The Puerto Rico State Guard (State Defense Force) once again sent a contingent of soldiers to compete in the annual Civilian Marksmanship Program’s National Matches, a premier event that brings together military and civilian marksmen from across the nation. Held from July 21 to August 4, 2025, at Camp Perry, Ohio, the event provided an opportunity for Puerto Rican troops to demonstrate their skill and dedication on a national stage.
Representing the Military Forces of Puerto Rico was Captain Iro García and Master Sergeant Carlos Acevedo achieved a historic performance for the island. Competing as part of the Puerto Rico National Guard’s Marksmanship Team, they secured first place and the Gold Medal in the Modern Military Rifle category. Their achievements did not stop there—they also earned a Silver Medal in the Sniper event and first place in the Sharpshooter category of the CMP National Trophy Aggregate.
This success follows last year’s strong showing when the Puerto Rico State Guard first sent soldiers to Camp Perry, where they earned top-10 finishes and multiple medals. Building on that foundation, the team returned in 2025 with even greater results, cementing their reputation as a skilled and disciplined marksmanship force.
The National Matches, conducted annually by the Civilian Marksmanship Program in partnership with the Ohio National Guard, have been a cornerstone of competitive shooting since 1907. The event brings together U.S. Army and Air National Guard units, State Defense Forces, and civilian marksmen from across the country. For Puerto Rico, participation not only demonstrates marksmanship excellence but also provides valuable training and camaraderie that strengthens both the State Guard and National Guard.
The achievements of the Puerto Rico State Guard highlight the growing role of State Defense Forces in national competitions. This year, alongside Puerto Rico’s gold-medal victory, the Georgia State Defense Force and Indiana Guard Reserve were invited by their National Guards to participate in the Best Warrior Competition for the first time. These events, which test physical endurance, tactical skill, and combat readiness, are among the most demanding in the military. Their inclusion marks a milestone for State Defense Forces nationwide, showcasing their professionalism and dedication.
The Puerto Rico State Guard’s triumph at Camp Perry is more than a medal count—it is a reflection of their commitment to excellence and their enduring service to the island and its people.
From July 21 to August 4, 2025, soldiers of the State Command of the National Guard of Puerto Rico, CPT Iro Garcia and MSG Carlos Acevedo, of the Shooting Team, represented the Military Forces of Puerto Rico in the prestigious National Competitions, held in the Center from Joint Training Camp Perry, the Ohio National Guard.
In these competitions, they got First Place and Gold Medal in the category of Modern Military Rifle. Also, they achieved Silver Medal in the Sniper event and First Place in the Sharpshooter category of the CMP National Cup aggregates.
From July 21 to August 4, 2025, soldiers of the Puerto Rico State Guard Command, CPT Iro García and MSG Carlos Acevedo, from the PRNG Marksmanship Team, represented the Military Forces of Puerto Rico in the prestigious National Matches, held at the Joint Training Center Camp Perry of the Ohio National Guard.
In these competitions, they achieved First Place and the Gold Medal in the Modern Military Rifle category. They also earned the Silver Medal in the Sniper event and First Place in the Sharpshooter category of the CMP National Trophy Aggregate.
Sources: Puerto Rico State Guard – Civilian Marksmanship Program –
