Naval Education and Training Command: Warrior Toughness

Every U.S. Navy Sailor, enlisted or officer, could face life-threatening situations from combat or casualty. Each and every one needs to have the ability to persevere and perform under both immediate danger and long-term stress, both on the job and at home.

Warrior Toughness (WT) is a holistic human performance skillset that enhances the toughness of our Sailors with a focus on the pursuit of peak performance. The system emphasizes coequal development of toughness in the mind, body, and soul. WT combines performance psychology skills with character development, and teaches the Warrior Mindset, whose concepts were initially developed by members of the Naval Special Warfare community.

Designed to increase the Navy’s warfighting capabilities, WT is an enabler of the Culture of Excellence as part of the first line of effort – Developing a Lethal Warfighting Force. In place at Recruit Training Command since October 2018, the curriculum is now incorporated across all Navy accessions at Officer Training Command Newport, the United States Naval Academy and the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps. WT will improve the performance of Sailors under stress and throughout their everyday lives, building lethal warfighters ready for the next mission.

Video by Jorge Gomez

The Badge & the Lab Tech

Irwin Army Community Hospital

May 9, 2025 | 4:10

For SPC Seth Adkins, a medical lab specialist at Irwin Army Community Hospital, earning the Expert Field Medical Badge isn’t just about passing a test—it’s about redemption. After falling short during his first attempt at Fort Campbell, Adkins is back for round two at Fort Riley, determined not to let even the smallest mistake stand in his way.

In this interview, Adkins opens up about the intense preparation required for the EFMB—one of the most demanding badges in the Army. Often referred to as a "memorization marathon," the EFMB tests a Soldier’s ability to perform life-saving medical tasks under combat-like conditions, with zero room for error. Candidates must flawlessly execute critical skills across Tactical Combat Casualty Care, evacuation procedures, warrior tasks, and a grueling 12-mile timed ruck march. No notes. No second chances on test day.

With historical pass rates ranging from just 18 to 33 percent, the EFMB is a prestigious symbol of excellence in field medicine. Miss one critical task—like verbalizing glove checks or securing a splint correctly—and the opportunity is lost.

Adkins shares how he’s training differently this time: reviewing step-by-step protocols, drilling scenarios repeatedly, and working to increase both speed and accuracy. Watch as he reflects on lessons from his first attempt, the pressure of test week beginning May 18, and what drives him to earn the badge that so few ever do.