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Robin Sage, the grueling "final exam" for Green Beret candidates, returns later this month

PRE News & Ideas | By Annette Weston
Published March 12, 2026 at 6:56 AM EDT
For two weeks, aspiring Special Forces soldiers will infiltrate the imaginary nation of Pineland, spanning 24 counties across the state and four in South Carolina. It’s a simulation of political instability and unconventional warfare.
U.S. Army, K. Kassens
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DVIDS
For two weeks, aspiring Special Forces soldiers will infiltrate the imaginary nation of Pineland, spanning 24 counties across the state and four in South Carolina. It’s a simulation of political instability and unconventional warfare.

A fictitious guerrilla war is coming to North Carolina again later this month. Fort Bragg officials have announced the return of Robin Sage, the grueling "final exam" for Green Beret candidates.

For two weeks, aspiring Special Forces soldiers will infiltrate the imaginary nation of Pineland, spanning 24 counties across the state and four in South Carolina. It’s a simulation of political instability and unconventional warfare.

People may hear blank gunfire and see occasional flares through April 9th. Military officials say all movements are coordinated with local law enforcement to ensure public safety as these candidates fight for their right to wear the Green Beret.

The exercise begins on March 27th.
Annette Weston
Annette is originally a Midwest gal, born and raised in Michigan, but with career stops in many surrounding states, the Pacific Northwest, and various parts of the southeast. An award-winning journalist and mother of four, Annette moved to eastern North Carolina in 2019 to be closer to family – in particular, her two young grandchildren. It’s possible that a -27 day with a -68 windchill in Minnesota may have also played a role in that decision. In her spare time, Annette does a lot of kiddo cuddling, reading, and producing the coolest Halloween costumes anyone has ever seen. She has also worked as a diversity and inclusion facilitator serving school districts and large corporations. It’s the people that make this beautiful area special, and she wants to share those stories that touch the hearts of others. If you have a story idea to share, please reach out by email to westona@cravencc.edu.
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