The SU Ranger Challenge team, named LTC William D. Swenson, recently showcased their exceptional skills and unwavering determination in a grueling 16+ hour day of intense competition. Kicking off their day with a daunting 10-mile ruck march, they demonstrated their physical endurance and mental fortitude right from the start. Following this demanding endeavor, the team faced a series of challenging events designed to assess their agility, marksmanship, teamwork, and tactical proficiency.

Throughout the day, the Ranger Challenge team tackled a variety of rigorous tasks, including navigating through an obstacle course, traversing a rope bridge, engaging in ACFT events, and demonstrating precision in weapons disassembly and reassembly. Additionally, they displayed their marksmanship prowess with both M4 and M17 stress shoots, ensuring accuracy and efficiency under pressure. With events such as TCCC, commo, a hand grenade course, and a push-pull event rounding out their schedule, the team exemplified remarkable versatility and skill across diverse military disciplines. Their exceptional performance not only highlighted their capabilities but also underscored the remarkable camaraderie and cohesion that define the Ranger Challenge team.

Who is LTC William D. Swenson?  

LTC William D. Swenson is not an alumnus of SU ROTC. He graduated in 2001 from Seattle University with a bachelor's in political science. He commissioned as an Infantry Officer where he earned his ranger tab. He earned the Medal of Honor for his actions in the Battle of Ganjgal. He repeatedly crossed open space under direct enemy fire to evacuate service members wounded by a Taliban ambush, and responded to Taliban demands for surrender by throwing a hand grenade which rallied his unit. Swenson is believed to have saved the lives of a dozen Afghans.