The Korean War

During the Korean War (1950-53) a need was determined for a specialized unit to conduct difficult missions beyond the capability of conventional infantry. This led to the creation of Airborne Ranger Companies. During World War II, where the Ranger battalions were used primarily as shock troops, Airborne Ranger Companies initially performed missions closer to those envisioned by Major Rogers in the 1750's, including reconnaissance and raids. But since these Rangers were attached to larger, more conventionally minded forces, many commanders ignored their specialized capability and deployed them as a spearhead for traditional infantry tasks, especially defensive operations. As a result, the Airborne Ranger Companies of the Korean War suffered up to 90% losses.

In addition to these Airborne Ranger companies, an 8th Army Ranger Company was founded in Japan and was the first Ranger unit deployed to Korea. Training for the companies founded in America was conducted at the Ranger Training Command at Fort Benning, Georgia. The most notable combat operation performed was a combat jump of the 2nd and 4th Ranger Companies near Munsan-ni in March 1951.

Of the 18 Ranger companies formed during the Korean war, 17 were certified Airborne and 7 actually participated in combat. In October of 1951 the Ranger Training Command was redesignated as the Ranger Department. Its mission was to train soldiers in Ranger techniques under the toughest conditions possible.

All the Ranger companies of the Korean War were deactivated by the end of 1951.