Army Medics Triumph in Grueling Best Medic Competition

Amidst the shadows of night, two soldiers labored with unwavering determination to rescue four wounded souls and a brave military working dog, only to have their efforts tragically undone by a drone strike that obliterated their patients in a harrowing simulated combat scenario. The tension was palpable, despite the absence of conflict.

In a remarkable display of skill and teamwork, Capt. Jesse Guerin and Sgt. 1st Class Aaron Angulo, representing Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii, emerged victorious in the 2025 Army Best Medic Competition held at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, Texas. Amidst the fierce competition of 31 teams, the duo faced both physical and mental fatigue, pushing the limits of their skills in treating battlefield injuries under the most challenging conditions.

Across a span of three days, they addressed gunshot wounds, traumatic brain injuries, and serious abdominal injuries, provided extended care for casualties, and even attended to a canine combat casualty. They faced a series of trials: a foot march that tested their endurance, an obstacle course that challenged their agility, a simulation of a chemical attack that demanded quick thinking, and a land navigation test that required precision and skill.

Angulo reckoned they trudged through 60 miles, while Guerin's burdensome pack inflicted painful abrasions on his torso, a discomfort he chose to keep to himself.

“To avoid detection by the enemy, one must operate under a red lens,” Angulo remarked, emphasizing the difficulties faced in contemporary battlefield medicine.

The unwavering determination of Guerin and Angulo amidst intense challenges illustrates the essence of future conflicts, where extensive battles will require flexible, exceptionally skilled medics dedicated to preserving life.

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