DEVILS LAKE, N.D. — Two South Dakota National Guard soldiers are representing the state this week at the Region VI Best Warrior Competition in Devils Lake, North Dakota.

Sgt. William Lauseng and Spc. Jameson Shaheen are competing against top soldiers from across the region in a challenging event designed to test the skills, endurance and leadership abilities required of today’s military professionals.

The five day competition includes a series of demanding events that evaluate physical fitness, leadership, technical knowledge and warrior skills. Competitors are pushed through a variety of scenarios that measure their readiness to perform under pressure while demonstrating the professionalism expected of members of the National Guard.

Lauseng and Shaheen earned the opportunity to advance to the regional competition after distinguishing themselves among their peers in South Dakota. Their participation highlights the dedication and commitment of the soldiers who serve in the South Dakota National Guard.

The Best Warrior Competition is one of the military’s premier events, bringing together outstanding enlisted soldiers who must demonstrate excellence across multiple disciplines. The competition is designed to identify soldiers who exemplify the Army’s standards while showcasing the skills that contribute to mission readiness and operational success.

According to the South Dakota National Guard, the performance of Lauseng and Shaheen reflects the professionalism and strength of the state’s military force. Throughout the week, both soldiers will face rigorous physical and mental challenges as they compete for the opportunity to advance to the national level.

The competition also provides an opportunity for soldiers from across the region to share knowledge, build professional relationships and strengthen the readiness of the National Guard as a whole.

Winners of the Region VI Best Warrior Competition will move on to compete at the national level, where they will represent their states and regions against the best soldiers from across the country.