Photo By Senior Airman Kristof Rixmann | Capt. Jaci Smith, an Aircraft Analysis Squadron analyst, works at her desk at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, Feb. 20, 2026. Smith balances her duties as an intelligence officer with a rigorous training regimen as she prepares to represent the U.S. Armed Forces at the World Military Cross Country Championship in Greece. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Kristof J. Rixmann) see less
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NASIC officer to represent U.S. at world military cross country championship
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio –A National Air and Space Intelligence Center officer is set to represent the U.S. Armed Forces on a global stage, competing against the world’s best military athletes in Greece from Feb. 25 – Mar. 2, 2026.
Capt. Jaci Smith, an Aircraft Analysis Squadron analyst, will compete in the Conseil International du Sport Militaire World Military Cross Country Championship from Feb. 25 to Mar. 3 in Trikala, Greece. The event brings together top runners from militaries worldwide, strengthening international relationships while showcasing each country’s best of the best.
Smith, a former National Collegiate Athletic Association All-American and U.S. Olympic Trials competitor, secured her spot on the team after a qualification race in January where she finished among the top six American military runners.
“I knew going into the U.S. race that I wasn’t in top form,” said Smith. “But I knew that all I could do was compete hard with what I had on the day and try to be in the top six - if I gave it my all, there wouldn’t be any room for regrets.”
Balancing the responsibilities of an Air Force officer with the demands of an elite athlete requires incredible focus, a challenge Smith meets by compartmentalizing her efforts.
“Something that is important to me is being present and bringing my best to whatever task is in front of me,” said Smith. “When I’m running in the morning, I try to focus on getting better and not work, or life stress. When I get to work, I put the run out of my mind, regardless of whether it went well or poorly, and focus on the mission.”
Smith credits her skill learned in one arena for her success in the other. The resiliency gained from overcoming running injuries helps her maintain positivity at work. Conversely, she applies the leadership and problem-solving skills from her officer duties to her strategy on the racecourse.
As she prepares for Greece, her goals are clear.
“Naturally, I want to run fast and beat as many runners to the finish line as possible,” said Smith. “I’ll leave everything on the course – I always do – and being top 10 would be awesome, but mostly, I want to finish the race healthy, represent the Air Force well, and carry this experience forward into my running career.”
Ultimately, representing her country, her service, and her home unit is a profound privilege.
“It’s always humbling to race as part of something bigger than yourself,” said Smith. “Wearing a U.S. Armed Forces uniform really puts things in perspective and will help me find another gear when the going gets tough. I also hope this race will allow me to make NASIC proud and thank my teammates here who support me.”
For her fellow Airmen, Smith hopes her journey serves as an inspiration to chase their own goals, both in and out of uniform.
“Any worthwhile pursuit comes with challenges, demands commitment, and requires sacrifice,” said Smith. “But if you set a goal and stay true to yourself, it can be so much fun!”
