FORT SILL, Okla. (May 8) – Staff Sgt. Caprice Thomas of the 2nd Battalion-6th Air Defense Artillery, 30th Air Defense Artillery, representing the Fires Center of Excellence, greeted artillery Soldiers who are set to compete in the inaugural Best Redleg Competition starting May 9, 2024 at Fort Sill in the Oklahoma City Airport. .
The Fires Center of Excellence at Fort Sill is preparing for a historic event: the inaugural Best Redleg Competition, a unique opportunity for artillerymen to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level. This three-day competition, known for its intense challenges and high stakes, provides a platform for artillery sections from across the force to demonstrate their skills and capabilities.
The event will feature teams from various artillery specialties, including cannon crew members (13B), forward observers (13F), and fire control specialists (13J), with 200 Soldiers vying for victory.
The competitors from the 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery, 4th Infantry Division, from Fort Carson, Colorado, are eager to claim the title.
"I like competing and aim to win; losing isn't an option. This competition promises to be both fun and challenging," said Spc. Jeffrey Burrus.
1st Lt. Antony Bradley, 2-77th FA, commented, "I am proud to participate in what is considered the best competition the Army has to offer. We are prepared to compete with the top artillerymen."
According to contest organizers, the competition will test participants with physically demanding tasks and branch-specific evaluations. From the Army Combat Fitness Test to equipment transfers and operational order initiation, the Best Redleg Competition will push competitors to their limits.
"I'm here to leverage my skills, grow professionally, and see what I'm capable of," said Pfc. Timothy Robinson of the 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Liberty.
Live fire events and section-level tasks will be among the challenges participants face throughout the competition, culminating in a final award ceremony at Fort Sill.
The opening ceremony, scheduled for Thursday, May 9, at 3 p.m. on the Fort Sill Polo Field, promises to be a grand affair, marking the beginning of an intense day of competition, according to organizers. The event is open to visitors, offering spectators a firsthand glimpse into the dedication and the exceptional skill of artillery Soldiers.
As the competition unfolds from May 10 to May 13, attendees are encouraged to witness the action firsthand and support the competing teams. The closing ceremony, scheduled at Fort Sill's Old Post Quadrangle at 10:30 a.m., on May 14, will bring the event to a fitting conclusion and award the best artillery teams for the M109, M119 and M777 howitzers.
With its unwavering emphasis on excellence and readiness, the Best Redleg Competition stands as a testament to the commitment and proficiency of artillery units within the force, says Don Herrick, Fires Center of Excellence Public Affairs Officer.
Social Sharing