An Cosantóir

www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE | 9 exploded around them. It was a test of combat readiness under realistic battlefield stress. Following this, competitors faced a written map test with ten challenging questions. Accuracy and clarity were paramount. That transitioned into a five-hour land navigation exercise that began in daylight and ended after sunset. Navigating through forestry and tough terrain with limited visibility, soldiers were pushed to their limits. By the end of day one, competitors had been engaged for over 17 continuous hours. Yet there was no rest in sight. The next two days would bring new challenges. The second day of the competition focused on core soldiering tasks, known as Warrior Tasks. Each competitor rotated through four challenging lanes, a "Call for Fire" exercise, grenade throwing accuracy, casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) and a mystery event that tested weapons knowledge and handling. In gas masks, competitors were instructed to assemble and conduct function checks on three weapons systems, the M4 rifle, the M17 pistol and the M249B light machine gun. The added stress of restricted vision and breathing created a complex and claustrophobic challenge, designed to replicate battlefield conditions in a CBRN contaminated environment. That afternoon, competitors changed into their Service Dress (SD No.1s) for the formal portion of the day, a written multiple-choice exam on general military knowledge and the much anticipated oral board. During this high pressure session, senior non-commissioned officers conducted uniform inspections and interviewed each soldier, assessing not only their military knowledge but also their appearance, bearing and confidence. The third and final day began before sunrise with the culminating event of the competition, a 12-mile (20km) loaded ruck march carrying 35 pounds of gear. With muscles sore, minds fatigued and blisters forming, competitors had to summon every last ounce of willpower to complete the course. It wasn't just a march, it was a final demonstration of endurance, mental toughness, and heart. Each competitor crossed the finish line alone, but with cheers and encouragement from those who had shared the journey. For many, it marked a personal victory as much as a professional achievement. Though every soldier completed the competition with honour, two Irish participants stood out for exceptional performances. Sgt Eric Spellman took second place in the Best Non-Commissioned Officer category, while Pte Glenn Carroll earned second in the Best Soldier category. Their success is a testament to the calibre of Irish Defence Forces training and the effectiveness of their preparation. Beyond the results, the experience was transformational. The 7th Infantry Battalion competitors demonstrated professionalism, fitness, adaptability and poise under pressure. Their presence served as an ambassadorial role as much as a competitive one, strengthening international military bonds and encouraging further co-operation with the Massachusetts Army National Guard. The competition was more than just a test; it was a platform for international engagement and mutual learning. Throughout the event, high value networking and relationship building occurred not just between individuals but between military cultures. Soldiers shared experiences, tactics and laughs, bridging divides through shared hardship and mutual respect. The Irish team returned home with valuable insights into U.S. Army operations and training methods. They also brought back a deeper sense of pride and camaraderie, forged over seven weeks of hard training and three days of intense competition. The preparation itself became a tool for professional development, driving team cohesion, morale, and individual excellence. Participation in the Best Warrior Competition 2025 marked a milestone in international co-operation and soldier development. The lessons learned, both in terms of tactical execution and inter- military diplomacy will serve the 7 Infantry Battalion well into the future. In the end, this was not just a competition, it was a proving ground. A place where warriors are tested, bonds are forged, and excellence is earned through determination, sweat, and grit. Irish and Kenyan best warrior teams at the closing ceremony - close bonds built over the 3 days of competition

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