“I hope to get a better grasp on training and readiness so I can bring it back to my unit and help train other Soldiers,” says U.S. Army Spc. Jameson Shaheen, a human resources specialist with Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 1st Battalion, 147th Field Artillery Regiment, South Dakota Army National Guard, competing in the Region VI Best Warrior Competition.
Shaheen joined the National Guard to support his country, provide for his family, and serve his community. During his two years of service, he has gained discipline and confidence that continue to positively influence his civilian life. Through the competition, he hopes to expand his military knowledge and improve readiness while learning from Soldiers from across the region. Shaheen says competing against Soldiers from other states has challenged him to learn from a wide variety of experiences, skill sets, and military backgrounds.
"If I can't do it for myself, I'll do it for my state."
He also serves on a military funeral honors team, which he considers one of the most meaningful experiences of his career, providing military honors to those who served before him. His dedication to honor reflects his commitment to service, professionalism, and support for both his fellow Soldiers and the community.