The Integration of Minorities into Special Operations: How Cultural Diversity Enhances Operations

Abstract

Abstract : The National Security of the United States remains one of the highest priorities for our nation. As new threats emerge almost daily and the Department of Defense prepares for significant downsizing, the demand for Special Operations Forces will increase. In order to meet an ever changing and dynamic global threat, Special Operations Forces must be prepared to operate in every corner of the world. To best prepare for future missions, Special Operations Forces must ensure their members are trained and ready to meet these missions. A key aspect is to ensure that the Special Operations Forces are culturally diverse and prepared to integrate and operate anywhere around the world. The integration of minorities into Special Operations Forces can improve interoperability and seamless transitions into the diverse cultural and ethnic locations where future operations will take place. The ability to recruit, train and integrate multi-ethnic personnel into Special Operations Forces provides increased combat capability and enables the United States to meet future National Security Threats to our nation.