Rodeo 2007:‘Best ever’ McChord Airmen shine

  • Published
  • By Tyler Hemstreet
  • Staff writer
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Last week's Air Mobility Command Rodeo 2007 here was the "biggest and best" in the history of the event, according to AMC commander Gen. Duncan McNabb. 

General McNabb and several other generals in attendance were extremely pleased with the event, said Rodeo director Lt. Col. Bryan Huntsman, 62nd Airlift Wing. From the smooth execution of the Fit-to-Fight and security forces competitions to the grandiose setup for the international teams at Rainier Ranch, there was a long list of Rodeo success stories, Colonel Huntsman said. 

"The McChord and AMC Rodeo staffs worked hard to makesure the competitions were fair, safe and effective in helping to build the international partnerships Rodeo helps foster," he said. "It's all about helping our international partners improve as we improve in air mobility tactics. That way the wholeair mobility force gets better together." 

The partnerships and experience gained through Rodeo can be an important asset when it comes to providing combat airlift all around the world, said Col. Jerry Martinez, 62nd Airlift Wing commander.

"Last week wesaw the best air mobility warriors from throughout our Air Force and around the worldcompete in events that strengthened and enhanced our capabilities, as well as built lasting relationships between teams," Colonel Martinez said. "McChord's Airmen and staff members put forth an amazing effort that made Rodeo a success while setting a tone of friendliness and hospitality for our guests from around the world." 

Colonel Huntsman also praised the hard work both Rodeo staffs put into making the event a hit and their ability to stay focused throughout the busy week. 

"One of our greatest compliments from the generals was how our McChord staff and the wranglers were still smiling while Rodeo was going on," Colonel Huntsman said. 

While the status and location for Rodeo 2009 is still undecided until the new AMC commander takes over in September, Colonel Huntsman said the AMC staff will recommend McChord to host the event again.

"The plan in the future is to take what we learned this year and make Rodeo even bigger," he said.