Basic RIP Questions

[RGV4]

As a 'cherry' or I guess even 'pre-cherry', I have a few questions for the Regiment BTDTs out there. 1) Is RIP conducted at Benning or at the individual Batt? 2) How much say will I have in what Batt I get shipped to? 3) When will I find out where I'm going? 4) I've heard Hunter is pretty choice and I've heard Benning is a baaaaaad place for a private... what about Lewis? Thanks in advance for the assistance. I ship 01FEB so I'm trying to get squared.

RLTW

[x:C-1/75 Ranger]

I graduated RIP on 23 Nov 94. The Ranger Indoctrination Program is a three week course next to 3rd Battalion at Benning. Right after you graduate Airborne School a RIP cadre will come and get you and escort you to RIP. Your background info states that you are from Savannah, so you already know the best part about 1st Batt (River Street and Rangeretts). I was at 1st Batt and loved it, Benning is full of titty bars and pawn shops, and all I know about Ft Lewis is that it is cold and wet. You will find out what Battalion you will be going to at the end of RIP. I think that you get to list your preferences, if I remember right, but that is no guarantee. Since you are from Savannah you might have a good chance of going to 1st Batt but don't count on it. The needs of the Army and the Regiment take precendence over your needs. Good luck and have fun, RLTW!
P.S. Maybe I'll see ya, I'm going get back in the Army and the Rangers, I'm trying to find out if I have to go back through RIP since I've been out of the Regiment.

[Polypro]

Give Benning a little thought. One word...Schools. It's very inexspensive to walk on at Sniper, Path Finder, JM, etc..No travel or TDY/Per Diem to pay. (Bad for you, good for the Regt). And it's nice to go back to your house/room on the 8hr break from Hooah School:-)

Polypro

[Hart]

I reported to 2/75 about 3 weeks ago. I graduated RIP 29SEP99. Let me start by saying that this bulletin board was realy very helpful during my DEP phase. I learned a great deal about the Rangers and what to expect during my initial Army experience. For that I must thank the regulars here who "squared me away". As for your question... RIP has been adequately described in the previous replies. It consists of a APFT (Army Physical Fitness Test), a CWST (Combat Water Survival Test), a 5 mile run, 6 & 10 mile roadmarches, and a CLS test (Combat Life Saver). Basic Training should prepare you physically for RIP though Airborne School tends to get cherries out of shape quite quickly (due to the regained sense of freedom after OSUT). OSUT is really gonna suck... just a fact of life. Airborne school will probably not be quite as bad for you (I went through in July with 100+ degree weather every day... not much shade around the 34' towers) RIP is a 2 1/2 week kick in the nuts with weekends off. Fear Cole Range <shiver>. You'll get a good intro to land nav and a lot of knowledge from the ex-squad leaders who make up the RIP cadre. If he's still there, make sure you pet Sgt. Trenery's dachshund when you get to RIP. Good luck, stay motivated, and learn the Ranger Creed now.

[RGV4]

Right now my MOS is 11X, unassigned infantry, and since I'm headed for the Regiment I'll either end up an 11B or 11C. Which leads me to ask what life is like for 11C's in the Regiment. I know they hump the mortars along with them on road marches, which sounds like more fun than walking barefoot down a trail of rusty thumbtacks, but how else does their training differ? Do they do the same close quarters (i.e. 'door kicking') training as the 11B's even though they are somewhat more removed from the action?

[Dominique]

If the NG is supposed to mirror the the active components force structure, how come there are no NG Ranger units?

Would it be feasible to form NG Ranger units.

Would they have adaquate training time?

[LRSC Grunt]

G co. 143rd LRSC Tx ARNG used to be an "airborne ranger company" back in the early '80s. Ive seen of our old patch from that time,it resembles a ranger scroll. Ive also been told we used to wear black berets.

[Mike Nowacki]

I've heard rumors of them starting up a Ranger Company in Illinois. So far, it's just that--rumor.

[RGV4]

Thanks for the reply.
Most of the Rangers I know are attached to the Bn sniper platoon, so I've been thinking about maybe trying to get in with them. Not sure if you can get there from an 11C slot though. Well, that's on down the road anyway... still gotta make it to a Batt.

[Gong]

My old reserve unit(B 3-3) was rumoured to become a Ranger company as well, but never happened.

[This message has been edited by Gong (edited 12-04-1999).]

[jihad]

First of all, Congratulations on becoming a Ranger! It must feel good to make it through. I remember reading your last post before you left for Basic.
I was wondering if I could drop you a line and talked to you about the Army and the Rangers? It would be relieving to talked to someone my age who's already made it through Ranger School. Thanks

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

Jihad..Met has NOT been to Ranger school yet...give him a few months. But he is a good bet to talk to if you want info on RIP..he has the most up-to date info.

hey met, drop me a line sometime.

RLTW

[dk57]

Just curious if anyone knows the vision requirements for airborne and ranger training. What's the policy on contact lenses?
Thanks

Also, to anyone who wears glasses or contacts, how much of a problem is it to do all of the necessary training with glasses on? Do they get in the way?

[This message has been edited by dk57 (edited 12-08-1999).]

[Nemo]

Try this link. You'll have to scroll down some, but you should find what you're looking for.
http://books.army.mil/cgi-bin/bookmgr/BOOKS/R40_501/CCONTENTS

[norm]

This question, which may sound dumb, is for any Rangers, such as TFRANGERMEMBER, out there: How often do Rangers get weekends off? I know that field training and deployments can get in the way of these, but I am looking for an estimate. Not to sound lazy asking about weekends off, as I am considering enlisting in the Army via Ranger Contract. Thank you.

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

Thats actually a good question norm,

When I was in batt we would work/pt/train MOSTLY from monday-friday. We had occassions that we would train on weekends, but to be honest, you will get enough time off to not burn out. The RGT keeps a close eye on its training pace in attempts to avoid burning out its soldiers. That is not to say it will be easy, but they will do their best.

RLTW

[Hummel]

Hey my recruiter told me its really hard to get a shot at RIP in your contract. Is that true or is he BS me?

[Hummel]

Hey, Can you tryout for Sniper school while your in the Infantry or Rangers? If so is it a one shot kind of school or can you train and tryout agian later?

[LRSC Grunt]

RKW,
There is no such thing as a LRSD contract. The way you get into a LRSU is, you go 11b(most prefferably 11b with airborne),get assigned to either 82nd, 101srst, 10th, 25th, or 2nd after you finish Infantry OSUT. When you first get to your prospective division replacement detachment, you contact the divisions LRSD and ask if you could try out for it. They usually have an interview, a selection course, followed with a 3 month probation period. The most important thing is to get 11b, not 11X, [b]with airborne[/ b]. Be careful, the recruiters are nothing but skum sucking liers who want nothing more than to meet their quota for certain MOSs. So stand tall, strong, and hold your ground. Dont be affraid to walk out of the career counselors office at MEPS without an enlistment if they dont give you what you want. I guarantee you if you truely want something bad enough you will get it.

[Snake]

Yeah, in the Light Fighters, we send guys to Benning Sniper School all the time, its 4 weeks long. See your 1st Shirt.


Snake
25th ID(L)

[Tracy]

The running gag we had about all recruiters:

They're basically ex-pimps in a three-piece suit.

[RKW]

LRSC,
Thanks for the info. Does that work the same with the national guard? Thats how I plan on enlisting first. If there are any differences on how I should I go about getting into the LRSD here, advice would be helpful.

RKW

[Mephiston]

No its not hard to get a RIP contract. Hell it seemed about half the people in my boot camp company had one.
When I first sat down with the guy at MEPS he said they didn't have any RIP contracts for me. Thats bullsh#t. Those guys just want to put you in a "job" that very day, they could give a fu*k about what you want to do.
So heres what you do. First thing you have to realize is that you are still a civilian. If you want to you can tell him to go to hell!, Suck your stuff or whatever. Your there to be a goddamn Ranger, the guy has know idea what that even entails so don't look to him for some obscure knowlege because he is not going to have it.
Simply demand that you are going to be a Ranger and your not going anywhere unless that shit is in your contract, which means you want RIP.
I remeber when I was saying that to the counsoler(sp) He was telling me he didn't have anything and I was telling him something like, well call me when you do. http://www.specialoperations.com/ubboard/smile.gif Nonetheless 20 minutes later he got me a nice RIP contract with some added bonuses.
My recruiter was a little angry for my persistance with the RIP contract. But like I'm trying to explain to you, these recruiter types are so full of shi# and thats what my attiude was when I walked in the recruiting station. Then again I already knew EXACTLY what I wanted to do, and knew EXACTLY what I had to do to do it. I just used the recruiter to tell me what kind of bonuses I could get and stuff like that.
In my opinion, I think if your going to do something thats going to change your life dramaticly like joining the Army, you should research as much about it as you can. I really wouldn't say I actually researched, war was just my hobby.

Mephiston

[RKW]

Is it possible for an officer once getting into the Regiment as a lieutenant or captain to spend his career there? I think opportunities in the Regiment go as high as O-6. Since I'm on the career topic, I have a question about brach qualifying as a captain. In the Special Forces, it takes about 18 months for a captain to get branch qualified. Is this faster than in conventional units? How long would it take a Ranger captain to get Branch Qualified? Airborne Divisions? If I'm wrong with anything, correct me. Thanks in advance for any help you can give me.

RKW

[This message has been edited by RKW (edited 12-27-1999).]

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

It would be rare to have an officer spend all 20 years in the RGT. The normal path for an officer would be after commissioning and Ranger school, spend time in a "normal" unit, the after passing ROP assigned to the RGT. After you are a 1LT of course, and from that you can stay till CPT, then go to CGSC. After CGSC say hello to the "normal army" as a bn XO or S-1 officer, somehting like that. Then perhaps back to RGT after war college as a LTC..MAYBE you would ahve gotten lucky and spent time as a BN XO in the RGT. Who knows...but the path for an officer in the RGT can be like a roller coaster.

RLTW

[Razor]

Maybe my info is bad, TFR, but I was under the impression that serving in a green tab position in Rgt required you to serve in a green tab position in a conventional unit first (i.e. PLs in Rgt were already std infantry PLs, COs in Rgt were already std infantry COs, etc). Is this incorrect?

As for the BQ question, you become BQ'd after your first favorable OER while in a command position. This varies, as many factors influence when you get an OER (change of rater, close out, date of your last OER, etc). So, technically, it doesn't take 18 months to become BQ'd. Now, typical command time for conventional folks is 12-18 months, give or take due to luck, etc. Typical SF TL time (considered command) is 18-24 months, give or take. So one can say that you can get longer "command" time in SF than in a conventional unit.

[RKW]

Thanks for all the info. On a similar note to Mike's question. If I have enlisted time while in the national guard during college, can this help me when it comes to getting assignments?

RKW

[Mephiston]

I don't know how it is for other units but you have to have gone to Ranger school first before you get a chance to go to sniper school, in the Bn

[Snake]

Grunt,
Not yet. However, we got guys in the Platoons that have been to Benning Sniper, or others, but they aint -designated- snipers. Now, there is word that the Division -may- deploy snipers in the Marine Corps method, in the near future. I'll pass along info as I get it.

Snake
25th ID(L)

[Razor]

Mike, you'll go to SFAS well before you ever even think about CGSC. CGSC is typically attended by senior CPTs and junior MAJs (8-12 years TIS). You'll attend SFAS as a very junior CPT (4+ years TIS). For SF, it would be good to be in an infantry unit as a first assignment (I'd argue either mech or light will suffice, but others can and will disagree), but not essential. If you're a high speed, fast learning QM officer you can do it.8^) You'll quickly see that you can request anything you want, but your commissioning branch is ultimately up to DA, and they're very "needs of the Army" type folks.

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

We have a CPT in the RGT who has been in since Mog, as a 1LT. Granted he is high speed, but the normal path is time in a std unit.

As far as recommending a "good" unit, I cannot. Try and go ABN, the smaller the better in my opinion, 501st ABN Rgt.

As far as CGSC...here I come 15Jan00...can't wait to get that out of the way.

RLTW

[RKW]

How many tours or assignments will I have as a captain? How many tours do I serve before promotion? If a captain in the rangers or any infantry or regular unit who was branch qualified joined the Special Forces, does he have to re-branch qualify? If this dumb, tell me.

RKW

[RGV4]

Mephiston pretty much said it all, the one thing I would add is ASVAB SCORE! That is the number one thing they look at in deciding what kind of incentives you will get. The higher your score, the more incentives you will get. Trust me.

[Razor]

RKW,
Again, there are always exceptions, but standard routine is go to IOAC (ICCC, whatever) as a senior 1LT(P), probably get promoted while there to CPT, go to your first O-3 assignment, which is usually as a staff officer at BDE or lower, do that for a year or two while waiting for a command to open up, do your 12-18 months of command, go back to staff or get a second (HHC) command for the remainder of your tour, then all hell breaks loose. If you choose an FA other than Operations, you'll go do your training for that, then do a utilization tour, then probably stay on that track for ever and ever given the OPMS XXI concept nowadays. If you go Operations, you may go to one of the CTCs to be an O/C, or maybe go back to IOAC to be an SGI, or go to another staff position, or a host of other things. By staying in Ops, though, you're more likely to return to a Bn as an XO/S-3, then as an O-5 Bn Cdr, and on and on.

As you can see, there is no one way to track a career. The individual, the timing, and most influential, the luck dictates how things go. If you end up doing this, you'll see how it runs.

[This message has been edited by Razor (edited 01-04-2000).]

[Mike]

to Razor,
no assignment between 1LT and CPT?? And if you want to be an assistant military attache (army attache of course) in Beirut or El Salvador or other all-expenses-paid-tour, should you try after CPT or after LTC?

[Razor]

DAOs (Defense Attache Officers) are most commonly LTCs. Many are former FAOs (Foreign Area Officers), which is something one does following their first assignment as a CPT.

First tours as an LT (2 and 1) are typically 3 years long, with the exception of Korea or other off the beaten path stuff, so you rarely will go outside your Bn during your first tour. This doesn't apply to guys going to the 75th, of course, as well as assignments to the Old Guard, UN observer missions, etc. So althought you'll probably change jobs 2 to 4 times as an LT, you'll most likely stay in the same Bn (i.e. Rifle Platoon Leader, Bn Staff weenie, Specialty Platoon Leader or Company XO).

[RKW]

How many times would a LT change jobs while in the 75th? Or was that what didn't apply? Would a LT in the 75th have prior rifle platoon command before doing a job like the RRD XO? And if I heard right then get a staff position after IOAC? What are these staff positions? I would assume they assistants to the 0-4s. Help me out.

RKW

[Razor]

RKW, here's the url for AR 600-3, the bible of officer progression and careers. Remember, things don't always follow the rules, but these are pretty good guidelines.
http://books.usapa.belvoir.army.mil/cgi-bin/bookmgr/BOOKS/P600_3/CONTENTS#39.6.A

Happy reading.

[norm]

TFRANGER, or any others out there,

I have heard that un-tabbed Rangers from RIP say that they are in the shock of there lives once they get to Batt (due to the fact that the Ranger op-tempo knocks the rest of the Army down). I've also read on the forum that Regiment's attrition rate rivals that of the SEALs. I have also heard that their attrition is greatest during OPERATIONAL time (as opposed to RIP) the months between RIP and Pre-Ranger, as opposed to the SEALs' max attrition, which is during BUD/S Phase I and Hell Week (the beginning, as opposed to later--6month prob. period after BUD/S). I want to know why so many ask for transfers out of the unit. There is an article at http://www.75thrangers.org/hq/hq1.htm which explains the reasons vaguely. I understand that this is a long, over-detailed post, but I'd truly appreciate it if TFRANGER and any others could help me out. Thanks.

p.s.: I know that at some point, I should stop asking questions and make the ultimate step, but that won't be till I graduate college in 2003.

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

Reasons for people leaving RGT? That is what I will answer becuase that is what I think you are asking, I may be wrong, let me know if I am answering the wrong question.

Before I do respond let me preface by saying I am not an expert, I have no formal figures infront of me, so anything I say I will open to correction.

From what I delt with while in RGT with the few soldiers under my command was a feeling of dissapointment with what is going on in the RGT. An analogy I use is the Most recent Star Wars Movie..the movies recieved so much hype going into the premiere date, all about the SFX, story line, etc etc...and when the movie came about..many people were left dissapointed...not because the movie was bad, but rather it recieved so much hype there was no way it could meet expectations.

Now look at Ranger RGT, lots of people who go into it are those who hear about it being so great, etc etc, and they do not understand the high OPTEMPO. RIP is meant to prepare Rangers from RGT life, but does not give a great feeling of what the OPTEMPO will be like, so those who make it into RGT and do leave once in, it is becuase they are not ready for what is going on.

Now you look at BUD/S, they emphasize a very hard week (Hell Week), after Hell week, though BUD/S remains difficult, does not compare with that same Tempo. I would say that if I could survive Hell Week I could easily survive the rest. In Ranger school, it is a contiuned high pace, with no emphasise on one area to "trim numbers".

All in all both school are hard, and you do lose people from SEAL Teams even after they finish BUD/S, becuase it isnt always what people expect...not that one is harder than the other..its what you make of it.

RLTW

[Dark Helmet]

On this attrition thing (should we start a new topic?):

My late 1986 jump school class started with about 550 and graduated about 430. My RIP class started about 55 and graduated exactly 16. Of the 16 in my class, five of us went to 1/75. Two washed out within three months. Do the math and extrapolate 83% attrition. Granted, a large majority of these (roughly two thirds) were in the first few days of RIP......

As far as wanting to get out of BN once there: this was undergoing a change in the mid-eighties. It used to be (when I first arrived at BN) that BN was THE place to be and everything else was the antiChrist.....all you had to do was raise your hand and say "I want to go to legland" and POOF! you were there. Towards the end of my tour in 1/75, the RGT was having trouble retaining personnel and having even more trouble recruiting enlisted men that had the (1) desire and (2) ability to be cut it in RGT. This affected morale, as we saw guys that WANTED to get out of RGT could not......I understand this is a cyclical occurence in RGT nowadays every few years.....

[norm]

TFRANGER,

From your post, I gather that lots of guys leave the Rgt because [I think] they thought they would happily shoot rounds, blow shit up, etc., but forgot about the realities of discipline, teamwork, and upholding unit standards. Any more comments about this? I'd just like to identify any weaknesses I may have so I can improve upon them. Thanks.

Also, in the link I put in my last post, the article describes the Rangers as having a "brutal, pressure-cooker way of life," having spartan conditions distancing themselves from the rest of the Army and the civilian sector; such conditions are 'exemplified' by the following quote: "Hair complicates hygiene."
Now, I may be totally mistaken about this piece, but I have heard that many writers love to embellish/romanticize about what they research on elite military units, so I'd appreciate a 1st person 'commentary.' Again, I'm just trying to identify and improve upon weaknesses of mine, so that is why I'm nagging you guys for info. Thanks.

One other thing, I'd appreciate it if you, TFRANGERMEMBER could explain more about the high OPTEMPO. Thanks.

norm

[This message has been edited by norm (edited 01-24-2000).]

[This message has been edited by norm (edited 01-27-2000).]

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

Hey Norm..this board never showed up as being one w/ new posts so I didn't know anyone had posted.

Back to the question about a high OPTEMPO.

Rangers don't work like typical units, they do two block leaves a year, which means for about 48 weeks a year you are training. Other units in the army do not keep this tempo at all. Also Rangers spend a lot of their time in the field, range, live fires, etc. Which adds to stress, versus other units that do the same things, but hardly as often. They PT five times a week instead of three like a lot of army units...they PT a bit harder. I also know that when the new PT standards came out last year (for the short time they were instituted) the RGT upheld the previous ones because they were harder.

It is really mind over matter. If you pass RIP you are physically ready for most the things the RGT will put you through, it will be your mind that gets tested and fatigued. More so that it will be pushed at RIP. So things actaully get harder once you get into RGT. They have to train hard to be hard though.

RLTW

[norm]

TFRANGERMEMBER,

I thank you for your response to my question, but once again, here is another [extraneous] question: How often do Rangers train abroad with foreign units, and when you were in Regiment, where did you train and with which units? Just a few curious questions, and after all, I would assume that cross-training with foreign units adds to the Rgt's credibility and effectiveness as a fighting force. Thanks.

p.s.: Did you or any Rangers learn about or train with the Belgian Para-Commando Regiment. I posted this up on the International SOF units' section of the forum: On Tom's site, in the international SOF units, under Belgium, it says that the Para-Commandos are like Rangers, but their training is "somewhat harder." This is a confusing fact. Any comments would be appreciated. Thanks.

[Tracy]

The Belgian Para-Commandos are more arrogant; but the Regiment is tougher and better trained. I've worked with both.

I dare say the Regiment is better than the French Foreign Legion; where their missions overlap.

[norm]

Tracy,

I realize that what I am about to say may sound naive and ill-informed, but I used to think that European units have tougher standards. One book I skimmed through talked about how "hard" the RM Commandos are (w/ a 2/3 dropout rate). Most of the stuff I've read seems to imply how tough the Europeans are and that the Americans have been getting progressively softer since (dare I say) WWII. I was wondering if you could shed some light on these comments, and explain the truth to me, as I am just a wannabe. Thanks.

norm

p.s.: I've read about how brutally hard the FFL is, and if you could explain to me (w/o violating OPSEC) how the 75th is better, I'd appreciate it--Right now, I am drinking up info like water, and I could use more. Thanks.

[This message has been edited by norm (edited 01-28-2000).]

[Polypro]

You know...No offense to my brothers in foreign SOF, but this stuff is like the Ranger/SEAL/Recon etc... Crap. I'd kinda put stock in the units that have actually DONE something recently to see how effective the training IS. The last time the Belgians fought, FN ended up making Hi-Powers for the SS. Yeah, yeah, the Congo too. Hell, the Thai's just wacked a bunch of goblins last week. Every country has it's finest. Until there's an SOF Olympics, it's moot. The FFL does pay well in USD though:-)

Polypro

[Snake]

A little factoid about the Op in Thailand.

1) The whole shebang was run by a Female Colonel, named Supatra.

2) The Thai's did -not- go around executing the Karens. When the Thai's see a "dead" body, they tend to pop a round into the head, just to make sure.

3) You do *NOT* fuck with the Thai's like that.

4) The Myanmar's just decapitated the Karens
main HQ, and -may- have offed the 12 yr old twins that run the Operation.

Snake
25th ID(L)

[Tracy]

Norm:

The FFL is more brutal than the US Army. No arguments there. The Army doesn't have to train English as a 2d Language to everyone first; before conducting training. A language barrier means you grunt, point and slap about the head and shoulders until the point is clear.

In terms of OPTEMPO the Army and Marines overall pull way ahead of the foreign folks; even if you consider SOF units alone. That's where the difference is: the US may lag behind in 'toughness', whatever that means, but they have a helluva lot more experience and logistics to get the job done.

The main difference I perceive between the US and Foreign Military forces is one of scale: the US dominates an area first, then begin doing detailed work; because we have the power to make it work. Foreign forces rely heavily on economy of force; because they don't have near the logistics tail we have. So they rely on surprise to get the details done as quickly as possible.

I've talked at length with foreign SOF personnel and they drool over our support. I can state with authority that if they had our resources, they'd wind up looking like us in a few years.

If you took all of the FFL (8500 pax and getting lower) and the Force Action Rapide (another 8000 pers) and dropped them into a battle ground against a Marine Division or Army Light Divsion, my money's on the US. If they went against a Heavy Division, the French would need a spatula and tweezers to recover the leftovers.

Arrogance, esprit de corps, toughness and those other HOOAHH intangibles only go so far. I don't care if the Marines and Army start hugging trees and use yoga to find their "happy place"; as long as we keep smashing into rubble any opposition to US interests.

tracy.**********@60mdg.travis.af.mil

[Mike]

The French Foreign Legion's Jungle School staff in French Guiana will mentioned that SEALs will quit rather than stay the whole course. If anyone can point out if any SEALs platoon or A-team or other US SOF stayed for the whole course, please do.
BTW, there is a joint French-German intelligence gathering ground station over there doing U.S. economic intelligence. Blow them up.
And as for why some Rangers left the RGT, it may be alcohol. Instead of drinking, try some stress-relaxing techniques (cooking so your wife will take care of the kids to listening to operas.)

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

Aco 3/75 did a deployment to Botswana in December. Did a LFX for the Botswanan army, needless to say they had never been more impressed by any thing else than to see those Rangers breech a fence from a small trence, and take a bulding. High speed.

RLTW

[norm]

All I have to say is that I am really thankful to all of you for all these informative posts popping up here. Keep it coming guys!!!

[SSD]

McMike was in here a year or two ago spreading the SEAL Jungle School story around. It didn't last long once one of our other regulars let him know about his Grunt Platoon cruising through it in 87.

[Dark Helmet]

1/75 did some cross-training with the Dutch Royal Marines in Puerto Rico in 1987. They were all huge, muscular blondes that were initially intimidating. 50%+ fell out of a RGT standard 10 mile roadmarch, and it was pure silliness to watch them assault an objective; carrying buttstock UZIs, they would approach a fortified objective STANDING UP, never IMT'd ONCE (they may have gotten dirty) - were pretty much as ill-trained as any force I have ever seen. And these were the supposed elite......

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

The summer98 my unit cross trained in Thailand w/ some units from their "elite" Airborne. The knew Ti-Ti, and I do emphasize Ti-Ti. They could run and ruck like no Ranger ever could (to include you Tack..sorry had to throw in that shot), but when it came unit organization...good luck. Was nasty during a Mass TAC jump them trying to figure out who th ehell was in charge. Had no clue which of their guys were on the ground. Scary thoughts....

RLTW

[norm]

Damn yo, it seems like our European brethren are really lacking in overall combat skills. Anybody have anything positive to report from the European front? I know it really is not relevant for my knowledge, but I'm just curious; I'd really appreciate a response. Thanks.

norm

[Ted]

My platoon (1/A/1/75)went to Corsica in 93 to train with the FFL's 2nd parachute regiment. They were some hard,disciplined troops, but a little lacking in the fire and maneuver category. They were highly impressed with a LFX that we did over there. One other thing... it could have been just for us, but after each training evolution (LFX, jumping, etc), there was always Kronenbourg beer handed out. That was always appreciated.

[abn_rngrr]

norm-

I don't have direct experience, but I've heard very good things about the British Royal Marines and Paras from people who's opinions I respect.

[Hummel]

Hey If you get injured or don't pass RIP with Airborne Infantry AIT what happens to you? Do you go to being AB infantry or to you get put being a cook or something along those lines?

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

If you get injured in RIP..fear not..you will get another shot. If you fail RIP..hello 82nd. If you don't pass Inf AIT...well..no such thing..they keep you till you pass. If you fail ABN..well then you wont be in an ABN unit.

RLTW

[RKW]

How many men are in a Ranger squad/team? Who commands a squad? I heard that they have 6 man squads, but that light infantry squads have like 12 or 13 men. Is there a SAW in each squad or is that in the weapons platoon?

RKW

[This message has been edited by RKW (edited 02-06-2000).]

[norm]

TFRANGERMEMBER,

Are a large # of 82nd Abn paratroopers RIP dropouts? How does the 82nd rate as a combat division, and do they train in different skills (different weapons, commo, etc.) like the Regiment? Any response would be appreciated. Thanks.

norm

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

No, most of the 82d are not drops from RIP. And not all drops from RIP go to 82nd, that was just an example. Typically you will be assigned to an ABN unit if you fail RIP. As far as the 82d being combat ready, sure they are. But they could also need more training time, just like most units in the army. And I am sure any 82d trooper will agree.

RLTW

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

Ranger pltns are the same size as regular army inf units. About 12 guys per squad (correct me anyone who has different numbers) Im working off of a 6 year old memory. Squad leaders are usually Sgt/SSG with PSG being SFC. 1LT command pltns. 3 pltns per company, three companies per bn. Same break up as a bn in the 82nd.

RLTW

[abn_rngrr]

My info could very well be dated, so take this with a grain of salt. A Ranger rifle squad was two four-man fire teams and a squad leader. The squad leader was Sgt or SSG, the team leaders Corporal/Sgt. The fire team, aside from the team leader, had a rifleman, a 203 grenadier, and an automatic rifleman (SAW). Weapons squad was the senior squad leader plus, ideally, three three-man gun teams (gunner/asst. gunner/ammo bearer). Three rifle squads plus a weapons squad per platoon. Platoon leadership was a platton leader (1 Lt.), and a platoon sergeant (SSG/SFC). Additionally there were one or two RTOs, a medic, FIST as needed, and other augmentations per mission requirements.

[dk57]

In terms of training time, intensity, deployments, large training exercises, etc., would you say that Marines (infantry and recon) are better trained than the 82nd, 101st, 25th, or 10th? I do not want to start a interservice pissing contest, I just want to get an idea of how they spend their time.

Thanks

[RKW]

Thanks, that's exactly what I was looking for. Is the difference between specialist and corporal that a specialist has no command or leadership authority?

RKW

[Mephiston]

Finally got my PC hooked-up in my room.
Too bad I broke my finger in combatives though, so typing is a bitch http://www.specialoperations.com/ubboard/smile.gif

Man I wish I would have finished that last year and a half in rotc, but Nooooo.... I had to be mr. hardcore and start from the bottom.
http://www.specialoperations.com/ubboard/smile.gif Yes I would agree with whoever said life in the RGT is hard, its very fatiguing mentally as well as physically. More mentally though because you can only run so fast and so far and can only do so many push-ups before you reach mucsle fatigue which goes away in a few hours. http://www.specialoperations.com/ubboard/smile.gif

Mephiston RLTW

Would write more but have to road guard tonight, sweet! Can you sense the sarcasism.

[norm]

Mephiston,

Besides the pain and fatigue and all, how do you find the Regiment? Is the work satisfying? I've heard that it is really fun in the long run. I just want to know because I may want to join the Regiment in the future (after college). Also, what things did you learn at RIP? Your responses would be greatly appreciated.

norm

[This message has been edited by norm (edited 02-09-2000).]

[baboon]

Well, why do you think the Paras and Gurkhas were the first to be sent into Kosovo? I wouldn't be too dismissive of all European units. I know the Falklands was a while back but there the Paras and Commandos were outnumbered, out-gunned, fighting against an enemy almost always dug in, few helos for supply or transport( most were sunk in a container ship)- and won.

[abn_rngrr]

Not to take anything away from the Paras or RMC, as they are excellent troops by all accounts, but they did fight in the Falklands against an enemy that was basically screwed by it's own leadership. The Argentinians were left exposed to the elements without proper clothing, were often food deprived, and as such weren't generally up to giving much of a fight before they threw their weapons down and surrendered.

The 75 mile march across the island, and going into the assault shortly thereafter, remains one of the greatest feats in history as far as I'm concerned, though.

[Mike]

The Argentinians were more afraid of the Gurka using their khukuris knifes. The Falklands conflict was won by British elite troops from the Royal Marine Commandos, Parachute Regiment, SAS and SBS. Most Argentine troops were infantry conscripts, though some crack Argentinian units such as the "Buzo Tactico" were employed. One SAS guy told me too bad they did not have their Land Rovers to shoot up the aircrafts in classic fashion.

[Snake]

Mike,
wasnt there some half-baked plan to crash some C-130's, full of SAS troopers, onto the runway of the main Argie airfield, ala Entebbe? And let us not forget the "crazy, but it worked" infanrty charge by the Para's at Goose Green. Heard Col. Jones was a good man.

Snake
25th ID(L)

[baboon]

Yeah, Snake, there was such a plan, B Squadron was going to land at Port Stanley airport- in the middle of about 5000 troops- and supposedly bring the war to a quick end. When the OC refused to do it, he was relieved. Luckily it wasn't tried. Apparently there was another even more insane plan, this time to land B in Argentina itself, and attack one of the airbases from which the Mirages and Skyhawks were being launched against the British fleet. The British helo which crashed in Chile had supposedly inserted a recce team for this op. The most amazing thing about the Falklands War is that the British were about 8000km from the nearest land base, at Ascension Island. That has to be some sort of record.
The Argie ground forces might not have been too good, but their pilots had cojones-real " into the valley of death rode the gallant six hundred " stuff. Came in so low they went home with salt on their wings-if they went home at all. IF their bombs had been correctly fused and IF they had hit one or both of the Brit aircraft carriers, it would have been a very different story.



[This message has been edited by baboon (edited 02-09-2000).]

[Mike]

Tony Geraghty's Inside the SAS (paperback and also the pictorial book) are excellent sources on the SAS in the Falkland Island Wars. (And the U.S. gave satellite and intercept intelligence to the British)

[Snake]

Thats the one thing that always makes me gun-shy about working with the Brits...
The Officers are a little too fond of Great Last Stand's or the Noble/Gallant Gesture, ala Roarke's Drift and Gordon at Khartoum. -I- would prefer to E&E and fight another day....

Snake
25th ID(L)

[baboon]

The problem with the SAS is that they are always trying to live up to the glory days of the Western Desert, when they destroyed more enemy aircraft than the rest of the army, navy and air force put together. I think some of the officers secretly believe they're Paddy Mayne, taking on half the German army with a Bren gun and a bottle of Jameson's.

[Ted]

Mike, sorry about the late reply.
There were two Americans that I remember. One was in the stockade for going AWOL to Paris for a week. He spent a year in 2/75, previously. The other was ex-82nd... seemed to act a bit funny around us. Mainly the rest of the Legionnaires were a polyglot from the rest of the world. Kind of like a Lost Boys Club, International.

[This message has been edited by Ted (edited 02-11-2000).]

[Dock]

Excellent forum for Ranger info. Although I have a question.. I have been talking to a recruiter about a Ranger Contract, and I have a question for you Rangers out there. The recruiter is saying he can provide me with a Ranger contract that promises to get me to R.I.P. Is there any other issues I should look out for or be aware of??? I look forward to hearing from you Rangers out there... Thank you in advance.

[Mac679]

Hi Doc,
There is a Ranger Contract, it's RGV4 ( MOS 11X Option 20 ). It'll give you Infantry OSUT followed by Airborne and then you get your shot at RIP. I swore in 2/25 with a Ranger Contract. Don't take anything that doesn't give you a shot at RIP if that's what you want. Some of the other guys here might be able to fill you in on more specific things.
Good luck,
Mac

[Dock]

Thanks Mac,

I was wondering though, 11x.. Don't you want to try to have 11b, or 11c??? I am getting that info from the posting on here..

Thanks,



------------------
Doc

[Mac679]

My understanding is that 11X is the only Infantry MOS you can enlist with and you'll be assigned either 11C or 11B during the AIT portion of OSUT. I'm hoping for 11B myself :-)

Mac

[baboon]

Do all guys under Ranger contract do OSUT together? If not, surely this would be a better system, especially with Rangers as the instructors.

[boomer]

The Contract option for Ranger is in fact 11X-Ray. You will first do basic as 11B, then depart for Airborne Training, where if you pass you will do RIP at Benning before you leave. It's possible you could spend time in an RTB (Ranger Training Battalion) before moving on to Ranger School. Be prepared, it's a tuffy.
Boomer

[Dock]

Boomer,

I understand that the usual time spent in the training Bat after RIP, before you go to Ranger School is ussually 6 to ? mounths. Can you touch on this a bit?? Or please any Rangers out there that have been through Ranger School in the last 6 to 12 mounths...

Thanks,


------------------
Doc

[vedder]

What additional preperation can be made to ready once self for airborne and then ranger indoctination course. I am going to ask for the ranger contract and I was wondering what it will take to pass through and hopefully excell.

[infantry317]

Doc, I enlisted in '90 as an 11X with the 7th ID (L), if your asvab score is over about 115, you're just about guaranteed to be a mortar maggot (11C) like I was. Slightly less on the score, you'll be in AT. I mean no insults by this, it is a fact (I asked a lot of people 20+, what their scores were after we were assigned our MOS). I would have rather been a grunt. I'll tell you what though, in our unit, as soon it hit the fan, that "C" disappeared real quick from behind the "11". We did almost all the same training as the bravos. I had a slot locked up for RIP (they'll only give you 11x with the guaranteed contract)but I wanted to get in quick and did'nt realize they could shuffle you. If you go to a leg or airborne div. you can get 11B in writing. Sorry to be long winded.

HOO-AH! Bayonet! out.

[Blugold]

I'm a freshman in college and I also played football last fall. College is getting boring and I would like to do more exciting and rewarding things. It was always been my dream to become a Ranger. Could you tell me when would be the right time to join? What MOS would you recommend? How long should I train before I enlist to make sure I am physically capable of the challenge. What to expect? Just a whole run down on what to expect and what not to expect. Thank you for your help. I just don't feel like the recruiter is the best authority on the Rangers.

Thank you,
Mike Tetting
tettinmt@uwec.edu

[bioman]

what is the difference between 11x,11b,and 11c ? are any better than the other; if so what is the best one to be in ?
THANK YOU for your time

[Mac679]

bioman ( I'm guessing the same one from navyseals.com ),
11X is Infantry, Unassigned ( only during Basic, you will pick/be assigned a CMF 11 series MOS during AIT )
11B is Light Weapons Infantry
11C is Mortars
As for which is better, that's probably gonna come down to personal opinions.
Hope it helps,
Mac ( mr_mcnugget )

[Michael Robertson Moore]

Infantry 317 -

Interesting to hear about your RIP contract. It was my understanding that if you had an RGV4 you went straight from Airborne to RIP. Am I mistaken?

MRM

------------------

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

11 X is an unassigned INF slot. Has nothing to do specifically w/ Ranger. It is very likley you will go thorugh OSUT, ABN and RIP w/ atleast a couple of guys..all from the start. This is just because of the number of guys who get Ranger contracts versus the number of BCT cycles going on at a time. The laws of probability will say you will be with atleast one guy from OSUT all the way to RIP...unless someone doesnt make it that far.

RLTW

[infantry317]

Michael, I would have had to wait to get in the army for the rip slot. 7thID was the quickest way in (30 days) at the time. I was a leg HHC 81mm mortar crew member, less humpin' more ridin' in the hummers. Humping the 81mm really bites, not as bad as the 120mm the 75th has though!!!

Bayonet! out.

[Cree Warrior]

Go see a recruiter thats a Bat boy. err ex 75th, if at all possible, or one thats tabbed at least. If you want to get a Ranger contract, dont take no for an answer either, they may try to dupe you into signing up without one, and you can end up anywhere. Remember its your life, so if you'll only sign up with a Ranger contract they'll find one for you.
Best thing you can do to prepare is start running now, right after you read this, heh heh and knock em out!! Fitness goes a looong way and is a big determiner of how you get treated. At least it was for me anyway.

[Ranger002]

My advice to all future RIPPIES is the same.Go to the local Army Surplus and buy yourself a large ALICE PACK ( RUCKSACK) Put about 50 pounds of sandbags in it MINIMUM. Get a steel bar about the size of a rifle and make sure that weighs 15 pounds. Now get a pair of Army Leg Boots or Jungle Boots. Find yourself a nice long piece of road and wear a watch. Start slow and give yourself at least 6 months to a year. You want to be able to walk at a pace of 12 miles in two hours. If you can get into this kind of shape you will be more than ready for we Rangers. "Ruck Shape" is the hardest shape for RIPPIES to get in and you will be way ahead of your peers if you can do this. If you do ANYTHING as a Ranger it is walk very very fast over looong distances carrying a ton of weight on your back. If you can get a good feel for this before you hit RIP then you will smoke it. Good Luck
William Hazen B 2/75 Ranger 1979-82 Class 14-80

[vedder]

Now what should my mile time be, should I be around 8:30 a mile before even going into the army. And even if your not a good swimmer can you make it past indoctrination? Thanks for all the replys

[eddie]

Is it really necessary to train with a ruck sack before going off to basic trainning. Isn't OSUT followed by Airborne school a natural ramp-up to RIP.

[Mac]

What are the eye requirements for Rangers?

[dk57]

As long as your vision is correctable to 20/20, you're OK.

[TANGOisinKOREA]

and No color blindness

[TANGOisinKOREA]

ACTUALLY airborne school would be a ramp down from the girl scouts in regards to PT

[Ranger002]

Eddie,

They let woman wear jump wings. I do not mean to be sexist. I think woman are excellent soldiers so think this one out Ed. What do think the PT standard is in Airborne School easy or hard. This is RANGER TRAINING MY BROTHER.My first day of RIP was 4 hours of non-stop PT then we ran down to LEWIS LAKE and had to Firemans carry a RIPPIE on the run eight miles back to the barracks IT damn near smoked me good. Mt First Deployment with 2nd Bat after we jumped in we forced marched 15 miles to the live fire range shot all day and then walked back to the barracks another 15 to 20 miles. So VEDDER my son GET THAT RUCK and START WALKING!!! As fro your run standard if can keep an 7:00 minute mile pace for at least 5 miles you should be good to go. START Swimming!!! I have seen many a fine RIP Speciman fail the swim test and get sent down the road. ED ( one more my friend) do you get my drift. We are talking about getting into RANGER shape and there is nothing like it on the PLANET! Take Care and Good Luck
William Hazen B 2/75 Ranger 79-82 Class 14-80

[eddie]

Ok RangerHazen you got me! I though Airborne would be a bit tougher. Hell when I served at Ft. Bragg 74-76 we ran 4 miles with combat boots every day after PT, and that was a leg unit in XVIII Airborne Signal Corps. I guess I assumed Airborne was still elite. I got to question you though, running 8 miles carrying another rippie on the first day of RIP, sounds like a bit much !!!!

[vedder]

Thanks for the great info I am going to buy a rucksack this weekened. But now at the end of army boot camp what kind of consistent mile paces are expected to be run. Same with the airborne school.

[TANGOisinKOREA]

At the end of OSUT we ran 1 5 mile run at 8min per mile. That was the only distance run I can remember. all others were just regular PT runs at about an 8minute pace for like 3 miles. Airborne school was about the same but even slower. They call it the airborne shuffle since its so slow it shouldnt be called running.

As far as RIP we also did alot of the fireman carry drills down around the airfield then up cardiac hill. Damn I am glad those days are over. Anybody remeber SSGT Geminez. I swear the two weeks I was in RIP holdover waiting for the class to start were harder from a PT perspective than RIP ever was.

Chas

[Mike]

Are eyeglasses allowed? I've seen Rangers with glasses.

[dk57]

Eyeglasses are allowed. Contact lenses might be a problem. Technically, the Army doesn't allow contact lenses in "dusty or dirty" environments (basically anywhere a Ranger would go), but exceptions are regularly made for special operations forces. Personally, I'm hoping no one will take the time to check if I'm wearing contacts or not.

For all Army regulations -- including the vision requirements -- check out www.usapa.army.mil. (http://www.usapa.army.mil.) The reg that includes vision is AR 40-501.

[Cree Warrior]

Actually colour blind is okay, as long as its not fully. 70% of males are partially colour blind, I am, and it had no influence upon my Rangering, or my contract.
What about laser surgery, anyone know?
PRK vs. Lasik? I heard that some parts of the military actually pay for their guys to get it?

Sua Sponte

[norm]

Hi,

If someone, a Ranger, could give me a decisive answer on how to get a Ranger Contract w/ 11B (not 11C mortars, I'd probably ^&*% up the coordinates!) and, assuming completion of RIP, end up as a rifleman in the 75th, I'd appreciate it. Thanks.

norm

[TANGOisinKOREA]

First of all 70% of males are not color blind. You are either color blind or not when it comes to varying two color combinations and if you are you are not going to Batt. Notice the correct american english spelling of the word color. Second of all it has not affected your "rangering" because you have not even passed the johnston hall reception battalion yet and have not "rangered" anything. Dont mean to be rude but this is a fact.


3/75 inf 90-94

[Jack Ryan]

Hold on there Cree Warrior.

Don't go getting someone's hope up. Color blindness is absolutely not allowed and not
waiverable.

If you can't pass the color blind test at MEPS you cannot get ANY combat arms unit. Yes, some get lucky and slip by making lucky guesses, but rarely does this happen.

Believe me I know.

Jack Ryan

[Ted]

Norm, you are on the right track. All you have to do is get your recruiter to get you an unassigned ranger contract. If he tells you that he can't guarantee a ranger contract, then: 1. He is lying. 2. He is a lazy sumbitch. Either way, don't sign anything and move out.

With a Ranger contract (RGV4?) you will get sent to OSUT, Airborne, and if you pass Airborne, then you will go to RIP. If you pass RIP, then you will go to one of the 3 Ranger Bn's (assuming you're 11B). At this time, you will be a rifleman in the 75th, but probably you will actually be a 203 gunner, SAW gunner, or whatever. If your Ranger Bn deploys to combat at this time, you will go as well.

I saw in an above post that said that after RIP, one gets sent to a Ranger Training Bn, this is NOT true. A Ranger Training Bn is the guys that run Ranger School, which has nothing to do with the 75th Ranger Reg't.

After 8-12 months in Batt(depends on what your team/squad leader thinks of you), then you will go to Ranger School. Once you complete Ranger School, you will be promoted to E-4, and you will continue to Ranger on in your respective Battalion.

You don't have to be Infantry to go into the Rangers. There are medics (I was one), cooks, PAC clerks, commo, NBC, forward observers, and others. The procedure is the same. Tell your recruiter that you want to be a cook (or medic, etc) in a Ranger Bn, and you should get a contract. These MOS's that are not Infantry are always short-staffed, so it should be easier to get a contract that you want.

Be advised, the odds are against you making it, most don't. Just don't quit and maintain your motivation.

Ted A 1/75 91-95



[This message has been edited by Ted (edited 03-21-2000).]

[norm]

Ted, thanks for the info, I do want to put it to good use. However, the earliest that I would join the Army w/ RGV4 would be in 2003, after I complete college. Right now, I'm in Army ROTC (don't know if I'll stay more than 2 years--obligation after that), which has some good clubs for trying to get a feel for what Rangers or any other light infantry do. This weekend, I'll be going on a squad STX (I'm sure you've done more than your share of these). If you could give me any advice on how to handle this (it's my first), I'd appreciate it. Also another extraneous inquiry: I know the average Ranger spends 3 years in a Batt.; how long does it normally take to make E-5 Sergeant and become a fire team leader. I am asking this because if I do become a Ranger and spend time in a Batt., I would like to eventually have some sort of leadership position. Also, I know a guy in my ROTC unit who was at 3rd Batt for 2 years, left as an E-5, and is in college for 2 years to become an officer. I know this may seem like a lot for a youngen like me to ask, but I would like to know, and I am preparing for this long term goal by working out and the like. Thanks.

norm

[Ted]

Norm, actually you're asking 2 separate questions. There are plenty of E-4 team leaders, either fire team leaders or gun team leaders. As for time required to make E-5, I made E-5 in about 3 years, which is around the average time.

[norm]

Ted,

What position did you hold as an E-5? Were you by any chance ever given a squad leader position? I've heard that some squad leaders are E-5s, not just E-6s.

[Ted]

I was the company senior medic. Yes, some squad leaders are E-5's

[Cree Warrior]

Well it must be okay to be colour blind, but not color blind, heh heh. I was quoting a psych prof from university with the '70% of males are "partially" colour blind thing'. I am partially colour blind (I can't read those dotted numbers), and yes, I was in the regiment, 2/75, 95-96. If I was wrong about getting in with partial colour blindness, I'll accept that, it even happened once before.
The Canadian military now uses two tests, one with the dots and one with sliding colour shades, due to the fact that alot of males are able to see colours, but not those dots.

Sua Sponte

[Nathan]

I'll be heading for basic training at Ft. Benning GA soon and then hopefully on to Infantry training, but my dream is to become a Ranger. I would just like some suggestions on how to accomplish that, what do I need to do exactly?

[Mac679]

Have you already enlisted? If so, what contract do you have? Why do you say "hopefully on to Infantry training"? If you have someone else might be able to help you with this. If you haven't enlisted yet, get an RGV4 contract, your MOS will be 11X ( Infantry, Unassigned ) with Option 20 ( Airborne and RIP-first unit of assignment will be listed as Ranger Training ). Don't take no for an answer and during medical don't lie but don't volunteer info either. Keep your answers as short as possible.
Hope it helps,
Mac

[Nathan]

Mac679,

Thanks for the input, I appreciate it. No I haven't enlisted yet because I'm still waiting on a waiver for a criminal tresspass charge I have and when I say "hopefully on to infantry" I mean that's what I'd like to get as an MOS. With this option you're talking about, will I go right from infantry AIT to Airborne and then on to Ranger training? How exactly does the process work?

Thanx, Nathan

[TANGOisinKOREA]

Yes you will go right from OSUT to airborne school via cattle truck then from Airborne school to RIP via run(suitcases and gear all in tow)We then waited in RIP holdover for three weeks waiting for the next class to begin.

[Kolt]

Nathan,

There really is no infantry AIT so to speak. It's called OSUT (One Station Unit Training) and it combines basic and AIT into a 13 week program.

After graduating OSUT, you will go to Airborne, and right after graduating Airborne, you will go to RIP. After graduating RIP, you'll be assigned to a Bat as an 11B.

Fail any of these graduations or screw anything else up and that 11X (unassigned) comes back into play, your Ranger contract is gone, and they can put you anywhere they want in an infantry unit doing anything (C,H,M, or B).

Good luck,

Kolt

[Mike]

Will you be assigned to a Battalion only if a slot open up or? Or after RIP, wait for a while or stay in a holding unit?

[TANGOisinKOREA]

if you make it thru RIP you will not wait you will go straight to your new battalion. I was in third batt so it involved a 200 meter walk.

Chas

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

You may be held in a RIP hold over if they do not have a slot for anyone in either RIP or RGT, but that can be a blessing in a way. Gives you a chance to work w/ RIP CADRE, and prep a little more for RIP. But once they put you in RIP no more holdovers unless you are injured.

RLTW

[Mike]

Is there really an opening in all three battalions? I thought the turnover rate was very low. How many Rangers leave the 75th every year?

[RKW]

Hey, I remember a few months ago, someone mentioning enlistment math, BA=E-4 or something. My question is, is that waiverable? Just to explain why,skipping to E-4 doesn't seem like that much, and a large part of being in the Army seems to be being a lowly private. Since one option I've thought of recently is finishing college while in the National Guard, and then reenlisting, it has been a thought on my mind. This isn't the greatest or most pertainant question to ask, but it has been something on my mind.

Thanks for any help,

RKW

[Grant]

I dont know about the BA=E4 thing, but in a recruiting brochure I picked up a few weeks ago, ot gives info on an enlistment contract that is a "enlist to be an officer" contract. If you enlist (or re-enlist) after receiving your college degree, you are assured a spot in OCS, to get an officer commission. This may be something you would want to ask a recruiter about, if you wish to be a leiutenant rather than an E4.

[Cree Warrior]

I can't say how this works for sure, but when I signed up, back in 94' I was immediatlely given E-4 (Specialist) rank, because I had a college degree. I would say that it helped out alot, not only do you get paid more, but when you go through basic you will be given leadership roles, as soon as you get off the cattle truck. Very good experience. What they did was make all the E-4's Platoon Guides right away. Some of em didn't last, some did. As for OCS, I dont think you can be "assured" a spot, at least I hope not. When I went through they bugged me to go but I didnt want to, I wanted to stay enlisted.
You get better hands on training as an enlisted soldier. I am now an Officer in the Canadian military, and most of the time as an officer you have to supervise others doing all the fun training. As well, unless you're a dickhead, you can understand the enlisted soldiers better having been one, with experience.
Regardless of whether you are a spec 4 or not, when you get to a Bn, you will be treated as a spec 4 private, if you dont have a tab.

Sua Sponte

[Whammer]

I enlisted in 97 with a BA into the Reserves. Now in the Guard. Yep, E4 up front.

2 things I considered when I joined the military. 1) My free time is limited, so I wasn't too interested in spending it shuffling papers as a 2LT and going to officer type courses such as OCS, OBC etc. Where as they may be great for a career enhancement. I don't have the extra time, considering my civilian job, to devout to the management aspect of being an officer.
2) I wanted to come into the military to do things I always thought about doing when I was little (ie jumping out of planes, hiding in the bushes, rubbing face paint on etc.) I am doing that now and always in search of fun stuff to do. I would rather spend my resources on getting to certain skill producing schools right now.

That is not to say I've written the officer route off, and I will try for a commission later after I get the hooah stuff out of the way. I have been told by friends who are officers in RC that around 12-15 years in when you finally see the fruits of being O3 or O4.

You can do well regardless of your rank. If your actions speak for themselves you will get noticed. The difference is as an E4 you make SGT fast if your sh*t is square. The rank becomes irrelevant when it comes to being squared away. You are either a good troop or not.

di

[Grant]

Well, I went to the Army recruiting website to double-check the info I had posted. It says that if you have a college degree, prior to enlistment, you can apply for the "enlist to be an officer contract". If your application is accepted, you are assured a spot in OCS. So you would go to basic, then to OCS. I dont know if this is a good thing, because I have met some really dumb people with college degrees. But I am only in high school, so I guess I shouldnt really be judging others, cause I havent been there yet. Anyways..... I have heard that enlisted soldiers have more fun, so I guess it all depends on what you want to do.

[Mac679]

downside of the enlist to be an officer, I was told they won't repay college loans then ( that was from a recruiter I talked to when I was in high school so it's a couple years old-still something to consider though )
Mac

[dk57]

I actually just went through the whole enlist-to-be-an-officer process and was accepted. You're right, they don't pay back any college loans, and you can't get any of the enlistment bonuses. You can qualify for money for grad school, though. If you have any questions, let me know.

[sotf]

I have three years left of college ROTC and then I'll get my commission from UNCP. I want to branch infantry and try to get a Ranger Bat as a first duty station. My instructor is a retired 1SGT from 325th AIR, whom is tabbed, and I've also been talking with him. Is there any advice any one can give me on preparation for Ranger school, what Ranger battalions are like as far as training,etc.,and any other advice any one wants to add. Thanks to all whom replys.

sotf

[TANGOisinKOREA]

You wont get Ranger Batt as your first assignment. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news

Chas

[Whammer]

dk57

Please explain more about the option for financing grad school as opposed to your undergrad. I have been toying with that idea of becoming brass when I pursue an MBA down the road a piece and am interested to find out as much intel as possible.

thanks
di

[Razor]

The most common route for infantry LTs into the Rgt is to go to Korea for your first tour. Its a short one (1 yr), and you'll get your required PL time while there. Once you return to CONUS, you can do ROP for entry into the Rgt.

[Mike]

To Razor, about Korean, do you mean with the 2d Infantry Division (http://www-2id.korea.army.mil/) OR any units listed in http://www.korea.army.mil/welcome/units.htm?

how about the other divisions (82nd, etc?)

[TANGOisinKOREA]

I am not Mike but I will answer anyway. Yes you really need PL time in an Infantry platoon to be competitive in getting assigned to Batt. The reason Korea is better than the 82nd is Korea is considerd a "Hardship" tour so you get "benifits" when you return to the states.

Chas

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

Hey, how about I interject now, having done the LT route to get into RGT. It is very possible to get into RGT as a 2LT, providing you have prior service w/ the RGT, which I am guessing you do not have. Because you will be cherry LT when you get commissioned you will be promised a slot at Suck school so long as your in the right branch. To be eligable for ROP you do not even need to have been to Ranger school..and yes that is true...however it will be your first stop if you get selected..which is hard but has happened. After Suck school you will be assigned to a unit based on your branch. Get bumped to 1LT and di di on for a ROP interview. Time in slot is not an essiential, however they will make sure your willing to do more than 4 years active duty.

As far as first duty station goes...it really doesnt matter where you have been, it matters how good an officer you are. I came from Ft Sill to RGT, with no over seas time..trust me it sure as hell doesn't matter. What matters is how good an officer you are.

RLTW

[TANGOisinKOREA]

TFRANGERMEMBER

Does that fact that you arent branched infantry play any part? Would it be harder or easier for a 2nd LT in the infantry to get there? I see it as more competitive.

Chas

PS Did SGT Porter leave Bco before Somolia? He was a black dude that was in the room next to the CQ desk.

[Mike]

TFRANGERMEMBER, you wrote: "To be eligible for ROP you do not even need to have been to Ranger school..and yes that is true.."

Officers and NCO candiadates must be airborne- and Ranger School-qualified. Then they undergo ROP. Most of the regiment's officers are Lieutenants and Captains. Each Battalion has only four majors and lieuenant colonels, including the battalion commander.
It make sense for officers to be Ranger-qualified before they join the Regiment since the competition for officers slots can be quite small.

[This message has been edited by Mike (edited 04-10-2000).]

[norm]

Any Rangers or others out there,

What do 13Fs do in the Ranger Regiment, and the rest of the Army? Do they act as forward observers and call in artillery for infantry units? Thanks

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

As an old grizzeled FSO, you will work with the company FSO keeping his shit in check.

RLTW

[Ted]

13F's have one of the best jobs in the Reg't. They call in all kinds of hell on the enemy....arty, fastmovers, gunships. Used to do naval gunfire, but I hear that isn't done anymore.

[x:C-1/75 Ranger]

A recent article in "The Army Times" stated that the people with LASIK eye surgery would be barred from special ops units. However, since the military has endorsed the PK eye surgury whole heartedly, any member of spec ops units will be given that particular type of corrective eye surgery for free. Sounds like a damn good deal to me.

[Whammer]

Get your degree first. You could still apply for the 3 or 2 year ROTC scholarship and graduate with a commission. I had the same aspirations and played 4 years of ivy league football. I enlisted after school and went ABN as an E-4. Ranger and a commission is still on my list of things to do and it is only a matter of time until I get there. If it is truly what you want, do the ROTC, go 11A, get ABN and Ranger and get after it for 3/4 years. Coming out into the job market, after what I have seen, I would respect a 25 year old Ranger qual officer than some of these snot nosed MBAs any day. Explore your options, get the most out of college and football, then commit yourself and go to work.

no regrets
di

[illanso]

If you get a ranger contract, and fail in some way, is it possible for you to get another chance? Say, you go in not fit enough, or get hurt during it, and cant get a recycle. From what I've heard, it sounds like once you fail someplace along the way, you cant get another chance. And if anybody knows what the average age for Rangers and SF is, I'd be interested. Thanks.

[Mac679]

odds are the Army will put you where they need you; simple solution, don't think about failing, except to motivate yourself to pass ;-)

Mac

[E19]

Whammer,

As an employer.....I look at academic credentials & job related skills and experience first and foremost. Everything else being equal, I would consider a persons military record.
I have had experiences with ex-military
that did not work out well because of their
military bearing. Three or four years in
the Rangers won't help my company in the least. A leg pogue officer who served in finance probably has more to offer the business world in general than a ranger stud when it comes job skills. Most civilans know very little about the military in general. Isn't a ranger the guy who drives a cart around the golf course and harasses the golfers when they play too slowly??

[Whammer]

E-19
I'm obviously eating crow right now. But, I need to qualify my comments. I agree there are some skills in military (ie finance, signal, tech etc.) that are obviously more applicable to a business environment. In my military career I haven't gone after those fields, as I have more fun rolling in the mud. You are correct that most in business have a tuff time comprehending what goes on. I experience it everyday in investment banking industry every time I say I need to go to a army school that isn't

For BluGold's benefit, I was trying to pump him up.
However, in order to maintain a grounding and rationale approach to gaining "work experience" I think that on a case by case basis, when looking at an individual with a degree who may also have served in a high speed unit/position (and leadership exposure) can only multiply his job prospects.

All this rationalized cheerleading is making me dizzy...

di

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

If you get hurt at all during RIP or Ranger school you WILL be recycled. They WILL NOT send kick you out for an injury UNLESS it is a stupid injury you brought up on yourself eg: wearing polypro on a hot humid day..however if its a training injury they will recycle you. If you are not fit enough, not the result of an injury...then you should not be there and you will not be there.

RLTW

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

If a situation warrants naval support then it will be made available to the RGT, just like any unit that really needs it. Problem is that a lot of the missions RGT will be conducting either A. Naval gun fire will not be in the AO or B. The risk of collateral damage would be too great.

RLTW

[Ranger002]

Hey Guys,

I agree in part with the advice that E19 has regarding skills and experiance in the Civvie world. The more job related the better. However there are a few intangibles that come into play with SPEC OPS training be it Ranger,SF,SEAL,or others.
1.Most Spec OPS guys welcome adversity and never wimp out.
2.Most Spec Ops guys have the ability to improvise.
3.Most Spec Ops guys lead disciplined structered lives and require little supervision.
4.Most Spec Ops guys have standards far above their employee peers in relation to job performance.
As a matter of fact most of the Spec Ops guys I know ( including me ) have had difficulty adjusting to the normal pace of civvie life due to the above factors.
So although a service career in Special Operations may not seem to benefit most directly the lessons ingrained in the mans being stay with him forever.An example: I did know s*%t about computers 4 years ago. Now through perserverance, hard work and a bit of luck I am with IBM LOL. I can attribute most of this "success" to the life lessons I learned while a member of the Spec Ops brotherhood. The you George Conrad and John Mott and others! Remember the Ranger motto and Creed can stay with you where ever you go in life. SUA SPONTE and God Bless

[x:C-1/75 Ranger]

Because the Regiment is authorized to have an "overstrength" manpower level, ie. over 100%, and the unit seldom reaches 100% or more there are always slots to be filled. Bottom line, if you pass RIP you will go to a Battalion thereafter.

[TANGOisinKOREA]

Jungle Ball. We could use a good game of it at IBM dont you think RangerHazen?

Always felt sorry for them when an officer got thrown the ball..... No actually I didnt.

Chas

[eddie]

Is it really possible to get a RIP contract for mos's other than 11X. I asked the same question on the Army recruiting chat forum and their reply was 'next to impossible' I'm talking about a new soldier enlisting, not a transfer. Also, if one was sucessful in geting such a RIP contract what would be the most desirable MOS's to go after. Any present /former Rangers with first hand knowledge on this subject ? ..thanks

[Whammer]

Eddie,

One of the local bat boys can confirm this, but I looked into 97B (counter intel) in the 75th.

I know they have a shortage (follow the links on this site to the 75th recruiting page) and I don't see why you couldn't get a similar contract with an opportunity for RIP, RGT etc. However, I could be wrong about this MOS. Maybe 11X is the only way to go direct to a Bn. There are other MOS on that recruiting page also available.

Maybe someone can shed a little light on this here. I would suggest making your recruiter do some research on it short of calling up the 75th yourself or having someone with mil experience calling them on your behalf.

di

[eddie]

Thanks Whammer, I have seen the 75th recruiting site but still confused, if may be
possible that all non 11X mos's are for NCO's only, not real sure though that's why I asked this question. By the way this info is for my son who is in H.S. , I'm a bit too old for a RIP contract. I'm former Army signal Ft. Bragg 73-76.

Also, RangerHazen I found your tieline # in callup, SMALL WORLD.

[Whammer]

The skill levels for some of the MOSs are for skill levels 1-3 (E2/4-E6) so he should be ok... The 11X I don't think is NCO specific; it is unassigned infantry.

Roll around on some of the other strings under this board cuz there is a lot of good info on Ranger Contracts and 11X related Q & A.

Or have your recruitere give the 75th a call.

[Pierce]

With all of the training the Rangers do, is it possible for a person to get a higher education and be a Ranger?

I am 21 and it is my dream to be in the military. I want to go right now, But would it be more benificial to me to get a digree first and join when I am 26 or 27 or is it possible to study and train at the same time? Or if amyone else has an idea please feel free to give them to me. I am open to anything.

Thanks for the help.

Pierce

[RangerCharlie]

I tried that when I was in, but you just don't have the time and the training schedule always interrupts with classes. One option would to go in as something else than a door knocker, support personal would have a better chance at doing this.

------------------
Aco 1/75 RGR
88-92

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

If you are really going to join the military..just because of your age I would say go for it soon so that your not finsihing a 4 year enlistment at the age of 30. Then again if your only ambitions are to be associated w/ the army then go reserves, or ANG...you will have plenty of time for school, do some of the stuff the active duty does..and make some money.

RLTW

[Whammer]

Pierce,

These fellas are right. It depends on what you want. If you want Ranger etc. be prepared to committ yourself to it as there won't be time for much else. You won't have your youth for long, so use it. I enlisted in NG after graduating from college and working for a year. I don't regret it, but think in some ways I should have dedicated myself to it. You need to really prioritize your life and look where you want to be in 5-10years. Do you have any baggage (ie loans, wife/significant other)? Those will drag on your Army aspirations. Not to say it isn't doable, it will just be more of a challenge.

How far are along towards your degree? If you are starting from scratch with no college credits, I'd say go military first. If you have some knocked out already, try and figure how soon you can get the degree.

TFRangermember is right. I went through basic with 2 guys who were 31 and 33 years old. Its doable, but not a retirement home...

[Pierce]

Thanks for the replys. They have been very helpful. It is hard for me to find supportive advice. I am strongly leaning to enlisting first then school after. It just works better. I have No credits in school, I have no baggage ie...loans, wife, kids...and being in the Army and serving my country is something I have always wanted to do.

Thanks again for the replys. I will keep you all updated on my situation.

Pierce

[Snake]

Hmm,
would have thought it would be PK that was banned, as LASIK has a rep for being more refined. Maybe they just havent tested it enough yet...


Snake
25th ID(L)

[Ted]

There are many different MOS's needed in the Reg't. Whoever said that a contract for the 75th Ranger Reg't, for an MOS other that 11X, is "next to impossible".... that person is completely uninformed.

The best MOS to have in the Rangers is 91B (combat medic). You will go to plenty of cool schools, learn a lot, and have a good time.

There are also needed MOS's in Supply, NBC, cook, PAC clerk, and many others....just look at the 75th recruiting site. Tom has the address somewhere around here.

Ted

[This message has been edited by Ted (edited 04-14-2000).]

[Grant]

I have a question about infantry MOS's. What is the difference between 11X and 11B? I know that 11M is mechanized infantry, but have not been able to find out what those two are. Thanks,
Grant

[Mac679]

11X-Infantry, Unassigned ( you'll be assigned one of the 11 series MOSs during AIT )
11B-Light Weapons Infantry

[Sharky]

Get it guaranteed in your contract. Delete the words "I quit" from your mind and your vocabulary. Take it one step at a time and remember that they are not looking for superman. They are just looking for the guys who do not know when to give it up and quit. They call it intestinal fortitude. Thats a fancy way of saying "I will not f&^$%#$ quit until my f*@&^#@ mission is f%^$#@% complete. Train hard, do your best at everything and dont worry about RIP until you get there. Just my $.02

------------------
F.I.D.O.

[Sharky]

One other thing Nathan. My advice is to keep a low-profile about your Ranger ambitions during basic and AIT or OSUT or whatever they call it these days. There were a few "toughguys" with me in basic who liked to shoot off their mouth about going to the regiment. Some of them dropped in Airborne school. Only one of them made it through RIP with me and I heard he later quit the regiment after a short time. The toughest guys I remember in the regiment didn't talk much, they just did it and let everybody else talk. My $.02

------------------
F.I.D.O.

[Sharky]

TFRM, Once in regiment, I agree. Shoot off your mouth all you want to. All you have to contend with then is your fellow rangers. BUT, in OSUT you may have a drill who couldn't hack it in RIP or a CO who LOM'ed at suck school and running your mouth will make you a target of opportunity muy pronto. All I'm saying is dont talk shit about what you're GOING to do. Just go F%$&^%$# do it. That way if you don't make it you don't have to listen to the bullshit from the ones who didn't have the balls to try in the first place, and if you do, well, enough said. It's like that old barroom saying, " don't worry about the loudmouth, but watch out for that guy in the corner who hasn't said a word." Like I said, just my opinion but I think it's good advice to keep a low profile unless you're a glutton for punishment. Even if you're the baddest SOB in the army, In both RIP and Ranger school Lady Luck can come in and kick your ass in a heartbeat. Especially Suck school. Alot of luck involved there. one guy in my platoon got peered because he was the only guy in his squad at suck school who wasn't from ROTC. He was squared the fuck away. But, he had to go back later because Lady Luck put him with all those losers and they screwed him. Say what you want, but, bottom line, talk is fuckin cheap. RLTW.............

------------------
F.I.D.O.

[Ranger002]

Yep TFRanger and sharky are true,

I became one bada@# TRASH TALKING RANGER AFTER I came back from Tab Academy until then youse shoots ya mouth and takes ya chances.Me... I choose not to talk the talk till I proved to my bros I could walk the walk. HA HA HA HA.
William Hazen B 2/75 Ranger Class 14-80
TF Ranger I am still working way too much and I will be in touch regarding my project in the near future. Take Care RANGER

[J The Body]

OK, so if one makes the grade and becomes a Ranger, how hard is it to get extra courses such as Combat Divers in Key West or HALO in Yuma or Bragg etc. Or our those courses for mainly the Green Berets?? Thanks in advance.

[Whammer]

Those courses are not closed off to Ranger folks.

I was in a Reserve Psyop Unit with a plt sgt who was Scuba, Halo and Sr. Jumpmaster qual. He spent 11 years in a batt.

[Hardrock Charlie]

These schools are all open to members of the Regiment. Normally, Rangers work for these schools from an Order of Merit list.

[Hardcharge]

I have signed up for the Army and have the Ranger contract.I have always wanted to be in special operations. I am not in Ranger shape either but I never have been or will be a quitter. Can some one help, I only have a month and a half till I go to boot camp. any suggestions are appreciated.

[Ursula]

Help us out. Just what kind of shape ARE you in? You obviously meet height/weight specs, but is that weight muscle or jiggle? What kind of physical activity do you normally get?

-U

P.S. Escanaba, eh? Home of red onion pasties and Sayklly's candy. Lived there in the late 70's. My dad was an Army recruiter there.

[Hardcharge]

I have a football players build. Kinda bulky and average height. I've got a slight stomach but thats only cause I eat like crap. I can do 65 pushups in 2min, and 80 situps 2min. I run a mile in about 8:30. I usually swim just for recreation, that and football. Is there anything I can start on with a month and a half?(Recruiters fault why I am leaving so soon)

Yeah too many of those damn pasties eh! Originally from there, but my family moved to lower Mich when I was a teen.

[knight77]

the best thing you can do at this point is run, run, run, run, and run. Then to get some variety, run some more. Trust me, doing this will burn off alot of the jiggle you have and prepare you for what is to come.

[ROTCadet]

In realistic terms how long would it take an individual to get from basic to airborne and finally to be a ranger? Just curious on the time span.

Cunniff

[Mac679]

18 weeks of training ( incl. RIP )

Mac

[Hardcharge]

how long should my runs be? and should I run only once a day?

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

Hard,

Try swimming often. It burns of calories real well, not hard on your joints (actually benificial) and it will strengthen your cardio system much faster then running will. You can also get more of a work out by simming because you will not get tired as fast. Give it a shot, it will help.

RLTW

[Guardin2k]

Run, man, you can already do more pushups and situps than many people can do even at the end of basic, but you will have to run 2 miles in at least 15:54, so you will have to shave about a minute, at least off of your run.

[Ursula]

The swimming is a great suggestion--no impact and a great cardio workout. Also, try some aerobics. I don't care if you have to tell your buddies you're going to aerobics to pick up girls, but the cardio workout will be good for you.

Yeah, sounds like your doing fine with pushups and situps. Get the ol' heart pumping now and build up whatever endurance you can. Good luck to you.

-U

[Dock]

I have a question... During these 18 weeks do you go home at all or do the 18 weeks first then go home to get your shit to bring to your batt?? Like my car and computer....



------------------
Doc

[Dock]

After OSUT or Basic and AIT, then go to Aiborne school. Do you then do right to RIP or will you be placed in a unit to wait for the next RIP class to begin? Also when is the time they let you go home to collect your car and computer?? After RIP would be ideal for me, but just wondering how the process works...

Thanks in advance...



------------------
Doc

[Warrior48]

Exercise bikes are also good low-impact workouts. While riding, dont be inside in the A/C, if possible. If you have an exercise bike at your home, take it and put it somewhere like your garage, so that you get somewhat acclimated to the heat also. Good luck.

[TANGOisinKOREA]

You will go straight from Airborne to RIP via a short run! The RIP cadre will meet you at Airborne school.

Hint dont bring to many bags with you.

Chas
3/75

[Dock]

I am still wondering when you go home to get your sh_t?? Not that I am going to bring to much, just my car, and computer... Anyone have any facts out there?? Thanks in advance..



------------------
Doc

[Whammer]

Jeez,

You only got about 5 weeks you say? Don't go crazy with it, you'll burn yourself out. During Basic, AIT and Jump they will get you in pretty decent shape along the way. Just do your pullups, pushups, run 3/4 times a week. But, don't go out and hump a 65lbs ruck on a treadmill at 8mph... You'll just screw something up. Just try and eat healthy, get up at 0500 and go run 3 or 4 miles. That will get you acclimated to the lifestyle. Maybe wear a sweatshirt for the heat you will be experiencing. But there aren't too many remedies for the self-induced heat casualty.
You should be pretty good by the time you are done with ABN.

I went through ABN in August. Sounds like you will be too. Damn good training!

[TANGOisinKOREA]

I wasnt able to go home and get my car for 3 mos. Thats when we had our first block leave.
It really didnt matter at first though. You wont have much free time to play on your computer at first and all I needed transportation for was to get my hair cut before each monday morning formation.

Chas


[This message has been edited by TANGOisinKOREA (edited 04-26-2000).]

[Sharky]

Drink Water...Drink Water.....Drink Water.....Drink Water.......PUKE....Drink Water.....Drink Water...etc...etc... You get the picture......

------------------
F.I.D.O.

[Mephiston]

Yep definitely run. I was in your situation too, you should do enough running in basic to help you out for RIP, but its different once you get to your squad. Like in my squad they frown on you if you run over a 13:00 2 mile, we all run under that except one guy. But every squad is different so...
I could never run under a 13:00 all through basic.
If I were you I'd run 5 miles as often as you are humanly capable. You should try to run until you start dry heeving and then keep running.
I'm serious.
And try running with someone who is already a good runner so they can push to those limits, that way you know what to expect once you get to Battalion.

Mephiston

[jagar1]

I am currently in the Delayed Entry Program (DEP) and have chosen the 11x MOS...I did the INFANTRY contract stuff and it says I ship June 22. BUT, I did not know there was a Ranger contract as well that I could have asked for!!!...Is it too late for me to get that added on to my original contract?...is it really necessary to become a Ranger...can't I just signup after OSUT/Airborne?
Second, I haven't done basic yet, but I did an Official APFT with the DEP to get me promoted to PFC...i got 75pushups, 83 situps, and 12:50 on the 2 mile...is this a good start?...I am 5'8" and 160 lbs....will this be a problem at any point?...i never giveup...never.........thanks for any/all responses.

[Dock]

Jager,

Did they promote you to PFC just from the Official APFT??? or did you get someone as a referal?? Tell me how you got to PFC E-3 please....

Thanks...



------------------
Doc

A 31 year old future Ranger... :))

[PY]

Doc,

There are several ways to get rank before u enlist: college credits: 30 semester hours=PV2; 60=PFC; B.A. degree=spec4

Also, you can screw over a buddy http://www.specialoperations.com/ubboard/smile.gif and get him to enlist

This info. is several years old, don't know if it still applies

[jagar1]

The way I obtained PFC was through a new program in the DEP that recently came out. You must get at least 60 points in each APFT event and pass several test having to do with first aid, land navigation, marching commands, rank structure, phonetic alphabet, and military time. It's all hella easy stuff to get PFC! In my county, I was the only one that passed the APFT, so I guess thats why there are so few PFC's entering. Many however got E-2, with a referral, and screwing a buddy! This is a very new program! Talk to a recruiter!

[jagar1]

Is it easy to get into RIP and airborne if you dont have it guaranteed on your contract?? I signed 11x but without any ranger contract...so am i still good to go?

[TANGOisinKOREA]

The problem is with your 11x contract. when you get to OSUT they can make you whatever they want. If they make you an 11H or 11M you are screwed and arent going anywhere but a mech div.

When I went thru back in 90 an Aiborne guy came by and you could volunteer then. Then at Airborne school you could volunteer for RIP. Seems to me though everything would have to go just right for it to happen. are you a normally lucky person?

Chas

[Mac679]

I have E2 because of college credits and can get E3 through the same process mentioned above. Do believe it's a one time use thing though http://www.specialoperations.com/ubboard/wink.gif

[Ben L]

Can you choose where you are stationed? Or is it more of a wish list?

[welshmj]

I want to become a Ranger but I'm running into some problems I hope you guys can help with.

I've read about the problems bad credit will create with getting a secret/top secret security clearance but what about just enlisting in the first place. I've heard the Air Force runs a credit check but what about the Army (I've been told yes and no by different recruiters)?

How bad does your credit have to be to not get in? What about bankruptcy? I can't find anything anywhere. Does anyone know anything or can anyone point me in the right direction? Thanks in advance...

Mark

[E19]

Mark,

Check with the recriuting office of the service you wish to join.

[Dark Helmet]

Just when you think you have heard every question......

[welshmj]

I did incur a lot of debt while going to college and yes, had some hard times. I ended up consolidating and learning from my mistakes. However, bad credit isn't wiped away overnight. It takes 7 years.

I know the Army is more concerned with what you're doing now than anything but I was told I would have problems getting in by one recruiter I visited and told I wouldn't by another. I know how hard it can be to get a straight answer from a recruiter. Just wondered what the deal was and thought some of you gentlemen might know. Guess not. Sorry to clog up the board.

Mark

[jagar1]

If you have flat feet, are you allowed to become a Ranger?...in other words, are you allowed to have Orthotics in your boots?, without them or special running shoes, I get severe pain in the shins after/during running...i know it sounds like a dumb question, but it is important to me!

[MARK92A]

All,

Heck, most LT's have 1,000's of dollars in debt for college loans.... Uncle doesnt care much about your debts when you get in, but once you are in, if the bill collectors call, that wont get you any points with yout 1SG or CO.. http://www.specialoperations.com/ubboard/smile.gif

--Mark

[TFRANGERMEMBER]

Watch out for the recruiters..there is a possibility they just do not want you enlisting with the contract YOU want. They are possibly trying to meet their own quota for MOSs and telling you that your
only chance is if you do this MOS, here let me show you..."

Well have a good one.

RLTW

[Swat1]

Bad credit will NOT stop you from getting a Secret Clearance. It is not even checked for a Secret Clearance. The only check conducted for a Secret Clearance is a NAC - National Agency Check, meaning they run your fingerprints through the FBI to see if you have ever been arrested and what for.

As far a getting in to the Army, I did not know they were doing credit checks for enlistment. They weren't up to '97 as far as I know. If you want to get a Top Secret Clearance with bad credit this is much more difficult. Bad credit can really be a hang up for a TS.

[Cree Warrior]

Have you signed up yet? They will check you for flat feet when you do your physical, they'll also ask you if your feet ever bothered you. If your feet bug you alot I'd really think twice about going into the Infantry, never mind the Regiment. You can do it, but you'll always have problems.
Best way to know is by running alot. Invest in a good pair of FULL orthotics (not the half ones you can get in some malls) go to a place where they take a cast of your foot and get a couple of pairs made.
I've been using orthotics for years now, but I run around 40 - 50 miles a week.
If you are serious about becomming a Ranger, you can and will have to do alot that most people would tell you is not possible. DOnt let them stop you.
Go see a physiotherapist, one that specializes in sports injury's and go get good runners. Thats all it may be. Shitty shoes can really fu-k up your feet. Try finding a good running specialty store and they'll watch your feet when you run. Different shoes are made for different types of feet and running styles. A good running store will be able to tell you right away.
If you have over 400 miles on your shoes, buy new ones.

Sua Sponte

[jagar1]

I signed up last year and they asked me if my feet ever bothered me and i said no(becuz until then, it didn't hurt, until i started running, then after several weeks it started hurting and hasn't gone away for months)...just last week I did get special running shoes that correct for overpronation due to minor flat feet....now i can run forever.....but if I were to get FULL orthotics, would the Ranger Regiment allow me to use them in my boots?....another question is before I leave for basic, they will ask me again if my feet bother me...what do i tell them???...the truth or tell them it doesn't hurt...If they allow orthotics in the Regiment, then I'm all good....do they have boots with arches maybe??.....any/all info would greatly help!

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[Mac679]

jagar,
I've got the same problems of over pronation but the mention of shin pain is probably something else-like weak shin muscles, strengthening them might help ( sit down, curl your toes up towards you and tap the ball of your foot on the ground--when that gets to be easy lay an ankle weight over your foot )
Hope it helps,
Mac

[PTFreak]

Find a good sports medicine doctor to answer your question. An MD who completed a "Fellowship in sports medicine" after their residency. Most orthopedic surgeons never completed a Fellowship in sports medicine but if you can find one that did, they are worth their weight in gold. They will tell you if you really need custom made orthotics or if your problem is just from being out of shape, lack of proper conditioning, etc. Most dont need custom orthotics, keep in mind that a lot of times all orthotics do is take the stress off one area of your foot or leg and put it somewhere else. And if you do end up getting custom made orthotics, make sure you get the softer, more pliable kind made for running and athletics. The rigid and semi-rigid custom made orthotics are totally worthless for running and sports.

The main thing is the shoes. Start with the shoes always. Pick the right type of running shoe for your foot type. Motion control, cushioning and flexibility, normal foot, whatever. Then, instead of worrying about inserts so much, just replace the shoes really frequently. Buy a new pair every other month or every three months or something. You wont get injured if you always run in fresh, new shoes of the right type. If you still have problems after this then go for the custom made sport orthotics...the softer type which are pliable and give some. If they try to push firmer or rigid orthos on you, get the hell away from them.

Id be willing to bet you dont need custom orthotics you probably just need the right shoe type and proper conditioning.

[jagar1]

Sounds good, but are there motion control boots in the ARMY allowed in the Rangers?....i doubt it....and you run with boots, not running shoes, which is the problem....thanks!

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[Crow]

i asked this in another thread like weeks ago and i cant remember which one i asked in so i will make new topic.

I hear alof of you talk about people with the tab that dont serve in a ranger unit. do they not serve in a ranger unit as a choice or do they not get accepted to a ranger unit?

reason i ask is my recruiter is putting me on the same plan as many have listed here basic, AIT, RIP, batt, ranger school.

but what happens after ranger school? will i be placed in a ranger unit or tossed into some other unit?

[Mac679]

passing RIP places you in a Ranger Battallion, then after a period of time you will be sent to Ranger School where you'll go for the tab, upon completion of Ranger School you'll most likely return to your unit.

[Daredevil]

Yeah, that's what a friend of mine who went into the Rangers said. He passed RIP, went to the Battalion in Savannah (I don't remember what number the battalions are) for around a year and then went to the school and went back to the Battalion.

I went down to visit him in Savannah, talk about a cool place to be stationed.

He was thinking that the wait is so long to go to the school because so many officers (who he said didn't have to go through RIP) took up all the slots.

I'm more interested in becoming a SEAL myself. My Ranger friend said he thinks the main reason the dropout rate at Ranger school isn't as high as BUD/S is because the Army weeds out a lot of people in RIP first.

[sotf]

To anyone who can help,
I'm going TDY this week to FT. Sill for 6 weeks; I'm just waiting on orders from USAREC. I just tranfered from the national guard to active duty and in the process I was able to change my MOS from 88M to 13B. I really wanted to reclass 11B/13F but the Army is need of 13B right now. I figure this will atleast get my foot in the door but I don't have an assignment either and I have to wait until my training is over. I've been told I need ABN school but I couldn't get that either. Is there any advice or any thing anyone can do to help me to get ABN school or get orders to a Ranger Bat.? Is it possible to OJT to 11B once in a Bat. and try for LRS?
Anyone who can help and any advice given is greatly appreciated. Thanks again.

SOTF

[NEUMATIK]

Originally posted by sotf:

I really wanted to reclass 11B/13F but the Army is need of 13B right now.

Is it possible to OJT to 11B once in a Bat. and try for LRS?
SOTF

First, the Army is always in need of MOSs -- Some more than others. Second, if you really wanted 11B, you can get it -- guaranteed -- it is an understrengthed MOS, and always will be. Finally, I've never been in Batt (they may do things differently), but from what I've experienced, OJT is non-existent for what you want to do.

I've only seen one scenerio that comes remotely close to that. When I was at Bragg as an 11B, I had a buddy who was an 11H. At the time, his MOS was overstrengthed. He had about 2 years left in his enlistment as an 11H -- he hated it! He wanted to reclass into 37F (psyop specialist), and was told by our retention NCO that it was IMPOSSIBLE to do so...bullshit. He spoke fluent Tagolog, had a high DLPT score, and he did the best he could in his current MOS -- even though it sucked. A few months later, after making plenty of connections at 4th Psychological Operations Groug (POG), he got a letter of acceptance from their CSM. He then got letter of recommendations from his current chain of command. A few weeks later he told me that Infantry Branch had released him, and that hew was starting his AIT for 37F in a week. He had a few things going for him -- he was fluent in Tagalog with a DLPT score to back it up (they didn't have to send him to DLI), he was in an overstrengthed MOS, he was accepted by 4th POG, he was squared away, he was already airborne, and 37F AIT is at Bragg (doesn't cost the Army to move).

He was in a really unique situation. The Army finally realized that he could be more of an asset as a 37F -- they don't do that too often. His persistence paid off big time!

Good luck.

[realpolypro]

You're screwed dude! Finish out your enlistment, then Re-up w/BEAR program for 11B/13F.

Polypro