Wheeler - Walton Raider Program

Raider Competition—commonly called Raider—is a high‑intensity, team‑driven athletic event held in JROTC programs across the United States.  It is a JROTC equivalent of the Army ROTC "Ranger" competition in college, only far less dangerous but very challenging as well! The events are held outdoors in state parks, high schools or large expansive wooded areas.

Raider is a competitive program made up of 10 athletic and skill‑based events, including the Raider Fitness Challenge, One‑Rope Bridge, Cross Country Rescue, 3–6 km Team Run, Tire Flip, Obstacle Course, HUMVEE Push/Pull, Raider Fitness Test, Relay Run, and Raider Item Relay. Specific events vary by competition location.

The following are supporting objectives: Ethical values and good citizenship, leadership potential, effective communication and logical thinking, improved physical fitness, incentive to live drug-free, positive self-motivation and management, the skills to work as a team member, the discipline to graduate from high school, and chase excellence throughout one’s life.

2026 - 2027 Team Leaders

Commander &
Vice Commander

Commander:  C/Senior Master Sergeant Holkar
Vice Commander:  TBD


Season: The fall Raider season begins in August and runs through the first weekend of November.
The spring Raider season begins in late March and runs through the first weekend of May.

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Click Here

Event Schedule

The 2026 - 2027 season schedule is listed below and will be finalized from the list of Raider events posted at gajrotc.com/raider.  We are thankful for all the host schools that decide to put on a competition during the season.

Spring 2026

Fall 2026

July 27 - 31 (Pre-Raider Conditioning) | 0630 - 0830 & 1530 - 1730

Season Practices: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday | 1545 - 1745

The "Guardian Angel" logo was created in 2001 by Pararescueman (PJ) Rich Hillard. He wanted to create something that was similar to the official Pararescue emblems but could also be worn by Combat Rescue Officers, Pararescue or PJ’s, friends, family, and supporters alike without intruding on the sanctity and honor associated with the official emblem.

It features an Angel with Outstretched Wings: The angel represents the compassionate and life-saving mission of RESCUE personnel. The wings symbolize swiftness, protection, and the ability to reach remote or dangerous locations to save lives. 

On Cross Country Rescues (CCR), and other competition events, our GA-052 Raiders honor and pay tribute to this community of elite warriors who defend our freedoms.