Joint Special Operations University

07/01/2026

Before there were Special Operations Forces, there were extraordinary Americans accomplishing extraordinary missions.

From the Swamp Fox of the American Revolution to Lt. William B. Cushing's daring raid on the CSS Albemarle, to the Rangers at Pointe du Hoc, the spirit of special operations has shaped American history for 250 years.

The tradition continues.

06/25/2026

🇺🇸 The Korean War and the New Foundations in Modern Special Operations

To mark the anniversary of the Korean War, which began on June 25, 1950, it is worth remembering that the "Forgotten War" was anything but forgettable for the future of Special Operations.

When war erupted on the Korean Peninsula, many of the special operations capabilities developed during World War II had been disbanded. Over the next three years, however, the Army rebuilt and expanded those capabilities under the leadership of visionaries such as Brig. Gen. Robert A. McClure, now widely regarded as the "Father of U.S. Army Special Warfare." He established the Psychological Warfare Center at Fort Bragg in 1952 and promoted the activation of the 10th Special Forces Group.

The Korean War also saw the growth of Ranger units, guerrilla operations, and Civil Affairs organizations. By the time the armistice was signed in 1953, the foundations of today's Army Special Operations Forces had been firmly established.

For today's SOF professionals, the lesson is clear: some of the most important advances in warfare are not new weapons or technologies, but new ways of thinking.

06/14/2026

🎂 Happy 251st Birthday, U.S. Army! 🇺🇸

Since June 14, 1775, the U.S. Army has stood at the forefront of defending the nation and advancing American interests around the world. For 251 years, Soldiers have adapted to new threats, mastered new technologies, and prevailed in the most challenging environments.

The Army's legacy is deeply intertwined with Special Operations. From the Green Berets who build enduring partnerships, to Rangers who seize the initiative, to Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Soldiers who shape the human domain, Army professionals continue to deliver strategic effects far beyond their numbers.

At Joint Special Operations University, we are proud to support the education and development of the leaders who carry that legacy forward. By advancing critical thinking, warrior preparedness, and professional mastery, we help ensure today's SOF professionals are ready for tomorrow's challenges.

Happy Birthday to the Soldiers past and present who have served with honor, courage, and commitment.

06/11/2026

Are you writing or researching the next critical breakthrough in Special Operations? Don’t guess what leadership is looking for—know.

The JSOU Press has just released an addendum to its 2026 Special Operations Research Topics (SORT) booklet detailing the exact strategic themes and research priorities USSOCOM is focused on solving.

Whether your expertise is in irregular warfare, strategic competition, AI-driven analytics, or regional security, this interactive guide aligns your insights directly with command priorities.

Why this matters for authors: If you are planning to conduct SOF-related research and submit your materials for publication, consulting this resource is your first step. The JSOU Press looks for SOF-specific research that offers creative, evidence-based solutions to the complex challenges facing the SOF enterprise.

Align your research. Sharpen your arguments. Contribute to the body of knowledge keeping the joint force at the tip of the spear.

👉 Explore the interactive 2026 Special Operations Research Topics: AY2027 Addendum booklet here: https://sway.cloud.microsoft/P2h2BkZjI9RvUD0l?

06/09/2026

Congratulations to all our Call for Special Operations Papers winners! Winners received recognition from USSOCOM Commander, Admiral Frank. M. Bradley and Deputy Assistant Secretary of War for Special Operations Policy and Programs and Secretariat for Special Operations, Randall L. Harvey during SOF Week 2026.

See all winning papers and more: https://jsou.edu/press/callforpapers

06/06/2026

“Rangers, Lead the Way!”

82 years ago today, 225 men of the 2nd Ranger Battalion faced an impossible task: scale the 100-foot cliffs of Pointe du Hoc under blistering enemy fire to neutralize a massive German artillery battery capable of devastating Omaha and Utah beaches.

Using ropes, cargo nets, and toggle lines, they didn't just climb; they established a critical foothold that altered the course of the invasion. Despite taking over 50% casualties, they held the high ground against fierce counterattacks.

Why we study this today:
The assault on Pointe du Hoc remains a textbook example of SOF core principles:
-Rigorous Selection & Training: Preparing forces for environments where standard tactics fail.
-Relative Superiority: Gaining a decisive advantage through speed, surprise, and audacity.
-Improvisation: Adapting on the fly when primary insertion methods are disrupted.

Today, we honor the legacy of the innovators who forged the template for modern special operations tactical excellence.

04/24/2026

24 April 1980–Operation Eagle Claw

Operation Eagle Claw marked a turning point for U.S. military operations.

The events at Desert One exposed critical gaps in joint planning, interoperability, command and control, and the integration of special operations forces. Those shortfalls drove a fundamental shift in how the U.S. military organizes and conducts complex missions.

In the years that followed, the U.S. Government implemented major reforms to strengthen unity of effort, improve joint coordination, and better integrate special operations capabilities. These changes helped shape the modern joint force and contributed directly to the establishment of U.S. Special Operations Command.

Today’s ability to plan, integrate, and execute across services and domains is rooted in the lessons learned from Desert One.

At JSOU, we study Operation Eagle Claw as a case study in institutional adaptation. It reinforces a core truth: enduring advantage comes from learning faster than the challenges we face.

We honor those lost by continuing to refine the force they helped shape.

04/16/2026

Happy birthday, SOCOM! 🎂

For the past 39 years, U.S. Special Operations Command has played a pivotal role in synchronizing global special operations, maintaining ready and postured forces, and delivering precise, lethal capabilities while fostering strong partnerships with allies across the globe.

“It is our role as Special Operations to meet tomorrow’s challenges, we must continuously adapt today—strengthening our capabilities to remain ready, responsive, and lethal.” - ADM Mitch Bradley

We’re grateful for the 7,000 deployed in 80 countries that make up USSOCOM and all you’ve done to keep the tip of the spear sharp and our nation secure. ♠️

04/16/2026

04/09/2026

U.S. Army Special Forces Branch Established as a Basic Branch of the Army

Today we recognize the establishment of the U.S. Army Special Forces Branch, which is a defining moment in the evolution of America’s special operations forces.

While Special Forces traces its roots to World War II formations like the OSS Operational Groups and the 1st Special Service Force, the branch was formally established on April 9, 1987. This milestone institutionalized a capability that had already proven essential in irregular warfare, partnership, and global competition.

From its activation in 1952 with the 10th Special Forces Group to its expansion during Vietnam and beyond, Special Forces has remained at the forefront of missions that demand precision, adaptability, and trust — from unconventional warfare and foreign internal defense to counterterrorism and special reconnaissance.

The green beret, authorized by President John F. Kennedy, and the motto “De Oppresso Liber” (To Free the Oppressed) reflect more than tradition. They represent a mindset.

At JSOU, we study and teach a mindset grounded in cultural understanding, disciplined initiative, and the ability to operate in ambiguity. It is central to Advancing the SOF Warrior Mind and preparing leaders for today’s complex operating environment.

On this anniversary, we recognize the legacy of Special Forces and the enduring role they play in defending the nation, often quietly, always decisively.