Rolf and I enjoyed a gorgeous Saturday up in San Luis Obispo this weekend to watch Wilson compete in this year’s Ranger Challenge. He has been a member of his ROTC battalion’s Ranger team every year since he was a freshman and it was a real treat to finally see him and his teammates in action. We did, however, stick out like sore thumbs since these are not typically spectator events buuuut…..we didn’t care! Ha Ha
Each competition course is different but all consist of several timed stations that require the team to complete a task. Yesterday’s stations were spaced along a 12 mile course that the participants marched with their 40lb rucksacks! After 6 1/2 hours of continuous competition and ruck marching, the cadets had to complete an obstacle course that included the following…
It was an impressive effort by all the cadets and Rolf and I were in awe of their determination and grit. When all was said and done the Cal Poly SLO team had home base advantage and won the competition but Wilson’s team came in 2nd place! Woo Hoo
The base we were on had a display of antique helicopters, army airplanes and trucks. Rolf and I couldn’t help but think of Rudy the entire time we were there…he would have LOVED this outing…no crowds, lots of cool vehicles to explore & room to roam and, best of all, seeing Wilson!!
He is never far from our thoughts in all that we do, that’s for sure.
Rudy's Beat 
Precious family! Trish, i loved reading this this morning. I have been praying for you and Rolf this morning. I am so glad that you took all the wonderful photos and that Lt. Doyle shared the photo of Wilson being a bad@$&. I love you and your family and i love our troops! What wonderful commitment these folks have made to prepare their lives to keep us safe and free! Can’t thank them enough!!!! Praying you have a good and that you know how much i love you!
Trish, you are one gifted Communicator who captures life with pictures and words 🙂 Thanks for doing life with all of us. Love your big sis Jeanette
Yay for Wilson! Our country is in good hands with him serving!!
What a stud-muffin that Wilson is!! How fun to be there…..and that helicopter parent picture is precious!!