The Appalachian Commandos are an ROTC-affiliated organization focused on small unit tactics and founded in 1971 by Ranger Hall of Fame Member- COL William Palmer.
COL Palmer would have been proud of the Ranger Course-like training the weekend of February 23-25, 2024. The Appalachian Commando Club Bivouac consisted of a 36-hour training exercise and movement of 25 miles that took them up and over Holston Mountain (2200 feet) and onto Holston Lake for a 2-mile boat infiltration and a simulated raid of an aggressor base. The patrol was challenged by wind, rain, hail, snow, freezing temperatures, and a determined opposing force. The physicality and resilience of the club's members was inspiring.
Going up the Mountain (in the fog)
Going over and down. Maintaining security the entire time.
Coordinating and bartering for the boats with role-players. Just like in Special Forces Qualification.
Setting Off
Enroute
Contested extraction
Victory Float Photo
The Unit
Four members earned the coveted Appalachian "Commando" Tab this weekend—Cadets Baukema, Swanson, Perkins, and Rundgren--- Congratulations to them and all the participants!
Commando Bivouac 2024
Commando Bivouac 2024