JAC Hammers Smash the Ice and Complete the Tough Guy Competition

  • Published
  • By Melony C. Angelilli
  • Commander's Action Group
JIOCEUR Analytic Center --  U.S. Marine Col. Peter H. "Pete" Devlin led a team of 22 members from two commands, US European Command and US Africa Command, all four branches of service, male and female, officers and enlisted through the brutal course of the Tough Guy Challenge held in Perton, England on Sunday. The Tough Guy Challenge is the only event of its kind in the world and one of the toughest contests to be undertaken. It consists of a unique blend of mud, freezing lakes, acrophobia, claustrophobia, barbed wire, fire and electro shocks.

"I am so proud of this team," said Devlin. "Each one rose to the challenge and completed the grueling course." He continued "Not only did this team do the almost impossible; each paid their own entry fee of about 175 dollars which goes to a wonderful charity called The Horse Sanctuary that rescues horses and other animals and gives them a good home ."

"The camaraderie of the team was second to none," said Navy Master Chief Petty Officer and JAC Senior Enlisted Leader, John Frakes. "Completing the competition alone would be a daunting task, but our team stuck together and made sure each member made it to the finish line."

"We had to smash through inch-thick ice-covered water in several areas just to get through," said Chief Petty Officer Michell Jordan. "I just kept telling myself--you can do this."

This was the fourth competition for Devlin and a few others. It was the first time for most of the team.

The challenge takes place twice a year on the 100 obstacle, 150 acre in a small village outside of Birmingham. Their motto is "If you dare to return it will be tougher."