Military Training Exercises

Action-packed images of soldiers engaged in various training activities, focusing on teamwork, obstacle courses, and tactical skills in diverse environments.

A U.S. Soldier throws the M67 grenade during the weapons lane, to earn the U.S. Army Expert Soldier Badge (ESB), Sept. 01, 2022, Vilsek, Germany. The ESB is a U.S. Army special skills badge awarded to all Soldiers, noncommissioned officers, warrant officers, and commissioned officers-except those in the Infantry, Special Forces and Medical career management fields-that demonstrate individual Soldier competencies and abilities to perform tough, realistic and mission-focused skill level 1 Warrior Tasks and brigade commander-selected tasks. Training and testing are expected to be tough, realistic, and mission focused.

Soldiers from 11th Airborne Division work together to experience how to rappel from a training tower during Air Assault Class on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, AK June 15 to become Air Assault qualified with instructors from 25th Infantry Divisions Lightning Academy. (Photo taken by Staff Sgt. Christopher Dennis/11th Airborne Division Public Affairs Office)

U.S. Army Reserve Spcs. Ashley Carson, left, and William Barrett, both assigned to the 452nd Combat Support Hospital, 807th Medical Command (Deployment Support) based in Milwaukee, hold a collapsible litter holding a "casualty" above a wall as members of their squad Spc. Nicholas Radtke, left and Sgt. Matthew Breitrick steady it during a litter obstacle course on Fort McCoy, Wis., Sept. 16, 2022.

U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Steven Markowski, a public affairs specialist with the 109th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, 213th Regional Support Group, completes an obstacle course during the units annual training period, July 16, 2022 at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania

U.S. Army Spc. Alejandro G. Anguiano, an M1 armor crewman gunner assigned to 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, traverses a rope while wearing combat equipment during the stress shoot portion of the Sullivan Cup at Fort Benning, Georgia, May 5, 2022. The Sullivan Cup requires mastery of individual tasks, technical and tactical competence, and the ability to demonstrate an array of maneuver, sustainment, and gunnery skills.

A U.S. Soldier throws the M67 grenade during the weapons lane, to earn the U.S. Army Expert Soldier Badge (ESB), Sept. 01, 2022, Vilsek, Germany. The ESB is a U.S. Army special skills badge awarded to all Soldiers, noncommissioned officers, warrant officers, and commissioned officers-except those in the Infantry, Special Forces and Medical career management fields-that demonstrate individual Soldier competencies and abilities to perform tough, realistic and mission-focused skill level 1 Warrior Tasks and brigade commander-selected tasks. Training and testing are expected to be tough, realistic, and mission focused.

The Week of the Warrior is in full swing, as competitors from the 2nd Infantry Division/ROK-U.S. Combined Division complete the challenges presented to them on the second day of the competition, May 3, 2022, on Camp Casey, Republic of Korea. The Soldiers participated in a combat run, confidence course, stress shoot, and a M4 familiarization qualification.

Staff Sergeant Andrei M. Ciont, 264th Medical Battalion Drill Instructor,tackles the Rope Climb obstacle during the best medic competition, Sep. 29, 2022 at Joint Base San Antonio-Camp Bullis, Tx. The event included the Army Combat Fitness Test, obstacle course, M-4 qualification, warrior tasks and battle drills, land navigation, a Tactical Combat Casualty Care assessment and 12-Mile Ruck March.

Spc. Fernando Torres, 36th Sustainment Brigade, Texas Army National Guard, navigates the challenges on the obstacle course during the Texas Military Department Best Warrior Competition at Camp Swift, Texas, May 5, 2022. The three-day competition challenges service members on professional military knowledge, marksmanship, obstacle course and land navigation. The Army winners of this event will move on to represent Texas at the National Guards Region V Best Warrior Competition. (Photo by Warrant Officer 1 Gregory Illich

Security Forces trainees at the 343rd Training Squadron move through a series of obstacles during the Individual Tactics and Techniques basic course at Joint Base San Antonio - Camp Bullis on Sept. 20, 2022. The exercise is designed to teach the trainees how to shoot, move, and communicate through tactical environments. The 37th Training Wing and 343rd Training Squadron provide the initial training for all Air Force security forces.

Spc. Catherine Downes, a U.S. Army Reserve military police soldier, representing the 200th Military Police Command runs the conditioning course during, the 2020 U.S. Army Reserve Best Warrior Competition at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, Sept. 5. Forty-four Soldiers from across the nation traveled to compete in this years Best Warrior, hosted from Sept. 4-10, 2020. The 2020 BWC is an annual competition that brings in the best Soldiers across the U.S. Army Reserve to earn the title of “Best Warrior” among their peers. Competitors are evaluated on their individual ability to adapt and overcome challenging scenarios and battle-focused events, which test their technical and tactical abilities under stress and extreme fatigue.

A Soldier from Charlie Battery, 3rd Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment, 18th Field Artillery Brigade completes the confidence ladder obstacle on Ft. Bragg, N.C. Dec. 6 and 7. Each Soldier had to complete every obstacle as quickly as possible.

Staff Sgt. Stephen Pennington, of Lawton, Oklahoma, goes through an obstacle course during the annual Oklahoma National Guards Best Warrior Competition Nov. 5, 2016 at Camp Gruber, Oklahoma. The annual Best Warrior Competition is a series of events pitting a units best non-commissioned officer and lower enlisted Soldier against those from other units for the honor of representing their parent organization in the next stage of competition. Competitors are tested for general military skills, weapons proficiencies and overall physical fitness level.

U.S. Army Pv2 Bryant Oconnor,19th Expiditionary Sustainment Command, competes in confidence course during the Eighth Army 2022 Best Warrior/Squad Competition at Camp Casey, South Korea, May 11, 2022. The Eighth Army Best Warrior and Squad Competition is a week-long competition consisting of several events to test the participants general Army knowledge and skills.

U.S. Army Spc. Patrick Powell, a cavalry scout with the 1st Cavalry Division, puts on his ruck after completing a gear layout prior to the start of the Sullivan Cup at Fort Benning, Ga., April 25, 2022. The Sullivan Cup is a biennial competition that tests the best tank crews from the Armor Branch, the U.S. Marine Corps and international partners.

Soldiers of 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), help each other through an obstacle course during the first annual Army Best Squad Competition at Fort Campbell, Ky, July 12, 2022. The inaugural event is part of Sergeant Major of the Army Michael A. Grintons initiative to assess small groups of soldiers on their technical and tactical proficiency, as well as their cohesiveness and ability to work together.

040519-F-4338B-017. Base: Shaw Air Force Base State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Sergeant 1st Class Jason E. Pate, 68W Combat Medics, 187th Medical Battalion, makes his way down the Easy Balance obstacle during the best medic competition, Sep. 29, 2022 at Joint Base San Antonio-Camp Bullis, Tx. The event included the Army Combat Fitness Test, obstacle course, M-4 qualification, warrior tasks and battle drills, land navigation, a Tactical Combat Casualty Care assessment and 12-Mile Ruck March.

Soldiers assigned to the 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) and the 9th Mechanized Brigade complete an obstacle course as part of Talon Blitz III on November 18, 2022, in Romania. Talon Blitz III included deadlifts, squats, a 5K run, an obstacle course, kettle bell swings and a stress shooting event.

Army Reserve Cpl. Anton Shekhalevich, 412th Theater Engineer Command, navigates an obstacle during a CIOR land obstacle training exercise near Hammelburg, Germnay on July 27, 2022. The Interallied Confederation of Reserve Officers Military Competition (CIOR MILCOMP) is a three-day team competition consisting of NATO and Partnership for Peace nations in Europe. It has been around since 1957. The competition is open to all reserve components for both NCO and officer. It is now run on a volunteer basis and funded by former competitors through an alumni association.

Pvt. Mark C. Glover, with the 4th Platoon, Company C, 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st Marine Division, rappels during an exercise with Mexican Marines June 21, 2010, in Colima, Mexico. The platoon embarked on transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in support of operation Partnership of the Americas/Southern Exchange, a combined amphibious exercise to enhance cooperative partnerships with maritime forces from Argentina, Mexico, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay and Colombia.

Soldiers of the 181st Multifunctional Training Brigade navigate the rope bridge obstacle of the Leadership Reaction Course Sept. 27, 2022, at Fort McCoy, Wis. The Soldiers hosted teachers and staff of D.C. Everest Area School District as part of the districts leadership training program.

1st Lt. John Greer (left) and 1st Lt. Nicholas Chatel from the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), takes on the Darby Queen in the Annual Best Ranger Competition in Fort Benning, Ga on April 8th 2022. The Darby Queen is an obstacle course that runs about a mile long. It challenges physical, mental and technical skills.

U.S. Air Force Airmen, assigned to the 1st Special Operations Civil Engineer Squadron, participate in a five-day bivouac training exercise at Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Ga., Nov. 7, 2022. The training exercise tested the squadron's ability to secure an enemy airfield and establish base operations infrastructure.

Sgt. Brett Pierce, Louisiana National Guard, swings on an obstacle at Camp Gruber Training Center, near Braggs, Okla., May 17, 2022. Pierce is competing in the National Guard Region V Best Warrior Competition. The annual competition brings together top-tier soldiers to challenge them on a variety of Army warrior tasks and consists of eight events that promote Soldier readiness and recognizes individuals who embody the Army Values. (Oklahoma National Guard photo by Sgt. Reece Heck)

U.S. Army Pacific Best Warrior competitors conducted Special Patrol Insertion/Extraction Systems training June 7 during the 2022 USARPAC Best Warrior Competition at the 25th Infantry Division's Lightning Academy, Schofield Barracks East Range, Hawaii. The USARPAC BWC 2022 is an annual week-long competition consisting of competitors from multiple USARPAC units across the Indo-Pacific. The noncommissioned officers and junior enlisted Soldiers are evaluated in several categories such as general military knowledge, basic Soldier skills, and physical fitness.

Army Sgt. Benjamin Smith, representing the Iowa National Guard, drags a 200-pound dummy during a live, stress-fire range as part of the Best Warrior Competition - Region IV at Fort Custer Training Center, Augusta, Michigan, May 9, 2019.

U.S. Marines with Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort transport gear on the obstacle course during the Corporals Course culminating event at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, Sept. 1, 2023. The culminating event consisted of an improvised explosive device lane, shallow-water grappling and completing the obstacle course with gear. Corporals Course is a month-long professional military education program that develops Marines small unit leadership skills and continues to prepare them to lead Marines.

U.S> Marine Corps recruits with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, conduct Basic Warrior Training, on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., March 29, 2023. During BWT, recruits run through a day movement course that simulates combat scenarions.

A Soldier from the 35th Corps Signal Brigade finishes a stress shoot during the XVIII Airborne Corps Brigade Separates Best Squad Competition Dec. 6 and 7 at Fort Bragg. The stress shoot included carrying kettle bells, dragging a sled, and moving a wheelbarrow with sandbags.

Staff Sgt. Corey Boston, 1st Brigade, 98th Training Division (Initial Entry Training), competes in an obstacle course as part of the 98th Training Divisions 2022 Best Warrior Competition at Fort Benning, Ga., on Jan. 28, 2022. The Best Warrior Competition recognizes Soldiers who demonstrate commitment to the Army values, embody the Warrior Ethos, and represent the Force of the Future. (U.S. Army Reserve Photo by Sgt. Jeffery Harris)

U.S. Army Spc. Ronald So, assigned to U.S. Army Network Enterprise Center Belgium, 39th Strategic Signal Battalion, runs into position as the unit performs Army Warrior Training, on Chièvres Air Base, Belgium, May 25, 2022. This training tested the proficiency of Soldiers based on the unit Mission Essential Tasks List.

Army ROTC Cadet Savannah Pratte, Ferris State University, descends a cargo net while training with 3rd Regiment, Advanced Camp, during Cadet Summer Training (CST) at Fort Knox, Ky., June 19, 2022. For the Confidence Course, Cadets completed three rappels and nine obstacles while learning to trust their physical abilities and equipment. | Photo by Kyle Crawford, U.S. Army Cadet Command Public Affairs

United States Air Force Senior Airman Ben Forbus, 48th Security Forces Squadron patrolman, high crawls with a 35 pound ruck sack during the 5K Combat Ruck March Challenge on May 17, 2011. This is one of several events that will be held during National Police Week at RAF Lakenheath to honor police officers. The challenge required the teams to race between four checkpoints: 25 push-ups, high crawl, memory game and fireman carry. Out of the seven competing teams, Airman Forbus team finished first with a time of 36 minutes and 25 seconds.

Pvt. Sead Berisha, a psychological operations soldier with the Kosovo Security Force, negotiates an obstacle on the Confidence Course at Camp Dodge in Johnston, Iowa, on Aug. 30, 2022. Berisha was one of two KSF soldiers to participate in a 12-day U.S. Army Air Assault course held at Camp Dodge, which trains service members in sling-load operations and rappelling as well as being a test of grit. The National Guards State Partnership Program joins Kosovo and Iowa in military-to-military engagements in support of defense security goals and cooperation objectives that foster cultural exchange.

Recruits with Alpha Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, learn and apply rappelling techniques on MCRD Parris Island, S.C., October 31, 2022. The rappel tower is the tallest height recruits on Parris Island will overcome in their journey to become Marines.

Master Sgt. Robert Points, an infantry senior sergeant with U.S. Army Cadet Command, 3rd Brigade, Truman State University Reserve Officers Training Corps, Missouri, rappels from a UH-60 Black Hawk as part of the Rappel Master course at Camp Dodge in Johnston, Iowa, on Sept. 14, 2022. Nearly 30 Soldiers and Airmen participated in a Rappel Master course at Camp Dodge. The course was taught by a mobile training team from the Army National Guard Warrior Training Center in Fort Benning, Georgia.

220705-N-LP387-1005 WAHIAWA, Hawaii (July 5, 2022) - A German Maritime Interdiction Operations Company operator fast-ropes during a training during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, four submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

Staff Sgt. Bennett Dannemiller, 68P Radiology Specialist Instructor, 232nd Medical Battalion, negotiates obstacles to test his physical capabilities during the Best Medic Competition, Sep. 29, 2022 at Joint Base San Antonio-Camp Bullis, Tx. The competition is open to all soldiers who have earned the Expert Field Medical Badge or the Combat Medical Badge. Medics are tested on pistol and rifle marksmanship, land navigation and hands-on medical tasks over a 30-mile course, according to the release.

A U.S. Marine Officer Candidate, with 6th Marine Corps District, conducts a rope climb during a Mini - Officer Candidate School event at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, April 1, 2023. Marine Officer Candidates from across the Southeastern United States attended this event to take part in training to help prepare them for Officer Candidate School.

FORT EISENHOWER. Ga. - Apex Company, 11th Cyber Battalion, completed the Marine Corps obstacle course, February 9. Apex Soldiers are committed to staying READY, while building esprit de corps; completing the challenge together. TRAIN HARD, FIGHT HARD, WIN EASY! LEVIATHAN STRONG! Army

Soldiers of the 144th Military Police Company, 210th MP Battalion, 177th MP Brigade, Michigan National Guard, compete in the team triangle push-up portion of the Blackhats' Last Charge held in Corunna, Mich., May 7, 2016. The Blackhats' Last Charge is a competition in which Soldiers compete in three-person teams against each other through a three-mile road march and a series of physical team events that include a Sackman's race, tow bar carries, tow bar squats, Meal Ready to Eat sit-ups, team triangle push-ups, an arm chair carry, burpees, and a HMMWV push. The 144th MP Co. is being divested as part of a force structure realignment.

Soldiers participating in the Spartan Warrior III exercise conduct training at Fort McCoy, WI.

Twelve National Guard Soldiers are competing in the Region IV Best Warrior Competition May 11-15, 2022, at Camp Ripley, Minnesota. The annual competition tests the military skills, physical strength and endurance of the top Soldiers and noncommissioned officers from the Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio National Guards. The winners will move on to compete in the National Guards competition on July 20-30, 2022, at Camp Smyrna, Tennessee. (Minnesota National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Sydney Mariette.)

1st. Lt. Alessandra Kirby negotiates the Darby Obtacle Course at Fort Benning during the Ranger Assessment conducted Nov. 9-15.

Staff Sgt. Bennett Dannemiller, 68P Radiology Specialist Instructor, 232nd Medical Battalion, negotiates obstacles to test his physical capabilities during the Best Medic Competition, Sep. 29, 2022 at Joint Base San Antonio-Camp Bullis, Tx. The competition is open to all soldiers who have earned the Expert Field Medical Badge or the Combat Medical Badge. Medics are tested on pistol and rifle marksmanship, land navigation and hands-on medical tasks over a 30-mile course, according to the release.

US Air Force Reserve Command STAFF Sergeant Gabriel Zarrero, displays superb athletic skill as he completes the Swing, Stop, and Jump Obstacle during the Fitness Challenge Event of DEFENDER CHALLENGE 2000, a competition at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, on October 30th, 2000. DEFENDER CHALLENGE is the annual Air Force wide competition sponsored by Air Force Security Forces. This competition showcases the talents and capabilities of 13 international Security Forces teams in seven physical fitness, base defense and policing skills over six days. Subject Operation/Series: DEFENDER CHALLENGE 2000 Base: Lackland Air Force Base State: Texas (TX) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Spc. Colton Hornstra, a combat medic assigned to the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), teaches a Combat Lifesaver Class at Smardan Training Area, Romania, on August 29, 2022. As they have for the last 80 years, the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) stands ready to deploy anywhere to support and defend the Nation and our Allies.

U.S. Air National Guard Airman Camden Strapp, member of the 178th Wing Security Forces Squadron, participates in OC spray training, May 15, 2022, in Springfield, Ohio. All U.S. Security Forces members are required to have training on OC spray use, which includes the member being exposed to the spray themselves.

010507-F-3820W-015. Complete Scene Caption: AIRMAN First Class Frank Collins, USAF, 21st Space Wing chef from Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, pressurizes the M2A burner unit as his teammate SENIOR AIRMAN Rene Marvel, USAF, checks the air pressure gage, during the chef safety competition at GUARDIAN CHALLENGE 2001. GUARDIAN CHALLENGE, the world's premier space and missile competition, is a four-day event hosted annually at Vandenberg AFB, CA "to recognize the best and demonstrate the commands warfighting skills. GUARDIAN CHALLENGE creates competition-tough crews; improves readiness and combat capabilities through preparation, innovation and sharing; enhances esprit de corps and strengthens teamwork across all mission areas in the command." Subject Operation/Series: GUARDIAN CHALLENGE 2001 Base: Vandenberg Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: AFSPC

Members of the 239th Combat Communications Squadron ready an AT-420 antenna for use during Exercise BUMBU 22 at Camp Shelby, Miss., June 5, 2022.BUMBU 22 brings five combat communications squadrons with the 254th Combat Communications Group from their home stations located across the nation together for a consolidated training exercise. (Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Adrian Brakeley)

Mexican team members participate in the obstacle course as part of the Fuerzas Comando 2022 Day 7 on June 19, 2022, in La Venta, Honduras. Fuerzas Comando is a Special Operation skills competition and a senior leader seminar supported by SOCSOUTH. The competition enhances SOF regional cooperation and exchanges best practices to combat transnational crime and counter illicit activities. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Lionel Castellano)

U.S. Marines with Provost Marshals Office, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, and U.S. Air Force airmen with 18th Security Forces Squadron, 18th Mission Support Group, 18th Wing, assemble into a junction position during riot shield practical application in Exercise Keen Sword 2023 on Camp Foster, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 13, 2022. Keen Sword exercises the combined command and control capabilities and lethality developed between MCIPAC, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and the Japan Self-Defense Force. This bilateral field-training demonstrates the U.S. military and JSDF interoperability and combat readiness of the U.S.-Japan Alliance.

CIOR competitor, Army Reserve 1st Lt. Roman Tirado, Army Reserve Medical Command, lands after jumping from a wall during a land obstacle course training exercise near Hammelburg, Germany on July 27, 2022. The Interallied Confederation of Reserve Officers Military Competition (CIOR MILCOMP) is a three-day team competition consisting of NATO and Partnership for Peace nations in Europe. It has been around since 1957. The competition is open to all reserve components for both NCO and officer. It is now run on a volunteer basis and funded by former competitors through an alumni association.

U.S. service members conduct medical training during a Joint Emergency Medicine Exercise at Fort Hood, TX, on June 6, 2022. The training was accomplished from 06-10 June 2022 at the Fort Hood medical simulation training center for all graduating Tri-Service Emergency and Family Medicine residents and multiple medical occupational specialists within Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, U.S. Army Regional Health Command-Central, U.S. Army Medical Command, and III Armored Corps.

U.S. Army Soldiers compete in the Best Medic Competition for Medical Readiness Command, East on Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Nov. 6, 2022. The competition included the Army Combat Fitness Test, M4 Qualifications, Combat Water Survival Training, and a written exam on the first day.

A U.S. Soldier assigned to 173rd Brigade Support Battalion, 173rd Airborne Brigade tackles the crawl wire obstacle at the obstacle course during Bayonet Week at Grafenwoehr, Germany, June 27, 2023. Bayonet Week is a series of competitive events within the 173rd Airborne Brigade that inspire all Sky Soldiers to honor their heritage during the last week of June. These events take place in both Germany and Italy and consist of tournament-style competitions that test strength, endurance, speed, knowledge and indomitable spirit as individuals and teams.

Staff Sgt. Joseph Dunn, Arkansas National Guard, climbs over an obstacle at Camp Gruber Training Center, near Braggs, Okla., May 17, 2022. Dunn is competing in the National Guard Region V Best Warrior Competition. The annual competition brings together top-tier soldiers to challenge them on a variety of Army warrior tasks and consists of eight events that promote Soldier readiness and recognizes individuals who embody the Army Values. (Oklahoma National Guard photo by Sgt. Reece Heck)

Cadets from South Carolina high school Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps programs complete various teambuilding tasks that mimic skills learned during Basic Combat Training during a summer leadership challenge held at Fort Jackson from June 5-11, 2022. Cadets honed their leadership skills, learned about their value to the program and strengthened communication and problem-solving skills.

Senior Airman Andrew Little helps Staff Sgt. Derek Weiser, 96th Security Forces Squadron, low-crawl through mud during part of the Defender Challenge event May 17 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. Teams competed in various timed challenges related to the security forces experience. The Challenge was part the 96th Security Forces Squadrons Police Week activities. (U.S. Air Force photo/Samuel King Jr.)

Capt. Megan Hower, assigned to the Medical Readiness Battalion from Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, climbs a rope wall during the obstacle course portion of their brigade level best leader competition Feb. 27, 2024, at Fort Cavazos, TX. Soldiers are competing in the best leader competition for an opportunity to be selected for a spot on a team consisting of a junior officer, two noncommissioned officers, and three junior enlisted Soldiers, who will compete at the Medical Readiness Command, West: Best Leader Competition in April 2024. Army

Competitors participate in various warrior tasks during the 2022 National Guard Bureau Region 2 Best Warrior Competition, held May 17-20, 2022, at Camp Dawson, Kingwood, West Virginia. The Best Warrior Competition is a physically and mentally challenging three-day competition that tests competitors on a wide range of technical and tactical skills relevant to todays combat operating environment. Region 2 consists of competitors from Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Regional winners from across the nation will advance to compete at the national-level competition this summer.

Soldiers from the 91st Military Police Battalion and civilian law enforcement personnel tested their skills Sept. 22 during the annual Top Cop competition at Fort Drum. The competition had four phases - a timed Emergency Vehicle Operator Course (EVOC), a physical fitness challenge, a stress shoot and then an accuracy shoot to test pistol and rifle marksmanship. (Photo by Mike Strasser, Fort Drum Garrison Public Affairs)

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Zachary Wheeler, a native of Derry, New Hampshire, and the ropes and recovery branch officer in charge, assigned to II Marine Expeditionary Force, Expeditionary Operations Training Group (EOTG), oversees Marines knot tying techniques for a knot tying evaluation during the Assault Climber Course aboard Stone Bay, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Jan. 19, 2023. Assault Climber Course is an opportunity for the EOTG to train and evaluate the 26th Marine Expeditionary Units ability to complete special individual and collective tasks, and evaluates their ability to conduct assigned mission essential tasks in order to prepare those forces to support the geographic combatant commanders.

Cadets from South Carolina high school Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps programs complete various teambuilding tasks that mimic skills learned during Basic Combat Training during a summer leadership challenge held at Fort Jackson from June 5-11, 2022. Cadets honed their leadership skills, learned about their value to the program and strengthened communication and problem-solving skills.

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U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Christian Nolan, an engineer equipment operator with 7th Communication Battalion, ground guides a vehicle during a road repair on the Kin Blue range on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan April 7, 2023. Marines with Service Company, 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, conducted route improvements to the Kin Blue Range in order to maintain proficiency in their military occupational skills.

Spc. Theresa Haskin, a Story City, Iowa, native and avionic and survivability equipment repairer with Company B, 248th Aviation Support Battalion, Iowa Army National Guard, rappels down a 60-foot tower during an Air Assault course hosted at Camp Dodge in Johnston, Iowa, on Sept. 6, 2022. Over 200 Soldiers and Airmen participated in a 12-day U.S. Army Air Assault course held at Camp Dodge, which trains service members in sling load operations and rappelling. The students practiced rappelling and belaying on the tower. Cadre from the Army National Guard Warrior Training Center at Fort Benning, Georgia, traveled as a mobile training team to teach the course.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to 55th Signal Company (Combat Camera), 21st Signal Brigade, conduct Modern Army Combatives training at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, July 22, 2022. Combatives is the term for hand-to-hand combat training and techniques within the Army branch of the United States military.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to Bull Troop, 1st Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, conquer the confidence climb obstacle at the Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Aug. 18, 2022. The troop conducted training at the obstacle course for familiarization and to build esprit de corps.

SENIOR AIRMAN Kevin E. Kapich, US Air Force Academy, cautiously maneuvers through the High Step obstacle during DEFENDER CHALLENGE 2000 at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. Defender Challenge is the Annual Air Force wide competition sponsored by Air Force Security Forces. This competition showcases the talent and capabilities of 13 international Security Forces teams in seven physical fitness, base defense, and policing skill events over 6 days. Subject Operation/Series: DEFENDER CHALLENGE 2000 Base: Lackland Air Force Base State: Texas (TX) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army Spc. William Chastane assigned to Viper Company, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) competes against Finnish soldiers of Jaeger Brigade in a five-event physical fitness challenge to build esprit de corps at Sodankyla, Finland, July 22, 2022. 101st (AASLT) is part of V CorpsAmericas Forward Deployed in Europewhich works alongside regional security partners to provide combat-ready forces, execute joint and multinational training exercises, and retain command and control for the airborne division, and all rotational and assigned units in the European theater. The 2nd BCT, 101st Airborne Division and the Jaeger Brigade began combined training in Finland to strengthen relations and help build interoperability between the two nations.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Gregory Duesterhaus, the incoming commanding officer of 2nd Maintenance Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, gives a speech during a change of command ceremony on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, June 3, 2022. During the ceremony, Lt. Col. Gregory Duesterhaus assumed command of 2nd Maintenance Battalion from Lt. Col. Christina Henry.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to units from 7th Army Training Command (7ATC) and V Corps try to hit some targets at the mystery PT event during the 7ATC/V Corps-level Best Squad Competition at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, July 14, 2022. Teams from across U.S. Army Europe and Africa test their tactical proficiency, communication, and overall cohesion as they compete for the title of Best Squad. Winning U.S. Army squads will meet at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, to compete for the title of U.S. Army Europe and Africa (USAREUR-AF) Best Squad from August 8-12.

Airman Enrique Malgarejo, Staff Sgt. Bryan Bradbury and Senior Airman Darrell Martin, 309th Aircraft Maintenance Unit place munitions onto an F-16 during the Load Crew of the Quarter Competition, Oct. 9, 2009, Luke AFB Arizona.

U.S. Marines with 2nd Marine Logistics Group, work together as a team to complete an obstacle during the Leadership Response Course (LRC) on Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Oct. 26, 2022. All the obstacles in the LRC required a great amount of teamwork and initiative, building the Marines leadership skills and confidence in each others leadership capabilities.

Spc. Jessica Baker, a Storm Lake, Iowa, native and combat medic specialist assigned to Headquarters & Headquarters Troop, 1st Squadron, 113th Cavalry Regiment, rappels down a tower at Camp Dodge in Johnston, Iowa, on June 8, 2022. Troop A of the 1-113th Cavalry had the opportunity to conduct rappelling familiarization on the bases 60-foot tower during their annual training. Baker and one other medic assigned to HHT were encouraged to participate between their medic duties.

Staff Sgt. Caleb Stinson, 68W Combat Medic, 232nd Medical Battalion, negotiates obstacles to test his physical capabilities during the Best Medic Competition, Sep. 29, 2022 at Joint Base San Antonio-Camp Bullis, Tx. The event included the Army Combat Fitness Test, warrior training, obstacle course, M-16 qualification, warrior tasks and battle drills, day and night land navigation, a Tactical Combat Casualty Care assessment and 20-kilometer foot march.

As teams, candidates maneuver an obstacle course during the Special Warfare Training Wing Assessment & Selection Course at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland on March 14, 2023. The Special Warfare Training Wing prepares candidates physically, mentally, emotionally and cognitively for demanding careers as special warfare operators.

A 433rd Airlift Wing Airman drinks from the grog bowl during a combat dining-in event at Joint Base San Antonio-Chapman Training Annex, Texas, Sept. 10, 2022. According to U.S. Air Force tradition, rule violators have to drink from the grog bowl.

Staff Sgt. Brandon Wendland, a Bridge Crewmember with the 957th Engineer Company, Multi-Role Bridge Company, North Dakota Army National Guard scales the top of the rope wall at the confidence course during the 2021 Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition at Camp Navajo Military Reservation, Ariz., July 21, 2021. The competition spans three physically and mentally demanding days where competitors are tested on a variety of tactical and technical skills as they vie to be named the Army Guards Soldier and Noncommissioned Officer of the Year. The winners then represent the Army Guard in the Department of the Army Best Warrior Competition later this year

Col. Brian Gunderson, Nevada Air National Guard Director of Staff-Air awards the Maj. Gen. Drennan A. Clark Order of Nevada to Senior Master Sgt. Jordan Clark for his meritorious service from Jan. 30, 1996 to Jan. 30, 2022. Clark has served over 26 years with the Nevada Air National Guard in various positions in the 152nd Logistics Readiness Squadron and the 92nd Civil Support Team. This award is presented for exceptional service of 25 years to the United States Military. Of this service, 20 years must be in the Nevada National Guard. The member's career achievement must have had a significant impact on the Nevada Military and represent dignity and accomplishments to the state of Nevada at a level of superior achievement. This must be exceptionally meritorious service to the Nevada Military Department ant its subordinate units. The service must demonstrate long term, positive, significant impact to the members of the Nevada Military Department.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Steven Breslin, a Chief Drill Instructor with Delta Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, leads warm up exercises during log drills at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, June 13, 2022. Log drills are used to build functional strength and team work among the recruits.

A soldier of the royal army in a test uniform made of material with a stain pattern ('flecktarn') as used by the German army. This type of uniform was not entered.

Senior Airman Brendon Rush and Airman 1st Class Diego Esparza, 4th Communications Squadron radio frequency transmission technicians, assemble a tactical mass-communication antenna during Exercise Agile Cub 22 at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, August 25, 2022. Agile Cub trains Airmen to integrate with other squadrons, support airpower capabilities and deliver premier specialty training.

1st Lt. Molly Murphy from Tripler Army Medical Center, endures the Plank during the Army Combat Fitness Test in the 2022 Medical Readiness Command, Pacific Best Medic Competition Wednesday, October 26th 2022 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

U.S. Air National Guard Senior Amn. Kitiara Schuhlein, an Aerospace Medical Service Specialist assigned to the 146th Medical Group in Channel Islands, Calif., interacts with augmented reality system interface during emergency medical technician (EMT) refresher training on March Air Reserve Base in Calif., Jan. 5, 2024. During the EMT training, hosted by the 163d Medical Group, the North American Rescue Virtual Patient Immersive Trainer (VPIT) acquired by the Hap Arnold Innovation Center (HAIC) was used to enable students to train on multiple patients and trauma scenarios in quick succession. This innovation effort, led by Master Sgt. Joshua Liko (A HAIC volunteer), is one of many projects being propelled by the HAIC to reduce cost, improve workflow efficiency and increase mission output.

U.S. Army Spc. Jacob Luce assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 4th Battalion 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team- Airborne (173rd IBCT ABN) unhooks an M119 Howitzer after an airborne drop during Exercise Saber Junction 22 at Hohenfels Training Area, Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC) in Hohenfels, Germany, Sept. 8, 2022. Saber Junction 22 is a combat training rotation designed to assess the readiness of the 173rd IBCT (ABN) in executing operations in a joint, combined environment and to promote interoperability with participating allied and partner nations.

040505-F-2185G-023. Base: Vandenberg Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: AFSPC

040213-M-3843C-005. Base: Mcas, Beaufort State: South Carolina (SC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force Airmen from across the nation are at the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center taking part in the Medical Readiness University's (MRU) Tactical Combat Casualty Care course provided by Air National Guard Medical Service (ANGMS), at Alpena, Michigan, August 30, 2022. 93 students, 16 instructors and support staff from 47 units trained for nine days with a variety of realistic scenarios. MRU assists the Air Force Surgeon General allowing medical personnel an opportunity to receive hands-on training, execution, employment and deployment for a variety of assigned ANGMS mission sets which may not be acquired elsewhere.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Robert Phoebus from the New Jersey Army National Guard's C Troop, 102nd Cavalry Regiment, 50th Infantry Brigade Combat Team launches an RQ-11B Raven unmanned aerial vehicle while Staff Sgt. James Nirenberg, a Raven master instructor from the Florida Army National Guard, provides instruction at Castles Drop Zone, Fort Pickett, Va., on Aug. 16. Phoebus is from Hackettstown, N.J.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to Bull Troop, 1st Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, negotiates the confidence climb obstacle at the Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Oct. 4, 2022. The troop conducted training at the obstacle course for familiarization and to build esprit de corps.

U.S. Marine Corps Recruits Joshua Morgan, left, and Sebastian Trawinski, right, recruits with Hotel Company, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, climb over an obstacle during the confidence course at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, June 6, 2022. Recruits participated in the course to gain confidence in their abilities to get through obstacles.

An Italian Special Forces sniper practices climbing up a rope ladder during the International Special Training Centers Urban Sniper Course, May 4, 2022, in Hohenfels Germany. Seven countries participated in the event including Belgium, Germany, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, and Romania. The course is designed to enhance sniper skills in urban environments through precision fire, engaging targets through glass, urban tactical movement, day and night marksmanship, planning, and stalking in urban terrain.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Robert Gyergyek, left, 60th Diagnostics and Therapeutics Squadron nuclear medicine technologist, and Staff Sgt. Devid Wawo, 60th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron administration technician, drag Capt. Andrew Garcia, 60th Medical Group molecular diagnostics chief, using a portable human transporting system during tactical combat casualty care training at David Grant USAF Medical Center, Travis Air Force Base, California, April 28, 2022. The TCCC program was developed by the Defense Health Agency Joint Trauma System to teach life-saving techniques and strategies for providing the best trauma care on the battlefield.

Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), competes in the Annual Best Ranger Competition in Fort Benning, Ga on April 8th, 2022. The first day had a variety of events. Like a mass run, pond swim, ACFT, Assault Course and more.

Texas Army National Guard Spc. Dylan Waite, 1st Battalion, 143rd Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, attacks the Low Belly Over during the obstacle course portion of the Texas Military Departments Best Warrior Competition at Fort Hood on Mar. 30, 2023. during the Texas Military Departments Best Warrior Competition at Fort Hood on Mar. 30, 2023. The annual competition strengthens ties and fosters institutional relationships encompassing 95 partner nations.

France, Brittany, Morbihan, Saint-Pierre-Quiberon on 2022-03-30. Students from the Ecole Militaire Interarmes (EMIA), the military academy responsible for training army officers recruited internally, i.e. from the ranks of non-commissioned officers and other ranks, take part in a training course at Fort de Penthievre, a fortified structure on the Quiberon peninsula that has become a training base. Photograph by Martin Bertrand.France, Bretagne, Morbihan, Saint-Pierre-Quiberon le 2022-03-30. Les eleves de l' ecole militaire interarmes ( EMIA ), l' ecole militaire chargee de la formation des officiers de l' armee de Terre issus du recrutement interne, c'est-a-dire issus des rangs des sous-officiers et des militaires du rang, participe a un stage d'aguerrissment au Fort de Penthievre, un ouvrage fortifie sur la presqu'ile de Quiberon devenu une base d'entrainement. Photographie de Martin Bertrand.

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