Well, it’s that time again, the 2025 SFA Convention is right around the corner. That time of the year when we get to visit with old teammates and friends, time to reminisce about those who are no longer with us and tell tales about the old days when life was hard and so were we. This year we are back on some very dry land and returning to previously reconned territory. The Orleans Hotel is welcoming us again and promises a good time can and will be had by all.

The Special Operations Association (SOA) graciously agreed to co-host, co-coordinate, and cohabitate with us this year. So for the first time, SFACON will be held concurrently with the Special Operations Association Reunion (SOAR). SOAR will take place 13-16 October. The two associations will share a hospitality room, vendor area, symposiums, and events. This includes raffles and fundraising events, with all proceeds going to the Association hosting the fundraiser.

Orleans Hotel & Casino

4500 West Tropicana Avenue
Las Vegas, NV 89103

ROOM RESERVATIONS

Sunday-Thursday: $82.48
Friday-Saturday: $139.98

Click this link to make your hotel reservations online (Group Code discount is automatically applied). Or, call 800-675-3267 to make hotel reservation and use reference group code: SFAJ25C. If calling, make sure they quote the rates shown above for our group)

Reservations must be made on or before 9/12/2025 to ensure availability and group rate.

SYMPOSIA & ACTIVITIES

This year’s schedule is packed: informative symposia, memorable outings, and plenty of ways to connect with teammates. Here’s a look at what’s planned:

Symposia: A strong lineup of presenters covering topics relevant to today’s Special Forces community.

• COL (Ret.) Mark E. Mitchell, a former U.S. Army Special Forces officer, was the first member of the U.S. Army to be awarded the Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) since the Vietnam War. His story is intricately connected with the early phases of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, where he served as one of the original “Horse Soldiers.”
• Delta Force veteran Glen “Nick” Nickel will present the story of Operation Eagle Claw. Glen was tasked with the job of an assaulter in B-Squadron, tasked with eliminating the sentry inside the U.S. Embassy compound in Tehran. He also rendered aid to a severely burned loadmaster after the crash.
• SGM Charles “Chuck” Ritter (Ret.) presents a visual overview of what the Global War on Terror (GWOT) looked like from the perspective of Special Forces units deep in the fight—and tie that back to what SF was doing in Vietnam and other places. His observation is that, at the core, the mission hasn’t changed much. It may be a new era, with new technology, but Green Berets have been doing the same fundamental work for decades.

Tuesday Night: Trip to a classic Vegas show.

Wednesday Night: Bowling with the crew.

Thursday: Scenic motorcycle ride through the countryside.

Thursday & Friday: Silent auction featuring top-notch swag.

Click the button below to visit the convention website for the latest updates—some sessions may shift as we confirm presenters and finalize timing.

For those who are members of both the SFA and SOA,
you ONLY need to register with ONE Association.

THE SFACON website contains all SFACON details, an event list, and online registration, and also a mail-in registration form.

SFA members may attend the SOAR cocktail hour & banquet on Thursday, 16 Oct, by registering and paying a $100 fee on the SOA website (registration form),

Those who do not like to register online may download and print the registration form, fill out, and mail to the SFA National Headquarters.

ABOUT THE ORLEANS HOTEL & CASINO

A New Orleans-themed resort located just west of the Las Vegas Strip in Paradise, Nevada, the Orleans Hotel and Casino offers a blend of classic Vegas excitement with Southern charm. The 135,000-square-foot casino floor offers a wide array of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, a poker room, as well as a race and sports books.

DINING

The Orleans has a wide selection of dining venues:

• Alder & Birch — A contemporary steakhouse offering prime cuts and seafood.
• Big Al’s Oyster Bar — Specializing in fresh seafood with a Cajun flair.
• Ondori Asian Kitchen — Serving a fusion of Chinese and Japanese cuisines.
• Copper Whisk Café — A casual spot for American comfort food.•
• TGI Fridays, Fuddruckers, Subway, and Sbarro – Familiar chain options for quick bites.

ENTERTAINMENT & MORE

• Century Orleans 18—An 18-screen movie theater showcasing the latest films.
• Orleans Bowling Center—A 52-lane bowling alley suitable for all ages.
• Time Out Arcade—An arcade with a variety of video and interactive games.
• Spa & Wellness—Guests can relax and rejuvenate at The Spa Orleans, which offers a range of services including massages, facials, and body treatments. Additional amenities include a fitness center, beauty salon, and barber shop.

Click here to learn more about the Orleans Hotel & Casino.