Fiji’s soldiers have demonstrated resilience and determination alongside regional counterparts during the 1st (NZ) Brigade Skill at Arms competition held in Waiouru, New Zealand.
Personnel from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces joined teams from across the New Zealand Army, as well as Australia and Tonga, in the three-day competition designed to test core combat skills, endurance, teamwork and leadership under pressure.
The event pushed participants to their limits, with soldiers covering up to 20 kilometres while carrying packs weighing 30 kilograms, often in cold, wet conditions and with minimal food and rest.
Fiji’s Lance Corporal Timothy MacPherson says the challenging weather conditions were embraced by his team as part of the experience.
Lance Corporal MacPherson says they chose not to wear wet weather gear to make the experience as hard as possible.
He say this is what they may encounter overseas, so they need to be able to perform.
He adds that one of the toughest challenges was the pond swim in cold conditions, where soldiers had to rely on mental strength and teamwork to complete the task.
The event highlights the importance of regional cooperation, with participating nations working together to enhance readiness and strengthen security across the Pacific.
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