Can someone get a Ranger contract at enlistment? If not, what is the best route?

SSG Ken Schiffner — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 14:50:17 -0400

My question is can someone get a ranger contract at enlistment? If not, what is the best route? I got 11B at enlistment because they wouldn’t give me ranger and I thought it was a good route. I ended up in a Mech Infantry unit and the only shot I had was to re-enlist for Ranger. Are there any recruiters or rangers out there that can offer some perspective?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2019 6:41 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 18:41:02 -0400

As far as I know SSG, you can enlist with an airborne/ranger option. Which means after completing basic and OSUT/AIT you will go to RASP

Response by SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA made Oct 16 at 2019 6:42 PM

SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 18:42:39 -0400

Yes, it's called an Option 40.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Oct 16 at 2019 8:04 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 20:04:11 -0400

Look the 40 Option/Ranger Contract only gets you a shot at the RASP/school- you still have to make the cut or needs of the service. You can ask for the school at any time, just might not see the Rgt.

Response by SSG Ken Schiffner made Oct 16 at 2019 8:27 PM

SSG Ken Schiffner — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 20:27:12 -0400

Thanks guys. I’ve been out for a long time and was not a ranger so I appreciate the help

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2019 8:54 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 16 Oct 2019 20:54:23 -0400

Unfortunately, most 11Bs are just uneducated about the schools process. You could have called your branch after being on station a year and requested Ranger or you could have emailed the 75th recruiter at your first duty station if you wanted to go there and attend Ranger school through them. Your unit doesn't have to be the one who pays for Ranger school and Ranger branch is always looking for people to attend, they're always looking for SL1 and SL2 Soldiers