Thirteen of the Louisiana National Guard’s top Soldiers and noncommissioned officers competed in the 2026 State Best Warrior Competition at Camp Beauregard, Jan. 12–15.
The annual competition tests Soldiers’ physical endurance, technical proficiency, and mental resilience through a series of demanding events. The top performing Soldier and NCO at the competition will move on to represent the State of Louisiana in the regional competition as its ‘Best Warriors.’
The first day began with in-processing, followed by orientation and safety briefings. Competitors then appeared before a selection board composed of senior enlisted leaders and command sergeants major from across the State. The day concluded with a timed essay highlighting the importance of preparation and mentorship.
“The preparation and training I received from both my company and battalion were vital to my success,” said Spc. Christian M. Welch, assigned to the 843rd Engineer Company, 205th Engineer Battalion, 225th Engineer Brigade. “From ensuring I had everything I needed to breaking down weapons systems to better understand them, the mentorship from my leaders helped keep me focused and confident.”
Day two began with the Army Fitness Test, followed by weapons qualification with the M4 rifle and M17 pistol. Competitors then participated in a weapons systems challenge, completing timed disassembly and reassembly of the M4, M9, M249, M240B and .50-caliber machine gun.
Later that day, Soldiers faced a mystery event involving reacting to contact during a patrol, utilizing cover and concealment, and clearing a four-room structure with zero collateral damage. The day concluded with a competitive live-fire event incorporating multiple weapons systems and movement techniques.
“Being a four-day competition, time and resource management were critical,” said Staff Sgt. Devin J. Jennings, assigned to the 62nd Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil Support Team, 61st Troop Command. “Knowing when to rest, eat, prepare mentally and organize resources made a difference.”
Competitors began day three with a 2:30 a.m. movement to night land navigation, followed by a daytime iteration. Using terrain association and dead reckoning, participants navigated to designated points under time constraints. Immediately afterward, they completed an Army Warrior Tasks event that included rushes, crawls, bunker assaults, casualty care and a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear response scenario.
The day concluded with a 500-meter obstacle course featuring 20 standardized obstacles, beginning with a tower rappel. Fatigue tested competitors throughout the day.
“My biggest challenge was managing mental and physical fatigue,” said Welch. “Each event demanded focus, discipline and adaptability. Staying calm under pressure made all the difference.”
The final event on day four was a 12-mile ruck march carrying more than 35 pounds of equipment. Participants stated that this event not only challenged their physical capabilities, but also their mental endurance.
“Your body will quit sooner than your mind will,” said Jennings. “Mind over matter means pushing through pain while still being smart about your limits.”
The Best Warrior Competition reinforces fundamental Soldier skills, promotes esprit de corps and recognizes Citizen-Soldiers who exemplify Army values and the warrior ethos.
Jennings, a New Orleans native, and Welch, from Franklinton, were named the Louisiana National Guard’s 2026 Noncommissioned Officer and Soldier of the Year.
“It’s truly an honor to represent my unit, hometown and the State of Louisiana at the regional level,” said Welch. “I know I’m representing not just myself, but the Soldiers, leaders and families who support us.”
Jennings echoed the sentiment, expressing pride in representing his unit at the regional competition.
Louisiana will host the Region V Best Warrior Competition in May, where both Soldiers will represent the Pelican State.
