GRAFENWOEHR, Germany (Oct. 22, 2015) -- The German squad claimed the title of European Best Squad after finishing the three-day long European Best Squad Competition hosted here by the 7th Army's Joint Multinational Training Command, or JMTC.
Latvia's squad placed second and the 173rd Airborne Brigade won third place.
The European Best Squad Competition is a multinational event hosted by U.S. Army Europe that focuses on the essential element of every military - the squad.
Squads were tested through solving problems and working together to complete tasks, including transporting casualties while carrying personal equipment over rough terrain and long distances.
"It was tougher than I expected," said Pfc. Andreas Kling, 26th Airborne Regiment, German army. "At some stations, all I thought was, why are they doing this to me?"
The squad is the smallest unit in most militaries, so the close bonds formed by shared experiences and challenges can give the Soldiers the drive to keep moving.
"At the obstacle with the artillery rounds, it made me want to quit," Kling said. "I have to do it. For my nation, for my company, for my squad members, that's the only reason I keep moving forward."
The competitors completed more than 20 events and 30 tasks, including medical evacuations, NATO knowledge tests and weapons qualifications.
At the closing ceremony, Brig. Gen. John Hort, G3 deputy chief of staff - operations, U.S. Army Europe, emphasized that the successful competition of the first European Best Squad Competition helps to build and improve the relationships and capabilities of NATO partners.
"I am really proud to win the first European Best Squad competition in my homeland," Kling said. "My heart is beating so fast and my hands are sweating. Its really great."
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