BALTIMORE — The Army National Guard’s 2025 National Best Warrior Competition officially kicked off this week in Maryland, bringing together 14 elite Soldiers and noncommissioned officers from seven regions across the United States who are vying for the title of the Army National Guard’s Best Warrior.
During the next five days, competitors will participate in more than 20 grueling events designed to test their tactical skills, physical endurance, mental resilience and commitment to the Warrior Ethos. Events include marksmanship, obstacle courses, medical lanes, ruck marches, written exams and mystery challenges, each crafted to mirror the demands of today’s complex operational environments.
Before earning a spot at this prestigious national competition, each participant first had to secure victories at their state and regional levels.
“Hosting this year’s National Best Warrior Competition is an incredible honor for the Maryland National Guard," said Maj. Gen. Janeen Birckhead, the adjutant general of Maryland. "These Soldiers and NCOs represent the finest of our force — leaders who exemplify resilience, readiness and a relentless commitment to service. This competition not only sharpens their skills but also strengthens the collective capability of the Army National Guard nationwide.”
Competitors this year span a diverse range of ages, experience levels and military occupational specialties, a reflection of the depth and strength of the National Guard’s ranks.
"This competition puts our Soldiers in the kind of demanding, high-pressure environments they could face anywhere in the world," said Command Sgt. Maj. David Harry, command senior enlisted leader of the Maryland National Guard. "It’s about more than individual accolades. It’s about building lethal, agile and resilient leaders who can be counted on in any situation. I’m proud to see our Guard family leading the way."
Additionally, military personnel from Estonia and Bosnia and Herzegovina are assisting in this year’s competition as part of the Department of Defense National Guard Bureau State Partnership Program with the Maryland National Guard. The partnerships reinforce Maryland’s enduring international military relationships and further enhance interoperability, training and shared readiness alongside the National Guard.
The champions of the 2025 National Best Warrior Competition will earn the right to represent the Army National Guard at the U.S. Army’s Best Squad Competition later this year.