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For about 10.7 million Georgians, this week has largely been about the start of spring – Easter, Passover, maybe a spring break. For about 100,000 though that are the military members stationed in Georgia, particularly the 60,000 or so in the United States Army, this week is also Infantry Week.

The week’s highlights are the four separate military competitions that kicked off on Monday: the Lacerda All-Army Combatives Championship, Best Mortar Competition, International Sniper Competition, and, perhaps the most well known, the Best Ranger Competition.

“The feedback from these competitions can help military leaders identify areas for improvement in training and equipment and (inform) necessary adjustments to training plans,” said Colonel Jimmy Hathaway, 198^th Infantry Brigade Commander.

The events include participants from the U.S. Army, sister services and allied nations to determine who is the best across a range of military fields. The Combatives Championship tests “close quarters threats in the operational environment through hand-to-hand combat.” There are 21 eight-person teams across eight weight classes in the combative skills contest and the Army notes soldiers must be ready to fight anywhere, at any time, with any weapon – or without a weapon.

“Past competitions have played an important role in shaping training doctrine by providing a platform for testing and refining tactics, techniques, and procedures,” said Hathaway. “By hosting the competition this year, we will play an instrumental role in promoting the development of new mortar (operations), and improving the readiness of mortar crews.”

The Ranger Competition has a particular poignancy for Georgia, as Fort Benning is home to the U.S. Army Ranger Course, famous as the toughest small unit leadership course in the military. Dahlonega’s Camp Merrill is also home to the Mountain Phase of the Ranger School.

“The events provide an opportunity for Soldiers to (display) their skills, dedication, and teamwork in a world-class competition,” said Colonel Christopher Hammonds, Airborne and Ranger Training Brigade commander. “The competitions help to build esprit de corps and foster a sense of pride and accomplishment among competitors and their units.”

Only those who have already earned their Ranger Tab are able to compete in the Ranger Competition, working in two-person teams of three days of continuous competition. The 112 Rangers in the competition will travel over 60 miles on foot during the competition with approximately 80 pound packs.

“The competition challenges Soldiers to perform at their highest level under intense pressure and a wide range of physically and mentally demanding tasks,” said Hammonds. “(It) tests a Soldier’s ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and work collaboratively with their teammate, all while maintaining physical and mental stamina.”

Additionally, there will be two “Meet Your Army” events at the Columbus Ironworks on Wednesday and April 15 at AJ McClung Stadium in Columbus during day two of the Best Ranger Competition. The public can get a peek at military vehicles and equipment, as well as meet some active soldiers on hand for the event.