How hard is it to become an army ranger?

The second phase, or the "Mountain Phase," is conducted in Dahlonega, Georgia, in the Appalachian Mountains. The third phase, or "Swamp Phase," is conducted in the Florida panhandle at Eglin Airforce base.

Ranger School is arguably the most difficult training course the Army has to offer. The combination of academic stress, from the requirement to pass leadership practical tests, the strenuous physical demands of the training, and the grueling lack of food and sleep, the course is truly a "beast."

Following the completion of Ranger School, a student will usually find himself in very poor physical condition. Ranger School's toll is equivalent to years of natural aging. High levels of stress, sleep deprivation, and undernourishment, along with continual physical strain, take a tremendous toll on the mind and body.

Ranger School creates a stressful environment using three primary techniques.

• Academic Stress. The course is demanding academically. participants are evaluated constantly, both while serving in positions of responsibility and authority (as patrol leaders or assistant patrol leaders), and while participating in non-leadership roles.

• Sleep Deprivation. During patrols, Ranger School participants get very little sleep. Sleep is strictly controlled by Ranger Instructors and it is common for students to get less than three hours of sleep per day during patrols.

• Food Deprivation. While in garrison, students are given routine meals, but are forced to eat very quickly and without talking. While on patrol, students are given two MRE meals (approximately 2,200 calories). While 2,200 calories may sound like plenty, the Army estimates that Ranger students are expending between 6,500 and 9,000 calories per day (driven by exertion, stress, temperature, etc.).