Army Rangers Handbook

The U.S. Army Ranger Handbook is a comprehensive guide that outlines the principles, tactics, and techniques employed by the elite Army Rangers. The handbook serves as a foundational resource for Rangers, providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct a wide range of missions, from airborne and amphibious operations to raids and reconnaissance.

History of the Army Rangers

The Army Rangers have a rich and storied history, dating back to the French and Indian War. The first Rangers were formed in 1756, and they played a crucial role in the American Revolution. The modern Ranger unit was established in 1942, during World War II, and has since become one of the most elite and respected special operations forces in the world.

Ranger Creed

The Ranger Creed is a set of principles that guides the actions and decisions of Army Rangers. It reads:

“Recognizing that I volunteered as a Ranger, fully knowing the hazards of my chosen profession, I will always endeavor to uphold the prestige, honor, and high esprit de corps of the Rangers. Acknowledging the fact that a Ranger is a more elite soldier who arrives at the cutting edge of battle by land, sea, or air, I accept the fact that as a Ranger my country expects me to move further, faster, and fight harder than any other soldier. Never shall I fail my comrades. I will always keep myself mentally alert, physically strong, and morally straight and I will shoulder more than my share of the task, whatever it may be, one hundred percent and then some.”

Ranger Training

Ranger training is notoriously difficult, with a dropout rate of around 50%. The training program, known as the U.S. Army Ranger School, is designed to test a soldier’s physical and mental limits, as well as their ability to work as part of a team. The training includes:

• Phase 1: Benning Phase: This phase focuses on basic Ranger skills, such as first aid, map reading, and combat techniques.
• Phase 2: Mountain Phase: In this phase, students learn mountain warfare skills, including climbing, rappelling, and navigation.
• Phase 3: Florida Phase: This phase focuses on jungle warfare skills, including survival techniques, patrol tactics, and ambushes.
• Phase 4: Graduation: Students who complete all three phases are awarded the Ranger Tab and become members of the elite Ranger community.

Ranger Missions

Army Rangers conduct a wide range of missions, including:

• Airborne Operations: Rangers are trained to conduct airborne operations, including parachute inserts and helicopter assaults.
• Amphibious Operations: Rangers are trained to conduct amphibious operations, including beach landings and boat assaults.
• Raids: Rangers conduct raids on enemy positions, using speed and surprise to achieve their objectives.
• Reconnaissance: Rangers conduct reconnaissance missions, gathering intelligence on enemy positions and movements.

Ranger Tactics

Ranger tactics are designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing Rangers to respond quickly to changing situations. Some key tactics include:

• Patrols: Rangers conduct patrols to gather intelligence, secure terrain, and conduct reconnaissance.
• Ambushes: Rangers use ambushes to attack enemy forces, using surprise and stealth to achieve their objectives.
• Raids: Rangers conduct raids on enemy positions, using speed and surprise to achieve their objectives.
• Sniper Operations: Rangers use snipers to conduct reconnaissance and provide overwatch for patrols and operations.

Ranger Equipment

Rangers use a wide range of equipment, including:

• M4 Carbine: The M4 carbine is the primary weapon used by Rangers, and is highly effective in close quarters combat.
• M249 SAW: The M249 SAW is a light machine gun used by Rangers to provide suppressive fire.
• M240 Machine Gun: The M240 machine gun is a medium machine gun used by Rangers to provide sustained fire.
• Night Vision Goggles: Rangers use night vision goggles to conduct operations at night, and to gain a tactical advantage over their enemies.

Ranger Leadership

Ranger leadership is critical to the success of Ranger missions. Ranger leaders are trained to make tough decisions quickly, and to lead by example. Some key principles of Ranger leadership include:

• Lead by Example: Ranger leaders are expected to lead by example, demonstrating the skills and values that they expect from their soldiers.
• Make Tough Decisions: Ranger leaders are trained to make tough decisions quickly, using their judgment and experience to guide their decisions.
• Take Care of Your Soldiers: Ranger leaders are responsible for the welfare and safety of their soldiers, and are expected to take care of them at all times.

In conclusion, the Army Rangers are an elite special operations force that conducts a wide range of missions, from airborne and amphibious operations to raids and reconnaissance. The Ranger Handbook provides a comprehensive guide to the principles, tactics, and techniques employed by the Army Rangers, and is an essential resource for any soldier who wants to become a Ranger. With their rich history, rigorous training, and flexible tactics, the Army Rangers are a vital part of the U.S. military, and will continue to play a critical role in defending the country and its interests.