SB
The Naval Special Warfare Combatant-Craft Crewman (SWCC) program evolved from the PT boats Sailors of WWII and the “Brown Water Navy” of Viet Nam. They are specially trained to conduct and support Special Operations missions in a maritime environment and work primarily with Naval Special Warfare Sea, Air, and Land Teams (SEAL).
Special Warfare Boat Operator (SB)
The duties performed by Navy Divers include collecting information about enemy military installations and shipping traffic in coastal or riverine areas. They insert/extract SEALs and other Special Operations personnel from a variety of NSW Boats. SBs operate independently in small units to accomplish operational tasks, and operate and maintain weapon systems, communications, electronics, small boats, and other equipment associated with SWCC missions. The Special Warfare Boat Operators also conduct direct action raids against enemy shipping and waterborne traffic.
Qualifications, Interests, and Working Environment
Qualifying for SWCC (SB Rating) in Delayed Entry Program is preferred and accounts for the majority of SWCC applicants in the training pipeline. Candidates may also volunteer for SWCC during basic training at Recruit Training Center (RTC), or at any time during their enlistment prior to their 31st birthday. NSW/NSO “Dive” Motivators, at RTC, give presentations on the Navy's NSW/NSO programs, conduct the physical training screening tests, and assist interested Recruits with their applications at RTC. A more stringent physical examination and medical screening is conducted at RTC. Recruit’s entrance medical examinations will be reviewed and further physical screening tests will be given at RTC and at the Naval Special Warfare Center (SWCC School). SWCC training is physically and mentally demanding. SWCCs receive extra pay for special duty assignment. Some SWCCs are selected for parachute training in both Static Line and Military Free Fall. SWCC candidates should be motivated, self-assured and self-confident, willing to follow orders and able to work under stressful and hazardous conditions. They should be in excellent physical conditions and motivated to withstand the rigorous physiological demands imposed by the maritime environment. The ability to swim and withstand fatigue is a major factor in successful completion of the Basic SWCC training. Other necessary characteristics needed are good aptitude for mechanical skills, study habits, knowledge of arithmetic and basic algebra, and manual dexterity. SWCC candidates must be U.S. citizens eligible for security clearance. SWCC ASVAB Test score requirements.
SWCCs perform Special Operations missions from high speed small boats, fixed wing aircraft, helicopters, and Navy ships. They may be exposed to arctic, desert or jungle environments, including survival in enemy controlled areas. They may also perform administrative and foreign training missions in a wide variety of climates throughout the world.
Credit Recommendations
The American Council on Education recommends that semester hour credits be awarded in the vocational certificate and lower-division bachelor's/associate's degree categories for courses taken in this rating.