2021.11.05 – 2021.11.07
What a whirlwind of a weekend.
On November 5-7 2021, we took on the GORUCK Marine Recon Raider HTB. We started at 1800 on Friday and we tucked 40+ miles, carried heavy shit, and did more manmakers than I ever wanted to do. This didn’t end for 16 of us until 1800 on Sunday.
Preparation/Training
Since this was my first HTB, I rucked heavy, a lot, and did loads of sandbag training. I loosely followed the ruck.training 12-week heavy training plan (at least for the rucking miles). I felt generally prepared and read as many AARs for Heavys and HTLs as possible. Some of us did training ruck at Camp Pendleton and other long beach training days. I was also training for my R3 prior to this.
Gear
For each event, I had my GORUCK 20L Rucker and everything on the packing list. Don’t overpack, you’ll regret it when you’re holding that ruck over your head. In addition to the pack list, I brought hand warmers, which proved to be helpful. You’re going to get wet and sandy. Dry bag your important shit. Including your extra warming layers!
Nutrition
All of the basic advice applies here. Don’t eat anything you haven’t previously while training. Make sure you’re eating real food between events – you need it.
Keep eating throughout the events and drink lots of water and electrolytes. Don’t overpack, but also, you won’t have that much time to be eating. So, make sure what you have is high calorie and easy to eat. I can eat protein bars and gels/chews, but I’m much happier if I have a poptart or snickers bar.
Personal Reflection
Beyond the physical, these events were a mental battle. I was only able to manage ~30 minutes of sleep over the 48 hours and the chatter in your head really starts to mess with you. But, the team was there to get everyone through.
One step further. This wasn’t just 3 events, but an absolute emotional experience by Cadre Cleve and Cadre Dustin. They gave us an opportunity to experience the things that they have gone through, taught us lessons along the way (some through the power of pain), and shared their lives with us. I never had much of a connection to the military, but this entire weekend helped me build a strong understanding and connection with those we serve.
Finally, the people. The community is incredible. Beyond the 16 in the HTB crew, there were at least 40 other ruckers who helped keep our spirits high and carry the load. You all are savages. And to those who finished the HTB, you are all savages and are now stuck being my friend.
Final Thoughts
- When you’re down, push out a smile. There’s not much else in your control and it’s amazing what a change in attitude can do.
- Don’t let someone else’s actions affect you. If someone isn’t carrying their weight or is doing something you don’t agree with, focus on yourself and what you can do.
3. Listen to teammates, especially those with experience. Speak when it’s valuable, not just to talk or be loud.
Until the next. ⚡️⚡️⚡️
Ruck with Sam - Home 
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