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Historic First! Georgia State Defense Force to Compete in Georgia Army National Guard’s Best Warrior Competition

Every year, The Georgia Army National Guard holds its prestigious Best Warrior Competition, a rigorous multi day event that pushes participants to their limits in both physical and mental challenges. This elite competition tests Soldiers on a wide array of tactical and technical skills, including land navigation, obstacle courses, marksmanship, weapons qualification, combat water survival training, etc. Designed to evaluate and recognize Soldiers who embody the Army Values and Warrior Ethos, the competition fosters esprit de corps and also establishes the top Soldier and Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) of the Year.

In a groundbreaking move for 2025, The Georgia Army National Guard has invited The Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) to participate in the competition. This marks the first time in history that any State Defense Force has been allowed to compete in this event. To prepare for this unprecedented opportunity, GSDF Soldiers recently underwent preliminary marksmanship instruction under the guidance of a Georgia Army National Guard instructor at a military installation from December 17-19, 2024. The GSDF’s participation in the competition underscores the growing recognition of the force’s dedication, skill, and readiness to stand alongside the National Guard in challenging environments. This milestone will serve as a benchmark moment in Georgia State Defense Force history.

The Georgia State Defense Force and The Georgia National Guard have forged an increasingly strong partnership over the past year, working together during numerous natural disasters and statewide emergencies. Whether responding to hurricanes, providing logistical support, or aiding in recovery efforts, GSDF and National Guard Soldiers have operated side by side in critical missions across the state. In a recent Commanders Briefing Podcast, Brigadier General Dennis Watts, the Commanding General of The Georgia State Defense Force, highlighted how GSDF Soldiers regularly train and deploy alongside The Georgia Army National Guard. This collaboration ensures seamless operational effectiveness and showcases how The GSDF continues to be an invaluable force multiplier, standing ready to support Georgia’s military, state & local agencies in times of need.

As GSDF Soldiers prepare to compete in the Best Warrior Competition for the first time, this historic inclusion highlights the growing recognition of their capabilities and further solidifies their role in Georgia’s military readiness and response framework. Congratulations to The Georgia State Defense Force for their incredible achievements.

A GSDF First!

Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) Soldiers Prepare for the Georgia Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition

A Georgia Army National Guard (GAARNG) Soldier (center) provides GSDF Soldiers preliminary marksmanship instruction at a military installation, Dec. 17-19, 2024. This training will assist GSDF Soldiers in their participation in the GAARNG Best Warrior Competition.

The will mark the first year the GSDF has entered teams into this competition, which is scheduled to occur later in 2025.

Hooah!

We were Georgia’s state guard!

To join, go to gsdf.link/join.

The GSDF is a component of the Georgia Department of Defense, along with the GAARNG and the Georgia Air National Guard.

(Georgia State Defense Force photo by Sgt. 1st Class Daniel Pepin)


Sources: Georgia State Defense ForceMilitary Spot National Guard

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