Every single branch of the U.S. military claims that they are the best at what they do. Every single military force in the world claims that they have the best, the most elite warriors on Earth. However, only a handful of organizations truly have an elite fighting force. Among them is the Marine Corps Recon team and the Navy SEALs.
During World War II, there were groups of soldiers that went above and beyond what was expected of them. They were the Marine Corps Raiders. Even during the revolutionary war, the United States had elite warriors under the name of Army Rangers. The Army still has the Rangers, even though they are now dwarfed by the Navy SEALs and what is called the Marine Corps Recon.
Elite warriors get the job done using stealth, superior fighting skills and courage. The Raiders infiltrated enemy lines, gained useful intelligence and were able to win their battle despite their small numbers. The Raiders were the epitome of elite soldiers.
What makes an elite group of warriors? The courage to fight to the end, to be the best of the best and to get the job done even if it means risking life and limb. Groups like the Navy SEALs are very picky when it comes to choosing members. They pick only the best, most courageous warriors. This is why it has the right to call itself an elite fighting force. We can all believe we are the best, but when it comes to military power, excellence is not subjective.