Developing Combat-Ready Leaders in Air and Space Forces through Ranger Training

A Need For Strong Leaders

As the realms of Air and Space evolve, so does the need for exemplary leaders. The Ranger Assessment Course (RAC) is the crucible where Airmen and Guardians, alongside their Army counterparts, are molded into resilient and skilled leaders. Commanders and supervisors recognize the unmatched value these trained and committed individuals bring to their teams, signifying the beginning of a transformative journey through RAC.

A recent cohort of 15 Airmen, 15 Soldiers, and a singular Guardian embarked on this rigorous 19-day course, the Air Force’s adaptation of the Army’s Small Unit Ranger Tactics (SURT). This course evaluates the mental and physical mettle of those aspiring to attend the esteemed Army Ranger School, renowned as the pinnacle of combat leadership education within the Department of Defense.

Tech. Sgt. Luciano Rosano, an instructor at RAC, emphasizes the significance of the Ranger School, stating,

“Leadership is cultivated in diverse ways; some are born, others are shaped, and a few are tempered through challenges. Regardless of the outcome, every participant emerges with a transformed worldview.”

Building Skills

Throughout RAC, participants acquire a myriad of skills, including battle drills, land navigation, and small unit tactics. This comprehensive training cultivates a deep understanding of combat leadership, communication, accountability, resilience, and performance under pressure, among other essential attributes.

Gabriel Rodriguez, the program manager of the course, highlights the universal principles and core values that guide Airmen and Guardians: integrity, service, excellence, character, connection, commitment, and courage. He underscores the importance of unity and collective growth, stating,

“Regardless of the uniform, we are united in our mission to protect our nation.”

Coming Together

Participants from varied backgrounds and specialties come together to experience joint operations, thereby enhancing mutual support and understanding. For the participating Guardian, the experience provided invaluable insights into the practical application of satellite communication tools he develops, bridging the gap between design and the real needs of warfighters on the ground.

The emphasis on a resilient Joint Force aligns with the National Defense Strategy’s fourth priority, fostering relationships and unit cohesion essential for seamless collaboration. This diverse group of service members, ranging from Army infantry and Air Force medics to Space Force engineers, experienced the benefits of operating in a joint environment, gaining increased mental and physical toughness, enhanced leadership skills, and a broader knowledge of military operations.

Ruck Up

Physical training and ruck marches are integral to the RAC, preparing participants for the demanding requirements of Ranger School. Success in the initial Ranger Assessment Phase is a testament to their determination, with only a fraction progressing to the subsequent patrolling or Darby Phase.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Bryan Dabous notes the participants’ eagerness and competitive spirit, as Ranger School slots are limited for the Air and Space Forces. He emphasizes the leadership skills honed under extreme conditions, making the graduates versatile leaders capable of operating in any environment – ground, air, or space.

From the initial 31 candidates, 19 completed the RAC, with 15 achieving the standards for a recommendation to Ranger School. Over the years, more than 350 Airmen have graduated from Ranger School, contributing to the collective knowledge and leadership within their units.

Capt. Daniel Mack, a RAC instructor, elaborates on the challenging conditions faced during the course, emphasizing the importance of leading effectively under duress. The experience, whether culminating in completion or not, undeniably enhances the leadership capabilities of Airmen and Guardians.

Training Adaptable Leaders

Master Sgt. Keegan Donnelly, another RAC instructor, dispels the misconception that complete readiness is a prerequisite for attending RAC. The revised curriculum focuses on teaching, coaching, and assessing, ensuring participants return as better-trained and more adaptable leaders in joint operations.

The Air Force’s current focus on Agile Combat Employment and Multi Capable Airmen complements the diverse skills acquired through RAC and Ranger School. Gabriel Rodriguez highlights the advantages of Ranger-qualified individuals in these missions, emphasizing their discipline, motivation, and camaraderie.

The integration of joint force medics during the course exemplifies the collaboration between the Air Force and Army. Staff Sgt. Aubrey Rowe from the 15th Wing Operational Medical Readiness Squadron expresses the value of shared experiences and building trust among service members.

Commanders recognize the RAC as a vital instrument for identifying and nurturing future leaders, thereby enhancing the diversity of training and talent within their ranks. In the words of Gabriel Rodriguez, wearing the Ranger tab symbolizes a commitment to facing adversity, embodying resilience, and fostering unity – qualities that define a true leader.