DVIDS – News – Legacy of service: A father and son’s journey with the 3rd Infantry Division
At Fort Stewart, the intersection of athletic discipline and military readiness has found a unique expression in the Perez family. Col. Alexis “Pancho” Perez-Cruz and his son, Pfc. Lucas Perez, are redefining the concept of a teammate by serving side by side in the 3rd Infantry Division.
While their military roles differ, the two share a lifelong commitment to martial arts. Since the age of five, Pfc. Perez has trained extensively with his father in jujitsu and combatives, building a foundation of technical skill and resilience.
This shared sporting background has directly influenced their military careers. The mental toughness and physical readiness developed on the mat have become essential tools for their service in today’s Army.
Where Rank Meets Performance
The bond between father and son was recently tested and reinforced during an Army Special Operations Combatives course. This intense program focuses on close-quarters combat skills, confidence, and discipline.
In this environment, traditional military rank becomes secondary to actual performance on the mats. For Col. Perez and Pfc. Perez, the course provided a rare space defined by mutual effort and respect rather than command structure.
The experience allowed the senior commander and junior Soldier to push through the same drills and learn the same techniques, bridging the gap between their respective ranks through shared athletic struggle.
A Multi-Generational Legacy
The Perez family’s connection to the 3rd Infantry Division spans four generations. Col. Perez, who began his career as an enlisted combat medic in 1994, now commands the Spartan Brigade.
Pfc. Lucas Perez is continuing this tradition as a U.S. Army Combat Medic Specialist with the Georgia National Guard. He currently balances his military service with academic pursuits at Auburn University.
The Next Generation of Competition
The family’s athletic and military trajectory is likely to expand further. Xavier Perez, the youngest son, has already begun attending drill with the Georgia National Guard.
Having also spent years training in martial arts and combatives, Xavier plans to join the U.S. Army after graduating high school this summer. He may pursue opportunities within Army combatives competition teams as he begins his journey.
This progression suggests that the Perez family’s legacy of discipline and service could continue to grow, reinforcing a tradition rooted in both the 3rd Infantry Division and the world of competitive combatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific martial arts disciplines did Col. And Pfc. Perez practise together?
They trained extensively in jujitsu and combatives.
How many generations of the Perez family have served under the 3rd Infantry Division?
Pfc. Lucas Perez is the fourth generation of their family to serve under the 3ID.
What is Xavier Perez’s goal regarding Army sports?
Xavier intends to pursue opportunities within Army combatives competition teams upon joining the U.S. Army.
How does the discipline of a competitive sport influence your approach to your professional career?