Tennessee – Members of the Tennessee Army and Air National Guard recently competed in the Bulgarian Armed Forces’ inaugural multinational Best Warrior Competition, held June 23–26 at the Vasil Levski National Military University.
The event brought together 12 five-member teams representing military units from Bulgaria, Slovenia, the NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group in Novo Selo, the U.S. Army’s V Corps, and the Tennessee National Guard. The competition was designed to test individual and team capabilities while fostering international cooperation and military readiness.
Tennessee’s team was composed of Tech. Sgt. Ben O’Neal and Staff Sgt. Angelo Melasecca from the 118th Wing in Nashville; Sgt. Joshua White and Spc. Brian Hayes from the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment in Knoxville; and Staff Sgt. Daniel Bullion from the state’s Volunteer Training Site. All were nominated by their respective commands for their exemplary performance and leadership.
“I couldn’t be prouder of our incredible team of Soldiers and Airmen who stepped up and gave their all these last few days,” said Sgt. Maj. Jamie Spicer, one of the team coaches. “Their grit, discipline, and teamwork are a true reflection of the values we stand for. They represent our organization with honor and set the standard for excellence.”
The multi-day competition challenged participants with a series of physically and mentally demanding tasks. Events tested combat and life-saving skills, marksmanship, tactics, and overall physical fitness, with teams covering over 18 kilometers on foot between stations. The first two days involved training and familiarization, followed by two days of intensive competition.
Tech. Sgt. Ben O’Neal earned top honors as Best Foreign Competitor, standing out among dozens of international participants. “I’m truly grateful for this opportunity to compete and work alongside such incredible competitors,” O’Neal said. “This was a great experience for any Soldier or Airman looking to challenge themselves, step outside their comfort zone, and create lasting memories with people you never thought you would meet.”
The Bulgarian Land Forces team claimed first place overall, followed by the Bulgarian Military Police in second, and the Bulgarian Joint Special Operations Command in third.
The awards ceremony was presided over by Bulgarian Deputy Minister of Defense Radostin Iliev and Maj. Gen. Warner Ross, Tennessee’s Adjutant General. Command Sgt. Maj. John T. Raines III, Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, was also in attendance to recognize the accomplishments of all participants.
The competition highlighted the enduring partnership between the Tennessee National Guard and Bulgaria, part of the U.S. Department of Defense’s State Partnership Program, and reinforced the importance of allied readiness through shared training and cooperation.