By Derek LaChance, contributing writer
The Jaguar Battalion recently competed in the annual Ranger Challenge competition, a test of leadership, endurance, and skill for cadets in the Army’s ROTC programs, and placed third in their division—becoming the second Augusta State University team in 11 years to take top honors.
The event, held at Fort Benning, Ga., placed 42 teams of 10 cadets from each battalion in competition that included the Army physical fitness test, written patrolling exam, height and water confidence course, one-rope bridge event, obstacle course, land navigation, weapons assembly and disassembly, rifle marksmanship, and a 10K ruck sack march. The Jaguar Battalion team competed against nine other teams in the “gold” division in 10 events. “Cadets were called on to display their tactical skills, physical endurance, and determination,” says Derek LaChance, a cadet competing in the Challenge.
The Jaguar Battalion team successfully completed all of the events, finishing second in five of the events in their division. The Jaguars finished second out of 42 teams at the competition in land navigation. “Throughout the final ruck sack march, there was exhaustion and determination as well as leadership and excellence necessary to becoming Army officers,” says Cadet LaChance.
The 2008 Ranger Challenge not only allows cadets to compete against those from rival institutions, says LaChance, it shows the strength and determination of the Army’s future leaders. “The significance of the competition was not in determining the best team; it was in proving to young leaders that there is no obstacle that cannot be overcome. In realizing the great accomplishments of the Jaguar Battalion Ranger Challenge team, the great work and dedication it takes for cadets to become effective leaders in the United States Army was exhibited throughout the competition,” he says.
This year’s Ranger Challenge participants were Samuel Brown, Richard Bice, Matthew Vanderlugt, Derek LaChance, Justin Jay, Phillip Dandridge, Evan Scureman, Brandon Bozant, Alex Haskins, and Tobhiyah Forbes.
Nov 22, 2008
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