15 April 1960, the entire SF establishment was formally brought under the Army’s new Combat Arms Regimental System (CARS). This paper scheme initially provided for a maximum of 24 SF Groups, initially all in the Active Component (AC).
The 5th SFG(A) was activated on 21 Sep 1961.
The 5th SFG(A) was organized under TO&E 33-105D, dated 21 Mar 60. This new TO&E brought the Special Forces units in line with the US Army unit organizations and terminology.
5th SFG(A) would share the responsibility of training the volunteers for Special Forces at Ft Bragg
The first commander for 5th SFG(A) was Colonel Leo H. Schweiter
5th SFG(A) Notable Personel
CPT Issac Comacho
SFC Camacho was serving on Detachment A-21 at at Hiep Hoa. On the night of 22 Nov 1963, Hiep Hoa came under attack by an estimated reinforced battalion of Viet Cong. During heavy fighting SFC Camacho was knocked out and captured. During the night of July 9, 1965, using the cover of a monsoon rain, SFC Camacho made his escape, being the first US Soldier to escape during the Vietnam War.
5th SFG(A) Project Notes
1 This is phase 1, of a 5-phase plan, that will cover from activation in 1961 to today.
a. Phase 1: Beginning until 64
b. Phase 2: 1964-1972
c. Phase 3: 1970-1980s
d. 1990s-2000:
e. GWOT-today
2. I am looking for the following from the 5th SFG(A):
a. Photos-preferably with story-dates
b. Stories-that need to be told/remembered
c. Documents
i. Orders, recruiting flyers / posters, unit rosters...etc.
d. FA / ODA Detachment numbers and location
i. Ft Bragg
ii. Ft Campbell