UNION CITY, Ga., February 20, 2026 – Capt. Tony J. Smith, a logistics officer commissioned from West Point, readiness was once measured purely by performance. That definition collapsed on June 14, 2024, when a cardiac crisis after a battalion run led to the discovery of a blood clot.
“I met my breaking point that day,” Smith said. “I thought I was invincible. I wasn’t.”
Now, as American Heart Month highlights cardiovascular health, Smith is preparing to compete in the 2026 U.S. Army Trials at Fort Bliss, Texas, with a new understanding of what it means to be ready.
A graduate of the U.S. Military Academy, Smith thrived for nearly seven years in demanding assignments, including with the 82nd Airborne Division. He admits he normalized and ignored warning signs like chest pains and heart palpitations, attributing them to the high-stress nature of the job.
“High stress was just part of the job,” he said. “I ignored the warning signs.”
In September 2024, Smith was assigned to the Soldier Recovery Unit at Fort Hood, Texas, to heal through the Army Recovery Care Program. ARCP facilitates recovery for wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers through coordinated care, case management, and adaptive reconditioning.
For Smith, recovery was both physical and mental. “I had to be vulnerable and tell my chain of command I wasn’t okay,” he shared. “That was one of the hardest conversations of my life.”
Through ARCP’s adaptive reconditioning program, Smith found a renewed sense of purpose in adaptive sports. He is scheduled to compete in para bench press, rowing, track, field, and cycling at the Army Trials, which will be held at Fort Bliss, Feb. 25 to March 6.
He now sees readiness as a holistic responsibility. “Readiness is mind, body, and spirit,” Smith said. “It’s also stress and mental health management. It’s being steady enough to respond when life calls you to act.”
As he prepares for the competition, Smith hopes his journey encourages others to seek help before a crisis forces change.
“Take care of your heart,” Smith said. “It’s your lifeline. You’re not alone. The Army takes care of its Soldiers and families. Speak up.”
About Army Trials: The Army Trials is the Army’s premier adaptive sports competition for wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers and qualifying veterans. The event showcases sport as a platform for recovery, support, and lifelong health and wellness. Army Trials underscores the Army’s commitment to readiness, resilience, and empowering Soldiers to thrive beyond their wound, injury, or illness. The top 40 competitors will be selected to represent Team Army at the 2026 Warrior Games in San Antonio, Texas, June 13 - 26.