General
Ranger Challenge Detachment
The Ranger Challenge Detachment is a close knit group of individuals who compete annually in a multi-state competition called Ranger Challenge. Cadets from over 32 schools in Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana compete to earn the annual title of Ranger Challenge Competition Winner and take home the trophy. The Ranger Challenge Detachment cadets focus heavily on physical fitness, and practice a variety of military events including rope bridge, land navigation, ruck marching, hand grenade assault course, weapons assembly/disassembly, and individual movement techniques to prepare for the annual event. They must demonstrate technical and tactical proficiency in several events to include call for fire, evaluate a casualty, apply first aid, run 5 miles in under 40 minutes, pass a PT Test scoring 80 points in each event, and successfully pass a land navigation course.
Field Training Exercises
Field training exercises occur once during the fall semester and twice during the spring semester. They provide unique challenges, camaraderie, adventure, and a break from college life. In the fall semester, cadets rappel, fly in helicopters, conduct obstacle courses, and conduct land navigation. In the spring semester, cadets learn basic rifle marksmanship, and practice small unit tactics.
Socials
Longhorn cadets take part in many social events throughout the year. Among these are cook-outs on the weekends, tail-gating parties at UT football games, and the annual Dining In and Military Ball.