Attrition: Serious Shortage of Successful SEAL Students

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May 20, 2006: The U.S. Navy won't talk numbers, but they are spending a lot more effort in trying to recruit sailors into the elite SEALs, and expand the force. There are only about 2,400 SEALs, and the training is very tough. Some 75 percent of those accepted for SEAL training, don't finish. The navy refuses to ease up on these high standards. One reason is, if they did, there would be a major exodus of SEALs not willing to serve with those trained to a lower standard. The navy is already using re-enlistment bonuses of up to $150,000 to keep experienced SEALs in service.

 

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