‘Northwest Skunkworks’ challenges future leaders Published April 28, 2008 By Tyler Hemstreet Staff writer MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Airmen interested in seeing how their outdoor skills match up to those of the contestants on the network TV show "Survivor" won't have to travel to an exotic tropical island to find out. They will have that opportunity starting Wednesday at the base's South 40 training area when the 62nd Security Forces Squadron hosts the 'Northwest Skunkworks' competition. The survival competition, which pits five teams of five Airmen against each other, is a two-day, two-night challenge filled with mental and physical competitions. Teams are awarded points for winning each challenge. The 62nd SFS wants to use the competition as a "fresh and different" way of looking at teaching leadership, said Master Sgt. David Deitt, 62nd SFS. "A lot of the tasks and challenges are going to make competitors stop and force them to come together to make leadership choices," Sergeant Deitt said. While squadron officials don't want to spoil the surprise surrounding some of the events, they say they've spent the last six to eight months coming up with challenges. "It's going to be a challenge for them -- but in a fun way," he said. "We want them to be shocked. Some will be mental, some physical, and it will require them to work together." Part of the excitement surrounding the competition is the fact that Airmen from all the different squadrons can participate, said Tech. Sgt. Rebecca Losee, 62nd SFS. "The more people that we have from different backgrounds, the more interesting it will be," Sergeant Losee said. Teams will spend two nights in the South 40 area and the squadron will have facilitators on the grounds at all times in case any mishaps occur, she said. The 62nd SFS is still accepting sign ups for the event until the close of business April 25. Those interested in registering for the event can call Sergeant Deitt at 982-3513.