One of the most thought-provoking questions we discussed during the panel came from a 2018 RAND report: What fuels a Soldier’s will to fight?
RAND defines the “will to fight” as the inner drive to keep going—to fight, endure, and win—even in the toughest moments. They found it’s not just about having the best gear or tech. It comes down to human motivation, capability, and connection—factors that exist at the national, unit, and individual levels.
Why physical readiness supports mental resolve
The will to fight isn’t just about mindset. It’s also about how the body holds up under stress. When a Soldier’s heart rate spikes, breathing quickens, and core temperature rises, it can overwhelm the brain, cloud decision-making, and drain focus. That’s why physical training is about more than building muscles—it’s about preparing the body and mind to stay sharp when it matters most.
How H2F helps build durable Soldiers
The Army’s H2F framework is designed to do just that. It combines smart physical conditioning, stress exposure, cognitive training, nutrition, sleep, and spiritual readiness. These pieces work together to help Soldiers better manage their physiological responses and stay mentally strong in high-pressure situations.
Col. Brian Koyn, 82nd Airborne Division chaplain, made a strong point during the panel: structured training environments—when done right—can help Soldiers develop greater awareness and control over their mental and physical states.
