Not sure what you did here but I do not like it.The background colors are not right, excessive noise. Looks to me as if you were too far away when you took the photo.
Remarkable image, you've captured an expression of fierce resolve.
2nd look- its a shame you can't reuse this for reflection challenge, would be winner there too. I have a hard time with national pride concept, for me it evokes more the idea of patriotic. That said, your image is just too good ....its still a 10
a nice photo, only wish the eyes were more in focus. it seems that you've had to crop this shot substantially and the grain might be a bit too obvious. a good attempt.