How much does the Ranger Tab help you when getting looked at for command (FA Officers)?

CPT Michael Moffeit — Thu, 14 Feb 2019 20:32:42 -0500

Wondering from FA Officers how much a Ranger tab helps (or how much the lack of one hurts you) when getting looked at or taking Battery command. Specifically for traditionally light Divisions such as 101st and 82nd. I've heard that you will be looked down upon (however slightly) for not having a Ranger tab and it will set you behind those you're competing against for command OERs.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2019 9:37 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 09:37:27 -0500

Always think of it this way. What have you done to separate yourself from your peers? Go get your tab and that will never be a question for you. From experience, the tab doesn’t really mean much in the FA world. That being said, I never had a fso who didn’t have one. It depends on the unit and your commander if you not having one will be frowned upon. Bottom line is, if your a officer leading men, you should have a tab. No if ands or buts about it.

Response by MAJ Mark N. made Feb 15 at 2019 11:12 AM

MAJ Mark N. — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 11:12:23 -0500

From my experience, the Ranger tab can be influential for Battery Command selection in light divisions. I was able to compete and receive a Ranger slot after graduation from the FA Officers Advanced Course due to assignment to the 7th Infantry Division (Light) back in the day. Buddy of mine turned down Ranger slot. We both arrived at Fort Ord about the same time, and two command billets were opening. Because of my tab, I got a firing battery (loved it!). My slick shoulder peer got Headquarters battery (hated it, and ended up leaving the Army).
However, I found the tabe even more important after command when I was a Brigade FSO. My supporting Infantry and Cav Commanders and soldiers knew that I could understand the light tactics that make up Ranger training.

Response by COL Dana Hampton made Feb 15 at 2019 1:51 PM

COL Dana Hampton — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 13:51:35 -0500

As a former member of the 101st, it means a lot to your Infantry cohorts that their Fire Supporters have a tab. Not so much at the cannon battery level. If you are in shape and so inclined, go to Ranger School. It won’t hurt.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2019 6:21 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 18:21:22 -0500

If you get a slot to go great, do it. If not though, don't be discouraged, from what I have seen you will be judged mainly how by well you perform in your precommand jobs( BN FSO, S4, BN AS3, FDO,etc). Focus on doing well and being a team player. Also don't complain if you get put in a position that you don't really want to be in initially( i.e BN S4). Stay humble.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2019 6:58 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 18:58:41 -0500

It really doesn’t make a difference in the overall FA world. If you want to be a FSO in a ranger battalion then go do it.

Response by MSG Danny Mathers made Feb 15 at 2019 7:35 PM

MSG Danny Mathers — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 19:35:37 -0500

The Ranger Tab represents you have passed the greatest leadership challenge in the US Army.
The Ranger Course teaches the candidate the ability to leader a team that is tired, hungry and worn out to completed the Ranger Mission. You already have to have the basic skills mastered before you attend. You are taught to do patrols and OPORD the way they want you to do them. That Tabs has always been looked upon as symbol of accomplishment. Don't let anyone that has not been tabbed tell you don't need it for your MOS as long as you are combat arms. Make sure you are in top condition before attending. I saw many O-3 & E-6 get hurt in the Benning Phase. Don't quit no matter what. I had an 1LT in my squad that went through the course two time already due to injuries before he got tabbed. He was from the 82nd and told me his career was through if he did not pass. The same went for me. I would have been done in SOF. I went as a 34 yr old MSG class 10-84. It kicked my ass!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 17 at 2019 12:03 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 17 Feb 2019 00:03:20 -0500

My time in the 101st...none of my fellow FSOs in the IN BN had a Tab, but the infantry PLs did. When I moved to the FA BN, the BN CDR was tabbed, my BC was as was the other BC. If the choice is equal between you and “Steve” and “Steve”has a tab, you will not get picked for Command over Steve. Looking back, make every effort to go to Ranger School. Being cold, wet, sleepy and hungry for extended periods of time really means something in the army, if only that it shows you have a sack and you don’t quit. It doesn’t make you a better leader as I have known plenty of shit bags with Tabs, but it is what it is and the light world loves a Tab. Go get it, you won’t regret it.