Little Rock AFB announces Rodeo Teams

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jason Elkins
  • 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. --  During the April 17 Sports Day, the 19th and 314th Airlift Wings introduced their respective teams to compete in the Air Mobility Command's 2009 Rodeo. 

Rodeo is an opportunity to share, assess and improve training techniques and procedures leading to a more efficient fighting force. It increases cooperation from other countries' air forces as well as improving the squadron level dynamic. There are events for Aerial Port, Aeromedical Evacuation, Aircrew, Fit to Fight, Maintenance and Security Forces. 

Rodeo has evolved over the years and has a rich history beginning almost 10 years after the Air Force became its own independent branch. In 1956, Airmen took part in the first ever "Reserve Troop Carrier Rodeo." By 1962, the Rodeo had garnered such success that the Military Air Transport Service, a predecessor of AMC, held a MATS-wide Rodeo. That combat skills competition was the first airdrop competition for active duty Airmen. 1979 saw the introduction of international allies into the Rodeo festivities. Barring a short five-year break during Operation Iraqi Freedom, Rodeo has been a popular, consistent part of the Air Force. 

Air Mobility Command will host the 2009 Rodeo at McChord Air Force Base, Wash.