Part of me hearing this makes me go, "man that's tough," when I hear the drop out numbers base on people that quit. But then I think back on to my days playing football and the amount of people that would quit and while still tough the context makes it more reasonable. While I'm still unsure if I want to give 4 years of my life to the military, the athlete in me would love to train with Tacp guys/instructors. I live for the type of work that pushes me.
I’m currently an SF member and your story inspires me. Just like you I did multiple sports in highschool and never let up on self PT. Still haven’t let up. When I’m at the gates I always think of what I could have been. In BMT I was a PT monster, I crushed everything and actually lost progress. I lost weight (155lbs to 135 lbs) and became weak. Coming out I couldn’t even do a good 10 pull-ups comparing to my usual sets of 20 with weight. In tech school I loved camp bullis, I got to ruck and really experience more military type things. By then I was back up in weight (164 lbs) jacked living at the gym. Now my life is really laxidasical. I’ve gone to a couple of cool courses and I’m even qualified on our sniper weapon system and a standby counter sniper. I passed the air assault qualification but the course fell through due to budget cuts. And now that I see your videos I am more than ever wanting to cross train into TACP or something along similar lines. I just have to sadly wait until I can.
Same bro, I over trained before basic, I went from 175 to 163 in basic, Just couldn't get the calories i was used to. The only thing i didn't lose any progress was running, 7th and 8th week they allowed us to go to the track after days end. (after 5:00) I would load my bag to 100lbs and grind.
You guys literally went thought a lot. From Basic till the end of the School House. The school house has a lot of requirements I had to do as infantry. It's super cool to know I know what you're talking about. Awesome vid love the the water wall fall of knowledge I got from it.
I am so glad that I did wrestling for a bit, because it really teaches you to find those good times with the people you go through the suck with that helps you keep on going and motivate everyone because at the end of the day you go through the same thing with the person next to you for the next few years so be the best family you can be and keep it pushing together the bonds that I look to make going through the pain with others being able to help and also learn new things is why I want to be a TACP because I have the oppurtunity to exceed my limits and do it with people that are looking for the same end goal, you are amazing man
The part about humping the ruck brought back memories. When I went into the army as an 11B, I was a distance runner as well and could handle any and all running they threw at me easily. But I weighed 145-150 on a good day and was assigned to Alaska where the rucks were unbelievably heavy due to the cold weather gear we needed to carry. When I put my ruck on it was absolutely a struggle. Especially with the spare barrel and tripod or when I was an RTO.
Opinionator haha yeah rucking isn’t fun for the little guys. Especially with that added weight. This is something that I’ve improved in over the years, but being out there in the Alaskan cold with added weight still doesn’t sound like an easy task.
super cool series hope to see more. one thing in particular i was hoping you could make a video or multiple specific to workout routines and physical training you'd recommend to prepare yourself for the smoking they do during the pipeline for the people not as fit as yourself
Looking to join, have my first IFT tomorrow I’m getting myself psyched to crush it and start my path. I’m interested in SR are there a lot of differences between the two in the pipeline?
I think this is a great series sofar because tacp is the only thing that excites me never been excited or nervous for anything else sense I was the starting qb last year currently going through the recruitment process for the airforce
I’ve put in for my retrain just recently and tacp is on the list. My main concern is the selection phase. Can you tell us their mindset and intent behind selecting individuals and how that process works?
wait... what happened to the specwarfare prep? i just extended and putting in my retraining, pretty skinny bine jones at the moment so im putting in alot of work right now
Great to here your story man. You should talk about your ranger school experience, especially being an airman! I think a lot of people would be interested in how you would compare it to the tacp schoolhouse.
Good stuff on the videos! I was thinking about joining the military again and going TACP. Former army 11b myself lol. Little bit different for us prior service dudes to get in. Cheers!
Absolutely, it’s a little bit harder on the paperwork side...but best of luck. You’ll get treated way better than 11B, but don’t underestimate the training...it’s still soul crushing 🤙🏼
@@FunkyBunkley Thanks for the reply! Yea I've been training again! Especially ruck marching. Im 5ft 7 so I feel the pain on that lol. Again thank you and stay safe brother !
Here’s a question for ya. In your experience, what was the role of the TACP Officer, and what information could you tell us from your perspective that the officer could have improved
My question for your Q&A at a later date: How hard is it to cross train into TACP when already enlisted? No one seems to know the process or the likelihood of actually getting selected. I’ve been in for 3.5 years. When I originally joined in 2017, I joined as a TACP ..I was on Hawk 103 had no issues during my time in the pipeline. When I got to the 2nd week of Block 2 I was disqualified from the job due to a migraine I had at 10 years old. (It wasn’t really a migraine I was just trying to get out of school) I was a trickster kid so that’s how it was caught during the ground base controller physical in BMT.. a waiver was sent up to AETC and for whatever reason it was denied stating I was “withholding” info at meps but I honestly forgot about it. It happened one time. So fast forward to block 2 I was pulled from class by the team doc saying I was disqualified. I am now doing all I can to get back to the schoolhouse and live out my dream. If you could shed some light on the situation by informing me on the process to get selected for reclass I’d greatly appreciate it! Thank you
Javon Brunson dang, yeah I get that question a lot...but honestly I’m not too familiar with the cross training process other than knowing that you have to get with your base career advisor and submit a package. The base career advisor (I believe at the education office) should point you in the right direction.
FunkyBunkley understood sir. But I’ve gone to my career advisor and honestly she doesn’t know a thing about her job lol.. I was pretty much told to just go online and figure it out.. hopefully I can figure it out somehow cause this sucks.. thank you very much for your response!
Keep progressing your physical fitness to be in the best shape possible before you go, and remember why you want to be a TACP the whole time you're training.
I am currently looking to retrain into TACP, would you be able to give me any insight into what is desired in a retrain package to make it stand out among others? Thanks in advance.
I'm not sure what you have to do as far as securing a slot for it, but I can say that TACP officer hopefuls first go through a pretty vigorous one week selection. If they get selected, they are then able to continue on in training. They get sent to their first duty station, and from there they start the TACP pipeline.
1: What was the total weight during that final eval of 12 mile ruck? 2: What was the number one reason people self eliminated, failed or were recycled? 3: Your number one piece of advice for anyone going TACP besides “never quit?”
What altitude were you at during your final ruck? Were you running on roads, sand, dirt or gravel? What was the +/- elevation gain for the final ruck? I know I can hike 10 miles @7kft (apx) across decomposed granite with a 55 pound backpack, but at the end I pitch a tent and all is good. I don't carry a 10 pound weapon when I go out backpacking but if the ruck is @ sea level it should be okay for someone like me who also grew up surfing at San Clemente.
Thanks for the insight! I’m a senior at my college in AFROTC , I am currently getting ready to head to TOPT this October. I had two questions for you. -during the pipeline what were some different challenges you saw some of the officer students face. -What are some characteristic that you’d like to see from a young LT looking to make a positive impact on the career field
Marcus Jones the LTs that come through are hit or miss. I wouldn’t say that there’s a difference between the young officers and all of the young airmen that come through, but the young LTs are expected to lead. Then they get to the training and they are in worse shape than the enlisted or don’t have the attention to detail piece down that constantly gets the team smoked.
As a fire support marine, in order to be a JTAC the pipeline is learning all IDF then being a JFO before going to TACP school which is at least 1 reenlistment by the end. Do Air Force TACPs learn all fire assets or just CAS?
Another great video Bunkers! Wish I had been there to graduate with you..... Q & A (trivia) question for you to answer in your final video: What alarm song would wake us up at the indoc in Medina in the morning? 😂😂 SSgt (forgot his dang name) even had sheets with her on it. Smh.... lol!
@@FunkyBunkley Oh man, nope! Here's a hint. There was a burly looking ex marine that babysat our basic training flight on Christmas and he started blasting it from the office and we were all cracking up. Got it?
On the Air Force website it lists the training required for TACP. There are 6 different trainings listed that added together equals between 8-9 months in total. Is that typically how long it takes if there are no failures, or is there a long wait between the different trainings?
How do I prepare for the pipelines , because I’m a 5’3” female , and I feel like all of them are going to be really strong people , and a lot different than me , so how can I prepare ?
Hey I've got a quetion for the q and a. I am confused about the way TacPs get trained, did you go to the q course as a trainee and what training to become a Tacp did you like the least.
Prior service marine here looking to possibly pursue the TACP route in the air national guard. Also was wondering if you have any knowledge regarding TACPs in the air national guard.
Laguna Beach the National Guard is an awesome route to go. All of my friends in it love it. They are always hiring so it should be easy. I hear Georgia, Idaho, Texas, and Washington are good units. You can find them pretty easily with a google search or getting in touch with them on Instagram.
Did you deploy before you were JTAC qualified? I believe a TACP guy on the OnesReady podcast said he deployed before he was JTAC qualified but that was super rare.
Colby yes I did. It wasn’t rare back in the day, and most people deployed as a ROMAD before going to JTAC QC...but that was before 2010. Now it would be an extremely rare case to deploy before JTAC QC. I haven’t heard of that happening in years.
I’m thinking of becoming a tacp officer after I graduate from rotc and I was wondering if its the same pipeline regardless and also if I can possibly be stationed in korea just like you. XD
TACP officers need to go through an officer selection first. If you get selected at the selection, then you have to go through the same pipeline training as the enlisted. You go through everything with them.
Average Mate it is not required to know how to swim before going to the training; however, you will be required to do that water confidence in the TACP Schoolhouse. There has never been any TACP student that has left Special Warfare Prep without knowing how to swim yet. There’s 8 weeks of Special Warfare Prep, and they do a lot of pool training in that course.
Thanks for these! Our youngest son (Freshman in College) is going to be doing AFROTC and then wants to go into TACP. His oldest brother is in the Army and is part of the 1st brigade combat team, Airbourne. Question - can our youngest go from ROTC to TACP?
I’m interested in the officer route since I am currently enlisted and finishing my Bachelors in October 2020. I am applying for OTS in February for a non rated slot (ALO). I already got my AFOQT scores, just working on my package. What’s the life like for an ALO. Are they pencil pushers or do they actually go in combat and train like the enlisted TACP members? What’s the workload like regarding admin and doing the actual job?
I can say that the lieutenants get to job it a little, and they still need to learn all of the skills that a young TACP does, but once they start making rank like Captain it slowly transitions to more and more admin. Captains can still get out and job it with the boys, as they need to maintain their qualifications. As you climb in rank though, it's more admin and less time jobbin'. You won't do anything deployed as a captain unless you tryout for Special Tactics most likely.
Hunter Maki you will have to swim and do pool skills in Special Warfare prep, but none of it is a pass or fail event for TACPs. Also, you will have to do water confidence in the TACP Schoolhouse. That’s where you jump in a pool with all of your gear on, ditch it, and swim to the side of the pool.
Yes I have, and the pipeline is the exact same. ANG TACPs live the life because they can work or not work as much as they want after their initial training.
I am currently an air traffic controller in the AF. I am wanting to apply to the schoolhouse after this deployment. What do you recommend I prioritize as far as workouts? I have a rucksack and plan to ruck lots. Also, do you think Air traffic control will help with any part of the TACP Schoolhouse?
I would recommend either Sealfit or 18A Fitness for workout routines brotha 🤙🏼 it’s good you’re getting some rucking in, there’s a lot of it in training. Also, ATC will probably help with some terminology and basic aircraft deconfliction...but other than that it’s a whole seperate job.
You get two time to try TACP Prep. On the second failure, you are done. You get two attempts at the TACP Schoolhouse usually, and on the second failure you are done. In very rare cases, I’ve seen them give guys third tries.
I Love the video man but one question I do have is the tacp pipeline worth going into and how are the hours also if you could do something else would you. I have been thinking about tacp and cyber systems I been trying to figure out which one is better thank you.
Ohhh man, I would absolutely hate cyber systems but that’s just me. Those are two completely seperate jobs. It’s totally worth it, and I have no regrets...but again, that’s just me and not everyone feels that way.
We know what type of person makes it through the pipleine. But what about those who fail? What are they like? Is it mostly self termination or do people get kicked out? What are the academics like for a combat airman? Compared to say college in the civilian world? What are some good fitness goals to achieve for someone that wants to have a good chance of making it through a combat airman pipeline? (TACP, CCT, PJ, SR) Appreciate the videos man. I've wanted to be a battlefield airman for about 8 years now. Finally think I'm mature enough to take a shot at it. Wasn't in the right frame of mind when I was 16, feeling about more optimistic at 24. PS: Ignore the Username. This youtube account is older than some people in the comments section.
Hell yeah! Never think that you're too immature. Just send it. The guys that fail, simply just don't want to be there. If you give it your everything, you will make it. Occasionally good dudes will get injured and can't keep going, but that's a small percentage. The academics aren't crazy. If you go back every night and study you'll be just fine. College is harder in the aspect that it's time consuming. These academics are harder in the sense that you actually need to know and retain the information taught. It's not graded, it's simply pass or fail. If you can't retain the skills to operate a radio or do get from point A to point B on a map using a map and compass, you fail. Some good fitness goals to prep for all Special Warfare pipelines is pumping out better numbers than the PAST test minimums in every aspect. They are just the bare minimums, and most the time guys who barely meet the minimums get to the training and fail physically. Also, shoot for a 8 mile ruck time under 2 hours with a 40 pound rucksack. I wouldn't ruck anything over 8 miles.
Ok Question I was thinking about becoming a TACP with the Air Force Reserves I'm in Phenomenal Shape I run Basically 20k per week at the gym and often unload 53FT Trailers full of packages at UPS 5 days a week but I'm 33 turning 34 this year in August do you think I'd have a good shot at making it all the way thru or in your Honest opinion should I look to another Career field in the Reserves also how difficult to learn is the Ratio Equipment and do you have to swim I'm not the best swimmer
Academics aren’t bad. The people that fail the academics don’t want to be there. Also, if you ask anyone in the Army they’ll tell you that they wish they would have joined the Air Force.
You said in your last video and I’ve also heard others say you leave basic training in worse shape than you show up. Do you have any advice or training tips on how to prevent that? Also at 26 and married I was curious as to when my wife would be able to live with me.
Guys just knock out push ups, sit ups, etc. on their limited free time in basic training. That’s all I can suggest. You don’t have the luxury to do your own workouts. Also, your wife can live with you after you get to your first duty location which is after you graduate the TACP Schoolhouse, SERE, and Airborne.
How to prep for rucking? I'm an avid backpacker and have done 12 miles in the sequoias with about 35 lb on my back but it was most walking. What should I do to improve? And do all jtacs go to army bases?
It took me 3 years and 9 months from the time I left for basic training until I got my JTAC certification...but I also deployed for 9 months in between there. Now guys can get it in a matter of less than two years.
Basic training is 8.5 weeks, Special Warfare Prep is 8 weeks, TACP Prep is 1 week, The TACP Schoolhouse is roughly 21 weeks, SERE is 3 weeks, and airborne is 3 weeks.
Focus more on the physical aspect. Get in the best physical shape getting in really cardio. There are plenty of physical plans to follow such as Sealfit or 18A Fitness.
@@jacklucas7000 I’ve heard of one of my TACP brothers going and trying out for SFAS. From what I understand about it, if he would have got selected at SFAS he would have switched over to the Army. I’m not sure how that all works, but he was an active duty Air Force TACP.
The difference is that guard TACPs get to usually pick and choose whatever they want to do, as opposed to active duty who go to work every day. Training opportunities for schools and deployments don’t necessarily rely on guard or active duty...but more so who the leadership is at that unit and what unit you’re at.
I had never quit anything in my life, and I wasn't about to. I knew I wanted to do great things in life. I wanted to accomplish what seemed impossible. And I had a lot of family and friends back home that I wanted to make proud. It's still my motivation to this day!
Sir I’m going to cross from my actual job to TACP this year. I’m married and I love to be close to my family. Would you say I’m taking the right decision?
Hey man question, I was an active duty forward observer in the usmc and just got out. I want to go back in but as an airforce tacp. Whats the tempo like I have a kid on the way and am getting married soon just trying to figure out how the op tempo is and at what point during the pipeline can my wife and I get housing?
She would be able to get housing with you as soon as you pass the TACP Schoolhouse. Also, the ops tempo is very high. But it also depends on where you get stationed. The waves come and go with instability and being gone or in the field.
You do not need to even know how to swim. The swimming that you do in special warfare prep is just for a workout, and by the end of it you will be a lot better at it.
As a 19 year old kid, I didn’t think it was too difficult. It was definitely pretty scary walking through the swamps of Florida in the dark all by myself for the first time. I’d say it failed a few people every class, but the instructors teach you everything that you need to know.
As a new TACP, I was always training. I spent a lot of time not in a formal training course though. When I got to my first unit, I was always training up for the next school or career milestone. There were breaks for deployments, and there was about a 9 month period where I was waiting for JTAC QC but my unit was just waiting for a slot. 3.5 years was around average back in the day, but then now it's much faster.
@@FunkyBunkley ohhhh okay! Awesome! I just saw your video of the new TACP pipeline! It’s a solid year of training now from what I saw in that video! Great content brother! Keep it up!
My question is I’m on the smaller size in body mass and height and I’m 31 would you recommend me cross training into such a physical job at my age and physical attributes?
Never sell yourself short. If you want it, it's totally doable. At 31, you'll have a little harder time recovering than the young guys...but I've seen plenty of guys your age go through and succeed. Much respect, and best of luck.
Sir, I am currently active duty and plan on cross training into TACP, it would mean a lot to me if I could have your mentorship. I'm willing to learn and do whatever it takes.
Yeah that plan mentioned below is probably pretty good. Find a good physical training plan, and keep getting in good shape. That’s the best advice that I can give 👍🏻
For someone who is only going to be in the military for 4 years do you still recommend me going into TACP or should I just go security forces at that point?
@@FunkyBunkley Alright. I got one last question, do you think it would be difficult to shoot for an associates or bachelors degree in criminal justice while being in TACP for 4 years?
Jem Mixon yes, I’ve known a couple of TACPs that applied for the Air Force academy as young airmen, and one of them is now an Air Force academy grad. You can’t do it after your contract though because they’d be too old.
It depends on the person. You don't want to be a fatty, but you also want to have some mass to hump rucks, survive out in the field, and carry heavy stuff.
Get in the best physical shape that you possibly can and maybe look into how to read a military map and land navigate. They teach you all of the academics at the school.
Metal Distance there are a lot of programs out there to help out...but getting in good running shape doesn’t happen over night. For example, I sucking at running about two months ago. I had an injured foot for about a year and a half, and it was finally good enough to run on again. I started of running two miles twice a week. The next week I ran 2.5 miles twice a week, then 3, 3.5, etc. I am now running two 6.5 mile runs this week. It just takes time and patience, but the most important thing is putting miles in.
Great video! My question for the next video pertains to training recommendations before starting the TACP pipeline, what training to you recommend? Also since you showed how bad your feet got from wearing crappy boots; what kind of boots do you recommend wearing during training? Thanks!
I would recommend finding a solid PT program like Sealfit or 18A Fitness. For the boots, I would recommend either Oakley Light Assaults if you want to go light, or Rocky S2Vs which are heavier but more durable.
Occasionally they do. If people fail assessment and selection, then they all take the top guys from the failed bunch and give them the option to go TACP...or at least that’s how it was about a year ago. Or they may have stopped doing that, I don’t have an up to date answer on that.
It’s really all up to you brother. Pretty different lifestyles. TACPs support the Army and coordinate air strikes, Rangers are broad because there are a ton of different jobs in the Ranger regiment. Both TACP and Ranger regiment are meaningful. 🤙🏼
Bro lost his rifle 😭😭 dude you lose an RCO out here in lejeune the whole base gets shut down
Haha I always thought it was impossible until I did it myself 😆 they give us dummy weapons because there’s always one idiot who loses theirs.
Marine corps doesn't F around with lost gats
Part of me hearing this makes me go, "man that's tough," when I hear the drop out numbers base on people that quit. But then I think back on to my days playing football and the amount of people that would quit and while still tough the context makes it more reasonable. While I'm still unsure if I want to give 4 years of my life to the military, the athlete in me would love to train with Tacp guys/instructors. I live for the type of work that pushes me.
I would say that’s a good comparison. The TACP pipeline in very achievable to those that want it.
When you said you lost your weapon my soul left my body
So did mine 😆
Literally😭
I’m currently an SF member and your story inspires me. Just like you I did multiple sports in highschool and never let up on self PT. Still haven’t let up. When I’m at the gates I always think of what I could have been. In BMT I was a PT monster, I crushed everything and actually lost progress. I lost weight (155lbs to 135 lbs) and became weak. Coming out I couldn’t even do a good 10 pull-ups comparing to my usual sets of 20 with weight. In tech school I loved camp bullis, I got to ruck and really experience more military type things. By then I was back up in weight (164 lbs) jacked living at the gym. Now my life is really laxidasical. I’ve gone to a couple of cool courses and I’m even qualified on our sniper weapon system and a standby counter sniper. I passed the air assault qualification but the course fell through due to budget cuts. And now that I see your videos I am more than ever wanting to cross train into TACP or something along similar lines. I just have to sadly wait until I can.
Same bro, I over trained before basic, I went from 175 to 163 in basic, Just couldn't get the calories i was used to. The only thing i didn't lose any progress was running, 7th and 8th week they allowed us to go to the track after days end. (after 5:00) I would load my bag to 100lbs and grind.
You guys literally went thought a lot. From Basic till the end of the School House. The school house has a lot of requirements I had to do as infantry. It's super cool to know I know what you're talking about. Awesome vid love the the water wall fall of knowledge I got from it.
I am so glad that I did wrestling for a bit, because it really teaches you to find those good times with the people you go through the suck with that helps you keep on going and motivate everyone because at the end of the day you go through the same thing with the person next to you for the next few years so be the best family you can be and keep it pushing together the bonds that I look to make going through the pain with others being able to help and also learn new things is why I want to be a TACP because I have the oppurtunity to exceed my limits and do it with people that are looking for the same end goal, you are amazing man
Sweet channel my dude, loving the vids!
The part about humping the ruck brought back memories. When I went into the army as an 11B, I was a distance runner as well and could handle any and all running they threw at me easily. But I weighed 145-150 on a good day and was assigned to Alaska where the rucks were unbelievably heavy due to the cold weather gear we needed to carry. When I put my ruck on it was absolutely a struggle. Especially with the spare barrel and tripod or when I was an RTO.
Opinionator haha yeah rucking isn’t fun for the little guys. Especially with that added weight. This is something that I’ve improved in over the years, but being out there in the Alaskan cold with added weight still doesn’t sound like an easy task.
Eagle 64 here bud - great video! Took me back a few years.
Nothing but good times and good vibes down there in Hurby, thank ya kindly!
Such an awesome human and warrior. Thank for inspiring so many. 🤙🏻
super cool series hope to see more. one thing in particular i was hoping you could make a video or multiple specific to workout routines and physical training you'd recommend to prepare yourself for the smoking they do during the pipeline for the people not as fit as yourself
Looking to join, have my first IFT tomorrow I’m getting myself psyched to crush it and start my path. I’m interested in SR are there a lot of differences between the two in the pipeline?
Thank you so much for the information, the video gave insight to an awesome career!👍
Joey Maschke 👍🏻
I leave for BMT August 18th. I’m going in for TACP. Your videos are always great to watch. Can’t wait to see the one about how it is now
Ohhh snaps, best of luck to you. 👍🏻
FunkyBunkley yes sir! Thank you
How'd it go?
That was so wonderful and amazing training.
I think this is a great series sofar because tacp is the only thing that excites me never been excited or nervous for anything else sense I was the starting qb last year currently going through the recruitment process for the airforce
Heck yeah! I remember that same feeling when I was trying out. Keep training, and don’t take it lightly. Best of luck 🤙🏼
I’ve put in for my retrain just recently and tacp is on the list. My main concern is the selection phase. Can you tell us their mindset and intent behind selecting individuals and how that process works?
As of right now, you’ll just have to go through a one week TACP Prep. Just don’t quit!
wait... what happened to the specwarfare prep? i just extended and putting in my retraining, pretty skinny bine jones at the moment so im putting in alot of work right now
Great to here your story man. You should talk about your ranger school experience, especially being an airman! I think a lot of people would be interested in how you would compare it to the tacp schoolhouse.
I appreciate you KB, and I plan on making a "Ranger School Experience" series some time in the future.
Good stuff on the videos! I was thinking about joining the military again and going TACP. Former army 11b myself lol. Little bit different for us prior service dudes to get in. Cheers!
Absolutely, it’s a little bit harder on the paperwork side...but best of luck. You’ll get treated way better than 11B, but don’t underestimate the training...it’s still soul crushing 🤙🏼
@@FunkyBunkley Thanks for the reply! Yea I've been training again! Especially ruck marching. Im 5ft 7 so I feel the pain on that lol. Again thank you and stay safe brother !
Here’s a question for ya. In your experience, what was the role of the TACP Officer, and what information could you tell us from your perspective that the officer could have improved
Always fun and informative watching the vids! Keep it up!!!
Thanks Big Sarge! 🤙🏼
Great video, had a good laugh
Very inspirational!! Keep up the videos!
Aviator_Z Hooyah! 🤙🏼
Shark PT, gotta love it.
Some good ole Sharkfests. They built character!
My question for your Q&A at a later date: How hard is it to cross train into TACP when already enlisted? No one seems to know the process or the likelihood of actually getting selected. I’ve been in for 3.5 years. When I originally joined in 2017, I joined as a TACP ..I was on Hawk 103 had no issues during my time in the pipeline. When I got to the 2nd week of Block 2 I was disqualified from the job due to a migraine I had at 10 years old. (It wasn’t really a migraine I was just trying to get out of school) I was a trickster kid so that’s how it was caught during the ground base controller physical in BMT.. a waiver was sent up to AETC and for whatever reason it was denied stating I was “withholding” info at meps but I honestly forgot about it. It happened one time. So fast forward to block 2 I was pulled from class by the team doc saying I was disqualified. I am now doing all I can to get back to the schoolhouse and live out my dream. If you could shed some light on the situation by informing me on the process to get selected for reclass I’d greatly appreciate it! Thank you
Javon Brunson dang, yeah I get that question a lot...but honestly I’m not too familiar with the cross training process other than knowing that you have to get with your base career advisor and submit a package. The base career advisor (I believe at the education office) should point you in the right direction.
FunkyBunkley understood sir. But I’ve gone to my career advisor and honestly she doesn’t know a thing about her job lol.. I was pretty much told to just go online and figure it out.. hopefully I can figure it out somehow cause this sucks.. thank you very much for your response!
Great vid, nice job!
Thank you kindly good sir 🤙🏼
Im trying out for it now and hope to shippout in FEB
Awesome stuff brotha, train hard and enjoy your last few months home 🤙🏻
What is one of the key things you can do to prep yourself for the TACP pipeline after passing the PAST test?
Keep progressing your physical fitness to be in the best shape possible before you go, and remember why you want to be a TACP the whole time you're training.
You should get one the Ones ready podcast and talk with those dudes.
Those are good dudes 🤙🏼
Question: Is it possible to take classes as Active Duty before and after graduating?
Are there any workout programs or guides you recommend to help prepare for the pipeline?
I really like the Sealfit fitness program, but also 18A Fitness isn’t bad.
I am currently looking to retrain into TACP, would you be able to give me any insight into what is desired in a retrain package to make it stand out among others? Thanks in advance.
Same here!
Ohh man, I’m sorry guys. I’m not too familiar with the cross training process.
Great Video Man! But one question? What are some workouts that people need to prepare for school house??
Cenes Knox there’s a couple that I would recommend. Sealfit and 18A Fitness are two of the ones that I would recommend. 🤙🏼
Do you know what the officer selection process is like for TACP for someone coming out of USAFA or AFROTC?
I'm not sure what you have to do as far as securing a slot for it, but I can say that TACP officer hopefuls first go through a pretty vigorous one week selection. If they get selected, they are then able to continue on in training. They get sent to their first duty station, and from there they start the TACP pipeline.
@@FunkyBunkley Thanks man! Also, is there higher expectations for an officer or is it the same?
1: What was the total weight during that final eval of 12 mile ruck?
2: What was the number one reason people self eliminated, failed or were recycled?
3: Your number one piece of advice for anyone going TACP besides “never quit?”
Total weight for the 12 mile ruck is around 105-110 pounds with helmet, weapon, rucksack, uniform, all gear, and water
Number one reason people fail is the field weeks: not passing evaluations, losing equipment, not remaining tactical
Number 1 advice: don’t be a quitter...number 2: be the kind of teammate that you would expect from your teammates.
Great video brother
Gianfranco Pagan much respect right back at you amigo 🤙🏼
What altitude were you at during your final ruck? Were you running on roads, sand, dirt or gravel? What was the +/- elevation gain for the final ruck? I know I can hike 10 miles @7kft (apx) across decomposed granite with a 55 pound backpack, but at the end I pitch a tent and all is good. I don't carry a 10 pound weapon when I go out backpacking but if the ruck is @ sea level it should be okay for someone like me who also grew up surfing at San Clemente.
Thanks for the insight!
I’m a senior at my college in AFROTC , I am currently getting ready to head to TOPT this October.
I had two questions for you. -during the pipeline what were some different challenges you saw some of the officer students face. -What are some characteristic that you’d like to see from a young LT looking to make a positive impact on the career field
Marcus Jones the LTs that come through are hit or miss. I wouldn’t say that there’s a difference between the young officers and all of the young airmen that come through, but the young LTs are expected to lead. Then they get to the training and they are in worse shape than the enlisted or don’t have the attention to detail piece down that constantly gets the team smoked.
Marcus Jones what I would like to see most from my LTs. Be a leader, do the right thing, and always look out for the boys 👍🏻
FunkyBunkley roger that. Thanks for the reply
As a fire support marine, in order to be a JTAC the pipeline is learning all IDF then being a JFO before going to TACP school which is at least 1 reenlistment by the end. Do Air Force TACPs learn all fire assets or just CAS?
Yes, TACPs learn it all 🤙🏼
Another great video Bunkers! Wish I had been there to graduate with you..... Q & A (trivia) question for you to answer in your final video: What alarm song would wake us up at the indoc in Medina in the morning? 😂😂 SSgt (forgot his dang name) even had sheets with her on it. Smh.... lol!
Haha thank you Carris! 😆 and man, it was either Taylor Swift or Katy Perry. I need a hint!
@@FunkyBunkley Oh man, nope! Here's a hint. There was a burly looking ex marine that babysat our basic training flight on Christmas and he started blasting it from the office and we were all cracking up. Got it?
Falcon Flight was always known for PT
LOL, Gotta agree, SERE was a blast!!!
On the Air Force website it lists the training required for TACP. There are 6 different trainings listed that added together equals between 8-9 months in total. Is that typically how long it takes if there are no failures, or is there a long wait between the different trainings?
Roughly yes, but in my next video I explain all the courses and lengths in detail.
I might have missed it but how long ago did you go thru the pipeline?
How do I prepare for the pipelines , because I’m a 5’3” female , and I feel like all of them are going to be really strong people , and a lot different than me , so how can I prepare ?
Gotta hit the gym and exercise 🤙🏻 you have to come in the best shape of your life.
Nice video man
730shotonair thank you brotha 🤙🏼
Hey I've got a quetion for the q and a. I am confused about the way TacPs get trained, did you go to the q course as a trainee and what training to become a Tacp did you like the least.
Prior service marine here looking to possibly pursue the TACP route in the air national guard. Also was wondering if you have any knowledge regarding TACPs in the air national guard.
Laguna Beach the National Guard is an awesome route to go. All of my friends in it love it. They are always hiring so it should be easy. I hear Georgia, Idaho, Texas, and Washington are good units. You can find them pretty easily with a google search or getting in touch with them on Instagram.
Did you deploy before you were JTAC qualified? I believe a TACP guy on the OnesReady podcast said he deployed before he was JTAC qualified but that was super rare.
Colby yes I did. It wasn’t rare back in the day, and most people deployed as a ROMAD before going to JTAC QC...but that was before 2010. Now it would be an extremely rare case to deploy before JTAC QC. I haven’t heard of that happening in years.
I’m thinking of becoming a tacp officer after I graduate from rotc and I was wondering if its the same pipeline regardless and also if I can possibly be stationed in korea just like you. XD
TACP officers need to go through an officer selection first. If you get selected at the selection, then you have to go through the same pipeline training as the enlisted. You go through everything with them.
Also, coming to Korea is a possibility...but you can’t come here for your first duty station.
FunkyBunkley thanks for the info man and keep up the good work you earned yourself a subscriber
Do you need to know how to swim/ pass any swimming tests to be able to become a tacp?
You need to jump in a pool with your LBV and rucksack, get it off of you, and then swim to the side of the pool without drowning.
FunkyBunkley and if you can’t swim do they teach you to do this or will you just be left to fail and pick another career ?
Average Mate it is not required to know how to swim before going to the training; however, you will be required to do that water confidence in the TACP Schoolhouse. There has never been any TACP student that has left Special Warfare Prep without knowing how to swim yet. There’s 8 weeks of Special Warfare Prep, and they do a lot of pool training in that course.
FunkyBunkley thanks for the response i really want to do tacp but I was scared of not being able to swim would mean I couldn’t pursue it
Thanks for these! Our youngest son (Freshman in College) is going to be doing AFROTC and then wants to go into TACP. His oldest brother is in the Army and is part of the 1st brigade combat team, Airbourne.
Question - can our youngest go from ROTC to TACP?
Yes, as an Air Liaison Officer. (Or better known as TACP Officers)
Question:
What is the definition of Teamwork?
TACPShep putting aside all comforts and desires for the sake of the team. I feel like this is one of my old Schoolhouse instructors here. 👍🏻
FunkyBunkley 😉
I’m interested in the officer route since I am currently enlisted and finishing my Bachelors in October 2020. I am applying for OTS in February for a non rated slot (ALO). I already got my AFOQT scores, just working on my package. What’s the life like for an ALO. Are they pencil pushers or do they actually go in combat and train like the enlisted TACP members? What’s the workload like regarding admin and doing the actual job?
I can say that the lieutenants get to job it a little, and they still need to learn all of the skills that a young TACP does, but once they start making rank like Captain it slowly transitions to more and more admin. Captains can still get out and job it with the boys, as they need to maintain their qualifications. As you climb in rank though, it's more admin and less time jobbin'. You won't do anything deployed as a captain unless you tryout for Special Tactics most likely.
how much swimming do you have to do as a tacp
Hunter Maki you will have to swim and do pool skills in Special Warfare prep, but none of it is a pass or fail event for TACPs. Also, you will have to do water confidence in the TACP Schoolhouse. That’s where you jump in a pool with all of your gear on, ditch it, and swim to the side of the pool.
Two questions. Have you worked with any ANG tacp? And is the pipeline the same for them as for active duty?
Yes I have, and the pipeline is the exact same. ANG TACPs live the life because they can work or not work as much as they want after their initial training.
I am currently an air traffic controller in the AF. I am wanting to apply to the schoolhouse after this deployment. What do you recommend I prioritize as far as workouts? I have a rucksack and plan to ruck lots. Also, do you think Air traffic control will help with any part of the TACP Schoolhouse?
I would recommend either Sealfit or 18A Fitness for workout routines brotha 🤙🏼 it’s good you’re getting some rucking in, there’s a lot of it in training. Also, ATC will probably help with some terminology and basic aircraft deconfliction...but other than that it’s a whole seperate job.
FunkyBunkley appreciate the info, Keep up the great videos!
If you fail are you just done and you cant get a second chance or are there ways to try again?
You get two time to try TACP Prep. On the second failure, you are done. You get two attempts at the TACP Schoolhouse usually, and on the second failure you are done. In very rare cases, I’ve seen them give guys third tries.
Night land nav. Good times.....
I Love the video man but one question I do have is the tacp pipeline worth going into and how are the hours also if you could do something else would you. I have been thinking about tacp and cyber systems I been trying to figure out which one is better thank you.
Ohhh man, I would absolutely hate cyber systems but that’s just me. Those are two completely seperate jobs. It’s totally worth it, and I have no regrets...but again, that’s just me and not everyone feels that way.
We know what type of person makes it through the pipleine. But what about those who fail? What are they like? Is it mostly self termination or do people get kicked out?
What are the academics like for a combat airman? Compared to say college in the civilian world?
What are some good fitness goals to achieve for someone that wants to have a good chance of making it through a combat airman pipeline? (TACP, CCT, PJ, SR)
Appreciate the videos man. I've wanted to be a battlefield airman for about 8 years now. Finally think I'm mature enough to take a shot at it. Wasn't in the right frame of mind when I was 16, feeling about more optimistic at 24.
PS: Ignore the Username. This youtube account is older than some people in the comments section.
Hell yeah! Never think that you're too immature. Just send it. The guys that fail, simply just don't want to be there. If you give it your everything, you will make it. Occasionally good dudes will get injured and can't keep going, but that's a small percentage. The academics aren't crazy. If you go back every night and study you'll be just fine. College is harder in the aspect that it's time consuming. These academics are harder in the sense that you actually need to know and retain the information taught. It's not graded, it's simply pass or fail. If you can't retain the skills to operate a radio or do get from point A to point B on a map using a map and compass, you fail. Some good fitness goals to prep for all Special Warfare pipelines is pumping out better numbers than the PAST test minimums in every aspect. They are just the bare minimums, and most the time guys who barely meet the minimums get to the training and fail physically. Also, shoot for a 8 mile ruck time under 2 hours with a 40 pound rucksack. I wouldn't ruck anything over 8 miles.
How much time off do you have between each part of training
Ok Question I was thinking about becoming a TACP with the Air Force Reserves I'm in Phenomenal Shape I run Basically 20k per week at the gym and often unload 53FT Trailers full of packages at UPS 5 days a week but I'm 33 turning 34 this year in August do you think I'd have a good shot at making it all the way thru or in your Honest opinion should I look to another Career field in the Reserves also how difficult to learn is the Ratio Equipment and do you have to swim I'm not the best swimmer
What are the academics like? I’m still kinda crossed if I should join the army or the air force
Academics aren’t bad. The people that fail the academics don’t want to be there. Also, if you ask anyone in the Army they’ll tell you that they wish they would have joined the Air Force.
You said in your last video and I’ve also heard others say you leave basic training in worse shape than you show up. Do you have any advice or training tips on how to prevent that?
Also at 26 and married I was curious as to when my wife would be able to live with me.
Guys just knock out push ups, sit ups, etc. on their limited free time in basic training. That’s all I can suggest. You don’t have the luxury to do your own workouts. Also, your wife can live with you after you get to your first duty location which is after you graduate the TACP Schoolhouse, SERE, and Airborne.
Is this the same in the ANG if you are prior service?
How to prep for rucking? I'm an avid backpacker and have done 12 miles in the sequoias with about 35 lb on my back but it was most walking. What should I do to improve? And do all jtacs go to army bases?
Is there any prior service guys going through TACP? I'm a Marine veteran looking into it.
There’s tons of prior service guys that go through the training 👍🏻
It took 4 years?!
It took me 3 years and 9 months from the time I left for basic training until I got my JTAC certification...but I also deployed for 9 months in between there. Now guys can get it in a matter of less than two years.
*around two years
How's the Pipeline for Officer TACPs?
Btt represent!! 🔥🔥🔥
Yeah yeah! BTT in the house ✊🏼✊🏼 haha, thanks coach.
I still have nightmares 40 yrs later about leaving my weapon behind!
Haha it’ll get ya every time.
How was the swimming portion
I’m a college football player and I’m going to basic training then TACP school after. My recruiter said it now takes around 9 months, is that true?
Basic training is 8.5 weeks, Special Warfare Prep is 8 weeks, TACP Prep is 1 week, The TACP Schoolhouse is roughly 21 weeks, SERE is 3 weeks, and airborne is 3 weeks.
What should I prepare for academically and physically
Focus more on the physical aspect. Get in the best physical shape getting in really cardio. There are plenty of physical plans to follow such as Sealfit or 18A Fitness.
Can Army go TACP? I saw some Airmen at SFAS so I’m just wondering
They can not. People going through have to be members of the Air Force 🤙🏻
@@FunkyBunkley whats with Airmen going the SF route? Is that some form of conditional release to switch over?
@@jacklucas7000 I’ve heard of one of my TACP brothers going and trying out for SFAS. From what I understand about it, if he would have got selected at SFAS he would have switched over to the Army. I’m not sure how that all works, but he was an active duty Air Force TACP.
@@FunkyBunkley ah gotcha, thanks man I appreciate the info
Mark - how old were you when you finally graduated?
I was 19 years old when I graduated the TACP Schoolhouse 👍🏻
@@FunkyBunkley wow thats great - anyone come in / graduate much older?
Are there any differences between a TACP in the Reserves vs AD? Amount of deployments, training requirements etc.?
The difference is that guard TACPs get to usually pick and choose whatever they want to do, as opposed to active duty who go to work every day. Training opportunities for schools and deployments don’t necessarily rely on guard or active duty...but more so who the leadership is at that unit and what unit you’re at.
What was your mindset going through this and what made you want it so bad???
I had never quit anything in my life, and I wasn't about to. I knew I wanted to do great things in life. I wanted to accomplish what seemed impossible. And I had a lot of family and friends back home that I wanted to make proud. It's still my motivation to this day!
Sir I’m going to cross from my actual job to TACP this year. I’m married and I love to be close to my family. Would you say I’m taking the right decision?
What is a good weight to start the pipeline at?
Depends on how tall you are, and it doesn’t matter as long as you can run, ruck, and exercise for a few hours at a time.
Hey man question, I was an active duty forward observer in the usmc and just got out. I want to go back in but as an airforce tacp. Whats the tempo like I have a kid on the way and am getting married soon just trying to figure out how the op tempo is and at what point during the pipeline can my wife and I get housing?
She would be able to get housing with you as soon as you pass the TACP Schoolhouse. Also, the ops tempo is very high. But it also depends on where you get stationed. The waves come and go with instability and being gone or in the field.
How much swimming did you have to do for the pipeline? I wanna join but I’m a terrible swimmer and there’s no where to train because of covid.
You do not need to even know how to swim. The swimming that you do in special warfare prep is just for a workout, and by the end of it you will be a lot better at it.
I'm land nav illiterate, how big of a failure rate does the land nav course account for. Also how difficult did you rate the actual land nav course?
As a 19 year old kid, I didn’t think it was too difficult. It was definitely pretty scary walking through the swamps of Florida in the dark all by myself for the first time. I’d say it failed a few people every class, but the instructors teach you everything that you need to know.
What is your favorite mre menu?
Definitely hash browns! I’d do some weird stuff for the hash browns MRE 😆
4 years?! Was the training not all at once?
Or was it spread out ?
As a new TACP, I was always training. I spent a lot of time not in a formal training course though. When I got to my first unit, I was always training up for the next school or career milestone. There were breaks for deployments, and there was about a 9 month period where I was waiting for JTAC QC but my unit was just waiting for a slot. 3.5 years was around average back in the day, but then now it's much faster.
@@FunkyBunkley ohhhh okay!
Awesome!
I just saw your video of the new TACP pipeline!
It’s a solid year of training now from what I saw in that video!
Great content brother!
Keep it up!
The Casual yes, big changes over the years...but steady changes for the better.
Hey so what are he academics like, how hard are they?
Thank you
The academics take some studying, but you’ll have plenty of time to learn the material. You’ll just have to put in the work to study.
Mark Bunkley thank you so much
How can you loose your weapon?
Haha I thought the same thing until it happened to me.
My question is I’m on the smaller size in body mass and height and I’m 31 would you recommend me cross training into such a physical job at my age and physical attributes?
Never sell yourself short. If you want it, it's totally doable. At 31, you'll have a little harder time recovering than the young guys...but I've seen plenty of guys your age go through and succeed. Much respect, and best of luck.
How do you go to airborne and air assault schools?
Pretty much all TACPs go to airborne school after the TACP Schoolhouse now, and guys can go to air assault after their CMR training.
Sir, I am currently active duty and plan on cross training into TACP, it would mean a lot to me if I could have your mentorship. I'm willing to learn and do whatever it takes.
@-- sounds like a good time, Ive been doing training similar to what you mentioned, Ill look it up.
Yeah that plan mentioned below is probably pretty good. Find a good physical training plan, and keep getting in good shape. That’s the best advice that I can give 👍🏻
@@FunkyBunkley roger that, Im excited to see what information your updated videos bring, thank you for all the help.
For someone who is only going to be in the military for 4 years do you still recommend me going into TACP or should I just go security forces at that point?
You can join TACP for 4 years. I definitely wouldn’t go security forces over TACP, but that’s just me.
@@FunkyBunkley Alright. I got one last question, do you think it would be difficult to shoot for an associates or bachelors degree in criminal justice while being in TACP for 4 years?
Do you think people with flat feet could be a tacp even if they're fit?
Probably will not get through MEPS if they are noticeably flat.
Camron Hayes I don’t think that’s a thing, and I haven’t noticed that stopping anyone who really wanted it.
@Last First Flat feet were a disqualifier for service for years. Perhaps that has changed. YMMV
is there any way that a tacp can attend the us air force academy after or before their contract?
Jem Mixon yes, I’ve known a couple of TACPs that applied for the Air Force academy as young airmen, and one of them is now an Air Force academy grad. You can’t do it after your contract though because they’d be too old.
FunkyBunkley thank you for the information! 🤙🏽
how much should you weight going into TACP pipeline.
It depends on the person. You don't want to be a fatty, but you also want to have some mass to hump rucks, survive out in the field, and carry heavy stuff.
I have a year left before I can join what should I do to prepare?
Get in the best physical shape that you possibly can and maybe look into how to read a military map and land navigate. They teach you all of the academics at the school.
@@FunkyBunkley thank you very much
@@FunkyBunkley last question ,what do you recommend I do to get better at running and my breathing technique
Metal Distance there are a lot of programs out there to help out...but getting in good running shape doesn’t happen over night. For example, I sucking at running about two months ago. I had an injured foot for about a year and a half, and it was finally good enough to run on again. I started of running two miles twice a week. The next week I ran 2.5 miles twice a week, then 3, 3.5, etc. I am now running two 6.5 mile runs this week. It just takes time and patience, but the most important thing is putting miles in.
@@FunkyBunkley ohh alright well I'll take your advice on it and I'll start slowly with 1 mile then the next week go to 1.5 miles
Great video! My question for the next video pertains to training recommendations before starting the TACP pipeline, what training to you recommend? Also since you showed how bad your feet got from wearing crappy boots; what kind of boots do you recommend wearing during training? Thanks!
I would recommend finding a solid PT program like Sealfit or 18A Fitness. For the boots, I would recommend either Oakley Light Assaults if you want to go light, or Rocky S2Vs which are heavier but more durable.
Do a lot of PJ dropouts/failures end up in TACP?
Occasionally they do. If people fail assessment and selection, then they all take the top guys from the failed bunch and give them the option to go TACP...or at least that’s how it was about a year ago. Or they may have stopped doing that, I don’t have an up to date answer on that.
Should my career be tacp or ranger
It’s really all up to you brother. Pretty different lifestyles. TACPs support the Army and coordinate air strikes, Rangers are broad because there are a ton of different jobs in the Ranger regiment. Both TACP and Ranger regiment are meaningful. 🤙🏼
FunkyBunkley Ok, thanks for the help man
You think you'll make it to 20year retirement?
I’ll make it to 20 years, but I may go guard on the back end.
Did the guys that failed the PT test get recycled?
Yes they do. Two recycles for any reason is usually a means of getting booted from the course.
Have you ever heard of anyone going through the process of becoming a TACP with an ETP for vision (not being correctable to 20/20).
I am not sure about that my man.