Soldiers, SWAT teams to compete in military operation competition at Fort Bliss

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Soldiers and local law enforcement will compete in a military competition in Fort Bliss Aug. 22-24. The Pershing Best Observer Controller/Trainer Competition brings observer controller trainers from the entire U.S. Army to show off their skills in military operations.

Command Sergeant Major Deondre Long said this is the first time the Pershing Cup will take place on Fort Bliss.

He said participants can expect physical and mental challenges testing them in different areas of military operations. Some include tasks with drones and navigation, Long said.

"At the end of this competition, I hope they'll be better soldiers returning back to their formations," Long said. "They build morale, they build a comradery."

Command Sergeant Major Christopher Abrahamson said 46 soldiers and two participants from local SWAT teams will compete.

Long said the goal is to bring the Pershing Cup back to Fort Bliss. This will be the third annual competition.

While soldiers and law enforcement compete, visitors can cheer them on, buy from food trucks and enjoy a DJ performance.

Visit El Paso said the event will start Aug. 22 from 8:30-10:30 a.m. at 11685 Sergeant Major Blvd. It will be at the Iron Soldier Field with free admission.

Fort Bliss officials said competitors will earn their scores Aug. 22, which will contribute to their final rankings in the overall competition. The competition will continue for two more days and end with a mystery-length ruck march.