Recondo (a portmanteau of Reconnaissance and Commando) is a U.S. Army term for highly specialized, intensive training for small-unit long-range patrolling, or a graduate of such a program. Originating in 1960s Vietnam, it was designed to teach jungle survival, navigation, and combat skills. Today, the Recondo badge is awarded to top-performing cadets for excellence in physical fitness and military skills during Cadet Summer Training (CST).














