Archives May 2025

As a veteran with nearly two decades of service, Army 1st Sgt. Steven Cox has had plenty of experience, but his latest achievement took him to a different kind of field – a softball field. Cox, the first sergeant assigned to the Minnesota National Guard’s Faribault-based 224th Transportation Company, recently competed with the 2024 All-Army Softball Team, representing the U.S. Army and the Minnesota National Guard on a national stage.

“Service gives me an opportunity to give back to the city, state, and country,” said Cox. “I enjoy being able to be there and to help others in need.”

Enlisting in 2008, Cox deployed to Kuwait and Iraq with the 1st Battalion of the 151st Field Artillery Regiment the following year. His career has spanned multiple assignments and missions, including participation in the Norwegian Exchange Program in 2011, domestic response efforts during a 2019 winter storm, and 2021 civil unrest.

Yet, among the many chapters of his military service, being selected for the All-Army Softball Team stands out to him.

Cox’s softball journey began when he was 15, filling in on teams with his dad, uncle, and brother Matt. At the time, baseball was his primary sport. That changed in 2011 when he stepped away from baseball and began dedicating more time to softball. Over the years, he has played for several competitive teams, most notably, T’s 13 out of Omaha, Nebraska.

“Softball has become a huge part of my life,” he said. “It’s a team sport, but more than that, it’s a family. My team, coaches, our sponsor, we all put in work together, on and off the field.”

Cox first heard about the All-Army team from fellow Soldiers, including Command Sgt. Maj. Jim Perez, and initially thought it sounded too good to be true. But after moving into a new role in 2023, he received mentorship from Perez and support from his chain of command to finally go for it.

“With his blessing, my commander Capt. Dehn and the battalion commander, Lt. Col. Sarah Witt,” said Cox. “I was able to put in an application and be selected for the event.”

The application required a sponsor from a previous team member and a detailed athletic resume. Cox also focused on maintaining his physical readiness and working on softball fundamentals. He relied on his wife and three daughters.

“This took my entire family’s support,” added Cox. “My wife, Kelly, would hit me grounders, and my three girls, Brooklyn, Lauren, and Aubrey, would help me collect balls from my tee work. We counted one day…120 softballs in our wagon; I’d hit all of them twice.”

Once his application was accepted, Cox traveled to Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where the team hit the ground running. Day one included practice and just one day later, they already had a tournament.

“Each day, we would practice in the morning, work out in the afternoon, and play games at night besides tournament days where we would play the entire day,” added Cox.

Then came the Armed Forces Tournament in Oklahoma City, where the Army team competed against other branches. The Army won the gold medal. At the end of it, they selected players from all branches to play in the B Nationals tournament for the Armed Forces team. Cox was one of the chosen players.

“One-hundred applicants, 25 selected, 15 make the final team,” said Cox. “I took it as every single ball that was hit to me was being looked at, every single ball hit was being graded, so I just kept working as hard as I could.”

Throughout the experience, Cox said the leadership of his coaches, Coach Mason and Coach Custodio, made a lasting impact.

“They didn’t just make me a better player; they made me a better person, leader, and family man,” added Cox. “I thought I was all about teamwork before, but at drill, I now speak differently about what we are trying to complete that day. I learned how to really care about others because of the way that they were caring for me.”

Reflecting on the experience, Cox said the proudest moment was hearing his name during the opening ceremonies.

“It gave me goosebumps,” he said. “I’ve played in national tournaments before, but nothing like this. The support I got from my boss up to the adjutant general was not unnoticed.”

As the tournament ended and the experience settled in, Cox found himself carrying those lessons back into his leadership style, life, and mentorship of others.

“Learn the basics and keep trying to perfect them,” said Cox. “A great leader starts by being a good follower. We make the odds; go work for it. Be great parents, kids, volunteers, and leaders.”

For Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Douglas Watson, 34th Infantry Division, the Month of the Military Spouse, celebrated every year in May means recognizing and acknowledging the unique role military spouses have in a service member’s life.

Doug is especially thankful for his wife, Amy.

“I could not have achieved what I have in the military without the support and sacrifices my wife has made,” he said.

Doug and Amy have four children – Brody, 15; Brockton, 12; Evelyn, 11; and Elliana, 8. Amy said military spouses take on many roles, ranging from parent and keeper of the schedule to lawn maintainer, house cleaner, snow remover, and more.

“At times, I am a single parent while my spouse is on a mission abroad. Taking on the role of independent parenting while still trying to include your soldier and keep them relevant in your kids’ lives is very difficult,” Amy said. “Feeling like your marriage is put on pause for nine months to a year and trying each time to find a new normal is difficult and then reintegrating the soldier back into the routine that may have changed since they left. Drill weekends often cutting into family events or kids’ sporting events is tough. The kids don’t like it when Dad has to miss their stuff.”  

Amy takes it all in stride.

“I may have challenges in this lifestyle, but I feel my challenges are minor compared to my soldier who misses out on chunks of our lives,” Amy said. “I don’t know that I could leave my family for periods of time. I feel that all these challenges help to make me a better person, help me to appreciate what I have in my spouse and our family.”

Amy also sees being a miliary spouse as a learning experience.

“I truly have learned a lot of what I am capable of because of deployments,” she said. “I finished my degree, fixed a washing machine, changed a car battery, fixed a dishwasher, taught drivers ed to our son, and managed a driveway in one of the worst snow seasons on record. Without my soldier being gone, I may not have attempted many of these things or stretched the boundaries of what I am capable of accomplishing.”

Amy has also established friendships with other service members and spouses and has enjoyed  volunteering and participating in events.

“I have had the opportunity to volunteer with the Soldier & Family Readiness Group, help put on three successful Family Day carnivals and have had great opportunities from Beyond the Yellow Ribbon and other organizations, like attending a Twins game, a Wild game, and even a spa day for spouses,” she said.

Doug would like to let all military spouses know that they are appreciated not only during the Month of the Military Spouse, but throughout the year.

“I can’t say it enough, it’s great having a support system you can count on to handle things when a soldier’s mission takes them elsewhere,” he said. “Without the support of military spouses, we would not be as successful.”

Amy would like to let her fellow military spouses know, “You are amazing.”

“But don’t forget the beauty in being challenged. Challenges help us discover what we are capable of and when we have taken on more than we should and need help from others. Don’t feel bad for relying on others, be grateful for all the amazing support we are fortunate to have,” Amy said. “When times get tough as a spouse or soldier, reach out, I guarantee you’ll find a battle buddy who can listen or share in your frustration. The military is one big family support group. If you feel alone, ask for help or get involved. No matter what, please know you are amazingly resilient and capable of great things.”

Amy encourages employers and community members to support the military spouses in their workplaces and neighborhoods.

“Military spouses are hard-working individuals who manage to make the impossible possible at times, but who sometimes forget to ask for help when they’re drowning in a to do list,” Amy said. “Unlike military bases, the next National Guard family going through the same deployment cycle may live many miles away. Our families are all spread out, sometimes making this experience a lonely one. The best thing a neighbor did for me was deliver pizza to my house, so I didn’t need to cook on a drill weekend. Small acts of kindness do make a difference. Whether it’s a meal, yardwork, or a listening ear, we appreciate it.”

By Cristina Oxtra

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

For most of her life, Airman 1st Class Lydia Marsolais never imagined serving in the military. It felt unfamiliar, with everything she knew gathered from movies or history books. However, a desire to follow in her adoptive mom’s footsteps by serving others, and a love for aviation as a private pilot, pushed her towards the discovery of the Air Force. Now, at 21 years old, she is preparing to step into an operations intelligence specialist role with the Minnesota National Guard’s Duluth-based 148th Fighter Wing.

“I was extremely undereducated on how many different job opportunities the military has,” said Marsolais. “I didn’t even know the Air National Guard existed!”

Marsolais, a Minneapolis native, grew up watching her mother, a pediatric nurse for children with cancer and blood disorders, dedicate her life to serving others. The sacrifices, long hours, and emotional toll never affected her negatively. Inspired by this, Marsolais searched for ways to serve in a similar way. She worked as a summer camp counselor and personal care attendant in assisted living homes. But something told her there was more she could do.

“I realized I was ready to kick it up a notch,” she said. “That’s when I found myself in a recruiting office.”

At first, the idea of joining the military was intimidating. She was unsure what it entailed, who it was for, and what opportunities were available. It was not until she began researching independently and listening to firsthand experiences from service members that she began to see herself joining. For her, the Minnesota Air National Guard offered the perfect balance: a way to serve her community, continue her passion for flying, and keep her civilian career.

Choosing a military career field was not easy for Marsolais. She wanted something that would challenge her. After studying for the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test and scoring an impressive 87, Marsolais had her pick of careers.

“I absolutely love a good challenge,” she said. “The job description for intel involved topics that I had zero experience in, but I was really interested in learning. It felt like the perfect fit.”

When Marsolais met the 148th Fighter Wing’s intelligence team members, her decision to pursue a career in intelligence was reinforced. Their patience, willingness to answer her questions and welcoming attitudes created a positive impression. Marsolais wanted to be a part of that environment, where curiosity, adaptability and teamwork are important.

Although she has not yet attended basic military training, Marsolais has big goals for her military career. She hopes to deploy multiple times, volunteer as much as possible, commission as an officer and even recruit others to serve as well. She also wants to make a positive impact on others.

“I hope to lead by example to other junior enlisted service members and future [National] Guard members by demonstrating a good work ethic and helping the people around me whenever I get the chance,” she said. “As I move up in rank, I plan to not only take on the leadership roles expected of me but also go the extra mile when I’m able to.”

Marsolais says that her mother has always inspired and supported her throughout her life. She also credits her high school softball coach and band teacher for helping her develop self-confidence and motivation as she grew up.

She plans to complete a bachelor’s degree in psychology and believes studying the subject will give her insight into human patterns that could relate to her military career.

Even though her journey is just beginning, Marsolais is already proving the future of the force is built on service, a drive for success and the ability to rise to new challenges.

“Being a member of the Minnesota Air National Guard allows me to serve the people of this country but also the people of Minnesota,” added Marsolais. “I have lived here my whole life and have countless wonderful experiences, all thanks to the Minnesotans I’ve encountered.”

Story by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh
Minnesota National Guard

Two Minnesota National Guard Soldiers, Army Spc. Dan Whited of Moose Lake and Army Sgt. Devon Shaw of Elk River represented the state at the Region IV Best Warrior Competition, held April 30 to May 3, at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin. The competition brought together 14 of the region’s top Soldiers and noncommissioned officers for a test of combat readiness, tactical knowledge, and physical fitness.

Command Sgt. Maj. Jason Rost, who has led Minnesota’s involvement in Best Warrior for nearly a decade, emphasized the competition’s focus on building lethality and improving unit readiness.

“At the direction of our federal leadership all military services and components have been directed to focus on the essential functions of our nation’s defense – which is led by our ability to build lethality,” said Rost. “In practice, this translates to individual and squad-level capability. The Best Warrior Competition highlights the skills and proficiencies that make all Army Soldiers functionally lethal – the ability to shoot, move, and communicate.”

Rost noted that the 2025 competition was the most immersive and challenging he has seen.

“Our competitors dove headfirst into it,” said Rost. “They were all challenged in unexpected ways – and their attitudes and character carried them through to the end.”

Whited, an infantry Soldier with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 194th Armor Regiment, and Shaw, a horizontal construction engineer with the 850th Engineer Construction Company, advanced to the regional event just days after competing at Minnesota’s competition.

Both Soldiers were tested on a wide range of warrior tasks, including marksmanship with the M4 rifle, M17 pistol, and M249 squad automatic weapon, as well as the Army Combat Fitness Test, day and night land navigation, an appearance board, written exam, combat water survival, a confidence course, and a 12-mile ruck march.

“It’s very good knowledge to test on,” said Whited, recognized as the runner-up in the Soldier category. “It shows that everyone needs to be constantly [learning]. It’ll be good to bring this knowledge back to the unit and our section to help train them.”

Whited, who has competed in multiple state competitions and now twice at the regional level, said that land navigation was his favorite challenge.

“You’re disorientated when you get out there,” he added. “It was unique because you started in the morning for the night land navigation and then it progressed into the day.”

For Shaw, competing in the noncommissioned officer category was a test of individual performance and a chance to lead by example. He hopes to be an inspiration to younger service members.

“It’s a great way to show Soldiers what it means to excel,” added Shaw. “The Best Warrior Competition builds the esprit de corps. My favorite part was meeting all the other noncommissioned officers and Soldiers from other states. We all became a team despite being competitors.”

Looking ahead, both Whited and Shaw have big plans for the future. Whited hopes to continue competing in competitions like this and possibly sponsor another Soldier one year. Shaw is looking to attend both the U.S. Army’s Sapper Leader Course and the Drill Sergeant Academy. He hopes to run a marathon and complete a full Olympic triathlon and Ironman before turning 25.

Rost emphasizes that supporting competitions like this is still critical as resource priorities shift across the Army.

“We must carefully focus and prioritize resources to maximize efficiencies and provide the ‘most bang for the buck’ moving forward,” added Rost. “While the Best Warrior Competition at the State and the National level highlight our Soldiers and NCOs core competencies, resourcing these competitions moving forward must be carefully maneuvered and balanced against organizational readiness and priorities.”

Beyond individual recognition, the competition is a powerful tool for professional development and esprit de corps for those who participate and the units they return to. It reinforces foundational Soldier skills while celebrating excellence within the enlisted ranks.

“At its core, competition drives innovation, inspiration, and improvement,” said Rost. “While the Army has several competitions across its service, the Best Warrior Competition/Best Squad Competition is unique in that it is designed specifically to highlight enlisted Soldiers. Enlisted Soldiers make up nearly 80% of Army formations – so a competition which highlights the very best of this cohort demonstrates to our service, our nation, and our world what makes the United States Army world class – it’s Soldiers.”

Story by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh
Minnesota National Guard

Mother’s Day is a day dedicated to recognizing and appreciating mothers from all walks of life. Their roles and duty to families and their children are immeasurable amidst all the other responsibilities they take on to uphold society. This Mother’s Day, we honor two remarkable mothers who are currently deployed overseas with the Minnesota National Guard’s Cottage Grove-based 204^th Medical Company Area Support. 

U.S. Army Capt. Danielle Purdy is a remarkable 32-year-old mother of two who exemplifies the duality of nurturing motherhood and impactful leadership. She initially enlisted and then commissioned after obtaining her bachelor’s degree in psychology. Her journey took a turn after the birth of her first child when she was inspired to pursue a second degree in nursing. This decision not only provided her with the stability needed to support her family but also allowed her to follow her new-found passion for labor and delivery nursing. As a dedicated mother, Purdy actively participates in her children’s lives, supporting their education and passion for dancing, all while pursuing her own professional goals. During her deployment, she takes on the prominent role of clinic officer in charge, leading more than 30 medical personnel through the unit’s primary mission of health service support. While overseas, she relies on her ‘village’ at home to help take care of her daughters which includes her own mom, Melissa. Her ability to excel in both her military career and her role as a mother serves as an inspiring testament to her commitment to her family and her duty, nurturing her children while also ensuring the well-being of those in her charge.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Samantha Wolle is a dedicated 38-year-old mother of four, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to raising her children to become strong, independent individuals. With a firm belief in the importance of education and personal development, she actively supports her children’s academic pursuits and athletic activities, fostering an \environment where they can thrive as they navigate through elementary, high school, and university life. Wolle works tirelessly to be present for her children, ensuring they feel her love and encouragement even amid her and her husband’s military commitments. She takes immense pride in their resilience and adaptability, qualities they embody in handling the challenges of a military family. During her deployment, Wolle serves as the medical logistics noncommissioned officer in charge, where she plays a vital role in ensuring that medical supplies are available for her team, reflecting her commitment to both her family and her duty to serve. Her ability to balance motherhood with her responsibilities in the military exemplifies the strength and character she instills in her children, preparing them for their own journeys ahead.

As we celebrate this special day, let us reflect on the strength and resilience of mothers everywhere, acknowledging the unique challenges they face and the unwavering love they provide. Their commitment to both family and duty exemplifies the spirit of motherhood, and we are grateful for their contributions, which resonate deeply within our communities.

By Army Sgt. Sam Misoi,
Minnesota National Guard

Beyond the Yellow Ribbon representatives from 20 communities and 29 companies and organizations across Minnesota attended a workshop at Camp Ripley on April 30 to share best practices in supporting the military community.

A statewide program that began in 2008, Beyond the Yellow Ribbon, known also as BTYR, establishes and sustains a community and corporate network to meet the needs of Minnesota’s military veterans and service members of all branches and their families.

“The strength, preparedness, and well-being of our veterans, service members, and their families are influenced by the support they receive from the people in the places where they live, work, and serve,” said Army Lt. Col. Jackie Stenger, Minnesota National Guard’s chief of community engagement. “The Beyond the Yellow Ribbon workshop aims to bring together communities, companies, and organizations to collaborate, build connections, and enhance their efforts in support of our military community.”

The theme of this year’s annual workshop was “What’s Brewing with Beyond the Yellow Ribbon.” While guests sipped on cups of coffee, they listened to presentations, participated in breakout sessions, and engaged in networking activities. They also enjoyed a base tour.

“Our partnerships and collaborations are vital to our success. We are grateful for the care and commitment that you, our fellow Minnesotans, show through your efforts for our veterans, service members, and military families. We cannot do the work we do without you,” said Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke, Minnesota National Guard’s Adjutant General in his welcome remarks. “Beyond the Yellow Ribbon is a shining example of how true collaboration between partnering entities can benefit not just those involved, but also many others beyond them,”

Several community networks, corporate partners, and individuals were recognized for their efforts, including the Minnesota Twins, Land O’ Lakes, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, the Maple Grove BTYR, the Big Lake BTYR, and Chuck Haas, chair and president of the Hugo BTYR, which celebrated its 15-year anniversary this past March.

There are currently 50 communities and 87 companies and organizations in the BTYR network. Last year, BTYR communities coordinated over 400 events, performed more than 12,000 volunteer hours, sent over 2,500 packages to deployed service members, and provided an estimated $400,000 in assistance to veterans, service members, and their families. BTYR corporate partners supported over 90 events, contributed more than 4,000 volunteer hours, sent over 750 packages, and provided approximately $350,000 to assist those in Minnesota’s miliary community. To learn more about BTYR, visit MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil/btyr.

Story by Cristina Oxtra

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

The Month of the Military Spouse is observed in the United States every May to honor the contributions and sacrifices of military spouses.

Lauren Shegstad is one of the almost 10,000 military spouses of active duty, National Guard, and Reserve service members in Minnesota. She and her husband, Air Force Tech. Sgt. Nicholas (Nick) Shegstad, 133rd Airlift Wing Maintenance Squadron, have been married for 11 years. They have three children – Landen, 11, Kinsley, 8, and Cedar, 6.

Military life includes many challenges for both the military spouse and the service member.

“The unknown is one of the biggest challenges and trying to find people who understand and relate to the military family lifestyle,” Lauren said. “Along with the sacrifice you have to make as a spouse and watching the sacrifice your children make.”

“I worry about leaving Lauren to handle everything on her own,” Nick said. “I know that she can handle it, but I also know that it can be very stressful. When it’s been a tough day at home, there is no tapping out with me so that she can take a break.”

Nick has been deployed eight times, four of which were while being married with children.

“I wouldn’t say that it’s ever easy to have your spouse leave for any amount of time and each new deployment brings its own unique set of challenges, especially with kids,” Lauren said. “All three of our children have special needs and that itself brings their own challenges, physically and emotionally. When routines form a sense of safety, deploying changes all that up. You have to rebuild that both from the deployment and rebuilding upon returning.”

Lauren pointed out that military spouses are tough and can weather through any difficulties.

“We are strong and resilient, kind of our own breed of warrior,” Lauren said. “We have immense pride and respect for what our spouses do.”

But Lauren suggested military spouses should be open to asking for and accepting help, as well as building and using a good support system. She also hopes more connections can be established between military families and the people in their communities and workplaces.

“Being we live in a Guard state, it feels we don’t have the same tight military community that’d make it easier to connect with other military families or to get support from other spouses and even kids,” Lauren said. “It would be nice to see more events hosted to connect families and different community programs, like Beyond the Yellow Ribbon. and maybe drawing in new partnerships that could support families during times of deployment.”

Established in 2008, Beyond the Yellow Ribbon, known also as BTYR, maintains an extensive community and corporate network to meet the needs of Minnesota’s veterans and service members of all branches and their families. There are currently 50 BTYR community networks and 87 corporate partners across the state.

Lauren appreciates the Northeast Metro Beyond the Yellow Ribbon and its chair, Dorothy Radermacher, a Vietnam veteran spouse, for the support she and the community network has provided to her family through the years. At this time, as Lauren’s brother is currently undergoing treatment for cancer and Nick prepares to deploy for the ninth time, the Shelstad’s are thankful to have BTYR in their corner to help them.

“God has truly blessed us through Nick’s deployments with the incredible connections we have made with our local Beyond the Yellow Ribbon,” Lauren said. “Dorthey Radermacher of BTYR has not only helped our family in times of need but has been an advocate for us and our military community. That relationship is priceless in a moment of crisis when you feel all alone.”

Nick is pleased to know that there is a Month of the Military Spouse observance every year and more should be done to recognize military spouses.

“I feel that more emphasis would be great with more opportunities to celebrate spouses more publicly,” he said. “Lauren has been truly amazing throughout the 11 years we’ve been together. She is there helping me pack my bags, making sure I am not missing anything, including things I’d never think of, and she is there helping me when I annoyingly wake her up at 4:30 in the morning because I can’t find some part of my uniform. She is truly my biggest supporter. My life would be a mess without her.”

Story by Cristina Oxtra

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

The Minnesota National Guard’s Child & Youth Program hosted Purple Up at Mall of America® on April 25 to recognize the contributions and sacrifices of military youth to the nation. 

“The children in our military families must often overcome difficulties that many people may not be aware of,” said Joy Luedeman, Child & Youth Program lead coordinator. “We want to make sure our Minnesota military-connected youth know they’re valued and their contributions matter, not only to their families, but also to their peers and communities.”

This annual celebration was one of many events during the Month of the Military Child, which is observed every April across the United States Armed Forces. At the event, military youth and their families enjoyed games, character appearances, a photo booth, caricature art, airbrush tattoos, giveaways, treats, and rides at Nickelodeon Universe® provided by Mall of America® and other sponsors.

Purple is the official color of the military child. It is a combination of all the colors of the U.S. Armed Forces — Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard blues, Army green, and Marine Corps red. More than 15,000 children in Minnesota have at least one parent serving in the National Guard or Reserve.

“Mall of America is proud to be one of the many Minnesota businesses that fully support and recognize Month of the Military Child,” said Sara Durhman, director of Corporate Social Responsibility at Mall of America®. “At our core, the mall is about creating memorable experiences and leading from the heart. Many of our team members are veterans or active members of the Reserve and Guard. They lead with heart and go above and beyond every day. They are key to our success.”

There were also other activities throughout April, including contests in art, photography, backpack design, and recipe creation. Families could also request a letter from Governor Tim Walz thanking military youth at minnesotaveteran.org/militarychild.

Story by: By Cristina Oxtra

  Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

For four intense days, 25 service members from the Minnesota National Guard and NATO allied nations Canada and Croatia, pushed themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally through 18 warrior tasks, all for a shot at being named the Minnesota National Guard’s 2025 Best Warrior.

Held April 21-26 at Camp Ripley near Little Falls, the competition was not just about skill; it was about heart. Armed with only a compass, protractor, and map, competitors fought through dense vegetation, fatigue, and doubt — challenging each other and themselves every step of the way.

“You are part of a legacy that is the best warrior,” said Command Chief Master Sgt. Lisa Erikson, the command senior enlisted leader for the Minnesota National Guard. “It is one of excellence, resolve, mentorship, and continuous improvement. Be immensely proud of what you have accomplished over the past four days.”

This year’s event brought a modern, more immersive experience to the traditional competition. Realistic scenarios tested technical knowledge, mental grit, physical endurance, and tactical precision. The goal: to sharpen warriors who can return to their units and be better prepared to lead, enhancing readiness and lethality across the force.

Things kicked off with weapons zeroing on the M4 carbine and M17 pistol. In the evening, competitors put their skills to the test for a night land navigation event. For the following three days, competitors were divided into three rotating groups, facing a new set of challenges each day.

The first lane consisted of a 13.1-mile ruck march, known as a valor ruck. The trek stopped at five memorial stations honoring Minnesota’s heroes. The ruck march was not about endurance but a journey through sacrifice and service. In addition to learning about these heroes, competitors had a chance to experience what they went through.

“It was, by far, the best military and life experience I’ve ever had,” said Croatian Army Pfc. Kristofor Josip Jurjević, from Zadar, Croatia, who serves as a land forces reconnaissance Soldier. “The valor ruck was the most challenging because you’ve got loads of time on your hands, and a lot of things go through your mind while you’re on the course. It was overwhelming both physically and mentally. In those moments, it’s not about ‘oh, I gotta beat that guy,’ it’s a battle between you and time.’”

Among those honored was retired Army Capt. Chad Malmberg, who served with the Minnesota National Guard’s Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 135th Infantry Regiment. In 2007, while leading a convoy in Iraq, then-Army Staff Sgt. Malmberg demonstrated extraordinary heroism. After his unit was ambushed, he directed counterattacks, coordinated fire support, and repeatedly braved direct fire, ultimately saving his convoy from being overrun, preserving the lives of many Soldiers and civilians. Malmberg was awarded the Silver Star, the third-highest military decoration for valor in combat.

Now retired, Malmberg stood among the competitors throughout the competition to witness the impact of a legacy he helped build.

“There are two kinds of battles in life challenges,” said Malmberg to competitors, sponsors, and more than 100 support staff personnel. “There’s the ones that we win, and then there’s the ones that you learn from.”

During the second lane, competitors fired the Mark 19 40mm grenade machine gun before entering a high-stress survival, evasion, resistance, and escape scenario, simulating the demands of combat, captivity, and escape.

For some, the competition was also deeply personal.

Army Staff Sgt. Mason Gumbiner, from Minnetonka, who serves as a cavalry scout with Bravo Troop, 1^st Squadron, 94^th Cavalry Regiment, entered the week just after the loss of his grandmother, a retired first sergeant who helped shape him. With her memory driving him forward, Gumbiner emerged as one of the event’s top performers.

“When things got tough,” said Gumbiner. “I dug deep and thought about my grandma, spending time in prayer. I really relied on my faith and prayed to have my steps guided for me because my strength is not my own.”

Competitors traveled on foot through training areas to find five points at the final lane. At each point, they were tested on a different warrior task, such as disassembling, assembling, and performing a functions check on an M2 50-caliber machine gun, preparing and using a single-channel ground and airborne radio system, and calling for a medical evacuation, firing an M240B machine gun, disarming an M18 Claymore mine, and sending a report of enemy contact. Every action required focus and every second mattered.

Army Spc. Dan Whited, from Moose Lake, who serves as an infantry Soldier with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 194th Armor Regiment, also stood out during the competition. 

“He stayed steady through the whole thing regardless of what was put in front of him,” said Army Staff Sgt. Benjamin Haller, an infantry Soldier assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 194th Armor Regiment, and Whited’s sponsor. “He’s one of those kids that always has a smile on his face no matter what condition he’s in.”

When the dust settled, Gumbiner was named the top noncommissioned officer, and Whited earned the title of top Soldier. Jurjević was named the top international competitor.

Runners-up included Army Sgt. Devon Shaw, from Elk River, a horizontal construction engineer with the 850th Engineer Construction Company, 84th Troop Command and Army Spc. David Bushnell, of Ham Lake, who is a military police officer with the 34th Military Police Company, 84th Troop Command. Croatian Army Cpl. Dario Stegnjaić, from Nova Gradiška, Croatia, who serves as an air defense noncommissioned officer, was named international runner-up.

With Minnesota’s best warriors crowned, the journey is not over yet. Winners will have the opportunity represent the state at the Region IV Best Warrior Competition later this month, hosted by the Wisconsin National Guard at Fort McCoy, where they will face top Soldiers from across the Midwest.

“To the winners, congratulations on your outstanding achievements,” added Erikson. “You have earned this recognition through your exceptional skill and unwavering determination. To every competitor, know that you are all winners in the truest sense of the word. You have dared to challenge yourselves, to push your boundaries, and to embody the warrior spirit.”

Story by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh 
Minnesota National Guard