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Question
I know you are a marine, so I am not sure that you will know the answer to this. I am seriously considering going into the Army under a Ranger contract, what kind of physical and mental qualifications do I need and do I need perfect 20x20 vision?
Thank you
Devin:
First, I have to try and talk you OUT of the rangers.... :) Try the Marines! Seriously, my first choice 20 odd years ago was the Rangers...but a Marine recruiter asked me why, and I said, "Because I want to be part of an elite unit". He replied, "The entire Marine Corps is an 'elite unit' son". I did some research, and was hooked....
Anyway, recruiting pitch over. To go Ranger, believe it or not, you'll just need to pass the regular physical to get in.
OK, direct from Ranger school, here is what you'll have to do next: First, you'll of course have to complete the Infantry school at Fort Benning. After that, you may move on to Airborne school (All Rangers have to be Airborne Qualified) and pass that. Then, off to ranger school: (BTW, 20/20 vision is not a requirement...)
Instead of me boring you with a bunch of 'cut and paste' stuff from the Ranger school, here is the site:
http://www.benning.army.mil/rtb/rtbmain.asp
This will give you the "skinny" on everything they expect of you. Go to the 'resources' box and click on 'Ranger School Preparation".
I'd still go Marine.....
In all seriousness, thanks in advance from us old vets for wanting to serve your country. Good luck on whatever you choose.
Semper Fi,
Sgt G
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Answers by Expert:
Jason Grabill
Expertise
Questions relating to US Marine Corps; rank, awards, uniforms, career choices. I can also help people spot and expose fakes (people pretending to be Marines or have awards they didn`t earn). Considering the Marines as a career? Or another branch, like the Air National Guard? Drop me a line. HOWever..know that I am NOT a recruiter. I can offer my expert opinion and advice, but can't (and won't) over rule what a recruiter says, they are the 'on duty' expert.
Experience
Infantry Rifleman, MOS 0311: 3 years. Marine Barracks Security (Marine Barracks, Annapolis, Maryland(not Embassy Duty): 3 years. Parachutist: MOS 9962: Got my wings in August of 1984.
Intelligence Specialist: MOS 0231 10 years working as an Intelligence Analyst with a Fixed Wing Fighter Squadron, Force Service Support Group, and at Headquarters, Marine Corps. Field Radio Operator: MOS 2531. Served as a Platoon Sergeant in a Communications Platoon assigned to MEU Service Support Group 24 (Special Operations Capable). Did a hitch in the Army reserves as an 11B (Infantryman), 3 years. Finished out my career in the Air National Guard as a BioEnvironmental Engineer MOS 4B3X1, did that for a few years.
I"ve been collecting and selling Marine Corps and other military uniforms, medals, and field gear since I was 8 years old.
Organizations
United States Marine Corps Logistical Company.
Publications
I was an Editorial writer for Marine Corps Times from 1998-2000.
Education/Credentials
Extensive library of research materials relating to uniforms, medals, and equipment of the military and the Marine Corps. 22 College credits, Community College of the Air Force. Certified Historical Interpreter.
Awards and Honors
Kosovo Campaign Medal w/1 star
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with 4 stars.
Numerous other unit awards.
I was on duty on 9/11 at HQMC, near the Pentagon, and responded to that location to try and lend a hand if needed...
Past/Present Clients
United States Marine Corps Historical Company, Guardian Security and Investigations, lead Investigator for 'Stolen Valor' cases.
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