(National Guard Photo/Video by Sgt. Israel Sanchez) VIEW ORIGINAL
BARLING, Ark. — Thirty-three two-person sniper teams showcased their precision and tactical expertise during the 54th Winston P. Wilson Sniper Championship and the 34th Armed Forces Skill at Arms Meeting Sniper Championship Dec. 6–13 at the Fort Chaffee Joint Maneuver Training Center.
The National Guard Marksmanship Training Center and the U.S. Army National Guard Sniper School organized the events to test sniper skills and weapon systems in a simulated battle environment.
This year, teams from the Netherlands and Italy joined U.S. competitors, increasing the international collaboration and friendly rivalry that have become hallmarks of the championship.
Col. Kevin Burton, NGMTC commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Dennis Huynh, NGMTC command sergeant major, presided over the ceremony honoring the accomplishments of these distinguished marksmen. Guests included Brig. Gen. Chad Bridges, the adjutant general of the Arkansas National Guard.
“These competitions are about more than just hitting targets. They’re about pushing limits, honing skills and preparing our teams for the challenges they’ll face in real-world missions,” Burton said.
Since its inception in 1971, the WPW Sniper Championship has identified the National Guard’s top marksmen. Winners receive the prestigious Chief’s 50 Badge. This year’s 54th WPW Sniper Champion is the Nebraska National Guard, earning the Overall Championship Team Trophy and the Chief David R. Logan Sniper Team Trophy.
The AFSAM Sniper Championship, first held in 1991, fosters camaraderie and skill-building among U.S. military forces and allied nations. This year’s 34th AFSAM champion is the 2nd Special Warfare Training Group, which excelled in a competition featuring identical courses of fire as the WPW.
This year’s events challenged participants with scenarios designed to test their physical endurance, mental focus and teamwork. Teams navigated complex environments while engaging targets under pressure, enhancing their ability to respond effectively in combat situations.
“Every shot, every decision and every movement in these events reflect the discipline and focus that make our forces exceptional. This is where training meets execution,” Burton said.
Participants returned home with trophies, accolades and valuable experiences that will shape their readiness for future missions. Events like the WPW and AFSAM help develop the next generation of elite marksmen while fostering global partnerships.
FY2025 National Guard Sniper Competition Results:
WPW Sniper Team Champions
1st Place
- Nebraska National Guard
2nd Place
- Michigan National Guard
3rd Place
- Iowa National Guard
WPW Specialist Christopher Horton Precision Engagement Memorial Trophy
- Iowa National Guard
WPW Silent Hunter Team Champions
- Michigan National Guard
WPW Carbine & Pistol Champions
- Idaho National Guard
AFSAM Sniper Team Champions:
1st Place
- 2nd Special Warfare Training Group
2nd Place
- 3rd Special Forces Group
3rd Place
- All - Guard
AFSAM Precision Engagement Team Champions
- All - Guard
AFSAM Silent Hunter Team Champions
- 3rd Special Forces Group
Carbine & Pistol Champions
- 3rd Special Forces Group
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