Heat and humidity didn't dampen spirits or the level of competition that could be found at the second annual Urban Warrior Challenge and organization day held June 18 on the Fort Myer portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall.
The event began with an opening ceremony at 7 a.m. and continued throughout the day with a series of athletic competitions held near Spates Community Center. The purpose of the event, according to organizers, was to build esprit de corps and camaraderie among the troops while giving families a chance to see where their loved ones work.
"It's good friendly competition and a chance to get away from the daily routine and normal duties," said JBM-HH Commander Col. Mike Henderson.
Teams of Soldiers and Marines from around the joint base challenged each other and competed for bragging rights by squaring off in activities such as volleyball, a grenade toss, ultimate Frisbee, a tire roll, dizzy Izzy relay, ammo can races and tug-of-war matches.
Army Staff Sgt. Christopher Siburt said the toughest part of the challenge was the tire flip.
"We had a plan for our team and it worked out good," he said.
Winning units in the open category of events included the Army's Honor Guard Company for basketball and volleyball; Hotel Company for tug-of-war and Delta Company for dodge ball and ultimate Frisbee.
"Without a doubt, this has been an extraordinary event," said Marine Master Sgt. Jeremy Owens, who served as master of ceremonies at the competition's awards ceremony.
Coming in third place in the overall competition with 13 points was Headquarters and Headquarters Company (The Old Guard); in second place with a total of 16 points was Charlie Company, 1st Battalion 3d Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard); and finishing in first place and recognized as the top unit on installation was Henderson Hall's Headquarters Marine Corps' Headquarters & Service Battalion Team 1 with 19 points.
"It's all about the joint base," said Marine Sgt. Joseph Patero, who was a member of the winning team. "It's nice to work with and intermingle with the Army."
"I love Soldiers, I love Marines and really love it when you work together. From my heart I really appreciate watching you and having a good time and being out here today," said Headquarters and Service Battalion, Headquarters Marine Corps, Henderson Hall Commanding Officer Col. Anthony S. Barnes in remarks at the end of the competition.
Activities for family members included Caisson hay rides and an inflatable bounce house. Marine Corps Family Team Building representatives hosted a LINKS (Lifestyle, Insight, Networking, Knowledge and Skills) session and more than 20 corporate sponsors set up informational booths and displays.
"I just want to say to each and every one of you, job well done," said Col. Johnny Davis, 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) commander, to participants and organizers at the end of the event.
The event was organized by Marine Corps Community Services Henderson Hall and Army Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation.
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