18th SFS prepares for AMC Rodeo

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jeremy S. McGuffin
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  Editors Note: This is the second in a series of articles on Team Kadena's preparation for the Air Mobility Rodeo.

Airmen wearing gas masks and Kevlar are often associated with some sort of base training exercise, but three 18th Security Forces Squadron Airmen are running around base in this gear for a different reason.

Tech. Sgt. Matt Howard, Senior Airman Dustin Burk, and Airman 1st Class Schermund Smith, 18th SFS, are representing the 18th Wing at the 2007 Air Mobility Command Rodeo at McChord AFB, Wash., in July.

These Airmen will compete in a combat challenge course, combat tactics using the multiple integrated laser engagement system, and a combat weapons live-fire event while under stress.

"This is not going to be an easy competition." Sergeant Howard said. "They're going to test us mentally and physically. We're training, day in and out, trying to prepare for what is ahead of us."

More than 40 teams and 2,500 people from the Air Force, the Air Force Reserve and allied nations, will compete in the AMC Rodeo. The readiness competition focuses on worldwide air mobility capabilities.

The 18th SFS members are only a small part of the Kadena team going to the Rodeo, but the combined scores from their three events will contribute to the 18th Wing's final score.

"We're here to support the mobility mission and because base mobility assets are competing, we were tasked to send a three man team," Sergeant Howard said. He solicited volunteers through email and selected a set few, "I looked at PT scores and shooting records," He said. "I wanted someone with a good head on their shoulders; one that was going to take this competition seriously." Sergeant Howard chose Airman Burk and Airman Smith out of all the applicants, because they were the most qualified and ones that he and other leadership felt could get the job done.

"I'm excited about going." Airman Burk said. "It gives me a chance to show everyone what I have and will give me something to reflect on later in my career."

Airman Smith looks forward to representing the 18th SFS.

"The word came down through the channels and I knew I was up for the challenge." He said.

The Airmen have been taking part in a rigorous workout schedule five days a week, with sessions lasting more than two hours each morning.

"We run long distances Thursdays, sometimes six or seven miles with full battle gear on." said Sergeant Howard.

The combat challenge course is only 2.5 kilometers with four ground defense skill stations, and the Airmen are not exactly sure what's to be expected. "We're working harder here so it's easier there," Airman Smith said. "We want to finish the course asking 'was that it?' while the other teams are trying to catch their breath."

Along with all the physical exercise, the team is also training on land navigation, marksmanship, and self aid and buddy care.

"We're definitely doing things I didn't expect to do," said Airman Burk. "But in the end, that feeling of accomplishment is going to be worth it."

The team is well balanced according to Airman Smith.
"I feel I'm the strength of the team," he said. "Airman Burk is definitely the marksman and Sergeant Howard is the speed and knowledge."

Through all the effort given by each of these Airmen, by the time they get to the Rodeo, they're going to be one big strong team

"We're like the 'Fantastic Three'" Airman Smith said jokingly.