Photo By Sgt. Trevares Johnson | U.S. Army soldier Spc. Andrew Brooks, assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters...... read more read more
Subscribe
DRAWSKO POMORSKIE, Poland - Against the backdrop of native Polish larch at Studnica Range at Drawsko Combat Training Center, infantry soldiers assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, are on a resolute journey to achieve the coveted Expert Infantryman Badge (EIB).
Earning the EIB is a daunting challenge but for infantry soldiers like Pfc. Charles Freelove and Spc. Andrew Brooks it symbolizes the pinnacle of excellence in the infantry realm. The journey is arduous, requiring demanding tests and evaluations, but for Spc. Brooks, it's a tale of unwavering determination and resilience.
The EIB test comprises a battery of events that assess a soldier's proficiency in various infantry skills, including weapons knowledge, medical tasks, and tactical operations. To pass, a soldier must attain an "expert" rating in each event, demonstrating mastery of their craft.
Spc. Andrew Brooks has encountered several challenges on his quest for the EIB, making this his third attempt. Despite previous setbacks, he remains unyielding in his pursuit and is determined to prove his mettle.
"The EIB represents the highest level of proficiency for infantrymen, and I refuse to give up," Spc. Brooks declared. "It's a test of our skills and our dedication to the profession. I've learned from my previous attempts, and this time, I'm more focused and ready."
The photos accompanying this article capture the intensity of the range at Drawsko Combat Training Center, where soldiers such as Spc. Brooks strives for excellence. Achieving an "expert" score on this range is a critical step in their journey towards the prestigious badge.
Pfc. Charles Freelove, who shares Spc. Brooks' goal of earning the EIB emphasized the badge's significance for infantrymen.
"The Expert Infantryman Badge is more than an award; it's a symbol of our expertise and dedication," Pfc. Freelove expressed. "It tells us and others that we've reached the highest level of competence in our profession. It's a testament to our capabilities."
The EIB is not just a measure of skill; it reflects the commitment and discipline of infantrymen. The process challenges soldiers mentally and physically, pushing them to excel in their craft.
With each attempt, Spc. Brooks has refined his skills, learned from his experiences, and matured as a soldier. His story showcases the resilience and dedication of soldiers who relentlessly pursue excellence, even in adversity.
As Spc. Brooks continues his quest for the coveted EIB; he offers words of encouragement to fellow soldiers facing similar challenges.
"Don't be discouraged by setbacks," he advised. "Earning the EIB is demanding, but it's a journey worth taking. Keep pushing, keep improving, and eventually, you'll reach your goal. It's not just about the badge; it's about the pride in knowing you've become the best infantryman you can be."
For soldiers of the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team infantry soldiers, 1st Armored Division, achieving the Expert Infantryman Badge is a pursuit of excellence—their determination and resilience, exemplified by Spc. Brooks is a testament to the unwavering commitment of infantrymen within the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division.
Becoming an expert infantryman is no easy task, but these soldiers are willing to face the challenges head-on. With resilience as their driving force and determination as their guide, they are on the path to achieving the pinnacle of their profession. As they step onto Studnica Range, the images captured tell a story of unwavering commitment. Masteringnative excellence is not for the faint of heart, but for these infantrymen, it's a journey worth taking.
The 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team maintains many combat-capable forces in Europe. It exists to deter aggression; if deterrence fails, stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our Allies and partners against that aggression. The 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, headquarters is forward deployed in support of the 3rd Infantry Division to Drawsko Combat Training Center, Poland.
| Date Taken: | 10.11.2023 |
| Date Posted: | 10.12.2023 09:07 |
| Story ID: | 455577 |
| Location: | DRAWSKO POMORSKIE, PL |
| Web Views: | 204 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Mastering Warrior Skills: Iron Soldiers Train for the Expert Infantryman Badge, by SGT Trevares Johnson, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
No keywords found.
