PDF Summary:The Last Hill, by Bob Drury and Tom Clavin

From the rugged highlands of Scotland to the pivotal battles of World War II, The Last Hill recounts the creation and heroic actions of the elite US Army Rangers. Bob Drury and Tom Clavin detail how the Rangers' specialized training, unconventional tactics, and unwavering valor made them indispensable on missions like scaling the cliffs of Normandy on D-Day and capturing the fortified city of Brest.

Through harrowing episodes across North Africa, Italy, France, and Belgium, Drury and Clavin showcase the Rangers' steely determination and sacrifices. Their account reveals how these elite soldiers laid the groundwork for modern US special operations forces.

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• Directing artillery support required overcoming significant communication challenges, including maintaining reliable radio contact under combat conditions and accurately relaying coordinates in rapidly changing battlefield environments.
• Navy liaison officers like Major Jack Street were crucial in coordinating between naval forces and ground troops. They ensured that supplies, reinforcements, and artillery support were effectively directed to where they were most needed.
• The chaotic nature of the D-Day landings often led to units being scattered and having to regroup under difficult conditions, making the eventual unification with other forces a significant achievement.
• Friendly fire incidents can severely impact the morale of troops, as they involve casualties inflicted by their own side, leading to confusion and mistrust.

The elite Ranger units played a pivotal role in securing the vital port of Brest, overcoming intense resistance from the German forces.

The 2nd Battalion's operation against the Lochrist battery complex culminated in a decisive triumph, effectively silencing the formidable German artillery.

The Allied forces devised a plan to capture Brest harbor due to the urgent need for ports that could handle the growing number of troops, equipment, and vital supplies being delivered to France, which were essential for the ongoing push toward Germany. The writers highlight the mission's difficulty, pointing out the strength of the German defenses, which included naval artillery repurposed and housed within shelters of strengthened concrete. The elite troops played a crucial role in breaching the defenses established by the Germans, despite the lack of substantial assistance from intelligence personnel or preliminary reconnaissance. This was exemplified by the "Fabulous Four" – a four-man patrol led by Lieutenant Bob Edlin – whose daring incursion into the Lochrist battery complex resulted in the surrender of the enemy outpost and its more than eight hundred Wehrmacht prisoners.

Context

• Artillery was a dominant force on the battlefield during World War II, often determining the outcome of engagements. Silencing a battery like Lochrist would have significantly reduced the German defensive capabilities in the region.
• The artillery pieces were likely large-caliber guns capable of long-range bombardment, posing a significant threat to Allied naval and ground operations.
• Securing Brest would alleviate pressure on the existing supply routes and ports, which were overwhelmed by the volume of men and materiel needed for the continued push into France and beyond.
• The need for ports was part of the larger Operation Overlord, the code name for the Battle of Normandy, which aimed to establish a strong Allied presence in Europe and push towards Germany.
• Effective supply lines are critical in warfare, as they ensure that advancing armies have the necessary resources to continue fighting, repair equipment, and care for wounded soldiers, directly impacting the success of military campaigns.
• The defenses at Brest were part of the Atlantic Wall, a series of coastal fortifications built by Nazi Germany along the western coast of Europe to prevent an Allied invasion.
• During World War II, the use of reinforced concrete was common in military fortifications. These shelters were designed to withstand heavy bombardment and protect the artillery and personnel from aerial and ground attacks.
• The presence of elite troops often had a demoralizing effect on enemy forces, as their reputation for effectiveness and fearlessness preceded them, sometimes leading to quicker surrenders or retreats.
• The lack of intelligence and reconnaissance can lead to reliance on improvisation and adaptability in the field. Commanders and troops must make quick decisions based on real-time observations rather than pre-planned strategies.
• Lieutenant Bob Edlin was a notable figure in the U.S. Army, recognized for his leadership and tactical acumen in challenging operations.
• The success of the incursion demonstrated innovative small-unit tactics, which were essential in overcoming heavily fortified positions without the benefit of extensive reconnaissance or intelligence.
• Capturing such a large number of prisoners would have required the Allies to implement protocols for processing, securing, and eventually transporting these POWs to camps, ensuring they were treated according to the Geneva Conventions.

The Rangers exhibited remarkable resolve and creativity in the fierce urban combat necessary to take over Brest.

The initial phase of the strategic campaign to take Brest involved gaining command of the Lochrist artillery position. The Rangers' mission was to support the advancement of the 29th Division, the primary force they were assisting, by executing tactical operations north of Brest, which resulted in multiple confrontations with enemy troops and the capture of a number of prisoners. During this time, these elite soldiers exhibited an exceptional capacity to adapt to the relentless challenges of urban combat.

They quickly honed their skills to distinguish the distinctive sounds of American weaponry from those utilized by the German forces. They sharpened their skills in recognizing subtle visual cues that indicated their proximity to enemy territories and grasped the importance of employing their scouting and combat abilities. Working alongside the French underground and integrating captured Russian soldiers into their tactical plans were also crucial directives.

Context

• Urban warfare in Brest involved navigating narrow streets, fortified buildings, and civilian areas, which required specialized tactics and adaptability due to the complex environment.
• Some Russian soldiers, initially captured by Germans, were integrated into Allied efforts. Their involvement underscores the complex dynamics and shifting allegiances during the war.
• Recognizing the sound of enemy weapons allowed soldiers to identify the location and movement of opposing forces, providing a tactical advantage in planning attacks or defenses.
• The ability to recognize these cues is often a result of both rigorous training and psychological readiness, allowing soldiers to react quickly to potential dangers.
• Working with the French underground and captured Russian soldiers required the Rangers to adapt their scouting and combat strategies to incorporate diverse tactics and intelligence sources.
• The presence and assistance of the French underground boosted the morale of Allied forces, providing psychological support and a sense of solidarity in the fight against a common enemy.
• The use of captured soldiers from different nationalities required careful coordination and communication to ensure effective collaboration and prevent misunderstandings.

During the Battle of the Bulge, the Rangers conducted defensive operations that hindered the progression of German forces, suffering considerable casualties in the process but gaining crucial time.

The versatility and combat skills of the Rangers were emphasized as they were assigned to bolster the faltering American defenses.

In December 1944, the sudden counteroffensive by German troops caught the Allies off guard, leading to a conflict that became known as the Battle of the Bulge, swiftly moving across the Ardennes region. After a period of recuperation in Eupen, Belgium, the 2nd Ranger Battalion was rapidly mobilized to strengthen the defenses at the bulge's northern perimeter. Despite facing a barrage of enemy artillery and covert nighttime assaults, their expertise in small-unit tactics and adaptability to changing combat scenarios allowed them to hold their ground. The authors praise the resourcefulness of individuals like Herm Stein, who cleverly adapted stolen white linens to camouflage his unit in the snowy landscape. Despite their exhaustion, lack of proper gear for the freezing temperatures, and psychological toll from the fiercest German onslaught since the Normandy landings, the Rangers succeeded in inflicting substantial casualties on the opposing troops.

Context

• The northern perimeter of the bulge was crucial for the Allies to hold, as losing ground could have allowed German forces to advance further into Belgium and potentially alter the course of the war.
• The 2nd Ranger Battalion was an elite American light infantry unit known for its specialized training in assault and reconnaissance missions, often operating behind enemy lines.
• Small-unit tactics refer to the strategies and maneuvers used by military units typically smaller than a company, such as squads or platoons, to achieve objectives. These tactics emphasize flexibility, speed, and the ability to operate independently or semi-independently.
• Their historical role has often involved unconventional warfare, requiring them to innovate and improvise in the face of unexpected challenges.
• Effective camouflage not only provides a physical advantage but also a psychological one, as it can increase a unit's confidence and reduce the likelihood of detection by the enemy.
• The German forces used surprise and speed, including infiltration tactics and the use of English-speaking troops in American uniforms to sow confusion behind Allied lines.
• The battle occurred during one of the coldest winters in Europe, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures, which added to the difficulty of combat operations and troop survival.
• The ability of the Rangers to inflict casualties despite adverse conditions had a demoralizing effect on German troops, who were already stretched thin and facing supply issues.
• At the time of the attack, many Allied units were spread thin, with some divisions resting and refitting after previous engagements, leaving the front lines vulnerable.
• The rapid movement of German forces through the Ardennes initially created chaos and disarray among the Allied troops, leading to a significant reorganization of their defensive strategies.
• Eupen is located near the German border, making it a strategic location for the Allies to regroup and prepare for further operations during World War II.
• In contrast, German troops were often better prepared for winter conditions, having learned from previous campaigns on the Eastern Front, which gave them a temporary advantage in the initial stages of the offensive.
• The German offensive was a last-ditch effort by Hitler to turn the tide of the war in Germany's favor. The high stakes and intensity of the battle added to the psychological pressure on Allied troops to hold their ground.
• The Ardennes was considered a quiet sector, with dense forests and rough terrain, making it an unlikely choice for a major offensive, which added to the surprise.
• The rapid German advance initially overwhelmed some American units, leading to significant retreats and the encirclement of towns like Bastogne, which became a focal point of the battle.
• It was one of the largest and bloodiest battles fought by the United States during World War II, involving over 600,000 American troops and resulting in approximately 89,000 American casualties, including 19,000 killed.

Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, the Rangers were able to cause a significantly higher number of German losses than anticipated.

The authors credit the unwavering resolve of the elite troops in a critical World War II conflict to several elements, such as the deep bonds formed during rigorous training that fostered an intense loyalty to their comrades, coupled with confidence in their abilities and their adaptability to apply their combat skills to new and challenging situations. Their unwavering resolve set them apart most notably. Occasionally, they received strategic orders that, when viewed in the best possible context, still appeared perplexing regarding their usefulness. During a severe blizzard, the Rangers stationed in Simmerath were commanded to dig out defensive spots vulnerable to the harsh weather, and at times, their responsibilities included delivering suppressive fire from ranges beyond their usual engagement distances. Despite facing numerous obstacles, they maintained their position. They steadfastly held their ground at the northern boundary of the Bulge, affording the Allied forces crucial time to mount a counterattack that effectively thwarted Hitler's Operation Wacht am Rhein, which was designed to split American and British forces and bring the war to an end.

Context

• The military culture of the time placed a high value on camaraderie and loyalty, which was reinforced through both formal training and informal interactions among troops.
• Effective leadership within the Rangers encouraged quick decision-making and adaptability, allowing them to respond efficiently to unexpected challenges.
• Some orders might be designed to confuse or mislead the enemy, contributing to their perplexing nature. This could involve maneuvers that seem illogical but serve a larger strategic deception.
• The task of digging in during a blizzard would have tested the Rangers' morale and resilience. Successfully completing such tasks under adverse conditions would have reinforced their confidence and camaraderie.
• Firing at longer distances can be complicated by factors such as wind, bullet drop, and reduced visibility, which require soldiers to have advanced marksmanship skills and possibly use different weaponry or optics.
• This was a major German offensive campaign launched through the densely forested Ardennes region of Wallonia in Belgium, France, and Luxembourg during World War II. It took place from December 16, 1944, to January 25, 1945.
• The goal of Operation Wacht am Rhein was to split the Allied forces by driving a wedge between the American and British armies, capturing the vital Belgian port of Antwerp, and forcing a negotiated peace on the Western Front.

Rangers faced a resolute enemy in challenging landscapes, withstanding intense skirmishes.

The quartet, known as the "Fabulous Four," executed daring espionage missions deep in the heart of enemy lines within the Hürtgen Forest.

The Ranger contingents earned recognition for their outstanding covert operations, accuracy in marksmanship, and innovative strategies.

When the 2nd Ranger Battalion reached the Hürtgen Forest in November 1944, they were tasked with a succession of demanding and hazardous reconnaissance operations, as documented by Drury and Clavin. The soldiers encountered a daunting challenge within the dense woods, filled with hidden German defenses and littered with bombs, a test comparable to their earlier daunting ordeal during the assault on a steep cliff on the Normandy coast. The thick vegetation, along with the autumn's regular heavy rains, frequently hindered the efficiency of U.S. artillery support and sometimes even resulted in accidental harm. The challenging landscape required the Rangers to utilize their skills in surveillance and terrain orientation acquired before the war, since the sodden paths were impassable for vehicles.

The authors stress the importance of swift movement and confidentiality in executing the reconnaissance missions. The authors emphasize the remarkable proficiency of small groups of Rangers as they navigated the hazardous forest landscape, evading enemy detection and adeptly orchestrating ambushes. The Rangers sharpened their abilities to discern subtle signs of adversary movements and to catch snippets of conversations in German, utilizing the knowledge they had gained prior to joining the armed forces as their key strengths.

Context

• Covert operations typically involve secretive and strategic maneuvers intended to gather intelligence or disrupt enemy activities without being detected.
• Rangers were typically equipped with rifles such as the M1 Garand, known for its accuracy and reliability. The use of such advanced weaponry for the time contributed to their effectiveness in combat.
• The innovative strategies included using natural cover for concealment and employing silent communication methods to maintain stealth during operations.
• The Allies aimed to capture the forest to secure the right flank of the Allied advance into Germany and to prevent German counterattacks from the area.
• The region experienced heavy rainfall during the autumn of 1944, which turned paths into mud, further complicating movement and making it difficult for vehicles and artillery to maneuver effectively.
• At the time, advanced navigation tools like GPS were unavailable, so soldiers relied heavily on natural navigation skills and map reading.
• The emphasis on swift movement and confidentiality is part of broader military strategies that prioritize surprise and the element of unpredictability to gain an advantage over the enemy.
• Familiarity with German customs and behaviors could help Rangers interpret non-verbal cues and environmental signs that might indicate enemy activity.
• Rangers with backgrounds in mechanics or engineering could apply their technical knowledge to maintain equipment and innovate solutions in the field.

The intelligence-gathering teams were crucial in both acquiring vital information and impeding the progression of German troops, despite incurring considerable casualties.

The book details Lieutenant Ike Eikner's leadership of a reconnaissance squad, drawing on his past experience as a telephone lineman, to successfully uncover and destroy a hidden Wehrmacht command post. The patrol led by "Fool Lieutenant" Bob Edlin, who sharpened his tracking abilities in the wooded plains of Indiana prior to the outbreak of war, demonstrated the value of skills acquired during peacetime by skillfully navigating the treacherous mine-laden terrain to take over a German defensive fortification in the Hürtgen Forest. The authors explore the harsh truths encountered during reconnaissance missions. Lieutenant Robert Meltzer and two fellow soldiers, recently assigned to Able Company, lost their lives in a sudden attack. During a reconnaissance operation, medic Frank South was filled with despair as he witnessed the lead Ranger suffer a devastating spinal injury from the detonation of a "Bouncing Betty" land mine.

Context

• Intelligence-gathering was a critical component of military strategy during World War II, providing commanders with the information needed to make informed decisions about troop movements and attacks.
• The Wehrmacht was the unified armed forces of Nazi Germany from 1935 to 1945, consisting of the army, navy, and air force. Command posts were critical for coordinating military operations and communication.
• The battle in the Hürtgen Forest was known for its psychological toll on soldiers due to the harsh conditions, high casualties, and the constant threat of hidden mines and ambushes.
• Peacetime skills often foster resourcefulness, enabling soldiers to make the most of limited resources and devise innovative solutions during missions.
• These were a type of German S-mine that would launch into the air before exploding, causing severe injuries or fatalities, and were a significant threat in the forested areas.
• These missions involved gathering intelligence on enemy positions and movements, often requiring soldiers to navigate dangerous and unfamiliar terrain, increasing the risk of encountering mines and ambushes.

The troops from the Ranger units displayed exceptional courage and skilled command in the face of the rigorous challenges presented by combat.

Len Lomell and L-Rod Petty exhibited remarkable courage and determination in the face of the severe challenges presented by warfare.

Drury and Clavin emphasize the courageous actions undertaken by the Rangers in a range of combat scenarios, with the fierce battle for Hill 400 emerging as the 2nd Battalion's most notable confrontation in the Hürtgen Forest. The authors emphasize the critical contributions of two lieutenants who, even while gravely wounded, were instrumental in restructuring their reduced ranks and obtaining additional artillery backup while the Germans launched a series of intense counterattacks aimed at reclaiming the high ground. The narrative also recounts the extraordinary courage and altruism of L-Rod Petty, the platoon sergeant from Fox Company, who made a valiant effort to rescue a wounded comrade from the Rangers, a deed that sadly concluded with his own life being claimed by enemy gunfire. The book details Petty's psychological collapse and his subsequent return to active combat duty.

Practical Tips

• Create a "Courage Circle" with friends or colleagues where you meet regularly to share experiences and encourage each other to take on challenges. This peer support system can provide motivation and accountability, making it easier to maintain courage and determination in the face of adversity.
• Create a virtual simulation of a historical battle using free or low-cost game development software like Unity or Unreal Engine 4. By constructing the environment and scenarios, you'll gain insights into the strategic and tactical decisions made during combat. This doesn't require advanced skills; many platforms offer beginner-friendly tutorials to help you get started.
• You can enhance your problem-solving skills by practicing in high-pressure simulations. Create a game scenario where you must achieve a goal while facing unexpected challenges, such as limited resources or time constraints. This mimics the lieutenants' experience and trains you to think strategically under pressure.
• Start a journal to record instances where you or others had to "reclaim high ground" in discussions or debates. Reflect on these situations to identify patterns and strategies that led to successful outcomes. This practice can enhance your ability to navigate conflicts and stand your ground during critical moments.
• Start a small personal challenge to perform random acts of kindness daily. This could be as simple as paying for someone's coffee, offering your seat on public transport, or helping a neighbor with their groceries. The key is to look for opportunities to help others without seeking recognition, thereby cultivating a habit of altruism.
• Reflect on personal values by writing a "Values in Action" journal entry each night, focusing on the day's decisions and how they align with your core beliefs. This practice encourages you to consciously consider the impact of your actions on yourself and others, fostering a habit of intentional living. For example, if you chose to help a colleague at work despite being busy, note how this reflects your value of teamwork or community.
• Create a support network by reaching out to friends or joining a community group that focuses on recovery and growth. Engage with this network regularly to share experiences and gain insights from others who have faced and overcome personal difficulties. This could be a local sports team, a book club, or an online forum dedicated to personal development.

Rangers like Herm Stein and Doc Block risked their lives to tend to the wounded and uphold the unit's ethos of never leaving a man behind

The book also emphasizes the courage of individuals such as Sergeant Herm Stein, who consistently initiated attacks on enemy strongholds despite confronting the harsh realities of combat, and the battalion's lead medic, Captain Walter "Doc" Block, who braved intense shelling to deliver critical medical assistance to the wounded members of the Ranger unit in Bergstein. Block's tragic end, caused by a mortar shell just after he had assisted an adversary during the defense of the village, underscored the creed of the Rangers, which emphasizes impartial assistance, whether to friend or foe.

Practical Tips

• Create a personal emergency response kit for your home and vehicle. Stock it with essential medical supplies, such as bandages, antiseptics, and over-the-counter medications. This way, you're equipped to handle minor injuries for yourself, your family, or others in need, mirroring the readiness to deliver medical assistance when required.
• Implement a "help one, help all" policy in your daily interactions, offering the same level of assistance to everyone. Whether it's at work, among friends, or with strangers, make a conscious effort to extend your help equally. For example, if you're known for giving great advice to your friends, offer that same level of thoughtful guidance to your colleagues or acquaintances who might benefit from it.

The Ranger battalions have had a significant impact on the development of special operations forces.

The Ranger battalion played a pivotal role in formulating the strategies, methods, and protocols that laid the foundation for modern special operations in the American military forces.

The effectiveness of the Rangers in carrying out daring missions emphasized the significance of having specialized teams with thorough training.

Drury and Clavin bolster the main contention of their work by highlighting how conventional military leaders frequently underestimated the importance of deploying units with unique expertise, such as certain elite Ranger battalions. The choice to reroute the backup forces that were originally slated to support the Rangers at Pointe du Hoc serves as a distinct illustration of this. Spanning the distance from Hoc to the coastal edges of Normandy. Upon securing Brest, the Rangers received a series of new assignments. The accomplishment of the

Context

• The new assignments were part of the larger Allied strategy to liberate occupied Europe, which involved coordinated efforts across multiple fronts and units.

Other Perspectives

• Elite units like the Rangers are often more expensive to train and maintain, and military leaders must balance the cost against the expected benefits, which might lead to their underutilization in some scenarios.
• The effectiveness of the Rangers could have been recognized, but logistical constraints might have necessitated the redirection of the backup forces.
• The focus on the distance covered may overshadow other crucial factors that contribute to mission success, such as intelligence gathering, strategic planning, and logistical support.

The ordeal faced by the Ranger squad emphasized the need to improve the incorporation and employment of special operations units into the wider military structure.

The Rangers' remarkable accomplishments, such as their daring seizure of the Lochrist battery complex near Brest and their impressive victory at Hill 400, made a lasting impression on the American military, even though they suffered significant losses. The authors underscore the importance of specialized units, pointing out that groups like the Rangers have a profound impact on critical missions and integrate seamlessly into conventional warfare situations. The authors propose that the extraordinary accomplishments of these highly skilled squads went mostly unnoticed in the official military documentation of the European hostilities for a considerable time after the war, possibly intensified by the deep-seated bitterness and jealousy of senior officers who were not involved in the fighting.

Other Perspectives

• The ordeal faced by the Ranger squad may not necessarily indicate a systemic issue with military integration but could be an isolated incident related to specific operational challenges or failures in command and control.
• The lasting impact on the American military might also be attributed to broader strategic and tactical evolutions during the war, rather than the specific accomplishments of the Rangers.
• The use of specialized units can sometimes lead to an over-reliance on their capabilities, potentially neglecting the development and integration of similar competencies within conventional units.
• The delay in recognition could be attributed to the time needed to fully assess and understand the contributions of these units within the context of complex military campaigns.
• The perception of bitterness and jealousy among senior officers might be an oversimplification of the nuanced and multifaceted relationships between different branches and units within the military.

The valiant actions and significant achievements of the Ranger battalion during World War II cemented their enduring legacy and led to the creation of more Ranger units.

The 2nd Ranger Battalion's crucial role and deep sacrifices were instrumental in securing the Allies' victory in Europe.

The numerous accolades bestowed upon the 2nd Ranger Battalion stand as a testament to their courage and skillfulness. The unit received numerous commendations, with members earning eighteen Distinguished Service Crosses, seventy-three Silver Stars, sixty-four Bronze Stars, two British Military Medals, and an astonishing tally of 542 Purple Hearts. The unit was awarded a Presidential Unit Citation for its courageous actions during the Normandy landings. The unit's exceptional dedication and the significant hardships they have faced are underscored by the honor they received. The authors express regret that the battalion's commendable actions on Hill 400 and in the vicinity of Bergstein in early December 1944 did not earn them a second Presidential Unit Citation, as the application for the award was, for reasons unknown, turned down.

Context

• The Presidential Unit Citation is a prestigious award given to units for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy, highlighting the exceptional nature of the battalion's contributions during the war.
• The Silver Star is the third-highest military combat decoration that can be awarded to a member of the United States Armed Forces for valor in the face of the enemy.
• Also known as D-Day, this was a pivotal operation during World War II on June 6, 1944, where Allied forces launched a massive amphibious invasion on the beaches of Normandy, France, marking the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany.
• The high number of Purple Hearts indicates the severe injuries and losses they sustained, reflecting the dangerous nature of their missions.
• The reasons for the denial of the second citation remain unclear, but such decisions can be influenced by various factors, including bureaucratic challenges, oversight, or differing assessments of the operation's impact.

The traditions and esteemed practices that honor the legacy of their World War II predecessors are diligently maintained by the 75th Ranger Regiment.

The authors trace the emergence of today's premier U.S. military units to the World War II Rangers, underscoring their crucial connection with the establishment of the 75th Ranger Regiment. After hostilities ended, numerous veterans from the 2nd and 5th Battalions continued their service in the military throughout the Korean War, even though their original units had been disbanded. The experience they gained through their European military operations, however, formed the foundation for future combat encounters. Even after a hiatus of over two decades post-World War II, during which time Ranger units were officially inactive until their reestablishment in 1974, the legacy of the World War II Rangers persisted, providing a crucial base for the development of the current premier military units in the United States Army.

Other Perspectives

• Honoring the legacy of World War II predecessors is important, but it is also crucial to adapt to contemporary ethical standards and rules of engagement that may differ from those of the past.
• The influence of international special operations forces and cross-training with allies may have played a significant role in shaping today's U.S. military units, indicating a more global and collaborative influence on their development.
• The integration of new technologies, such as cyber warfare, unmanned systems, and artificial intelligence, suggests that the foundation for future combat encounters is broader than the experiences of past veterans and includes technological innovation and adaptation.
• The focus on official inactivity may understate the role of institutional memory and the informal passing down of Ranger traditions and practices within the Army, which could have contributed to the preservation of the Ranger legacy even without an official unit designation.