Grit and Determination: Soldier, Mother Overcomes Challenges to Earn ESB

"I still can’t believe I completed it!”

These were the emotions Staff Sgt. Jessica Cordero expressed to her husband as he pinned her Expert Soldier Badge onto her uniform.

Jessica Cordero is a financial management technician assigned to the 4th Financial Management Support Unit, Special Troops Battalion, 1st Armored Division Sustainment Brigade at Fort Bliss, Texas. She was born in Honduras, but claims Fort Lauderdale, Fla., as her hometown. Jessica Cordero is also a military spouse and a mother to a 5-year-old daughter.

For Staff Sgt. Cordero, this was her chance at redemption. She failed her first attempt at earning the ESB and was determined to get it this time. She knew from previous experience that the competition is physically and mentally challenging.

As a financial readiness technician, Jessica does not apply the ESB competition’s tasks on a day-to-day basis at her job. To prepare for her second attempt, she had to go the extra mile and train on weekends.

She credits her family for her resiliency and determination throughout her journey.

“One of the biggest challenges was juggling my responsibilities at home and work with training for the competition,” she said. “As a mom and a military spouse, I wouldn’t have been able to do this without my husband’s support.”

Jessica Cordero earned her ESB by completing a series of rigorous and demanding events including the Expert Physical Fitness Assessment, land navigation, individual weapons qualification, medical tests, basic infantry tactics, and a three hour 12-mile road march.

“I am really proud of her,” said Jessica’s husband, Sgt. 1st Class Victor Cordero, a platoon sergeant assigned to Bravo Company, 1-36 Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division. “This is her second attempt at this, and she gave everything she had.”

During the competition, Victor was with Jessica every step of the way and coached her through the finish line. He completed the 12-mile ruck march alongside her, demonstrating their family’s teamwork.

The ESB competition is designed to simulate combat situations and enhance the Soldiers' ability to operate in adverse environments. It also develops leadership skills and fosters camaraderie.

For Jessica this accomplishment serves as an inspiration to all Soldiers who want to excel. Her achievement demonstrates that with grit and determination Soldiers can overcome challenges and be all they can be.

“I recommend anyone to come out and try the competition, even if you don’t make it, you will learn a lot.” she said. “It’s the hardest thing that I have ever done in my Army career.”