Pre-Ranger, for me, was the best way for me to evaluate myself and truly know where I stand. I was able to identify my deficiencies. I took everything I learned seriously and executed all the tasks to the best of my ability. I was always highly motivated and did my best not to bitch. Everyone at some point had sand in their vagina – the difference was whether or not we cried about it.
I wasn’t the most tactically proficient wanker of the bunch, but I never used that as an excuse. I did my part: I followed when not in charge and did what I was taught when I was in charge. I always helped out when I could, never complained about a task given to me from my peers and I kept my fucking nose in the RH. In retrospect, I realized I wasn’t nearly as ready as I hoped. Not by a long shot. I failed the RPFT and came up shorter on the retake. I found myself 1 PU short, 1 minute too slow and 2 chin ups away. I no-go’d my patrol and I volunteered for the second one so I could continue to practice. Lastly, I barely “passed” my peer evals. My SQD was comprised of half being from the same LRS unit and with some squared away Ranger buddies. But, that’s no fucking excuse. I should have done better. I will do better.
On a good note, I had no issues with the CWST, I was 4/5 for each of the three days of land nav, I passed the 2-mile buddy run, can rock a WARNO/OPORD and I learned more in 2 weeks then I have in the past 2 years. I also found myself being pushed during the O course harder than ever before. While other SQD’s were “running in place” between obstacles, my SQD was executing fast and furious tactical movements. The O course became so much more. It was about being able to compose and maintain under physical and mental stress rather than can I climb a fucking wall and jog to the next. It was about being able to fight on tired, beat and broke down. I no longer had a fear of heights or a fear of not completing the tasks. All I cared about was: I NEED TO GET TO COMPLETE THIS OBSTACLE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE FOR THE SAKE OF THE RANGER ON THE OTHER SIDE. Kilted Heathen, that day made me realize that I can do anything and I have since wiped out that “doubt” from my mind. Sergeant, you brought a brand-new SQD “together” in a matter of minutes and we ended up actually being in the final SQDs together. Madness or method?
![Twisted Evil :twisted:](./images/smilies/o_icon_twisted.gif)
Lessons learned: ALWAYS remain tactical. ALWAYS do your part and more. NEVER quit; no matter how bad you might think it is, it can be so much worse. Don’t bitch about little shit like no sleep and pulling FG. Suck it up and stay motivated.