The operational role of Army National Guard Special Forces: optimizing an underutilized asset

• Main Author: Bray, Matthew R.
• Other Authors: Rothstein, Hy
• Published: Monterey, California: Naval Postgraduate School 2014
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10945/38885

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. === The demands of the global war on terror have redefined the roles and requirements for Army National Guard Special Forces (ARNG SF). A part-time force, ARNG SF nonetheless participates in the full spectrum of ongoing operations making them an essential operational component of U.S. Army Special Forces. Despite previous operational contributions and future demands for employment; however, ARNG SF is underutilized and deficiencies consequently exist with readiness. Analysis of current policies, doctrine, guidance and directives reveal critical gaps in strategic guidance and force generation processes, contributing to these problems. The ability for ARNG SF to contribute strategic depth to United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) and United States Army Special Operations Command (USASOC) can provide balanced and integrated special operations capabilities to the nation. But there is a need for strategic guidance and changes in the processes under which ARNG SF are utilized. This will reduce strains on the active component forces and their families. This thesis examines methods for enhancing ARNG SFs contribution to USSOCOM and USASOC operational forces, thereby maximizing capabilities in support of national objectives.