Why I Want To Be An ARSOF Soldier

As an ARSOF soldier in training, it is imperative that I learn to be aware at all times and to maintain accountability of my equipment and of myself. The seemingly unimportant responsibilities that I have as a trainee are meant to prepare me for the much larger responsibilities placed upon me as an active member of the Army Special Operations Community and, therefore, should not be taken lightly. Negative counselings that I receive now are meant to make me a better soldier and to mitigate my chances of making a mistake when the potential consequences for my actions are far more serious. In a combat zone, for instance, such mistakes could cost a soldier his or her life or the life of his or her fellow soldiers. Such mistakes cannot be tolerated, therefore my mastery of the ARSOF Core Attributes, specifically my senses of personal responsibility and professionalism, are of paramount importance. Personal Responsibility is important, because all Special Operations soldiers, regardless of unit or
affiliation, are expected to be prepared for any situation at any time. They are expected to be mentally and physically fit and to have all of the equipment needed to accomplish any assigned tasks. Staying mentally and physically fit are individual goals that no one can accomplish for them. Maintenance and possession of one’s equipment is also an individual task. Individual tasks are especially prevalent in combat. Staying awake on guard duty, covering your teammates, and maintaining fields of fire are all examples of a soldier’s individual responsibilities. Personal Responsibility not only helps a soldier maintain preparedness, but saves lives in combat. Professionalism is also a necessary quality in Special Operations Soldiers, both in a garrison environment and in combat.
To be a professional, a soldier must take accountability for his or her appearance, fitness, competence, and all of his or her actions. A Special Operations Soldier should always perform his or her duties with confidence and proficiency. Being professional in garrison means working efficiently, showing self-discipline, and representing one’s unit with pride and esteem. Displaying professionalism in a garrison environment can assist a soldier in gaining the favor of his or her superiors and improve his or her chances of career progression. Being professional in a combat zone can save lives. Acting with professionalism in the presence of the enemy, always maintaining discipline and proficiency, increases the chance of victory dramatically. Being confident in combat motivates fellow soldiers and allows for decisive maneuvering and violence of
action. Personal Responsibility and Professionalism are not mutually exclusive. In order to achieve Professionalism, one must take responsibility and work tirelessly to improve themselves. Upon graduating from their respective qualification courses, special operations trainees become noncommissioned officers and leaders. A soldier cannot be a leader without first being able to handle his or her own responsibilities. Respect needs to be earned and is never given. To earn the respect of fellow soldiers, one must display all of the ARSOF Core Attributes and be a positive role model for others. In summary, I should not have left my CAC card in my laptop.

“The pursuit of greatness never ends.” –SFC Armando Gonzales