Have you ever wondered what it takes to be part of the military elite? Discovery Channel grants viewers unprecedented access inside the military’s special forces training programs on Surviving The Cut, premiering last Wednesday, August 18 at 10 PM ET/PT (due to a military mission, I was unable to post on time). Surviving The Cut shares the personal quest of men and women committed to being part of six of the United States military’s most coveted and elite units, taking an up close look inside the candidates’ emotional journeys as they overcome physical and psychological hurdles to reach their goals. It definitely showed me what a complete weenie I am. I hated SERE and vowed never to put myself through that kind of hell again.

Last Wednesday’s episode went behind the scenes at U.S. Army Ranger School, which is considered one of the toughest combat courses on the planet. The course replicates the nonstop stress of war to help train the Army’s elite combat leaders. It is so tough that only one in three makes it through. While I’ve heard stories from those that have graduated the difficult course, I was able to actually SEE what these guys go through over the course of 60 grueling days of intense combat training.

The series will keep your chest thumping as you watch the candidates traverse numerous events and challenges. You will experience the joy of the few who earn the honor of wearing the Ranger tab and sympathize for those that gave their all, but not enough! Much like the Top Shot series, this series looks like an awesome documentary about our brave troops that volunteer to go above and beyond their peers.

Next Wednesday, Surviving the Cut takes you into the training camp of the Air Force’s elite Pararescue men. Then, on September 1st, it’s on to Marine Force Recon. This is a series you don’t want to miss. To see where Surviving the Cut will take you next, check out the episode guide.