All Navy SEAL candidates, regardless of prior military experience or officer status, are required to complete Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training (BUD/S). This rigorous program serves as the gateway to becoming a SEAL and tests candidates’ physical and mental endurance, water competency, and leadership potential. For example, officer candidates training alongside enlisted personnel endure the same demanding physical evolutions, including long-distance swims, runs carrying heavy loads, and obstacle courses.
This shared experience in BUD/S fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork essential for effective SEAL operations. The program’s demanding nature ensures that all SEALs, officers included, possess the resilience and fortitude necessary for success in challenging environments. Historically, this standardized training pipeline has been crucial for building cohesion and trust within SEAL teams, regardless of individual rank. The standardization ensures that all members operate under the same demanding standards and share a common foundation of experience.