A Texas Army National Guardsman competed in the regional Army Best Warrior Competition May 17, 2018, at Camp Robinson in North Little Rock, Arkansas.
After winning the state-level BWC, Staff Sgt. Cody Henry of the 71st Training Center Garrison Command competed in the regional competition at Camp Robinson and placed third overall.
Henry said his biggest motivator during the competition's toughest moments was his young son, who was born with a physical disability.
"He was my motivation," said Henry. "Anytime I had a hard time or hurt during the competition I thought about him and the challenges he will face every day."
Henry, a Purple Heart recipient, said he trained tirelessly every day for months leading up to the state and regional competitions while balancing his civilian career and being a father.
"I'd wake up at 4 a.m. every day and go to the gym and train for two hours," Henry said. "On my hour-long drive to and from work I would study board (Army knowledge test) material by listening to YouTube videos and rehearsing my responses."
Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Bland of the 71st Training Center Garrison Command affirmed Henry's superior work ethic.
"I knew he had previously won Soldier of the quarter and month while on active duty orders," said Bland. "He is a high-caliber Soldier. He's physically and mentally fit and has great tactical knowledge."
Soldiers of the highest caliber across the entire U.S. Army undergo a strict selection process to compete in the competition. Henry, who had no issues qualifying to compete, represented the 71st TCGC well said Bland.
"A lot of people within the Army don't know who our unit is or what we do. We're an underdog,” Bland said. “Henry has helped prove we have great Soldiers within the Texas ranks".
Other Soldiers who may consider competing in the next BWC should not feel afraid to fail and should give their best effort said Henry.
"You will compete amongst some of the bravest and smartest people who are willing to challenge themselves. That says a lot about your character," Henry said. "Win or lose, you will be a better Soldier and person for putting yourself out there."