Sappers sharpen skills at ‘Outlaw Challenge’

By 1st Lt. Logan Phillips
102nd Sapper Co. PAO

February 2, 2012

	Photo courtesy of 102nd Sapper Co. The “Outlaws” of the 102nd Sapper Company, 307th Engineer Battalion conduct a timed 400-meter swim as part of the 48-hour, no sleep competition.

“I will always endeavor to complete my sapper mission.”

This excerpt from the sapper creed rings especially true for the paratroopers of the 102nd Sapper Company, 307th Engineer Battalion (Combat).

In preparation for their upcoming deployment to Afghanistan this summer, the commander of the 102nd “Outlaws,” Capt. Kenneth D.A. Cook puts his troops to the test with the Best Outlaw Challenge.
“I know my men are tactically and technically proficient,” said Cook. “But an assessment has always been a great tool to relay my thoughts to these hard chargers on how much I know that they are capable of performing while under extreme physical and mental stress.”

Recently, the 307th began the Performance Resilience Enhancement Program; the same program used by Special Forces and Navy SEALS.

This specialized training focuses on attention control, goal setting and mental flexibility.

With this new skill set, the Outlaws concocted a grueling 48-hour, no-rest, squad-level competition.

On the morning of Jan. 18, the competition kicked off with a modified physical fitness test in full Army combat uniforms. The day continued with a 400 meter swim with poncho raft, an airborne assault into Normandy Drop Zone and a night land navigation test.

The Outlaws then traversed five, 3-hour tactical lanes: one rope bridge, a battle field obstacle course, react to contact and helicopter landing zone set up for a down pilot scenario, demolitions and area search.

The competition culminated with a timed, uphill, 12k, 45-pound ruck march.

Not surprisingly, all five squads completed this exceptionally grueling, team-building competition with everyone crossing the finish line in record times.

“As always, I am impressed with these warriors,” said Cook as the competition drew to a close. “These men have will power to overcome any challenge and I’m proud to be their commander.”

After some much deserved rest, the Outlaws will continue to sharpen their swords while acquiring new methods to prepare for what lies ahead.

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