Competitors set for AMC Rodeo 2007

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SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. (AFNEWS) --  More than 55 U.S. and international teams are slated to participate in Air Mobility Command's Rodeo 2007 to be held July 22 through 28 at McChord Air Force Base, Wash. 

The competition focuses on readiness, and features airdrop, air refueling, and other events showcasing security forces, aerial port, maintenance and aeromedical evacuation personnel.

There are 45 U.S. teams, including three from the Marine Corps and one from the Coast Guard, as well as international competitors from Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Egypt, Germany, the Netherlands, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. Nineteen other countries are sending observer teams.

"The diversity of this year's competition shows the importance of having such an event," said Lt. Col. Chris Duffek, the Rodeo 2007 director. "In today's climate we are working more and more with other branches of service and other countries. Competitions such a Rodeo give us a chance to focus on improving our worldwide air mobility forces' professional core abilities."

The last biennial competition took place in June 2005 at McChord AFB. While the operations tempo remains high, Maj. Gen. David S. Gray, the Air Force Expeditionary Center commander and Rodeo 2007 commander, said it's important AMC continue this key event.

"Rodeo showcases AMC's best of the best and allows us to train and learn through spirited competition," General Gray said. "Not only does this world-class competition train mobility forces for the fight, it provides a forum for Airmen and our international partners to share the best of tactics and techniques. Improvement and cooperation are essential in the continued pursuit of the war on terrorism."

Rodeo's roots began in 1962 as a combat skills competition designed to develop and improve techniques/procedures while enhancing air mobility operations, and promoting esprit de corps. In 1979, Rodeo was expanded to include international air mobility partners. Rodeo tests the flight and ground skills of aircrews as well as the related skills of security forces, aerial port operations, aeromedical evacuation, and maintenance team members. It also provides valuable joint and combined training for all participants.

An important long-term benefit is increased cooperation among international air mobility forces. Collectively, the ultimate goal of the competition is to develop and improve techniques and procedures that enhance air mobility operations. Spirited competition furthers that aim, while strengthening the mutual goals and bonds of friendship developed between competing teams.

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