Introduction

[Copperhead]

Hello Rangers and Veterans,

My name is Caleb. I am a high school senior currently seeking an 11x Option 40 contract. I have been lurking here for several years and decided to register after my initial trip to MEPS (explained below).

Background:

I have wanted to join the military in some fashion since early middle school. However, I was overweight (5’11 and 225 lbs.). My belief was that an elite unit like the Rangers was out of my grasp. I could not perform a proper pushup, only a couple sit-ups, and my run time would have been very embarrassing. I knew wearing a Ranger Scroll was my dream though, so I readjusted my attitude and dedicated myself to preparing to enlist with an Option 40 contract. After losing 65 lbs (I’m currently 5’11 and 159 lbs.) and working out regularly, my general fitness, PT scores, and confidence skyrocketed.
It took a lot from me to lose that weight and get in shape. I stayed motivated and proved to myself I wasn’t a loser. I will not fail myself at RIP; I have come too far and trained too hard.
Scholastically, I have done well. During my high school years, I have taken honors classes and have maintained a 4.0 GPA. My ASVAB score is 95.
My extracurricular hobbies now include hiking, trail running, and road biking.

Motivation:

My struggle to get in shape for RIP is a major motivator for me. RIP will be a huge challenge; it’s something I look forward to proving I can complete.
I can think of no greater satisfaction in life than to serve with the Ranger Regiment. My father is involved with disaster relief and aid. I have traveled to various countries that are in ruins due to corrupt governments because of this. For example, I was in the former USSR when communism fell. I want to serve to protect America and her allies from these people.

PT:

Pushups: About 55 (form per FM 21-20)
Sit-ups: 76
2-mile run: Sub-12:00
Pull-ups: About 11

I have played soccer most of my life and run cross country/track. This has led me to build up a good amount of endurance (regularly completing runs in excess of 10 miles). However, my upper body is not where it needs to be. I am currently rehabbing from a shoulder injury, but will hit the pushups hard after I recover. This is why my pushup and pull-up scores are approximate.

Challenges:

I was diagnosed with allergic rhinitis years ago. This forced me to apply for a medical waiver to enlist. After going to MEPS twice, my waiver was returned without action. The doctors decided to send me to a specialist next week. Hopefully, he/she will clear me and I will be able to secure my Option 40 without further delay. I will ship with nothing else.

Thank you Rangers and Veterans,

-Caleb

[RTO]

Solid intro. For what it's worth, I think you have what it takes to make it. I wish you well and thanks for your desire to serve with the best.

[Jim]

Good intro. You should be able to get a waiver based on the evaluation. Never, never quit.

[42L5V]

Welcome.

[Ranger Ron]

Welcome!

[Rico]

Welcome, and good luck. You've come to the right place.

Please give us updates as to the status of your appt. and your waiver.

[Copperhead]

Rangers and Veterans,

Today was my medical consult with the Ear, Nose, and Throat doctor. After examining me, he mentioned he was surprised MEPS sent me on a consult. Hopefully, in no more than two weeks his recommendation for the allergic rhinitis waiver will be accepted. That should clear me to sign an Option 40 when one becomes available.

Thank you Rangers and Veterans,

-Caleb

[Ranger Bill]

Welcome. Congratulations for the tremendous progress you have made in physical fitness and thank you for your desire to become an Army Ranger. From your last post it seems you will be good to go.

[Rico]

As soon as you know for sure, please keep us posted.

Meahwhile, keep on your PT. If/when you get your opt 40 contract, you might want to look in to getting a mentor. Check out the mentoring zone for details.

[Chiron]

Welcome and good luck.

[Deadpool]

Stick with it, kid. Welcome to the site.

[rgrpuck]

Welcome

[Earthpig]

Great news! Keep up the good work, and work on those run times. I'm kidding....we haven't seen a DEP with sub 12's in awhile. I think the norm lately has been in the 16's.

RLTW
EP