Ranger on target

CAMP RUDDER, Fla. -- U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Chip Lesley, 6th Ranger Training Battalion, demonstrate ambush tactics as part of an ambush demonstration team during a previous 6th RTB Ranger Open House. Visitors to the 2007 Ranger Open House will experience Ranger demonstrations and get hands-on with weapons and equipment used by the Rangers. Exhibits will include weapons, diving equipment, boats, parachutes, medical equipment and a day-in-the-life display for the Ranger training school. They also demonstrated repelling, downed pilot rescues and hand-to-hand combat demonstrations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Mike Meares)

Public invited to Ranger Open House

Published May 19, 2009
By Team Eglin Public Affairs

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- If you've ever wondered what the Army Rangers do out there in the swamp, here's your chance.

On May 30, the public is invited to the 6th Ranger Battalion Open House where they can witness an urban raid demonstration, a parachute jump, and shoot a semi-automatic rifle. These are just a few of the activities they are planning to give the public a glimpse into the life of the elite special forces soldier.

"The U.S. Army Ranger School is the Army's premier leadership school for small unit leaders," said Col. Larry Perino, 6th Ranger Training Battalion commander. "Graduates can be found across the Army in all of its combat units, both conventional and special operations. The 6th RTB runs the third, final, and most challenging phase of the Ranger Course."

The annual event kicks off with a 5K/10K run at 6:15 a.m. with proceeds benefiting the Emerald Coast Fisher House. Last year they raised more than $6,000.

For a second year, there will be a car show with an awards ceremony.

But the big draw of the event is the demonstrations by the Rangers, such as hand-to-hand combat, and the hands-on experiences for adults and kids alike. Kids can get camouflage for their faces, shoot an M4 rifle and even pet an alligator.

"I am proud of how the Ranger instructors and soldiers of this battalion conduct their jobs and contribute to the Army and our nation," said Colonel Perino.

For information and directions on the Open House and its activities, visit www.swamprangers.com.