Kids & Family

Local Soldier Named One of Army's 'Best Warriors'

Congressman Eric Swalwell congratulated Fremont native Jason Manella on the House floor Wednesday.

Fremont native Jason Manella was recently named one of the U.S. Army’s “Best Warriors.” 

The Army’s Best Warrior Competition tested the physical and mental toughness of 24 of the nation’s best soldiers over three days at Fort Lee, Virginia.

Sgt. Manella, a reservist, came out on top, winning the title of Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year.

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Congressman Eric Swalwell congratulated Manella on the achievement on the House Floor Wednesday.

“[Manella] represents the best and brightest among us, and overcame serious setbacks to win this grueling competition,” Swalwell said. “Sgt. Manella’s service and success can be an inspiration to all us, and I am honored to represent him in the U.S. Congress.”

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Manella, a member of the Reserve’s 445th Civil Affairs Battalion in Mountain View, was injured while serving in Afghanistan in 2012. Manella’s convoy was attacked and he was left with a traumatic brain injury.

During his recovery, Manella focused on training for the Army’s Best Warrior Competition.

“I am very thankful for the service of people like Sergean Manella,” Swalwell said. “And I know that Operation Enduring Freedom has led to thousands of Americans being wounded who served over in Afghanistan and are healing today back home on their own path to recovery.  Sergeant Manella’s story is truly one that is uplifting for every soldier, man and woman, who is recovering."

“Congratulations again to Sergeant Manella. Your strength, your determination, and your character is an inspiration to thousands of other wounded men and women of our armed services,” he said.


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