Minnesota National Guard Hosts 2024 Best Warrior Competition with NATO Allies at Camp Ripley

(KNSI) — The Minnesota National Guard is holding its 2024 Best Warrior Competition this week at Camp Ripley.

This year’s event features a unique twist as 16 soldiers and two airmen from Minnesota are competing alongside NATO partners. There are two each from Canada and Norway and four from Croatia. The Minnesota National Guard has an exchange program with Norway where the countries have trained together, but this is the first time all three partner nations have competed in Minnesota simultaneously.

It’s a grueling four day competition meant to test physical and mental capabilities. Events include Army knowledge exams, fitness tests, weapons qualifications, medical tasks, an obstacle course, a live-fire exercise, and a special “Valor Ruck” honoring Medal of Honor recipients.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase skills and build relationships,” said Command Chief Master Sgt. Major Lisa Erikson. “It strengthens interoperability between our forces and fosters personal connections.”

“This competition showcases the best of the Minnesota National Guard – our people,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Jason Rost, the Senior Enlisted Advisor for the Army National Guard in Minnesota. “It pushes them to their limits and allows them to compete for recognition at regional and national levels.”

One Soldier and one non-commissioned officer will advance to the Region IV Best Warrior Competition hosted by the Iowa National Guard in May.

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