Chamel Roukoz

General Chamel Roukoz (العميد شامل روكز) is a Lebanese brigadier general. He is the oldest commander of the Rangers Regiment and is a LAF Commander-in-Chief candidate. In the general election of 2018, he won a seat in the Keserwen-Jbeil electoral district. He headed the Free Patriotic Movement list.

Military career
During the Liberation war, under the leadership of Prime Minister General Aoun, Roukoz fought the Syrian forces and their Lebanese militia allies which were assaulting the “free zones” of East Beirut. During Summer 2007, he gained recognition as a brilliant Officer during the 15-week operation against Fatah al-Islam in Nahr al-Bared camp northern Lebanon. In addition, General Roukoz, fought Ahmed al-Assir and his supporters during the Battle of Sidon in 2013. He also led the battles against the terrorist groups of Jabhat al-Nusra and  DAESH during the Battle of Arsal and battle of Rass Baalbak.

Awards
For his distinguished military achievements. General Roukoz awarded the National Order of Merit (Officer) by the President of France as well as the Order of Charles III Encomienda de Número (Commander by Number) by the king of Spain.

Civil–Rangers relations
According to Roukoz, the Lebanese people support is the strongest weapon to the Army. Thus, every year since 2008, the Rangers Regiment organizes unique mountain races open to both the military and civilians. Barracks to Barracks is the longest race with a participation of thousands of people from different nationalities. The races have also ecological and touristic goals. See Rangers Events.