U.S. Army Pacific Soldiers Excel in Water Survival Challenge

Best Squad Competition Puts Army Teams to the Test

U.S. Army Pacific Soldiers Showcase Teamwork in Best Squad Competition

Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Pacific completed a challenging combat water survival training assessment during the Best Squad Competition at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, on July 20, 2026.

The five-day competition brings together 16 squads from across the command to compete in a series of demanding events designed to evaluate physical endurance, leadership, tactical skills, and team coordination. During the water survival assessment, soldiers demonstrated resilience and confidence while navigating aquatic challenges that mirror real-world operational conditions.

The Best Squad Competition serves as a rigorous measure of combat readiness, emphasizing both individual excellence and squad-level cohesion. By testing soldiers in realistic, high-pressure scenarios, the event strengthens teamwork, enhances operational effectiveness, and prepares units for the complex demands of future military missions.
Credit: Army Staff Sgt. Cayce Watson