Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Schmiett | An operator assigned to the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), takes aim at a range...... read more read more
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EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Approximately 20 teams assigned to the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) participated in a Best Operational Detachment Alpha competition, Dec. 12 to 13, 2018, on the newly named, "Bull" Simons compound here.
The first place team hailed from 1st Battalion, 7th SFG(A), with 261 points out of a possible 315. Out of the top 10 teams, seven were from 1st Battalion.
"We are always ready to compete or deploy," said a Team Leader assigned to 7th SFG(A). Their name has been withheld for operational security purposes. "That's what this [competition] is about, showcasing the talent of our Green Berets and their ability to be ready at a moment's notice."
The competition consisted of various events that would test the competitors physically and mentally, all while carrying a rucksack and combat equipment equivalent to 65 pounds. Additional events such as the obstacle course and the medical evacuation lane were conducted as a team, while the communication and the explosive lanes were conducted as an individual task.
"We are bringing back old-school training events because it promotes readiness, as well as morale and team cohesion," said Command Sgt. Maj. Terry Sanchez, command sergeant major of 7th SFG(A). "We used to do these team certifications annually. Where every operator would be validated by a road march, land navigation, weapons qualification, and all the basic core-tasks for an 18 series Soldier."
This event not only allowed the Green Berets to cross-train but also build esprit de corps and comradery in the team.
"Once the Global War on Terrorism kicked off we got swamped, and we weren't able to do it anymore," said Sanchez. "I am just bringing it back because our team guys schedule is more predictable and they have time to do more individual tasks, and this [competition] is part of it."
Sanchez expressed that due to real world mission requirements and the start of the Global War on Terrorism, 7th SFG(A), has not had a competition like this since the 90s, but is looking to make it a biannual event.
The winning team received a Spartan helmet trophy, custom physical training clothing and dinner donated by Special Forces Association Chapter 7, along with bragging rights as the best team at 7th SFG(A).
Lo Que Sea, Cuando Sea, Donde Sea.
| Date Taken: | 12.13.2018 |
| Date Posted: | 12.23.2018 15:15 |
| Story ID: | 304949 |
| Location: | EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, FL, US |
| Web Views: | 708 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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