KING ABDULLAH II SPECIAL OPERATIONS TRAINING CENTER, Jordan (May 9, 2010) -- U.S. Marines from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit took top prize during the 2nd Annual Warrior Competition where they beat out six other specialized teams during the 3-day evolution at the King Abdullah II Special Operations Training Center (KASOTC) that ended May 9.
The 24th MEU sent two teams to the competition with the Force Reconnaissance team claiming first place, while third place went to a team from the 24th MEU's Battalion Reconnaissance platoon.
Other countries that competed included Tanzania, Saudi Arabia, and the host nation, Jordan, whose team took second place.
“The overall purpose [of the event] was to attract teams from all around the world and give them a venue to have a friendly combat oriented competition,” said Charles K. Redlinger, development manager of King Abdullah II Special Operation Training Center (KASOTC). “It was designed to be a friendly competition that attracts various friendly-nation units from special operations forces, counter-terrorism forces, and law enforcement.”
The 20 square kilometer training center showcased seven events that included climbing, rappelling, precision shooting, breaching, and overcoming obstacles. The team work oriented competition tested the teams endurance and stamina and the ability to shoot under pressure, stress, and fatigue.
As Marines raced to remain ahead of the pack, the competition became a platform for each nation and teams to discover more from one another.
“We were learning from the other services. Once the barriers were broken down between the teams and countries, everybody became friends,” Capt. Troy E. Mitchell, platoon commander for the Battalion Reconnaissance Platoon, and overall senior Marine representative for the competition.
“It didn’t matter who won, we all had a good time competing against each other and learning.”
The multi-national event further benefited all the Reconnaissance Marines to conduct an extraordinary means of bilateral training during their seven month deployment.
“The event was once in a lifetime opportunity for these Marines to see other nations working together, to see different types of gear, and participate in cross training and cultural learning,” said Mitchell.
Marines and other contestants tested their teamwork and several the new ranges, obstacle courses, and technology of the new training center, while setting the standard for future contenders.
“This event was bigger and better than last year. Certainly we kept score, but everyone who competed goes away richer for the experience.” Ret. Army Maj. Gen. Gary Harrell, general director of KASOTC. “The positive change in the teams’ attitude throughout the competition makes them all winners in my book.”
The 24th MEU is currently deployed as the theater reserve for Central Command and has been participating in a variety of training exercises and key leader engagements since they arrived here in late February and are mid-way through their regualrly scheduled 7-month deployment