HERO Raider Challenge: In Honor of Capt. Matthew Manoukian
The HERO Raider Challenge is a 12-hour event inspired by Marine Special Operations courses such as Basic Reconnaissance Course, MARSOC Selection and Scout Sniper School. Active-duty and retired MARSOC Raiders will act as cadre and mentors for the event, challenging participants to have the mindset described in the Recon Creed. The event will start on February 4th at 9PM and finish the following morning at 9AM. By completing the event, participants will gain additional physical and mental toughness needed to surpass failure, and the confidence needed to face and overcome obstacles during the challenge, as well as in the future. We will push through all pain and thoughts of quitting by remembering the ultimate sacrifice made by Capt. Matthew Manoukian and other Raiders like him, ensuring we honor his name.
All proceeds from the Raider Challenge will benefit the MARSOC Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit that provides benevolent support to Marine Raiders and their families. You are demonstrating MARSOC's motto "Spiritus Invictus"- unconquerable spirit. You are also sending a powerful message to the Marines, Sailors and families of MARSOC that their service and sacrifice do not go unnoticed. Thank you for your support.
ABOUT CAPTAIN MATTHEW P. MANOUKIAN:
Born February 22, 1983, in Santa Clara, CA, a native of Los Altos Hills, CA, and a 2001 graduate of Saint Francis High School, Captain Matthew Manoukian joined the Marine Corps in January 2006 after earning a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from the University of Arizona. He was originally an Infantry Officer, attended the Assessment and Selection Course and Individual Training Course, and was assigned to 1st MSOB in March 2010. Capt. Manoukian was a First Degree Black Belt in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program. Capt. Manoukian deployed in support of both Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. In the early morning hours of Aug. 10, 2012 at the Village Stability Platform in Puzeh, following a meeting with local Afghan officials, a rogue local Afghan dressed in a police uniform opened fire on the team's leadership, killing Capt. Manoukian, along with teammates SSgt. Sky Mote and GySgt. Ryan Jeschke. Capt. Manoukian's personal decorations include the Navy Cross awarded posthumously in January of 2014, two Purple Hearts, two Navy-Marine Corps Commendation Medals and two Combat Action Ribbons.