UMBC Army ROTC Cadets Excel at 2024 Ranger Challenge Competition
The 2024 Ranger Challenge Competition brought another proud moment for UMBC Cadets, who demonstrated their exceptional skills, teamwork, and resilience as part of the Blue Jay Battalion’s Ranger Challenge (RC) team. Competing at Fort Barfoot, Virginia, the team rucked over 16 miles and shone across multiple events, earning prestigious accolades for their efforts.
Teamwork Across Universities
The Blue Jay Battalion, composed of Cadets from UMBC, Johns Hopkins University, and other regional schools, displayed remarkable collaboration. With UMBC Cadets making up a significant portion of the team, their contributions were vital to the Battalion’s success. Cadets Christopher Atkinson, Alok Barua, Jacob Bland, Gabe Clark, Alex Gudat, Mohamed Fall, Chunli Cong, Spenser Harrison, Chase Ohm, and Tyler Snow represented UMBC with distinction, working alongside peers from other schools to achieve these impressive results.
Major Achievements
- 1st Place in Reconnaissance Event: The team excelled in this highly tactical test of precision and strategy.
- 3rd Place in Humvee Push Event: Their strength and coordination stood out during this physically demanding challenge.
- Two Guidon Streamers: For the first time in over six years, the team earned these coveted honors, symbolizing their hard work and accomplishments.
The competition included rigorous events such as Tactical Casualty Combat Care (TCCC), Grenade Assault Course, Functional Fitness, Weapons Assembly, and a grueling six-mile ruck march that tested both endurance and mental toughness.
Cadets showcasing their strength during the Humvee Push event.
Blue Jay Battalion Cadets tackling the 6-mile ruck march at Fort Barfoot.
Stories of Dedication
Cadet Mohamed Fall (UMBC), a junior and three-year RC team member, described his experience as a journey of growth. He emphasized the challenges of intense physical training, including pushing through painful leg cramps during the ruck march, and credited his teammates’ support for his success. Fall called on fellow Cadets to join the RC team, saying it’s a life-changing experience and an unparalleled opportunity to develop leadership skills and camaraderie.
Cadet Mohamed Fall tackling an obstacle during the competition.
Cadet Chris Atkinson (UMBC), the RC team captain and senior, reflected on his four years with the team, celebrating this year’s success as a milestone for the program. “Earning the first streamers in six years was a testament to our perseverance and teamwork,” Atkinson said, highlighting the transformative impact of the RC experience.
Cadet Atkinson leading the team
Building the Future
Through intense training, hands-on experiences, and shared challenges, the UMBC Cadets in the Ranger Challenge program continue to build a legacy of excellence. The teamwork, grit, and leadership they demonstrate inspire others to strive for greatness in future competitions.
The Blue Jay Battalion — and UMBC Cadets in particular — have every reason to celebrate their hard-earned accomplishments. The Guidon streamers, the pride of victory, and the lessons learned along the way mark the 2024 Ranger Challenge as a defining chapter in their ROTC journey.
UMBC Cadets celebrating their success at the awards ceremony.