FORT HUACHUCA, Ariz. (June 15, 2012) -- Representing five different Signal commands across the globe, five Soldiers and five noncommissioned officers competed for the chance to be the U.S. Army Network Enterprise Technology Command 2012 NCO of the Year and Soldier of the Year, June 12-15. The competition is held each year during Signal Week, and these Soldiers undergo various events and tasks designed to test their knowledge, strength and leadership and to show they have what it takes to earn the title.After a long, challenging week, the honor of being the 2012 NCO of the Year went to Sgt. 1st Class Ty M. Patrick, and the honor of being the 2012 Soldier of the Year went to Spec. Richard L. Wyce III, both representing the 311th Signal Command (Theater), Fort Shafter, Hawaii. The announcement was made during an award ceremony at NETCOM Headquarters at Fort Huachuca, June 15.Before the competition began, one of the 10 soldiers was not able to participate due to injury, leaving nine Soldiers to compete.Throughout the week the Soldiers took part in a series of tasks and events which included the Army Physical Fitness Test, M4 Rifle Marksmanship, Urban Day/Night Orienteering, Army Warrior Tasks and Battle Drills, Mystery Task, essay writing and the Sergeants Major Board. Each of these tasks tested the strength and mentality of the Soldiers.The competition began June 12, and by the end of the day only five competitors were left. "The competition has been very challenging," said Staff Sgt. Eric A. Hall, 335th Signal Command (Theater), Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, during the Army Warrior Tasks and Battle Drills.The other competitors were: Staff Sgt. Erick K. Gavelan and Spec. Kenny L. Tyler representing the 5th Signal Command (Theater), Wiesbaden Germany; Sgt. Esteban L. Fernandez and Spec. Christopher A. Ludeking representing the 7th Signal Command (Theater), Fort Gordon, Ga.; Spec. Kyle V. Fowler, 335th Signal Command (Theater), Camp Arifjan, Kuwait; and Sgt. Stephen D. Waters and Spec. Franklin M. Brozek III representing Headquarters, NETCOM, Fort Huachuca, Ariz.Patrick and Wyce will be competing at the Army Forces Command Best Warrior Competition later this year.Related Links:Competition Images (Flickr)Competition Video (YouTube)