News

Security Forces team handles organized chaos at Rodeo

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jake Chappelle
  • 446th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Terrorists, gunfire, and explosions are all enough to startle the common man. But the 446th Airlift Wing 's Rodeo Security Forces team, McChord Air Force Base, Wash., responds and reacts with little fanfare.

The 446th Rodeo Security Forces team competed in the Combat Tactics Course at the South 40 South Approach at Fort Lewis, July 21.

The tactics course challenges a four-person team on small unit tactics, first aid, command and control, reaction to harassing fire and Improvised Explosive Device attacks, and observation skills.

"It was a good scenario," said Chief Master Sgt. Ed Stewart, Rodeo Security Forces team chief. "It was difficult, but doable. It was designed to test leadership and multitasking ability and it covered different areas of responsibility."

Tech. Sgt. Zachary Casey, Rodeo Security Forces team member, believes preparation is an important factor in scenarios like these.

"Considering we only had 24 hours to prepare, it went well," said Sergeant Casey. "We felt good because we had a game plan and stuck with it, even when obstacles were thrown in our way."

Staff Sgt. Jack Montez, Rodeo Security Forces team member, also relies on preparation.

"We kept going over the operation order for the course," said Sergeant Montez. "We built scenarios and tested ourselves through them. The training paid off."

Sergeant Casey maintains the team's confidence.

"I think we'll get a solid score," said Sergeant Casey. "Chief (Stewart) isn't mad, so we did well."

Fellow 446th Security Forces Squadron associates got to observe the event.

"I think it went well," said Tech. Sgt. Ric Shumate, 446th Security Forces Squadron Phoenix Raven Program manager. "Based on the scenario, they communicated well. It's all on the umpires on how the team's performance is scored. It's a subjective event, but they did everything they could within their control to make it work."

"I think they did wonderful," said Tech. Sgt. Conee Schaaf, 446th SFS unit training manager. "They're capabilities were put to the test."

The Rodeo Security Forces team's next event is the Combat Endurance Competition July 23 at 8:30 a.m.