MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Reserve and active-duty Airmen from the 512th and 436th Airlift Wings arrived July 18 at McChord Air Force Base, Wash., for the 2009 Air Mobility Command RODEO.

Already passing their first evaluation by landing within seconds of an estimated time of arrival, Team Dover worked their way down the C-17 Globemaster III ramp to start preparing for the week long competition.

The RODEO tests Airmen in many aspects of airlift operations, which includes aerial port, maintenance, security forces and aircrew events. This year's biannual competition has brought more than 100 teams including groups from seven different countries.

For most of the Dover participants, this is their first RODEO; and, it's the first time in more than a decade that the Liberty and Eagle Wings have joined forces to compete in the event.

Lt. Col. Craig La Fave, 326th Airlift Squadron commander, rode along with the team as an observer and mentor to his squadron's aircrew.

"This RODEO is a culmination of all our training," said Colonel La Fave. "There'll be some tough flying for a battle-seasoned crew."

In his speech during the opening ceremony on July 19, General Arthur J. Lichte, Commander, Air Mobility Command, shared the importance of the worldwide, total force competition.

"There may only be 16 trophies up for grabs, but we all will win as we identify tactics, procedures and techniques that improve mission success and efficiency around the world," said General Lichte. "Making things better, together is what this event is all about."

As the weekend draws to a close, Team Dover stands ready for the days to come. For many of the Airmen, the RODEO will officially get underway before the sun rises this morning.