Operation Gothic Serpent — Task Force Ranger Champion® Hoodie
How to find your best fit
Measure a well-fitting shirt you already own and compare it with the measurements below.
- Chest width: Lay the shirt flat and measure one inch below the armhole, from side seam to side seam.
- Back length: Measure from the center back neckline to the bottom hem.
- Shoulder width: Measure straight across the back from shoulder seam to shoulder seam.
- Sleeve length: Measure from the shoulder seam to the end of the sleeve unless the chart notes otherwise.
Measurements are in inches. Allow for a manufacturing tolerance of approximately 0.5 to 1 inch.
Hooded sweatshirt
Classic roomy pullover fit.
| Size | Chest width | Back length | Shoulder width | Sleeve length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S | 20" | 27" | 19" | 35" |
| M | 22" | 28" | 21" | 36" |
| L | 24" | 29" | 23" | 37" |
| XL | 26" | 30" | 25" | 38" |
| 2XL | 28" | 31" | 27" | 39" |
| 3XL | 30" | 32" | 29" | 40" |
Sleeve length for this style is measured from the center back neckline to the cuff.
Honor Task Force Ranger and the soldiers who fought to bring their teammates home during Operation Gothic Serpent and the Battle of Mogadishu. This black Champion® Powerblend hoodie features a full-back graphic and matching left-chest print.
Operation Gothic Serpent — Somalia, 1993
Somalia’s civil war and famine prompted a major international relief effort in 1992. As attacks on United Nations personnel escalated in 1993, the United States deployed Task Force Ranger to Mogadishu. Operation Gothic Serpent sought to capture Mohamed Farrah Aidid and key members of his Somali National Alliance. The task force brought together joint special operations personnel, including 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment–Delta, Rangers from 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, and the aviators and crews of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne).
Through August and September, Task Force Ranger conducted a series of raids against Aidid’s organization. On October 3, a mission to seize senior lieutenants near the Olympic Hotel became a prolonged urban battle after Somali forces shot down two MH-60 Black Hawks. The assault force’s focus shifted from capturing its targets to securing the crash sites, treating casualties, and recovering isolated personnel. Rangers, special operators, aircrews, and support personnel fought through the night of October 3–4 under intense fire.
At the second crash site, Master Sergeant Gary Gordon and Sergeant First Class Randy Shughart volunteered to protect the downed crew despite knowing that immediate ground reinforcement was unavailable. Both were killed defending the position and were posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. Pilot Michael Durant survived the crash, was captured, and was released on October 14 after eleven days in captivity.
The rescue was a combined effort. Soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division, including elements of 2nd Battalion, 14th Infantry and 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry, formed part of the quick-reaction and relief force. Supported by Malaysian armored personnel carriers and Pakistani tanks, the relief column reached the first crash site and helped evacuate the wounded and surviving troops. Their role was distinct from Task Force Ranger’s initial assault, but essential to bringing the force out.
The October raid captured its intended high-value targets, but the wider operation did not capture Aidid. The battle’s heavy losses influenced the subsequent withdrawal of U.S. forces. This hoodie commemorates the courage, sacrifice, and commitment to one another shown by the assault force, aviation crews, rescuers, and their coalition partners.
Historical references: U.S. Army Special Operations History Office; U.S. Army Intelligence Center of Excellence; Airborne & Special Operations Museum.
Champion® Powerblend Hoodie
- 9.0 oz., 50% cotton / 50% polyester
- Two-ply hood with dyed-to-match drawcord
- Heavy rib-knit waistband and cuffs
- Front pouch pocket
- Set-in sleeves
- Embroidered Champion “C” logo at left cuff
- Black: S–3XL
Please check the Sizing & Measurements guide before ordering. Made to order.
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