ROYAL Marines from across the country pitted themselves against each other and the unforgiving terrain of Dartmoor in the Brigade Regimental Sergeant Major Challenge last week. The Brigade Regimental Sergeant Major — WO1 RSM Stephan Moran — set the inaugural tough physical and mental competition, involving all three Commando Brigade units entering teams of 12 marines undertaking a 45k patrol competition. Teams were tested on combat fitness, navigation, military skills live firing and vertical assault techniques. The aim of the event was to strengthen and reinforce the Commando ethos whilst applying the commando mindset and commando spirit – courage, determination, unselfish-ness and cheerfulness in adversity. The winning unit was Commando Logistic Regiment. Royal Marines Lieutenant Paul Rowden accepted the winners' trophy from Brigade Commander, Brigadier Stuart Birrell. Lt Rowden said: 'The Brigade RSM's Challenge was a demanding but thoroughly rewarding competition which I and the team of Commando Logistic Regiment RM were glad to be involved in. 'The competition put all competitors through their paces and was a real test of stamina, determination and character. 'The RSM Challenge has the scope to become a key event in the 3 Commando Brigade RM calendar and is an excellent way of strengthening the Commando ethos and fostering positive rivalry between units.' The 14-hour challenge started at 7am and ended at 9pm when a medals presentation was staged at Okehampton Camp in Devon. Final positions:1, Commando Logistics Regiment, 2, 40 Cdo and 3, 45 Cdo of Arbroath, Scotland.