Following the physical assessment, students face the Combat Water Survival Assessment (CWSA). This test evaluates a student's ability to overcome fear of heights and water by performing tasks such as a log walk, rope drop, and equipment removal underwater. Land navigation is another critical gate during RAP week. Students must successfully navigate terrain during both day and night hours using only a compass, protractor, and map. The assessment phase culminates in a timed 12-mile foot march carrying a full combat load, which must be completed within a strict time limit. ## The Darby Queen Obstacle Course A signature element of the 4th RTB phase is the Darby Queen obstacle course. Stretching over a mile through the Georgia woods, the course features 26 demanding obstacles. These obstacles require climbing, crawling, balancing, and swinging at significant heights.
The Darby Queen is designed to test physical strength, coordination, and mental stamina when students are already fatigued. Instructors grade students on their ability to safely and successfully negotiate each obstacle within the designated time frame. ## Squad-Level Patrol Operations Once students pass RAP week, they transition to Camp Darby to begin the tactical portion of the phase. This segment focuses on squad-level operations and troop-leading procedures (TLPs). Students receive instruction on planning, preparing, and executing squad combat patrols. The curriculum covers basic infantry skills, including:
* Reconnaissance patrols * Ambush missions * Squad movement techniques * Battle drills During field training exercises, students are placed into leadership positions such as Squad Leader or Team Leader. Ranger Instructors (RIs) evaluate their ability to command peers, make decisions under pressure, and execute tactical plans while facing sleep deprivation and caloric restriction. ## Peer Evaluations and Grading Survival in the 4th RTB phase depends on more than just tactical proficiency. Students are graded using a multi-faceted system that includes peer evaluations.
At the end of the phase, students rate their squad members on leadership, teamwork, and effort. Those who rank consistently at the bottom of their squad's peer evaluations face disqualification or recycling. Additionally, students must receive a passing grade on their tactical leadership evaluations. A student who fails to meet the standard in their graded leadership roles, or who accumulates too many minor infractions (known as "spot reports"), will be recycled to attempt the phase again with a subsequent class, or dropped from the course entirely. ## Key Preparation Strategies Success during the 4th RTB phase requires preparation long before arriving at Fort Moore. Candidates should focus on physical conditioning that emphasizes core strength, endurance, and load-bearing capacity.
Mastering land navigation under realistic conditions is essential, as it remains one of the primary reasons students fail the first week. Finally, developing a resilient mindset and a commitment to supporting teammates is crucial, as peer respect directly influences a student's ability to pass the phase.
