Leaders from 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, cross a creek on Fort Carson during training May 22, 2016. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Nancy Lugo)
By Staff Sgt. Nancy Lugo
1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division
One foot in front of the other, 26 lieutenants each carrying 50 to 60 pounds on their backs rucked up and down mountains, hills and ravines on Fort Carson May 20-22, 2016.
The Mungadai tested the mettle of junior officers from 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, over three days.
“The purpose of Mungadai is to build a team of warriors, to challenge them and to see what warrior rises to the top,” said Lt. Col. Victor Satterlund, commander, 1st Bn., 38th Inf. Reg. “And what we are doing in and amongst that is certifying our leaders and making sure they are prepared to go to the next level and they can train their guys.”
Founded on Genghis Khan’s elite Mongolian Army’s selection process, the Mungadai consists of events that test teamwork, physical stamina and leadership abilities.
“I have never done anything like this before. I think it is a good test, a good way for a new commander to gauge his leaders,” said 1st Lt. Benjamin Jameson, executive officer, Company A., 1st Bn., 38th Inf. Reg.
Within 72 hours the leaders covered more than 45 miles on foot, rotated leadership positions, participated in two live fires and survived on one meal a day.
“It’s been tough. It’s been good training. It’s definitely a lot different then what I am used to so it’s good to get out here and get more comfortable with my infantry counterparts,” said
1st Lt. John English, fire support officer, Company C, 1st Bn., 38th Inf. Reg. “It’s important to know what your guys go through and to make sure you’re as physically and mentally tough as you can be as a leader.”
The Mungadai culminated with a platoon live fire with one lieutenant acting as the commander maneuvering 25 of his peers.
“I am really proud of these guys,’ said Satterlund.