LANDSTUHL, Germany --- Public Health Command Europe's top six Soldiers from across Europe were challenged to excel during the unit's Best Warrior Competition at Kirchberg Kaserne, Feb. 24 to 27.
When the dust settled, both winners were from PHCE's Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment. Sgt. Diego Montes was named the Noncommissioned Officer of the Year and Spc. Garrett Clark was named Soldier of the Year. Both winners will now represent PHCE in the regional competition, where the best of the Regional Health Command Europe's enlisted Soldiers and noncommissioned officers will compete.
Every year, the Army holds its Best Warrior Competition in which winners from all its subordinate commands compete. Described by the Army as "the Super Bowl of competitions," the four-day competition tests Soldiers' ability to conquer urban warfare simulations, board interviews, physical fitness tests, written exams, and battle drills relevant to today's operating environment.
Competitors for this year's title of noncommissioned officer and Soldier of the year were; Sgt. Laura Edwards and Spc. Vanessa Vasquez from Public Health Activity-Italy, Sgt. Diane Cadet and Spc. Marzelle Day from Public Health Activity-Rheinland Pfalz and Sgt. Diego Montes and Spc. Garrett Clark from Public Health Command Europe's Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment.
"Today's Soldiers must be well versed in a variety of warrior tasks outside of their primary military occupational specialty," said Sgt. Maj. Brett Long, PHCE's sergeant major. "During the Best Warrior competition, the Soldiers get tested four days in unknown exercises in which they have to be on top of it and excel among their peers, mentally and physically."
Some of the specific tasks the competitors had to complete were: tactical combat casualty care, a 12-mile ruck march, day and night land navigation, Modern Army Combatives, water survival, weapons assembly and disassembly, and an essay.
"I'm looking forward to competing at the regional level. This competition shows that hard work pays off," stated Clark. "The water survival was tough, especially taking off the uniform in the water after swimming laps was difficult. But if you keep calm and determined, you can achieve your goals."
Throughout the competition, the PHCE competitors embodied the Warrior Ethos, demonstrated their commitment to Army values and represented the force of the future.
"Soldiers must be able to react, adapt and overcome a situation quickly and decisively," explained Long. "In the mystery events it becomes obvious who is up for the challenge and can think quickly under both mental and physical stress. This can be the make it or break it point for the participants. I am proud of each and every competitor, and I am confident that they will represent the command well in the upcoming boards."
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