New York Soldiers Compete in Squad Stakes

FORT AP HILL Va.- New York Army National Guard Pfc. Ryan Seigel standing and Spc. John Dolengewicz kneeling at the mock casualty both from 2nd Squad 2nd Platoon Company B 1st Battalion 69th Infantry conduct a medical evaluation of a simulated casualty during the Fighting 69th Squad Stakes Competition medical task station during annual training here July 30. Sgt. Philip Browning at left scores their performance as they conduct one of 10 medical tasks that squads must complete as a part of the day-long challenge. The competition develops esprit-de-corps and camaraderie in a grueling course that tests their mental and physical fitness as they negotiate obstacles and scenarios that involve completion of warrior tasks while maintaining security and movement. The competition started at 5 a.m. with a squad run in full battle gear and a pack inspection to standardize load and equipment for the challenge. The Warrior tasks associated with the lane incorporated Shoot Move Communicate and Survive as well as other infantry battle drills (react to contact establish security perform actions as a member of a mounteddismounted patrol and evaluate a casualty). The winning team receives bragging rights as Best Squad in the battalion as well as individual Iron Mike trophies and recognition from the battalion commander and command sergeant major. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Lt. Col. James Gonyo/RELEASED)

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