Over the mountain, and onto the objective. The Appalachian Commandos spent the Valentine's Weekend training on their annual bivouac. The 26 members patrolled the east slope of Holston Mountain, contested by a determined opposing force, below freezing temperatures and a 2,000 ft elevation gain on the 13th. They rested on the ridge prior to an early morning descent to South Holston Lake. There, they maneuvered to their objective at Little Oak Mountain for a final engagement. The patrol covered 25 miles of mountainous terrain. The mission was not over upon the return to Boone. 4 members completed their qualification and earned the "Commando Tab" with a foggy ascent of Howard's Knob. Congratulations to Commandos Church, Hutchinson, Duggin and Jansen. Not for the Weak or Fainthearted.
The Club was founded in the early 1970s by Ranger Hall of Fame inductee William T. Palmer. Commando Qualification Course (CQC) Candidates are current members of the Appalachian Commando Club who are seeking to become leaders within the club. CQC candidates undergo a week of physical training events and military skills assessment while carrying a 75lb rucksack. They must pass a 5-mile run, 6 mile Ruck March, and the Ranger Course Army Physical Fitness Test. They are also tested on their leadership attributes and their ability to make decisions in stressful situations. The course culminates in a 48-hour Field Training Exercise where the candidates plan, brief and conduct missions while leading the other members of the Appalachian Commandos.
CDO 2026
CDO 2026