14 • THE GRIFFON • Summer 2013
Iroquois Drill Sergeant of the year Story by Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs
Drill Sergeant Ryan McCafrey, runner-up, and winner Drill Sergeant Ivan Torres, pose after winning the 98th Drill Sergeant of the Year Competition held at Fort Jackson, S.C., Feb 21-24. From left to right: Command Sgt. Major Kyle Russell, Col. Loretta Thomas and Command Sgt. Major Grady Blue. Photo by Staff Sgt. Andrea Smith, 108th Training Command (IET) Public Affairs
FORT JACKSON, S.C. — Fifteen drill sergeants, representing each brigade, went head-to-head Feb. 21-24 at Fort Jackson, S.C. to determine the division top drill sergeant. Following a weeklong series of physically and mentally challenging tests, 4th Brigade’s Staff Sgt. Ivan Torres earned the title of 98th Training Division Drill Sergeant of Year (DSOY). The days were long and grueling and the drill sergeants were required to perform the same tasks as the trainees they lead, evaluating their endurance, stamina, and character. Competitors took a written exam, wrote an essay, stood before a review board and were tested on marksmanship on various weapon systems, physical fitness, battle drills, warrior tasks and land navigation. Torres, a drill sergeant with the 2/417th, Waterbury, Conn., said it was self-motivation and drive that encouraged him to compete in the competition. He expressed the competition was tough but fun. “I did well for most of the events and there were a few I wasn’t sure how I did but you just have to do your best in each event not knowing how well you did. I thought