Programs > Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation > Courses
last updated:9/2/03
Commando Couse (OE4)

Duration: 9 Weeks

Purpose: This course is designed to train officers and noncommissioned officers in the leadership skills required to lead units in high stress environments characteristic of small unit operations.

Scope: Training is oriented towards realistic and strenuous field operations. Students develop leadership skills through performance as patrol leaders and are subjected to stressful conditions simulating combat where they learn to operate in difficult terrain, over extended distances, with minimal sleep and under constant enemy harassment. Training consists of 3 phases over wooded, mountainous, and swampy terrain. Specialized training includes advanced mountaineering techniques; improvised demolition; waterborne, airborne, and air assault operations; and patrolling operations. All instruction is taught at U.S. Army Ranger training sites in accordance with U.S. doctrine. The course is rank immaterial.

Subjects:

  • Benning Phase: To prepare students to function as members/leaders of a patrol. Students will receive training in physical fitness, combat lifesaver, land navigation, communications, weapons, fire support, movement techniques, airborne operations, patrol operations, leadership, and demolition. Additionally, students will acquire the ability to train small units, and plan for and lead small unit operations on independent dismounted, airborne or air assault operations against an enemy in rolling, wooded terrain.
  • Mountain Phase: To develop the student's ability to train small units, and to plan for and lead small unit operations on independent dismounted, airborne, or air assault operations against an enemy in mountainous terrain.
  • Florida Phase: To develop the student's ability to train small units, and to plan for and lead small unit operations on independent dismounted, airborne, or air assault operations against an enemy in swampy, tropical terrain.
  • Human Rights Awareness Training: To introduce students to human rights issues which affect military operations.
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    (Copied from School of the Americas website, February 1998.)

    Commando Couse (OE4)

     

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