Did you know that only about half of all army ranger candidates survive the first twenty-one-day Benning phase of Ranger School?
For many, the U.S. Army Rangers represent the epitome of military prowess, skill, and determination.
These elite warriors have earned their reputation through decades of tough training. They also have exceptional discipline.
But who exactly are these highly trained individuals, and what sets them apart from the rest of the United States military? To clear up any confusion, we have put together a guide. Keep reading if you want to find out more.
The History of the Army Rangers
The history of the U.S. Army Rangers can be traced back to the 17th century. During this time, colonial settlers formed elite, highly trained units to carry out specialized tasks.
But the modern iteration of the Rangers was officially established in 1942 during World War II. Since then, they have played a critical role in many conflicts.
This includes the Korean War, Vietnam War, and the War on Terror. The prestigious Army Ranger School, founded in 1950, is the training ground for these elite soldiers.
This challenging and demanding course pushes candidates to their limits.
What an Army Ranger Does
An Army Ranger is an elite soldier. They specialize in executing high-risk, high-impact missions. These missions require exceptional physical fitness, mental toughness, and advanced tactical skills.
As part of the U.S. military, Rangers often work alongside other specialized units. These units work together to carry out a variety of tasks.
This includes direct action raids, airfield seizures, reconnaissance, and personnel recovery.
Rangers are trained to operate in urban, jungle, desert, and mountainous terrain. This means that they know how to adapt and succeed in a wide range of combat scenarios.
Their unparalleled expertise and dedication make them invaluable assets to the U.S. military. This is why they are frequently called upon for critical missions where failure is not an option.
As a result, Army Rangers have earned a reputation for excellence. People around the world respect them for their tenacity, skill, and professionalism.
Army Ranger Requirements
To become an Army Ranger, candidates must meet a series of basic qualifications. Rangers will need to meet these qualifications. The purpose of doing this is to demonstrate their commitment and aptitude.
First and foremost, candidates must be U.S. citizens and have active duty status in the U.S. Army. Additionally, they must receive a General Technical Score of 105 or higher.
They will need to obtain this through the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. This is a great test for showcasing cognitive abilities.
Physical ability is crucial for aspiring Rangers. This is why candidates must get a PULHES (Physical Profile Serial System) score of at least 111221.
This exam evaluates their fitness and medical readiness.
Furthermore, candidates must avoid any drug or alcohol-related incidents for at least 24 months before applying.
Lastly, since Rangers often deal with sensitive information and missions, it is essential for candidates to meet the minimum security clearance required for Ranger duties.
This typically involves a background check and a review of the candidate’s personal history. This is because the government needs to know that they can be trusted with classified information and high-stakes assignments.
By meeting these basic qualifications, candidates take the first steps towards joining the ranks of the elite Army Rangers.
Ranger School Phases
Army Ranger School is an intense and rigorous 62-day course. The purpose of this course is to push candidates to their physical and mental limits.
It provides vital training for Rangers to excel in their specialized roles. The school consists of three main phases: the Benning Phase, the Mountain Phase, and the Swamp Phase.
Benning Phase
This phase, which takes place at Fort Benning, Georgia, focuses on the fundamentals of combat and leadership skills.
Candidates are tested on their physical fitness, land navigation, and basic military tactics. They will also learn how to manage the challenges of sleep deprivation and limited food intake.
Mountain Phase
Located in the rugged mountains of Dahlonega, Georgia, this phase emphasizes advanced mountaineering techniques and complex military tactics.
Candidates must adapt to challenging terrain and unpredictable weather conditions. They will hone their abilities to lead and execute missions in mountainous environments.
Swamp Phase
The final phase takes place in the swamps of Florida, near Eglin Air Force Base. This phase tests the candidates’ capacity to conduct small-unit operations in a swampy, jungle-like environment.
The Swamp Phase emphasizes teamwork, tactical decision-making, and survival skills, while also incorporating amphibious operations and boat movements.
What Sets Army Rangers Apart
The Army Rangers set themselves apart from other military groups through their specialized training, adaptability, and expertise in carrying out high-risk missions.
Many military units possess unique capabilities. But Rangers know how to operate in a wide range of environments and situations. This is why they are a versatile and indispensable force.
They are proficient in airborne operations, including using military helicopters for rapid insertion and extraction. This means that they can quickly deploy and respond to various threats.
This level of preparedness and flexibility is a defining characteristic of the Army Rangers. They often need to handle the most challenging and critical missions within the U.S. military.
What to Know About US Army Rangers
The U.S. Army Rangers are one of the most elite branches of the military.
They were formally established during World War II. Rangers know how to carry out missions in extreme environments. To become an Army Ranger, you need to undergo extensive training.
Are you interested in becoming an Army Ranger? If so, we can help you. Don’t hesitate to find a military recruiter today!