Soldiers Challenge Themselves for Expert Badges in Germany

Soldiers from the 21st Theater Sustainment Command recently participated in rigorous assessments for two of the U.S. Army’s most prestigious qualifications: the Expert Soldier Badge (ESB) and the Expert Field Medical Badge (EFMB). Taking place from September to early October 2023 at Smith Barracks in Baumholder, Germany, these tests pushed participants to their physical and mental limits.

The assessments included a series of demanding challenges designed to evaluate soldiers’ proficiency in various military skills. Each soldier was required to complete day and night land navigation, perform under pressure in tactical scenarios, and demonstrate weapons handling across multiple lanes. A critical component of the tests was a timed, 12-mile ruck march, where soldiers had to finish in under three hours.

According to Command Sgt. Maj. Andrew A. Decola, who oversees the EFMB testing, the high level of preparation shown by the soldiers is instrumental in fostering combat readiness. “All the soldiers are showing high levels of proficiency. Everyone who trains and tests here leaves better prepared, and that directly builds combat-ready formations,” he stated in a release.

The ESB, introduced in 2019, aims to provide non-infantry and non-combat medic soldiers with the opportunity to showcase their skills in demanding conditions. The testing for the EFMB, however, is specifically tailored for combat medics and focuses on their ability to manage complex medical emergencies in both combat and evacuation situations. Notably, the pass rate for the EFMB is below 20%, emphasizing the high standards required to earn this badge.

In a statement when the ESB was first introduced, TRADOC Command Sgt. Maj. Timothy A. Guden expressed the intent behind the badge’s creation. “This is not a badge to award so that the entire Army now has an ‘expert’ badge to wear. As it is now, not every infantryman or Special Forces soldier earns the EIB and not every medic earns the EFMB. This is a badge to award to those who truly deserve recognition as an expert in their career field,” he said.

For many soldiers, the preparation and competition involved in the testing process have proven to be transformative. “More soldiers are becoming confident with their weapons and gear. E2B gives them the repetitions they need to perform without hesitation,” said Sgt. Phili Prin, an E2B grader from the 421st Multifunctional Medical Battalion. “By the end of test week, you see them locked in,” Prin added.

These rigorous testing sessions not only enhance individual capabilities but also contribute significantly to the overall readiness and effectiveness of military units. As soldiers continue to challenge themselves for these esteemed badges, they exemplify the commitment to excellence that defines military service.