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CAMP SWIFT, TEXAS – Grit, endurance, and determination take center stage as service members from the Texas Army National Guard and Texas Air National Guard, as well as international competitors from the Republic of Chile and the Czech Republic, put their skills to the test in the Texas Military Department Best Warrior Competition.
The grueling three-day event is more than just a test of skill, it’s a physical and mental crucible. From weapons qualifications to tactical combat casualty care, road marches, and an intense 200-meter swim, competitors push through exhaustion, stress, and unpredictable challenges, all while operating on minimal sleep in a rugged field environment.
This year’s competition highlights international cooperation through the State Partnership Program, as Chilean and Czech service members compete alongside Texas guardsmen. Foreign participation helps strengthen ties between Texas, the United States, and their home countries, demonstrating how military partnerships can foster lasting relationships.
For some, the competition represents more than just another challenge, it’s a milestone in their careers.
“This is my last opportunity to participate because of my age and rank,” said Sargento Primero Eduardo Ramirez of the Chilean Marine Corps (translated by Texas Army National Guard Staff Sgt. Rogelio Medina). “I had to give it my all to be selected in the marine infantry and to participate in the Best Warrior Competition. Regardless of someone’s age, if you put your mind to it, you can achieve anything.”
For Texas Army National Guard Sgt. Emma Reese, the sole female competitor from Texas, stepping up to the challenge is about paving the way for others.
“I want to encourage other female soldiers. I know it can be intimidating, but always come out, try, and do your best,” Reese said. “It’s better to try and fail than never attempt it at all. I’ve been working with the M4, M17, and 249. I just got back from the Basic Leader Course, so I’m fortunate to have recently refreshed my tactical combat casualty care and land navigation skills.”
For the first time in the competition’s history, the Republic of Chile and the Czech Republic are represented by female competitors.
While some competitors are focused on proving themselves, others embrace the experience moment by moment.
“The stars were nice last night… I don’t know what happens next, but if it’s a ruck, a run, or more land nav, I am all for it!” said Texas Army National Guard Sgt. Daniel Flores, reflecting on the last night’s sleep in the field as he prepared for the next challenge.
The Best Warrior Competition is designed to push service members to their limits, testing both their physical endurance and mental toughness. Competitors take on challenges such as land navigation, obstacle courses, and grueling fitness tests, all while performing at peak military standards under intense pressure.
For Pfc. Jacob Carruth, the competition was unlike anything he had experienced before.
“This is probably the toughest thing I’ve endured in the military, but I liked the challenge, it really showed me where I’m at physically,” Carruth said. “The land navigation was the hardest part, an 18-to-22-mile course I wasn’t expecting. But I pushed through it. Based on my physical fitness, mental alertness, and everything I’ve learned, I believe I’m in the top three.”
Beyond testing individual skill, the BWC builds leaders, reinforcing the qualities that define today’s military personnel; lethality, readiness, and camaraderie.
"The competition’s events will challenge their mental fortitude and test competitors’ ability to demonstrate resilience and readiness," said Command Sgt. Maj. FrederickHeard, Command Senior Enlisted Leader of the Texas Military Department.
As the competition concludes, warriors push through exhaustion and physical strain, fighting for the honor of being named the Best Warrior. For some, it’s about winning, but for all, it’s about proving their strength, skill, and dedication to service.
After the final grueling run, competitors were finally granted a moment of rest before the awards banquet, where months of preparation and three days of relentless effort culminated in a celebration of resilience.
At the banquet, Pfc. Jacob Carruth was named Best Enlisted Soldier, while Sgt. Daniel Flores earned the title of Best NCO, solidifying their status as the top warriors in Texas.
Additionally, Texas Air National Guard SrA. Mason Aguilar and Staff Sgt. Isaac Johnson were honored as the Texas Air National Guard's highest rated enlisted and NCO, respectively. Their victories were not just personal achievements but reflections of the dedication, endurance, and spirit of every competitor who pushed their limits throughout the competition.
This year’s competition highlights international cooperation through the State Partnership Program, as Chilean and Czech service members compete alongside Texas guardsmen. Top international competitors were recognized for their outstanding performances.
Cabo Henry Perez earned top honors among the Chilean
participants, while Rotný Vojtech Bouska of the Czech Land Force distinguished himself as the best among his countrymen. Their participation highlights the importance of international military collaboration and showcases the global reach of the Best Warrior Competition.
As the competition concludes, warriors push through exhaustion and physical strain, fighting for the honor of being named the Best Warrior. For some, it’s about winning, but for all, it’s about proving their strength, skill, and dedication to service.
| Date Taken: | 02.27.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 03.20.2025 11:48 |
| Story ID: | 492564 |
| Location: | TEXAS, US |
| Web Views: | 30 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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