Army Shooters Sweep Three Titles at USPSA Championship

When 524 of the nation's top practical shooters gathered in Epping, New Hampshire, for the U.S. Practical Shooting Association's Area 7 Championship in July, three U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit members left with gold. Their sweep of three divisions proved that military training creates champions on and off the battlefield.

Sgt. Aaron Eddins set the bar highest, winning 9 of 13 stages in Open Division and claiming the overall championship crown. His 97-point lead over second place wasn't just impressive—it was decisive in a competition where fractions of a second separate winners from runners-up.

The Open Division victory marked just the beginning. Staff Sgt. Jacob Hetherington battled through one of the tournament's most competitive fields to claim the Carry Optics title, facing down 182 shooters who all wanted the same prize.

Hetherington's consistency paid off with a commanding 123-point victory margin. His performance earned him third place overall among all competitors, proving his skills transcended his division.

Then came PV2 Austin Hull, who delivered perhaps the most dominant performance of all. The young soldier crushed the Limited Division field, finishing an astounding 262 points ahead of his nearest rival.

For Hull, a junior enlisted soldier, the victory represented more than a trophy. It demonstrated that talent, preparation, and composure can propel anyone to championship heights regardless of rank or experience.

The Pioneer Sportsmen Club course challenged every shooter with 13 stages demanding split-second decisions and flawless execution. Minor mistakes meant dropped points, and dropped points meant falling in the rankings.

Why This Inspires

These three soldiers proved that the discipline, focus, and precision learned through military service creates excellence that extends far beyond their primary duties. Their success at a major civilian championship shows how military training develops world-class skills.

The U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit's mission centers on advancing marksmanship excellence and supporting Army readiness. These championship wins demonstrate that mission in action, showing America's soldiers competing at the highest levels with professionalism and skill.

Their victories inspire because they show what dedicated training and commitment can achieve. These aren't just military marksmen—they're champions who represent the best of what disciplined preparation creates.

Three divisions, three champions, one team proving excellence knows no limits.