rivera — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 18:23:59 -0400

Tough question

Response by PO3 Frank Sanducci made Jul 31 at 2018 6:42 PM

PO3 Frank Sanducci — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 18:42:39 -0400

Navy Seals

Response by CPL Wallace Whitehead made Jul 31 at 2018 7:28 PM

CPL Wallace Whitehead — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 19:28:25 -0400

Combined services of America

Response by CPL Mark Kuznarowis made Jul 31 at 2018 8:02 PM

CPL Mark Kuznarowis — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 20:02:50 -0400

With out a doubt Special forces Is the worlds Number 1 underwater assault dive team and Delta force ranks as No. #1 for the toughest and deadliest

Response by SSG Dennis Riccio made Jul 31 at 2018 8:03 PM

SSG Dennis Riccio — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 20:03:49 -0400

Navy Seals.

Response by Sgt Rich Bode made Jul 31 at 2018 8:22 PM

Sgt Rich Bode — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 20:22:33 -0400

Doesn't matter to me, I've known Marines, Seals, Rangers, Pararescues...and I am grateful for their service, as well as mental and physical acuity.

Response by CPL Troy Cothren made Jul 31 at 2018 8:36 PM

CPL Troy Cothren — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 20:36:05 -0400

1/75th

Response by Cpl Tommie Newton made Jul 31 at 2018 8:45 PM

Cpl Tommie Newton — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 20:45:44 -0400

I have worked with a bunch. People sleep on the Rangers. Recon Marines will kill you with training.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2018 9:21 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 21:21:27 -0400

101st airborne 2/327 no slack NFS gentlemen

Response by PV2 Donald Woods made Jul 31 at 2018 10:17 PM

PV2 Donald Woods — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 22:17:10 -0400

I know some 75th guys that are hard core and wired tight!!

Response by SPC Kl Roads made Jul 31 at 2018 10:21 PM

SPC Kl Roads — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 22:21:52 -0400

On the battlefield there’s only “the quick and the dead”. I say all those who were quick and could live another day are the toughest. Or, are they the luckiest? It’s a sh*t business and I respect all who serve. God bless the USA

Response by SGT Charles Demler IV made Jul 31 at 2018 10:26 PM

SGT Charles Demler IV — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 22:26:49 -0400

CAG, Sayeret Matkal, SAS, and all those other inconspicuous alphabet soup groups

Response by Jerod Wood made Jul 31 at 2018 10:32 PM

Jerod Wood — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 22:32:44 -0400

Marines

Response by LTC David Jones made Jul 31 at 2018 10:56 PM

LTC David Jones — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 22:56:37 -0400

US ARMY CIVIL AFFAIRS AND PSYCOLOGICAL OPERATIONS COMMAND! Hahahaha

Response by Cpl Luke Adler made Jul 31 at 2018 11:18 PM

Cpl Luke Adler — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 23:18:51 -0400

USMC Recon

Response by Stephen Alexander made Aug 1 at 2018 12:17 AM

Stephen Alexander — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 00:17:48 -0400

I would think the top teams in each branch are fairly even. Green Beret, Ranger, SEAL, Pararescue, Raider, Recon, Delta, Dev Gru, SWCC, Nightstalkers etc. Everyone else is support with varying levels of toughness. That's not to say there aren't some BAMFs that never tried or had the opportunity to make those teams who are in other MOS but, generally, you will find the toughest guys in those units.

Response by LT Chris Perry made Aug 1 at 2018 12:36 AM

LT Chris Perry — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 00:36:03 -0400

Religious Programs-Navy

Response by LT Chris Perry made Aug 1 at 2018 12:40 AM

LT Chris Perry — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 00:40:16 -0400

They have to be emphatic to the entire crew, they have to ride the high line between ships during Devine Services, & they must console the entire crew when the lobster tail gets freezer burn! Can you imagine having to eat freezer burned lobster!? There is no way it will be able to soak up the drawn butter...no way I tell you!

Response by SSG Pablo Torres made Aug 1 at 2018 12:54 AM

SSG Pablo Torres — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 00:54:49 -0400

From the 82nd to special forces (all) are tough, they have their own level of action and proficiency but all serve a specific role, now if you put them together then you have a nightmare comming your way, it’s hell and fire under a specific contro zone, ugly thought.

Response by PO3 David Squires made Aug 1 at 2018 1:15 AM

PO3 David Squires — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 01:15:50 -0400

Seal Team 6

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 1 at 2018 1:19 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 01:19:07 -0400

Devgru

Response by SPC William Hedges made Aug 1 at 2018 1:43 AM

SPC William Hedges — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 01:43:00 -0400

force recon usmc

Response by LCpl Bill McIntire made Aug 1 at 2018 3:35 AM

LCpl Bill McIntire — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 03:35:02 -0400

Ya never hear from or about Marine Force Recon

Response by SSG AnthonyMichael Hayes made Aug 1 at 2018 4:40 AM

SSG AnthonyMichael Hayes — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 04:40:32 -0400

11acr and 82nd

Response by Josh Brackett made Aug 1 at 2018 6:22 AM

Josh Brackett — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 06:22:53 -0400

I don’t know about all the special ops stuff but the 10th mountain has been deployed for almost 11 years in one form or fashion

Response by MAJ Raymond Haynes made Aug 1 at 2018 7:06 AM

MAJ Raymond Haynes — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 07:06:28 -0400

A Bn. of female solders at the end of the month.

Response by SPC Joshua Noonan made Aug 1 at 2018 8:30 AM

SPC Joshua Noonan — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 08:30:07 -0400

While not military per se, I’d have to give serious thought to Special Activities Division from the CIA. It’s an amalgam of all units, and they're also throwing tradecraft and clandestine ops into the equation.

Response by Capt William Sweeney made Aug 1 at 2018 8:42 AM

Capt William Sweeney — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 08:42:19 -0400

USMC

Response by LCpl Thomas Senneff Jr. made Aug 1 at 2018 8:56 AM

LCpl Thomas Senneff Jr. — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 08:56:03 -0400

MARSOC

Response by MSgt Jim Cheek made Aug 1 at 2018 9:23 AM

MSgt Jim Cheek — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 09:23:23 -0400

Without a doubt in my opinion are the guys most people have never heard of. It’s the Air Force Combat Controllers. They are usually embedded with other Special Forces, including SEALS. They just don’t talk about themselves

Response by SPC Curt Ratliff made Aug 1 at 2018 9:40 AM

SPC Curt Ratliff — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 09:40:27 -0400

Delta Force

Response by Sgt Frank Staples made Aug 1 at 2018 10:57 AM

Sgt Frank Staples — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 10:57:26 -0400

And ultimately it doesn’t really matter except for cool points!

Response by Sgt Frank Staples made Aug 1 at 2018 11:01 AM

Sgt Frank Staples — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 11:01:30 -0400

I recently took some pictures of a shiny black and gold Blackhawk with a shield of the Washington monument with a sword across it...anybody know what unit that would be?

Response by PO3 Gary Calahan made Aug 1 at 2018 11:24 AM

PO3 Gary Calahan — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 11:24:05 -0400

Green Beret & SEAL Teams

Response by PO3 Mike Walsh made Aug 1 at 2018 11:42 AM

PO3 Mike Walsh — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 11:42:01 -0400

US NAVY SEALS

Response by Karl Christensen made Aug 1 at 2018 12:02 PM

Karl Christensen — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 12:02:23 -0400

Either Delta or another unit that has no name.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 1 at 2018 1:05 PM

SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 13:05:40 -0400

Let’s be honest, every role in the military is important and has a vital role. Yes, some are more demanding. But we all support one another to accomplish the mission. When you are hungry, haven’t had a hot meal in weeks; the mess facility and cooks are gold. When your truck is broken down and you have to hump all your equipment; that mechanic is gold. Comm is vital in setting up systems to communicate throughout the AOR. And, when wounded, the medic and trauma team can not be ignored. So, each individual is a member of a network which makes us great.

Response by PO2 Andrew Epstein made Aug 1 at 2018 2:00 PM

PO2 Andrew Epstein — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 14:00:00 -0400

As far as the Coast Guard goes, I’d say either the MSRT due to the sheer training aspect. Or, Patforswa due to the fact that it’s an actual deployment....thoughts?

Response by SSgt Jeffrey Goff made Aug 1 at 2018 2:12 PM

SSgt Jeffrey Goff — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 14:12:20 -0400

SEALS & Force Recon

Response by SFC David Bellerue made Aug 1 at 2018 2:18 PM

SFC David Bellerue — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 14:18:15 -0400

Every combat arms unit is trained and equipped for their collective mission. I try not to say who is toughest, best trained and equipped. Mission dependent on what unit to use, equipment needs to accomplish the mission. What is important is to use the right unit for the job. You wouldn't use a SEAL team to go against a mechanized company. Unless of course you had a SEAL team of 140 men armed with a lot of anti-tank weapons, dedicated party and air support.

Response by SPC Tyler Bonefield made Aug 1 at 2018 2:19 PM

SPC Tyler Bonefield — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 14:19:21 -0400

...

Response by SSgt Anthony Manion made Aug 1 at 2018 2:30 PM

SSgt Anthony Manion — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 14:30:06 -0400

Marine Corps

Response by SGT John Dedden made Aug 1 at 2018 3:12 PM

SGT John Dedden — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 15:12:17 -0400

Screaming Eagles, 101st. Everyone knows this.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 1 at 2018 3:49 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 15:49:17 -0400

Buncha officers answering. Interesting. Backbone of the Army, where you at? I have friends across the various military special operations. DEVGRU seems to be the consensus. The “Unit” seems to be close behind. I have much respect for my fellow Army brothers in Special Forces, SOAR, and 75th Rangers. Physically and mentally they are the pinnacle. As are any of our special ops guys. I believe in their prowess. JTACs, Raiders and Recon, SEALs, etc. you all have my love and respect

Response by SFC George Ashford made Aug 1 at 2018 3:53 PM

SFC George Ashford — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 15:53:50 -0400

Toughness is a perceptive thing nobody mentioned Snippers who are in each of the for mentioned units. No one unit is tougher then another it's the person.

Response by LCpl Glenn Thompson made Aug 1 at 2018 4:36 PM

LCpl Glenn Thompson — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 16:36:11 -0400

USMC

Response by PO2 Patrick Sorrentino Jr. made Aug 1 at 2018 5:00 PM

PO2 Patrick Sorrentino Jr. — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 17:00:42 -0400

Seal team 6

Response by Lt Col George Roll made Aug 1 at 2018 5:12 PM

Lt Col George Roll — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 17:12:52 -0400

I'll say the USAF Combat Controller and Pararescue can hold their own with the toughest Special Operators in any of the other services. Of course I'm prejudiced as I served as a USAF CCT in Vietnam as well as in Germany with the 7th Air Commando CCT.

Response by SFC Randy Crawford made Aug 1 at 2018 5:59 PM

SFC Randy Crawford — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 17:59:40 -0400

Delta by far

Response by LCpl Jeffrey Clute made Aug 1 at 2018 6:22 PM

LCpl Jeffrey Clute — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 18:22:11 -0400

Navy SEALS

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 1 at 2018 7:15 PM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 19:15:17 -0400

I would habe to say
Army- 5th special forces out of Campbell. And deltas
Airforce- para rescues
Navy- seals
Marine- MARSOC or force recon
Coast guard rescue swimmer brutal course.

Response by SFC Norm Bailey made Aug 1 at 2018 7:17 PM

SFC Norm Bailey — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 19:17:30 -0400

Initial entry I'd say the Marines, nothing harder than Parris Island. For the Infantry I'd say Marine Infantry. For Special Operations, I'd say Army Special Forces.

Response by MAJ Kris Wisniewski made Aug 1 at 2018 7:23 PM

MAJ Kris Wisniewski — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 19:23:48 -0400

The one where every one is still alive, called teamwork...

Response by COL Bill Grimes made Aug 1 at 2018 7:37 PM

COL Bill Grimes — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 19:37:47 -0400

I am retired now, so I can only add what I know of Special Ops. In my day , you “been there” before you got wherever. I wish all combat elements were as well trained as the top tier, but they simply aren’t. The best is always the best because of the training...!

Response by SPC Dwight Clark made Aug 1 at 2018 8:49 PM

SPC Dwight Clark — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 20:49:11 -0400

75th sounds right to me! Always pushing each other thru your own actions !!!!

Response by SPC Dwight Clark made Aug 1 at 2018 8:49 PM

SPC Dwight Clark — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 20:49:46 -0400

Response by Walter Bishop made Aug 1 at 2018 10:32 PM

Walter Bishop — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 22:32:10 -0400

Very subjective question. All units are specially trained for their task. Mission needs determine who is best for the job.

Response by IrishFan MaybeAlabama made Aug 1 at 2018 10:38 PM

IrishFan MaybeAlabama — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 22:38:02 -0400

Have friends from 3rd Bat 75th RR. One got offered SFOD. He would say Delta has the toughest situation. Hearts and minds and all.

Response by SSG James Franklin made Aug 1 at 2018 11:53 PM

SSG James Franklin — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 23:53:03 -0400

By no means expert or really know much rangers definently live rough lives seals are for sure top echelon but im real curious about delta. Those guys are way beyond badass.

Response by Zack Murphy made Aug 1 at 2018 11:56 PM

Zack Murphy — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 23:56:47 -0400

CAG

Response by SGM Cody Case made Aug 2 at 2018 12:09 AM

SGM Cody Case — Thu, 02 Aug 2018 00:09:05 -0400

Toughest is relative. Physically demanding? One creating long lived PTSD - think MASH? MI and lack of Family and Life and Friends? The reality in the objective of the question is many ODA' have a hot tempo and the 75th does as well. PJs CTT and 24th, ISA and ST6. I would lean toward Delta and several of the joint task forces as an entirety - supported. The combined unit within SOCOM. So toughest is relative.

Response by CPL Armando Romero made Aug 2 at 2018 12:38 AM

CPL Armando Romero — Thu, 02 Aug 2018 00:38:14 -0400

Seals, Cag, Rangers, Green Beret, sappers and cyops...all get transported by the most specialized group in aviation. SOAR! These guys are the bread and butter of all special operations groups!

Response by SPC Ken Siriani made Aug 2 at 2018 10:31 AM

SPC Ken Siriani — Thu, 02 Aug 2018 10:31:47 -0400

Delta

Response by PFC Chris Kever made Aug 2 at 2018 1:28 PM

PFC Chris Kever — Thu, 02 Aug 2018 13:28:02 -0400

My hat goes off to all of the tier one operators! I have a family member who earned a special forces tab and he is a beast!
I think all who served or are serving have to endure a certain level of Suck! It is par for the course. I will say in hind sight there were more good times than bad and i loved being an MP!

Response by SSG Alan Rash made Aug 2 at 2018 11:54 PM

SSG Alan Rash — Thu, 02 Aug 2018 23:54:05 -0400

I give all that have answered the call a Salute. We have done the jobs most do not have the stomach for.

Response by MSG Salvatore Avellina made Aug 5 at 2018 3:33 PM

MSG Salvatore Avellina — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 15:33:00 -0400

In my opinion, I say the 75th Ranger Regiment is the toughest unit in the Military.

Response by CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) made Aug 5 at 2018 6:41 PM

CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 18:41:12 -0400

I left the 1st BN 75th Ranger Regiment in 1980. I can't speak for them now but back then they were without question the toughest bunch out there. I saw things there I've never seen anywhere else - by far the toughest men I've ever seen and I spent 10 yrs in SF. Guys with broken ankles running 10 miles because they didn't want to be "that guy" who went to sick call. SFC Lamica, who literally ran his dog to death (by accident on a 20 mile run). CPT Grange (later BG Grange - well, I think it was CPT Grange) who set up amphibious landing training at his home on the beach until neighbors complained about the concertina wire. And talk about a sense of humor - "borrowing" a Bob's Big Boy statue (yes, the big one out front) and placing it on the PT field for Monday morning PT (they returned it). We had a two hour recall and had to leave a good phone number for EVERYWHERE we went - bars, stores, restaurants, homes, etc. No cell phones back then. The Ranger Indoctrination Program (RIP) was absolutely insane and was held out at Sabre Hall, then moved on post later. We had a very interesting bunch of the toughest men I've ever seen in my life. Obviously I can't speak for any of the other services.

Response by SFC David Pope, MBA made Aug 8 at 2018 12:00 PM

SFC David Pope, MBA — Wed, 08 Aug 2018 12:00:56 -0400

The Old Guard. I have lived in the jungles, frozen my butt off and gone 72 hours without sleep while being evaluated on performance. I would do it all again before standing at attentions and making precisely timed and executed movements for hours on end in every type of weather you can imagine. Standing guard without moving or blinking, while being observed by everyone. I would rather low crawl through a turtle ditch in Korea before having to that. I have worked honor guard for funeral duty, and that was enough for me!

Response by SPC Brad Rayborn made Aug 11 at 2018 8:41 AM

SPC Brad Rayborn — Sat, 11 Aug 2018 08:41:52 -0400

Has to be the seal teams

Response by SPC Brad Rayborn made Aug 11 at 2018 8:44 AM

SPC Brad Rayborn — Sat, 11 Aug 2018 08:44:24 -0400

I think all ground units we have can get the job done

Response by 1SG Dale Cantrell made Aug 11 at 2018 11:08 PM

1SG Dale Cantrell — Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:08:35 -0400

My choice would be 75th Rangers

Response by LCpl Cody Collins made Aug 13 at 2018 1:09 PM

LCpl Cody Collins — Mon, 13 Aug 2018 13:09:29 -0400

It depends on what decade and which branch ?
I would use to say Marine Corps, but I have watch some up to date videos of Marine Corps boot camp training . And I was disgusted! The mental toughness was sorely lacking , I didn't see the fear of God in the eyes of any of the recruiters. It like they knew, the Drill instructor can only go so far.
Glad I served during the late 70's to early 80's. Boot camp was shear terror, just like real situations around the world.

Response by SP5 Jim Hebb made Aug 19 at 2018 9:51 AM

SP5 Jim Hebb — Sun, 19 Aug 2018 09:51:25 -0400

Airborne Ranger

Response by MAJ Mark Wilson made Aug 22 at 2018 8:42 AM

MAJ Mark Wilson — Wed, 22 Aug 2018 08:42:44 -0400

The same yard stick cannot be used to measure different units. They all have different missions and designed for different enemy formations. You could possibly measure units of the same type, but their missions would have to be the same. I would also tell you that capabilities and performance are always a moving target. The Marines and Infantry can pound their chest all they want, they can be stopped, quite easily actually, especially if acting alone. It's always a combined arms fight. No doubt Tier 1 are the best at what they do (and I can promise you they are not pampered), but I would much rather be with a tank battalion if fighting against an armored formation. Now, a little battlefield prep and eyes on targets by some Tier 1 teams would be a tremendous help of course. In Iraq in 2003 our attached howitzer battery killed a lot but if left alone on the battlefield they might find themselves in a bad situation! Our SCO and troop commanders knew how to utilize them for the desired battle effects, even though they wanted to get into a toe to toe fist fight with most everyone we came up against they utilized the assets available and killed a lot without suffering a single soldier casualty and very few minimal/minor injuries. Same with CAS, used properly they kill a lot. Form a brand new CAV Squadron with inexperienced leaders and soldiers and you will get vastly different results.

Response by COL Thomas Cagley made Aug 25 at 2018 12:10 AM

COL Thomas Cagley — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 00:10:21 -0400

This is written in jest, so please take it that way. The toughest military units are military intelligence, be they two man squads or brigades. They work in windowless rooms, speak foreign languages and provide information to the combat warriors. Most of that intelligence is ignored. The MI guys (and gals) are never able to share their missions with anyone, other warriors, their spouses or significant others, and, unlike civilians in the intelligence field, they do not get to keep their clearances when leaving the military in order to turn them into cash cows! As the motto is: Always out front! As I said, please understand I have always felt the best warriors are the Rangers or Special Forces, provided they listen to their intel sources!

Response by LtCol Paul Bowen made Aug 25 at 2018 12:28 AM

LtCol Paul Bowen — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 00:28:30 -0400

Quality over Quantity...how much Training can you afford? How many do you need to win in certain combat scenarios. If you have a a 14-member team, then you overtrain to assure 100% success in your people...you weed out weaklings or the stupid.

If your unit is general purpose with 1,400 members, you can tolerate a few weaklings, and a certain number of stupid.

The smaller the team, the more narrow the task focus and lower is the tolerance for failure...the tougher will be the Team.

If you project yourself mentally in to the operational environment where professional competence is highly regarded and the results of failure are catastrophic, then apply for a spot in an elite American combat organization.

My focus beginning in 1975 was to earn a Marine Corps commission, then see if I could get the most expensive training possible...so I chose aviation; specifically I wanted to be a Marine Corps F-4 Fighter-Attack Pilot.

During 1983 I found myself in the front cockpit of an F-4J Phantom II and pushing the throttles forward for an afterburner takeoff.

Response by Lt Col John Culley made Aug 25 at 2018 2:44 AM

Lt Col John Culley — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 02:44:46 -0400

The Toughest U.S. military units are those which win the nation's wars according to Army Generals Douglas MacArthur, George Patton and Ulysses S. Grant. The last tough and victorious units who meet this criteria were those Air Force and Army units that fought and won in the Balkans under Army General William C. Clark. There is no substitute for total victory.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2018 2:49 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 02:49:30 -0400

Every comic book has a fan base and every fan base is made up of a bunch of nerds that wish they were in the comic book. Then there’s 2 types of nerds in the comic:
1. The regular nerd, but he doesn’t know he’s a nerd.
2. The nerd virgin. This is the dangerous nerd that knows he’s a nerd and thinks it’s cool, but he hasn’t done shit yet.
And then there’s the Wolverine of the comic book. Super hard to kill and he’s real good at killing and he looks fuckin’ great with his shirt off.
Hope that helps.

Response by 1SG James Matthews made Aug 26 at 2018 9:43 AM

1SG James Matthews — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 09:43:29 -0400

Been through most the Army can offer and having been there I say it's the Seals. I was able to withstand the Army but will have to admit I don't think I could have completed Seal training.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Aug 27 at 2018 8:21 PM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 20:21:20 -0400

The Glendale Reserves Water Purification Company. Their performance in contingency operations in Chad are well documented and the stuff of legend.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2018 10:25 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 22:25:21 -0400

What a bullshit loaded question.
NEXT!!

Are you a Russkie BOT designed to sow discontent in our country? If so, well done. If not, please go take a long walk off a short pier

Response by PO2 Donald Schortmann Sr made Aug 31 at 2018 7:12 PM

PO2 Donald Schortmann Sr — Fri, 31 Aug 2018 19:12:14 -0400

Seal Teams

Response by SP5 Myrna Brady made Sep 4 at 2018 10:50 PM

SP5 Myrna Brady — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 22:50:03 -0400

Air Defense Artillery!!!

Response by SP5 Myrna Brady made Sep 4 at 2018 10:50 PM

SP5 Myrna Brady — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 22:50:41 -0400

Air Defense Artillery of course!!!!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 6 at 2018 11:14 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 06 Sep 2018 11:14:55 -0400

US Army Psychiatric Nurses. Toughest nuts in the establishment.

Response by SP5 Kyle Butt made Sep 6 at 2018 12:58 PM

SP5 Kyle Butt — Thu, 06 Sep 2018 12:58:24 -0400

75 rangers

Response by SPC Chris Ison made Sep 9 at 2018 1:43 PM

SPC Chris Ison — Sun, 09 Sep 2018 13:43:51 -0400

Not the marine corps. a hard pt test doesn't make you hard; Being hard makes you hard.

Response by SPC Thomas Smith made Sep 21 at 2018 9:31 AM

SPC Thomas Smith — Fri, 21 Sep 2018 09:31:43 -0400

Wow I knew everyone would go with st or seals. Infantryman did surprise me but I have one that in my opinion which is bias would be engineer. After all they have to build stuff and sometimes under fire. I was in engineering unit but I myself am not one. I have helped in putting up brigdes and got to do some cool things while in that unit. Also MP's have it tough if you think of their war time job. I never got to go to Walmart but talking to my old Sargent who told me stories of Vietnam and how he had to arrest soldiers that were collaborating with the enemy. It was a tough job not knowing who would turn and shoot you while wearing your own uniform. I am sure that everyone can show reason why what they did had it's toughness.

Response by Daniel McEleney made Sep 29 at 2018 3:43 PM

Daniel McEleney — Sat, 29 Sep 2018 15:43:10 -0400

I would say it is some Needed unrecognized unit, that performs a highly required function, that is unrecognized due to the type of job it performs. but is looked down upon because no one see's it

Response by TSgt Tim (lj) Littlejohn made Oct 1 at 2018 10:37 AM

TSgt Tim (lj) Littlejohn — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 10:37:59 -0400

Has to be the Air Force, I mean some of those hotels don't even have WiFi!! I'll say before all of you have the chance!

Response by SSG Frank J. made Oct 5 at 2018 9:16 PM

SSG Frank J. — Fri, 05 Oct 2018 21:16:00 -0400

It's apples and oranges. Every service has their own specialty for their elite units and some services have a few elite unit types.

Response by SGT Kyle Bickley made Oct 5 at 2018 9:36 PM

SGT Kyle Bickley — Fri, 05 Oct 2018 21:36:13 -0400

Rangers! Known many of them. They are retardedly disciplined to handle anything thrown at them. You could put them in Hell's Kitchen, they'd kick Ramsey's ass and show him how to cook! These guys will do anything, anytime, anywhere. If they don't know it, they'll master it, anything! They are literally the Army's pit bulls on a leash! The average soldier will look at a unit that could be 4 times their number and come up with a game plan to stop them. Rangers will simply go pick a fight with them, kick their ass, and when the other side try's to surrender, kick their ass again for being Punks! Rangers are just nuts! Glad they are in our side!

Response by MSgt J D McKee made Oct 7 at 2018 2:54 PM

MSgt J D McKee — Sun, 07 Oct 2018 14:54:04 -0400

I took it a slightly different way from most who answered--my viewpoint was toughest unit for the enemy to fight. Killed more, most effective at killing the enemy, and traded out at a higher ratio. For example, in Afghanistan the last figures I remember we were trading out at about 14 of them killed to one of us. That's from some time ago and just from memory. I also looked at it from the perspective of during the 20th or 21st centuries.

From that viewpoint, I'd have to say the 509th Composite Group in 1945.

Want to go for toughest commander? Same criteria, tough on the enemy and very effective. General Curtis LeMay. Who actually killed more with conventional incendiaries than the nukes did.

As to toughest to be in, now that the Cold War has transitioned to little hot ones, any of the ground combat units, of course. During the cold war it was pretty rough being in SAC, not combat rough, just forget who your kids are, fuck up your life, and get divorced 5 times rough.

Response by Sgt Daniel Hobart made Oct 8 at 2018 6:40 AM

Sgt Daniel Hobart — Mon, 08 Oct 2018 06:40:32 -0400

I guess I would have to say the unit I fought with in Vietnam. We spent 77 Days in hell at a place called, "The Battle for Khe Sanh." We were told to hold the base at any cost. Our Government did not want us defeated like the French were in 1954. We were 1st Bn. 26th Marines and supporting units. We held the base at a high loss of men. SEMPER FI

Response by Cpl George Goodwin made Oct 28 at 2018 3:14 PM

Cpl George Goodwin — Sun, 28 Oct 2018 15:14:05 -0400

The one that wins

Response by Cpl Ed Hines made Jul 16 at 2019 3:43 PM

Cpl Ed Hines — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 15:43:50 -0400

I would say a Scout Typer. Possibly even the ultra elite Combat Cook. If you hold both MOS's then well....you are just too cool for school.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2019 1:45 AM

A1C Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Jul 2019 01:45:39 -0400

Delta force socom?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2019 1:03 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Jul 2019 13:03:04 -0400

HRC

Response by SPC Jacob Viano made Jul 18 at 2019 1:46 AM

SPC Jacob Viano — Thu, 18 Jul 2019 01:46:49 -0400

All the Spec Ops along with the ground pounders are in the running. Like CW2 said below, nearly impossible to quantify.

Response by CPT David Geasland made Jun 26 at 2020 1:21 PM

CPT David Geasland — Fri, 26 Jun 2020 13:21:28 -0400

There have been stories about the Turkish Brigades in Korea. No Military unit was as tough as the Turks in Korea. No Turk died in the POW camps, life was much tougher in the Military units.