Recently, Soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Division took part in two of the Army's top branch skills competitions, not simply to crown a winner, but to identify the Army’s sharpest minds and strongest performers.

The demanding Best Sapper Competition, held annually at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, is where combat engineers endure days of intense physical strain, technical tasks, and nonstop problem-solving. Every movement tests their strength, skill, and teamwork. At the same time, field artillery Soldiers compete in the Best Redleg Competition, first hosted in 2024 at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, the competition brings together artillery specialists to demonstrate expertise in fire direction, observation, and coordination under pressure.

Across both competitions, a consistent theme emerged among participants. Success begins with mastering the fundamentals. Soldiers highlighted that their performance relied heavily on core skills learned early in their careers, skills that remain essential regardless of rank or experience. PFC. Drayton Macbeth, a cannon crewmember competing in the Best Redleg Competition, described being the best in terms that went far beyond trophies. “Being the best to me means being the best version of yourself that you can give to the team or the unit,” Macbeth said. “Being disciplined, fit, healthy, just being in the moment when someone needs you. That’s being the best.”

Ultimately, these competitions are more than contests. They are tools for strengthening the force. By challenging Soldiers to perform at the highest level, the Army ensures that its personnel remain prepared for the complex demands of modern warfare.

Through events like the Best Sapper and Best Redleg competitions, the Army continues to foster a culture where excellence is expected, fundamentals are valued, and Soldiers are inspired to become the very best in their profession, as proud Dogface Soldiers.