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Best Warrior Competition tests US Army National Guard, Reserve Soldiers
U.S. Army Spc. Cruser Barnes (center), 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry Regiment, Hawaii Army National Guard, takes a knee behind cover with Spc. Jared Okimoto, 777th Aviation Support Battalion, HIARNG, during a movement under direct fire exercise as part of the 2015 Hawaii Army National Guard and Reserve Best Warrior Competition March 8, 2015, at Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Hawaii. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Christopher Hubenthal)(Picture from the 2015 March Pūpūkahi)
MARINE CORPS TRAINING AREA BELLOWS, Hawaii – From written exams to moving under fire, Soldiers competed to earn the title of Soldier of the Year and NCO of the Year during the 2015 Hawaii Army National Guard and Reserve Best Warrior Competition from March 6-8.
Eight U.S. Army National Guard Soldiers and 13 U.S. Army Reserve (USAR) Soldiers serving throughout the Pacific tested their soldiering skills, facing both mental and physical challenge
USARNG Soldiers Compete During Region VII Best Warrior Competition
Defense Media Activity – Hawaii News Bureau Story and Photos by Staff Sgt. Chris Hubenthal Thursday, May 7, 2015
U.S. Army Spc. Cruser Barnes, 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry Regiment, Hawaii Army National Guard, is awarded Soldier of the Year for the Region VII BWC May 7, 2015, at Marine Corps Training Area Bellows, Hawaii. U.S. Army Spc. Cruser Barnes (top), 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry Regiment, Hawaii Army National Guard (HIARNG), and Sgt. Shaun Gomes, 227th Brigade Engineer Battalion, HIARNG, secure and search a simulated aggressor during the Region VII Best Warrior Competition (BWC) May 5, 2015, at the Keaukaha Military Reservation, Hawaii. Guardsmen from Arizona, California, Colorado, Guam, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and Hawaii competed during the competition for the chance to compete in the Army National Guard BWC later this year. (Pictures from the 2015 May Pūpūkahi)
HAWAII – Sixteen U.S. Army National Guardsmen competed for advancement during the Region VII Best Warrior Competition from May 4-7.
This year’s BWC took place on two different islands at training locations including: the Keaukaha Military Reservation, Kawailoa Training Area, Pohakuloa Training Area, and Marine Corps Training Area Bellows.
Competitors from Arizona, California, Colorado, Guam, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and Hawaii competed during events including; a fitness test, road march, appearance board, written exam, land navigation, call for fire, and weapons qualification events.
Guardsmen also had to complete a mystery event that had soldiers react to fire, administer medical aid to simulated casualties, and carry a weighted litter across jungle terrain.
U.S. Army Sgt. Stefanie T. Puro, Headquarters, Headquarters Battery, 65th Field Artillery Brigade, Utah Army National Guard, said that competing alongside other Guard units was a good opportunity.
“This experience is really great because you get to have a whole week of participating in these kinds of events with the highest caliber of soldiers,” Puro said. “Even though all of our states have different missions we’re still soldiers when it comes down to it.”
U.S. Army Spc. Cruser Barnes, 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry Regiment, HIARNG, said that the competition during the Region VII BWC was a lot more intense than the previous challenges of the 2015 Hawaii Army National Guard and Reserve BWC.
“I found competition definitely in Spc. Joshua Fernandez from Cali,” Barnes said. “He has been one of my toughest competitors throughout the whole thing. He did really well on each event. On the ruck march we kind of stayed together and we said, “you know what, towards the end we’re just going to shake hands and whoever wins, wins.” The competition was definitely at the next level.”
The final day began with a road march and was the last event where competitors could receive a score. After all points were tallied the winners of each category were announced during an award ceremony.
Soldier of the Year for the USARNG Region VII was awarded to Barnes and the title of NCO of the Year was awarded to Staff Sgt. Robert Zapata, Arizona Army National Guard. Barnes and Zapata will represent Region VII at the Army National Guard BWC to be held later this year.
U.S. Army Sgt. Shaun Gomes, 227th Brigade Engineer Battalion, represented the HIARNG in the NCO category and although he didn”t progress to the next level he still plans to support Barnes.
“I most definitely will be extending out my hand to him,” Gomes said. “I really do hope that he wins, that way he can compete against the active-duty and Reserve components and bring home that victory for the National Guard. He is just a tremendous Soldier all the way around.”
The BWC is meant to promote camaraderie and distinguishes Soldiers who demonstrate commitment to the Army values, embody the Warrior Ethos and represent the Force of the Future.
This year’s national level Best Warrior Competition takes place at Camp Williams, Utah. During the Range Run event, Soldiers and NCOs ran over six miles, stopping at various firing ranges along the way to test their skills with multiple weapons systems. This timed event covered grenade, machine gun, pistol and rifle expertise.National Guard Soldiers compete in the National Best Warrior Competition June 23, 2015. The competitors participate in Army Physical Fitness Test as part of the competitionCOURTESY ARMY SGT. 1ST CLASS JON SOUCY Spc. Cruser Barnes, a cavalry scout with the Hawaii Army National Guard, takes a breather during the 12-mile rucksack march event of the 2015 Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition at Camp Williams, UtahSoldiers stand in front of a board of Command Sergeant Majors in the final event of the National Best Warrior Competition held on Camp Williams June 25, 2015.(Pictures from the 2015 July Pūpūkahi)
A 22-year-old citizen-soldier from Hawaii “crushed” the competition at the 2015 Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition at Camp Williams, Utah, the Hawaii National Guard said.
Spc. Cruser Barnes, a University of Hawaii-Manoa kinesiology student and scout with Troop A, 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry Regiment, was named Soldier of the Year after winning the grueling three-day national test in late June, which stressed competitors both physically and mentally.
There was some fun along the way.
Barnes said he fired an AT-4 rocket launcher, flew in Black Hawk and Chinook helicopters, cruised around in all-terrain vehicles and was winched from the ground into an airborne Black Hawk.
Less fun was a range shoot involving running between stations over a 6-mile course to fire a variety of weapons; answering questions from seven sergeants major; completing an essay on the National Guard as a strategic power now and in 50 years; and completing a 12-mile march with a rifle, helmet and a rucksack full of gear.
“I was probably hurting the most on the range run … just running between ranges and trying to calm down (to fire at targets),” Barnes said.
Command Sgt. Maj. Dana Wingad, who traveled with Barnes, reported that “he crushed the competition,” said Lt. Col. Chuck Anthony, a Hawaii National Guard spokesman.
“These are the Best Warrior competitors from each region in the nation that he was up against,” Anthony said.
Barnes finished the 12-mile march with 35 pounds of gear in an hour and 53 minutes — a half-hour ahead of the next National Guard competitor, according to Anthony.
Day 1 saw physical fitness tests and a flight on a Black Hawk to the range run, where he shot a pistol and grenade launcher, tossed grenades and cleared a mock house using nonlethal rifle ammunition.
That was followed by a “mystery event” starting with a flight on a Chinook helicopter and ride in a van to a remote spot where Barnes and other competitors were told they had to perform a “call for fire” in which they had two minutes to figure out where they were and where the target was, and call in an Apache helicopter to attack the target.
At 2:30 a.m. the following morning, Barnes was conducting land navigation in the dark. Among other tasks over the course of the competition, Barnes was part of a medevac and had to apply first aid for a simulated chest wound.
Barnes competed against six other enlisted Guard soldiers from around the country, while seven noncom- missioned officers competed in a separate category.
In the end, Barnes was on top of his group.
“I don’t know if it’s really hit me yet. This is such a high-level (honor),” said the 2010 Kapolei High School graduate, who now lives in Kaneohe.
“I’m definitely stoked and honored to be able to represent the Hawaii National Guard at this level and the Guard overall.” In Hawaii, Barnes competed against dozens of National Guard soldiers for the state title, Anthony said. He bested a couple dozen others at the western regional competition. Barnes has done marathons and triathlons. He received medical training, practiced shooting, and “we ran with rucks all the time” as part of past training, he said.
“Now it’s in my head. I know it already. It’s just once I get hands on, it all comes back,” he said.
Next up is the final Best Warrior Competition in early October at Fort A.P. Hill in Virginia for all of the Army’s top finishers from the Guard, Reserve and active forces. Barnes hopes to be put on orders to be able to train until then for the event. “I think I’ll do good. … I’m not too worried about the activeduty guys,” Barnes said.
NUMERO UNO – Spc. Cruser Barnes, 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry Regiment, Hawaii Army National Guard, maneuvers through obstacles during a combat army readiness test as part of the 2015 Hawaii Region Guard and Reserve Best Warrior Competition, in March, at Bellows Air Force Station. U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Christopher Hubenthal(Picture from the 2015 Annual Report)
Pfc. William I. Brady, 3rd Platoon, Alpha Troop, 1st Squadron, 299 Cavalry Regiment
Learn moreSgt. William A. Chea of 1st platoon, Bravo Troop, 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry Regiment watches Sgt. David C. Westman of the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry Regiment change a tire during the Best Warrior Competition at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii Mar. 3, 2018. (U.S. Army National Guard Photo by Sgt. Amanda Gerlach)Sgt. William A. Chea of 1st platoon, Bravo Troop, 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry Regiment simulates calling in a 9-line medical evacuation during the Best Warrior Competition at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii Mar. 3, 2018. (U.S. Army National Guard Photo by Sgt. Amanda Gerlach)Pfc. William I. Brady of 3rd Platoon, Alpha Troop, 1st Squadron, 299th Calvary Regiment simulated treating a casualty during the Best Warrior Competition at Schofi eld Barracks, Hawaii Mar. 3, 2018. 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 National Guard Photo by Sgt. Amanda Gerlach)(Pictures from the 2018 Spring Pupukahi)
Hawaii Army National Guard Pfc. William I. Brady of 3rd Platoon, Alpha Troop, 1st Squadron, 299 Cavalry Regiment and Staff Sgt. Krysta M. Waters of the 111th Army Band are announced as the Enlisted and NCO winners of the Best Warrior Competition at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, March 4, 2018. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Matthew A. Foster/ Released)(Picture from the 2018 Spring Pupukahi)
Staff Sgt. Paulo Napoles, Recruiting and Retention Battalion
Soldier of the Year
Spc. Martin Tran, 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team
Learn more
Hawaii Army National Guard Soldiers Compete in the 2019 Best Warrior Competition
117th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment | Story by Staff Sgt. Christopher Martens | Friday, March 1, 2019
Hawaii Army National Guard Soldier of the Year: Spc. Martin Tran, 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.Sgt. Jessica Damato, a member of the Hawaii Army National Guard’s 103d Troop Command, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, orients her map during the Land Navigation event while participating in the Hawaii Army National Guard’s annual Best Warrior Competition at Schofield Barracks in Wahiawa, on March 02, 2019. (U.S. Army National Gaurd photo by Sgt. Kealalaulii Gandia)Hawaii Army National Guard NCO of the Year: Staff Sgt. Paulo Napoles, Hawaii Recruiting and Retention Battalion (Pictures from the 2019 Spring Pupukahi)
Six Soldiers from the Hawaii Army National Guard competed to be named the Hawaii Guard’s best during the 2019 Best Warrior Competition, held at Schofield Barracks March 1-3. The grueling joint competition, which also included twelve competitors from the 9th Mission Support Command, U.S. Army Reserve, is held annually, and is designed to test each Soldiers mental and physical endurance.
Although the competition generally focuses on the individual ability of the competitors, both the Hawaii Army National Guard leadership, and the competing Soldiers see a much greater benefit.
“It’s important for the individual Soldier and Noncommissioned officer who volunteers for this to earn recognition for themselves personally,” said Maj. Gen. Arthur J. Logan, Adjutant General, Hawaii National Guard, as he explained the positive impact the Best Warrior Competition has on individual esprit de corps as well as collective esprit de corps within the Hawaii National Guard.
“Readiness is the number one mission…individual skill techniques that they’re learning out here are important as they grow as young leaders,” Logan said. “You’re building readiness every time you hold an event like this.”
This year’s competitors endured a grueling three-day competition that included an Army Physical Fitness test, a twelve-mile road march, written tests on various warrior tasks, land navigation, weapons qualification, evaluation on various warrior tasks and battle drills, and an appearance board.
The Hawaii Army National Guard winners were
Noncommissioned Officer of the Year: Staff Sgt. Paulo Napoles, Hawaii Recruiting and Retention Battalion, and Soldier of the Year: Spc. Martin Tran, 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.
For Napoles, the competition was a chance to grow as a leader “It’s about being in an uncomfortable position to grow as an NCO,” said Napoles. “I’m here to make an impact for the junior enlisted.”
For Tran, the competition is about becoming a better Soldier.
“This competition strengthened my confidence in warrior tasks,” said Tran. “It was a test of skills.” Ultimately though, Tran’s fondest memory of this competition is meeting and competing with other Hawaii Guard and Army Reserve Soldiers.
Napoles and Tran now move on to the Army National Guard regional level competition which will be held May 20-24, 2019 in Hawthorne, Nevada. If victorious in Nevada, they move on to participate in the national competition
Best Warrior Competition, Wahiawā, HI. Hawai‘i Army National Guard and Reserve Soldiers march along Schofield Barracks amid a three-day competition, involving a combat pistol qualification, land navigation, weapon assembly, written exam, and more. (Photo by: Sgt. 1st Class Theresa Gualdarama) (Picture from the 2019 Annual Report)
Schofield Barracks
March 6-8, 2020
Noncommissioned Officer of the Year
Staff Sgt. Matthan T. Uelese, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion 487th Field Artillery
Soldier of the Year
Spc. Kaulana Saltiban, 230th Engineer Company
Learn more
First Round of Best Warrior Competition 2020
117th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment (Hawaii) | Story by Sgt. Tinisha Mellein | 01.12.2020
First Round of Best Warrior Competition 2020(Picture from the 2020 Spring Pupukahi)
WAHIAWA, Hawaii – Hawaii Army National Guard Soldiers representing various units from the 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (29th IBCT) and 103rd Troop Command, competed to be named the top Soldier and top Non-Commissioned Officer during the 2020 Best Warrior Competition, Wahiawa, Hawaii Jan. 10-12, 2020. The annual event is designed to test each Soldier’s mental and physical endurance.
“This is the first time the 29th IBCT and Troop Command have held a combined Best Warrior Competition,” said Sgt. Maj. Russell Wong, S3 Operations Sgt. Maj. for Troop Command and overall facilitator of the competition. “It made it really competitive, as well as provided an opportunity to create new bonds amongst Soldiers in the Hawaii Army National Guard.”
Soldiers endured a grueling threeday competition that included the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), an undisclosed distance run and ruck march, evaluation on various warrior tasks and battle drills, warfare simulation stress shoot, day and night land navigation and an appearance board where Command Sgt. Majs. tested their knowledge.
For many Soldiers, this was the first time they performed the ACFT which is the replacement for the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). The new events include three repetition maximum deadlift, standing power throw, hand release push-up, sprint drag carry, and leg tuck.
“The ACFT was a little rough,” said first time competitor Spc. Jordan Esporlas, combat engineer with Alpha Co, 227th Brigade Engineer Battalion. “The sprint drag carry was probably the hardest event for me, but I think you just have to work out on your own time and be physically and mentally prepared.”
Another challenge for many Soldiers was the Command Sgt. Maj. appearance board where Soldiers were asked questions about military and current world events.
“The physical events are my strong points,” said Sgt. Haleigh Romero, automated logistics specialist with Company B, 777 Aviation Support Battalion. “My most challenging event was the board. Because whatever I prepared for wasn’t exactly what was asked, but I just realize I need to be wellrounded with my knowledge base.”
Although the competition focuses on the individual ability of the Soldiers, both the Hawaii Army National Guard leadership and the competing Soldiers see a much greater benefit.
“This competition gives Soldiers an opportunity to broaden their horizons,” said Maj. Deanna Manriquez, Commander of 777 ASB. “It also gives them the opportunity to test themselves physically and mentally as well as test their resilience and build camaraderie between each of the units with their competitors and sponsors.
The Soldiers are not only competing to be the Hawaii Army National Guard Soldier and Noncommissioned Officer of the Year, but the winners will have earned the honor of representing their units at the state level competition to be held in March, with a potential to compete at the National level.
The Hawaii Army National Guard 2020 Best Warrior Competition winners for Troop Command were Noncommissioned Officer of the Year: Sgt. Denny J. Ganob, 111th Army Band and Soldier of the Year: Spc. Kaulana K. Saltiban, 230th Engineer Company.
The Hawaii Army National Guard winners for 29th IBCT were NonCommissioned Officer of the Year: Staff Sgt. Matthan T. Uelese, Battery A., 1st Battalion, 487th Field Artillery Regiment, and Soldier of the Year: Spc. Jordan R. Esporlas, Company A., 227th Brigade Engineer Battalion. “These Soldiers competing today are the best and the brightest representing the Hawaii Army National Guard,” said Wong. “They set an example of what it means to be a Soldier for their peers and we will guide them and support them as they move forward to the next level of competition.”
SSG Matthan T. Uelese of 1st Battalion, 487th Field Artillery participates in the obstacle course event, completing the challenge in 11 minutes 40 seconds. Soldiers and NCOs of the Hawaii Army National Guard compete in the annual Best Warrior, Competition held at Schofield Barracks from March 6-8, 2020. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Matthew Foster)Spc. Kaulana Saltiban, with the 230th Engineer Company, tests his knowledge on warrior tasks during the 2020 Best Warrior Competition held at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, from March 6-8, 2020. When asked for the hand and arm single for ‘I do not understand’, this was his response. The Best Warrior will receive the opportunity to represent the Hawaii Army National Guard at the Regional level. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. John Schoebel)Sgt. Haleigh A. Romero of the 777th Aviation Support Battalion, maneuvering through an obstacle in her timed run through the obstacle course during the 2020 Best Warrior Competition held at Schofield Barracks from March 6-8, 2020. The Best Warrior will receive the opportunity to represent the Hawaii Army National Guard at the Regional level. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. John Schoebel)(Pictures from the 2020 Spring Pupukahi)
SCHOFIELD BARRACKS – Soldiers of the 103rd Troop Command and the 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team competed in the 2020 Hawaii Army National Guard’s (HIARNG) Best Warrior Competition 6-8 March between Schofield Barracks, and Schofield Barrack’s East Range. The statelevel competition was to identify the top Noncommissioned Officer and top junior enlisted Soldiers within the HIARNG. Winners of this competition received the opportunity to compete in the regional competition later this year.
The competition was combined with the U.S. Army Reserve component, though each component was graded separately. Soldiers were graded on multiple tasks, consisting of the new Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), written test and essay, questions in front of a board, multiple 10-level warrior tasks, night and day land navigation, obstacle course, ruck march, and weapons qualification on both the M4 rifle and M9 pistol.
“The Hawaii Army National Guard’s Best Warrior Competition is a culmination of Battalions and Major Subordinate Commands (MSC) who have completed their best warrior competitions in order for Soldiers to meet from different MSC’s in head-to-head competition, to see, who in fact is the best warrior across multiple army warrior tasks and tactical capabilities,” Command Sgt. Maj. Bret D. Moore said. “Over two days we rigorously test the Soldiers through a myriad of events, ranging from Army Warrior Tasks, Battle Drills, and written exams and oral boards to see who truly Hawaii’s best warrior is.”
The Best Warriors of this year’s competition, representing the Hawaii Army National Guard, are Staff Sgt. Matthan T. Uelese of Alpha Company, 1st Battalion 487th Field Artillery and Spc. Kaulana Saltiban, from the 230th Engineer Company.
“I love competing,” Uelese said. “I love striving for the next best thing. A goal, a really hard goal to obtain, that’s what I want to do. It makes me happy to smash goals.”
Uelese sees nothing but opportunity in competing in the Best Warrior Competition.
“I learned a lot during this competition,” Uelese added. “The training that went into preparing for it helps better yourself. When I go back to my unit and the next Best Warrior comes up, I will be their sponsor. I will be pushing guys to go and do better things. The schools are good, if that comes my way, I’ll go to every school the Army has to offer.”
Saltiban was the junior enlisted Soldier representing the 103rd Troop Command in the HIARNG competition. His initial reaction when asked about the competition was, “Wow! Wow, it was a little bit of a push.” This was his first time competing in this type of event.
Spc. Saltiban said that there was one event in particular, that was the most difficult task throughout the competition.
“Mentally, it was a tough one for me,” said Saltiban. “Rucking with full battle-rattle, I was not expecting that. Well, the reason why we join the military is to push our physical limits, I believe, and why not do it at the Best Warrior Competition where the best of the best are coming out to push themselves against everyone else too.”
Uelese is excited to represent the HIARNG in the regional competition and explained how others can follow in his footsteps.
“First, start training, then make a plan and execute it,” explained Uelese. “If you want to do something like this, attack it, go wholeheartedly and look for a mentor, get out there and do it!”
Saltiban also wanted to add that the competition brought everyone closer, the mentors and each competitor, but that this event is also the real deal.
“We were cracking jokes and having a damn good time,” Saltiban said. “But if you are going to compete, train for it.”
Uelese has met and overcome challenges, winning the NCO Best Warrior category and has gained experience to lead the Soldiers that choose to follow his path as a competitor of the Best Warrior Competition.
“Let’s go,” Uelese said. “Let’s start training, there are a few milestones you need to hit. First thing is to set up a plan. Get your plan ready and execute it. Just do it. If you have any little ‘wanting’ to do something like this, attack it. Do it! Go wholeheartedly and look for a mentor. Get out there and do it!”
Uelese and Saltiban will go on to the National Guard’s Region 7’s competition, in Guam. The winners of Region 7 will then move forward to the Army National Guard competition, which will crown the Army Guard’s Best Warrior. The final stage will be the all-Army Best Warrior Competition.
The events and challenges of the Best Warrior Competition push the limits of the competitors and test their mental and physical fortitude. Earning the title of “Best Warrior” has the potential to expand their opportunities within the Army.
“Competing is a great opportunity for Soldiers to get their name out to the HIARNG community, that in and of itself pays dividends to the Soldier as far as opportunities and schooling,” Moore said. “Being able to prove yourself as the best warrior within an organization is a sure-fire way to seek out better opportunities for career advancement.”
Spc. Kaulana Saltiban, with the 230th Engineer Company, maneuvering through an obstacle in his timed run through the obstacle course during the 2020 Best Warrior Competition held at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, from March 6-8, 2020. The Best Warrior will receive the opportunity to represent the Hawaii Army National Guard at the Regional level. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. John Schoebel)(Picture from the 2020 Spring Pupukahi)
Hawaii National Guard Soldier receives top marks at Best Warrior from 16th Sustainment Brigade Best Warrior (BW) 2021 Competition
Hawaii National Guard Soldier receives top marks at Best Warrior from 16th Sustainment Brigade Best Warrior (BW) 2021 CompetitionHawaii National Guard Soldier receives top marks at Best Warrior from 16th Sustainment Brigade Best Warrior (BW) 2021 Competition(Pictures from the 2021 Spring Pupukahi)
Soldiers from the Knights Brigade participated in the 16th Sustainment Brigade Best Warrior (BW) 2021 Competition at Baumholder, Germany April 20-23. The BWC provided the opportunity to test each Soldier’s physical fitness, mental toughness, and ability to perform to standards of excellence in a broad spectrum of Soldier’s skills. The competition consisted of a board and written essay, the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), a Situational Training Exercise (STX) lanes, Engagement Skills Trainer (EST) range, land navigation, and a ruck march. at the end of the competition 1LT Owen Lojek, who is currently deployed and assigned to the HHC 16th STB was recognized as the Officer of the Year.
DOD: How did your training in the HIARNG prepare you?
1LT: It was a really well-organized competition, especially given the current environment in Germany right now with COVID. It feels great to be able to represent the BDE but I was just happy to be able to compete and see where I stack up against my active duty counterparts. Being a part of the HIARNG, I always try to be a steward of the profession. The Guard doesn’t always allow us to train as much as we would like but that just means that we have to spend more personal time and be sure we are ready when we are called upon. In 2019 I was fortunate enough to serve with 1-487 FA while deployed to Afghanistan where I learned a significant amount about the importance of basic warrior tasks and the foundations they build in the most critical circumstances.
DOD: What was the greatest challenge in the competition?
1LT: The greatest challenge in the competition was the board conducted by all BN CSM’s, the BDE CSM, and one O3. As a young officer, I was not accustomed to a board environment and I tip my cap to the young NCOs which prepare themselves and conduct boards periodically for promotion. The board MOI was diverse and required hours of personal study time. They included topics which were briefly covered in ROTC or things I had general knowledge of but now was expected to be well-versed in.
DOD: What is next, will there be further stages?
1LT: Following this brigade competition I now will go to compete in the USAREUR Best Warrior competition in mid-August.
DOD: Do you think you would compete in the HIARNG best warrior next year after you return from deployment?
1LT: Since joining the HIARNG in 2017 I have been eager to participate in best warrior competitions but the op tempo is sometimes very demanding, especially in 487th.
DOD: Why are competitions like this important for the department of the Army?
1LT: Competition and pushing myself to assess where I stack up among my peers has always been one of my favorite things throughout life. I love setting goals and working diligently in order to complete those goals. Competition is extremely important to me and I believe is important to the Army because it pushes everyone to be the best. And even if we don’t always succeed or win, we discover what we are capable of and learn how much further we can push ourselves than we ever thought.
Hawaii Army National Guard Soldier (HIARNG) Sgt. Wienee J. Deguzman, a Unit Supply Specialist participates in the 12-mile road march during the Best Warrior Competition (BWC), Pearl Harbor, March 5, 2021. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Mariah Alexsandra K. Manandic-Kapu)Hawaii Army National Guard (HIARNG) and Hawaii Army Reserve Soldiers exit the CH-47 Chinook at the conclusion of the land navigation event during the Best Warrior Competition (BWC), Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, March 6, 2021. The BWC is a three-day annual competition where Soldiers are tested to earn the title of the “Best Warrior” through many challenges including firing weapons, land navigation, a physical fitness test and various mystery events. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Mariah-Alexsandra K. Manandic-Kapu)Command Sgt. Maj. James R. Jimenez, Command Sgt. Maj., Hawaii Army National Guard (HIARNG) stands with the 2021 HIARNG Best Warrior competition winners Sgt. Eric R. Binger and Spc. Michael J. Makinano after they received their awards, April 10, 2021, Kapolei, Hawaii. Both winners earned the opportunity to compete in the regional level competition later in the year. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. John Schoebel)Hawaii Army National Guard Spc. Trent J. Ishizu participates in the 2021 Hawaii Best Warrior Competition (BWC) 100 meter swim in uniform event at Richardson Pool, Schofi eld Barracks, Hawaii, March 5, 2021.The BWC is an annual three day event that Soldiers and Non-Commissioned Officers of the Hawaii Army National Guard and Hawaii Army Reserve compete in to earn the title of “Best Warrior”. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Matthew A. Foster)(Pictures from the 2021 Spring Pupukahi)
In the Junior Enlisted Category, Spc. Michael Makinano won first place in the events of “Mystery”, Fitness Challenge, and the Obstacle Course. He came home with three trophies for those events. The “Mystery” event was held at the Manitou Incline. It is a 2744 step staircase that ascends to 2000 feet in less than a mile. It’s considered the highest set of stairs in the world. Makinano finished first ahead of both the Jr Enlisted and NCOs. For the fitness challenge, Makinano achieved the fastest completion time for the 3-mile run event ahead of both the Jr Enlisted and NCOs. He also earned the highest total score of all fitness events. He also was to fastest to complete the obstacle course amongst the Jr. Enlisted.
Sgt Padama-Kinere scored the highest in the medical lanes event. Lauded by the event NCOIC and was recommended to train for the Expert Field Medical Badge. Padama-Kinere completed the Manitou Incline with the third fastest completion time.
Sgt. Fred M. Lino Jr., Echo Troop, Forward Support Company, 227th Brigade Engineer Battalion
Soldier of the Year
Spc. Kevin T. Brown, 117th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, 103rd Troop Command
Lino won Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year for Region VII.
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Hawai‘i Soldiers contend for 2022 Best Warrior title
117th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment (Hawai‘i) | Story by Sgt. 1st Class Theresa Gualdarama and Sgt. Lianne Hirano | Sunday, March 6, 2022
Hawai‘i Army National Guard (HIARNG) Soldier, Spc. Kevin T. Brown, a mass communications specialist assigned to 117th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, 103rd Troop Command, signals that he has donned, cleared and seals his mask during the HIARNG Best Warrior Competition (BWC), Schofield Barracks, Hawai‘i, March 6, 2022. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Mariah-Alexsandra K. Manandic-Kapu)Hawai‘i Army National Guard (HIARNG) Soldier Sgt. Fred M. Lino Jr., a small arms and artillery repairman, assigned to Echo Troop, Forward Support Company (FSC), 227th Brigade Engineer Battalion (BEB), aims down range for the individual weapons qualification (IWQ), Schofield Barracks, Hawai‘i, March 5, 2022. The annual Best Warrior Competition (BWC) consists of various events over the course of three days. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Casandra B. Ancheta)Hawai‘i Army National Guard (HIARNG) Soldier Spc. Kevin T. Brown, a mass communications specialist assigned to the 117th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment (MPAD), 103rd Troop Command, prepares to perform the maximum dead-lift (MDL) event during the annual Best Warrior Competition Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) at the Regional Training Institute (RTI), Waimanalo, Hawai‘i, March 4, 2022. The MDL is a muscular strength test that represents movements required to safely and effectively lift heavy loads from the ground, jump, bound and tolerate landing. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Lianne M. HiranoHawai‘i Army National Guard (HIARNG) Soldier, Sgt. Trevor J. Castro, a helicopter repairer with Detachment 1, Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 183rd Aviation Regiment, 103rd Troop Command, performs the hand-release push-up (HRPU) part of the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) event during the annual Best Warrior Competition (BWC), Regional Training Institute (RTI), Waimanalo, Hawai‘i, March 4, 2022. The HRPU measures upper and lower body explosive power, flexibility and dynamic balance assisting with tasks like a buddy drag, throwing a hand grenade and employing progressive levels of force in man-to-man contact. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Bethany J. Cravalho)(Pictures from the 2022 Spring Pupukahi)
WAHIAWA, – Hawai‘i Army National Guard (HIARNG) Soldiers representing units from the 117th Mobile Public Affairs, 1st Battalion, 183rd Aviation Regiment, 227th Brigade Engineer Battalion (BEB), and 299th Cavalry Regiment competed to be named the top Soldier and top NonCommissioned Officer (NCO) during the 2022 Best Warrior Competition (BWC) at Schofield Barracks and Bellows Air Force Base, Hawai‘i, March 4-6, 2022. This annual event is designed to test competitors’ mental and physical endurance.
The competition challenged Soldiers with consecutive events throughout three grueling days. The BWC started with the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), land navigation and obstacle course. The next day consisted of individual weapons qualification (IWQ), ruck march and written board. The last day concluded with the Expert Soldier Badge (ESB) tasks, a mystery event, and an appearance board.
Command Sgt. Maj. Brandon I. Kumalae, Command Sergeant Major of the 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry Regiment, said the BWC is a great experience for Soldiers to test their preparation and resilience.
The ESB test stations included events from the weapons, medical, and patrol lanes with an additional set of tasks selected by the brigade commander from the unit’s missions essential task list. It measured a Soldier’s proficiency in physical fitness, marksmanship, land navigation and other warrior tasks and drills to demonstrate a high level of lethality in the battlefield.
“It allows them to challenge themselves,” said Kumalae. “Obviously, a lot of time goes into preparing for the competition, so it allows them to challenge everything that they have prepared themselves for and see what they’re truly capable of.”
Each competitor is assigned a unit sponsor who provides required equipment and supplies, moral support while also mentally and physically preparing their Soldiers for the competition. Effective sponsors can make a huge impact on competitors by sharing their knowledge and experience to motivate and train their Soldier.
“Luckily, I have good leadership,” said Spc. Kevin T. Brown, a mass communications specialist with the 117th MPAD, 103rd Troop Command. “My sponsor provided me with a lot of information for getting ready for this competition and helped prepare physically, so I’m excited to get out there and compete.”
The BWC competition is designed to push competitors in all aspects of physical and mental fortitude.
“You really had to dig deep,” said second-time competitor, Sgt. Trevor J. Castro, a helicopter repairer with Charlie Company, 1st Battalion,183rd Aviation Regiment, 103rd Troop Command. “You had to find a little bit of yourself inside of that ruck march, going on in that roller coaster of going up and down hills.”
Sgt. Fred M. Lino Jr., a small arms and artillery repairer, assigned to Echo Troop, Forward Support Company (FSC), 227th Brigade Engineer Battalion (BEB), 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) also believed the ruck was the most challenging event.
“The ruck march, although not long, was a taxing event,” said Lino. “Helping and motivating each other to push definitely shows the type of individuals we were amongst.”
Despite the BWC being an individual competition, competitors encouraged each other in every event, especially the ruck march.
“This was a really exciting time to network with other competitors and see where they’re from, what unit they’re working with and also watch them excel at this competition,” said Brown.
The HIARNG 2022 BWC winners were NCO of the Year, Sgt. Fred M. Lino Jr. and Soldier of the Year, Spc. Kevin T. Brown.
Both BWC winners will move on to the regional level competition in Guam and potentially move on to the national-level competition in Tennessee.
“Some of the benefits of being a competitor for our Best Warrior Competition is the experience and the camaraderie gained with our competitors,” said Command Sgt. Maj. James R. Jimenez, Command Sergeant Major of HIARNG, the overall facilitator of the competition.
The Army is transitioning from an individual Soldier Best Warrior Competition to a five-man Best Squad Competition in September, according to the Sergeant Major of the Army, Sgt. Maj. Michael A. Grinston.
“I want units to really think about what makes up a squad,” said Grinston. “‘It isn’t just about the traditional infantry squad, it’s about those small groups of Soldiers who really know and care about each other and hold each other to a high standard of proficiency, discipline, and fitness.”
Hawai‘i Guardsman to compete in 2022 National All Guard Best Warrior Competition
Tennessee National Guard Public Affairs Office | Story by Sgt. James Bolen | Friday, July 15, 202
Hawai‘i Guardsman to compete in 2022 National All Guard Best Warrior Competition(Pictures from the 2022 Fall Pūpūkahi)
Hawai‘i Army National Guardsman, Sgt. Fred M. Lino Jr., will compete at the 2022 National All Guard Best Warrior Competition held in Tennessee, July 22-29.
Lino Jr., a small arms/artillery repairer with Hawaii’s Echo Troop, Forward Support Company, 29th Brigade Support Battalion, was named Noncommissioned Officer of the Year for Hawai‘i and will now compete against seven of the best National Guard NCOs from across seven regions. Seven of the National Guard’s top junior enlisted Soldiers will also be competing during this competition to earn the title of Soldier of the Year or earn a spot on the National Guard’s Best Squad. “I have learned more about myself throughout the course of these competitions,” said Lino Jr.
“I learned that hard work, and the willingness to push through pain will help you achieve so much you never thought was possible.”
The Soldiers and NCOs competing at nationals have already proven the skills by winning their state and regional competition. These are the National Guard’s best; they will be challenged physically and mentally for six days with over 30 graded events they must complete.
“I started training around February of this year,” said Lino Jr. “Most weeks consist of six days of physical training and constantly trying to push myself.”
The winners of this competition will form the National Guard’s best squad and compete at the Army’s Best Squad competition later this year.
Lino won at the unit, state and then the region level in Guam, then he represented our region at the Army National Guard National Best Warrior Competition. He competed with pride and finished strong. Congratulations Sgt. Lino!
Hawai‘i Army National Guard (HIARNG) Soldier, Sgt. Fred M. Lino Jr., a small arms and artillery repairer, assigned to Echo Troop, Forward Support Company (FSC), 227th Brigade Engineer Battalion (BEB), simulates throwing a grenade at Area X, Schofield Barracks, Hawai‘i, March 6, 2022. Grenade throwing was the mystery event in the Expert Soldier Badge (ESB) tasks event for the annual Best Warrior Competition (BWC). (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Lianne M. Hirano)(Picture from the 2022 Spring Pupukahi)
Hulse won Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year for Region VII.
Mears won Commissioned Officer of the Year for Region VII.
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Kamehameha Schools grad takes regional crown in Army National Guard’s Best Warrior Competition
Courtesy Story – Hawai’i Tribune Herald | Story by John Burnett | Thursday, June 11, 2023
“The pain of regret is way worse than the pain of training.”
Sgt. Cooper Hulse on Friday was reflecting on the Army National Guard’s Best Warrior Competition.
The competition is an annual Army-sponsored event designed to measure a soldier’s physical fitness, mental acuity, and demonstrated skill in warrior tasks and battle drills. So far, Hulse has taken first place at the brigade, state and regional levels.
This is the second time the 28-year-old Hulse, a 2013 Kamehameha Schools Hawai’i graduate from Kalapana, has vied to be Best Warrior. This time around, he’s competing as a noncommissioned officer. The first time, in 2014, was in the enlisted soldier competition.
“I was a private back then, and I got second place,” Hulse said. “So, coming back to it as an NCO, it was more redemption for myself than anything else. The pain of regret is a helluva thing. I knew I could do it.
“So, when I was selected to represent, I left it all out on the field.”
Between May 7 and 11, Hulse — who competed in volleyball and swimming at Kamehameha — won Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year in the Warrior Competition for Region VII. As Hawai’i state champion, he defeated soldiers from Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and Guam.
Hulse, the non-commissioned officer in charge of the Tactical Command Center for the 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry Regiment, 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Hawai’i Army National Guard headquartered in Hilo, advances next month to the All-Guard National Best Warrior Competition in Alaska. He’ll be one of seven regional winners competing for the coveted title of National Best Warrior.
To get the gist of the competition, imagine the “American Ninja Warrior” television show and then de-glamorize it — with an obstacle course that looks as though it will leave your hands splintered, a 12-mile rucksack march, fireman’s carry run on the beach, sled drag, written exam, board interview, marksmanship and the standardized Army Combat Fitness Test.
“The coolest part of the competition for me was definitely the experience that I was able to learn and gain from not just our instructors and graders, but also from our fellow competitors,” Hulse said. “They’re bringing a wealth of knowledge from all across the country that not only makes it hard to compete with them but is a big melting pot of information.
“The knowledge transfer is amazing from one soldier to another.”
Hulse said that at a few junctures during the multiday competition, he struggled and “had to dig deep.”
“I remembered that as an NCO, as a sergeant for my men, as a leader, they’re expecting me to be physically harder and mentally tougher than my opponents,” he said. “And if anything comes between me, my team, my family, or any of that — I will be physically harder and mentally tougher.
“That is what got me through.”
Hulse said the hardest part was facing questions from the board, comprised of sergeant majors, the highest NCO rank in the Army.
“I don’t enjoy interviews very much,” he said.
One element of the competition Hulse enjoyed was marksmanship, which he described as a “stress shoot.”
“Your heart rate is anywhere from 150 to 170 (beats per minute) by the time you touch a weapon and you start engaging your targets,” he said. “For the stress shoots, you’ll do everything from a low crawl to a dead sprint to fireman’s carries to sled drags.
“And you’re expected to engage your targets with effective fire throughout the entire time.”
Competitors fired three different military-grade weapons: the M4, a gas-powered, magazine-fed 5.56 mm carbine rifle; the M249, a 5.56 mm squad automatic weapon known as the SAW, essentially a light machine gun; and the M17, a 9 mm semi-automatic pistol.
“The most fun to shoot is the SAW, the automatic weapon. My expertise, though, is with the M17, the handgun,” Hulse said.
Hulse was honored Friday by a proclamation from Mayor Mitch Roth, who declared it “Sgt. Cooper Hulse Day.”
“I was completely surprised. I wasn’t expecting this at all,” Hulse said. “I was just told, ‘You’ve got an interview, something to do with the competition, so be sure to dress up nice and show up on time.’”
Asked about the national competition next month, Hulse said, “I’ll show up prepared and make it tough for the competition.”
Hulse’s Army classification is as a cavalry scout.
“We specialize in reconnaissance and forward observation,” he said. “We have a saying, ‘We’re not the tip of the spear, we’re ahead of it.’ Because we need to tell the spear where it’s going.
“We basically find the bad guys. We’re the eyes and ears of the battlefield for our commanders.”
Maj. Keoki Leong, executive officer of the 1st Squadron, described Hulse as “the total embodiment of the noncommissioned officer.”
“A leader and mentor, he is professional, dependable, and highly capable of executing duties above his rank,” Leong said. “He also brings forth the aloha spirit and warrior ethos of both the American soldier and the Kanekoa.”
Hulse described himself as “single with a dog.” And while he enjoys being at home with family, the beach and other Hawai’i perks, he has embraced the Army and its warrior lifestyle.
“What prompts me to stay in and continue to serve my community and serve my country is my leadership. They’ve shown me what it means to have honor, to have respect, to have strength, teamwork, esprit de corps. And they’re the ones who planted the seed in me by telling me, ‘Hey, you have the potential to be a great leader. We need you to stay.
Hawai’i Army National Guard Spc. Quinn Mears, left, a combat engineer assigned to Alpha Company, 227th Brigade Engineering Battalion and Hawai’i Army National Guard Sgt. Cooper Hulse, a cavalry scout assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, 1-299th Cavalry Regiment, won the Region VII Best Warrior Competition, Waimanalo, Hawai’i, May 7-11 2023. The Region VII winners competed agains National Guard service members from Arizona, California, Colorado, Guam, Hawai’i, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah in Army Warrior Tasks. The two HIARNG Soldiers now move on to the All-Guard National Best Warrior Competition in Alaska next month. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Sean Walker)(Picture from the 2023 Spring Pūpūkahi)
Staff Sgt. Bradley Padama-Kinere, Headquarters Headquarters Battalion, 1st Battalion, 487th Field Artillery Regiment, 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team
Soldier of the Year
Spc. Andruw Nakamura, Charlie Troop, 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry Regiment, 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team
Nakamura won Soldier of the Year for Region VII and placed 2nd in the Army National Guard nationwide competition.
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Hawai‘i’s Own Represents at the 2024 National Best Warrior Competition
117th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment (Hawai‘i) | Story by Staff Sgt. Matthew Foster and Sgt. Lianne Hirano | Wednesday, August 14, 2024
JERICHO, Vermont — Army National Guard competitors from across the country competed in the National Best Warrior Competition (NBWC) from Aug. 4 to 9, 2024. This competition brings the best-of the-best Soldiers to engage in challenging events designed to push Soldiers to their limits in physical fitness, mental intellect and tactical prowess in warrior tasks and battle drills.
Hawai‘i’s own U. S. Army Spc. Andruw Nakamura, an infantryman assigned to the 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry Regiment (1-299 CAV), 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Hawai‘i Army National Guard, placed second overall in the “Soldier” category. He was one of 14 Soldiers from various states competing in the NBWC.
“Representing Hawai‘i here in the State of Vermont at the National Best Warrior Competition is important because we’re a small state located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and disconnected from the rest of the nation,” said Nakamura. “This gives us the opportunity to demonstrate our technical aptitude and tactical proficiency that we train for each and every year as we stand ready to support Hawai‘i and the nation.”
To earn the honor to compete at the national level competition, Nakamura had to previously win company, battalion, brigade and regional competitions, earning his place in the national contest.
“It’s important for our Soldiers to participate in this national level Best Warrior Competition as it’s an opportunity to showcase our ability and talent,” said U.S. Army Command Sgt. Major Roger Uganiza, command sergeant major of the 1-299 CAV. “It highlights our readiness, proficiency, training, and that our Soldiers can compete at the highest level.”
The Best Warrior Competition Soldiers competed in multiple events that included small-arms and machine gun weapon qualification ranges, the Army Combat Fitness Test, ruck marches of various distances, a written exam, a review board, a historical weapon familiarization, and a biathlon.
“As National Guard Soldiers, they faced the distinct challenge of taking time away from their careers, friends, and family to train and be tactically proficient in their skills on the same level as active duty Soldiers,” said U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Charles Palmer, garrison command sergeant major of the Vermont Army National Guard and Non Commissioned Officer In Charge of the competition. “Just to get to this level alone, whether they win or not, these Soldiers have proven that they are some of the best we have within our fighting force.”
The events are specifically designed to test the agility and adaptability of non-commissioned officers and junior enlisted Army Soldiers through demanding trials and evaluations.
“The competition is designed to be challenging and every single competitor will be tested, but overall he [Nakamura] has the skills, ability and confidence to overcome any challenge he faces.” said Uganiza.
U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Caden Biddinger, a human resources specialist representing the Utah National Guard and Region VII alongside Nakamura, highlighted highs and lows of the competition.
“The camaraderie within the competition has been great,” said Biddinger. “In these types of competition environments, you rapidly get to know each other, share the same experiences of going through the struggles and challenges of the events and bond through that experience.”
The National Guard Best Warrior Competitions represents the best Army National Guard Soldier and exemplifies the level of training highlighting the readiness of the National Guard to answer the country’s call to action when necessary.
“Events like the Best Warrior Competition make the National Guard organization better by showcasing that National Guard Soldiers are physically fit, mentally fit, trained, competent and ready for any type of deployment or national response,” said Uganiza.” Being able to represent like Nakamura has, he crushed it from the beginning, starting strong and finishing strong, and I’m very proud of him and the way he has represented Hawai‘i’s Soldiers.”
Even though he finished second, there was a silver lining to the effort and results. Spc. Andruw Nakamura will be joined by the following soldiers to form a National Guard squad in the U.S. Army Best Squad Competition:
2024 National Best Warrior Competition Non-commissioned Officer of the Year, U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Kirtley Finnell, a combat engineer representing the Alabama Army National Guard
Soldier of the Year, U.S. Army Sgt. Peter Fillion, an infantryman representing the New York Army National Guard
U.S. Army Sgt. Hunter Grundhurd, an indirect fire infantryman representing the Montana Army National Guard
U.S. Army Sgt. Trace Thompson, an infantryman representing the Missouri Army National Guard
“I accomplished what I set out to do, gave 100 percent on every task; I left nothing on the table and gave it my all,” said Nakamura. “Looking ahead we have the Best Squad Competition, where our National Guard team is up against the entire active duty Army and we intend to win.”
U.S. Army Spc. Andruw Nakamura, center, an infantryman assigned to Charlie Troop, 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry Regiment, 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Hawai‘i Army National Guard, finishes the 12-mile ruck final event holding the Hawai‘ian flag with supporters from Region VII during the 2024 Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition at Camp Johnson, Colchester, Vermont, Aug. 8, 2024. The Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition is a five-day event composed of 14 competitors representing the regional winners; the competition tests Soldiers’ physical and mental prowess with a series of events with the overall winners receiving either Soldier of the Year or Non-commissioned Officer of the Year recognition. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Lianne M. Hirano)(Picture from the 2024 Summer Pūpūkahi)
