Rodeo Pakistan team builds new partnerships

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Leah Young
  • 62nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. --  Air Mobility Rodeo is an opportunity for mobility servicemembers from around the world to collaborate and learn from each other. And it accomplished just that for Team Pakistan.

Pakistan's 21-person team competed in several aerial events, a combat weapons course, engine running on- and off-load, combat tactics, pre-flight maintenance inspections and more. Hosted by the 62nd Airlift Wing, they were also able to benefit from fellow mobility teams in a variety of ways.

"It was very nice working with the other teams in the competition," said Bahroni, Pakistan Rodeo team squadron leader and C-130 instructor pilot. "I was flying with the judges and the things they pointed out were just things I hadn't noticed before. The team had many good learning experiences, not only from the United States, but other teams as well."

Bahroni said the team worked closely with the Saudi Arabians, a group he referred to as very good friends.

"Their checklists and procedures are a little bit different than ours," he said. "The way they operate can be included in many of the things we do. There were some good ideas I thought I will take back to implement and show my students."

During Rodeo 2011, Pakistan's third year of participation, the team worked with air mobility members from the past and renewed old friendships.

"We've flown with the 62nd Airlift Wing in Pakistan," he said. "It was for training. It's nice to work with them again."

Not only did the Rodeo team learn about air mobility practices, but the 62nd AW learned as well. Hosting a squadron required Airmen to help in transporting the international team's to McChord Field, assisting them through the in-processing line and even spending time together away from Rodeo events.

"We've talked very much about their culture," said Master Sgt. Christopher Clark, Rodeo Team Pakistan host. "The interaction has been great. Making sure they were taken care of during Rodeo was a great experience."

According to Bahroni, participation in an international air mobility competition reflects well upon the members of the Pakistan Rodeo team.

"While we're here, we represent our country and our Air Force in particular," Bahroni said. "It's looked at as a very prestigious honor; people from our country are looking up to us."

When asked of the team's participation in the next Rodeo, Bahroni smiled.

"We definitely look forward to attending the next Rodeo," he said. "This has been a wonderful experience."