Air Mobility RODEO 2009

Turkish team members carry a gurney down the Patient Loading System ramp during aeromedical evacuation events for Air Mobility RODEO 2009 at McChord Air Force Base, Wash., July 20, 2009. More than 100 teams are participating in RODEO competition, including teams from seven foreign countries. RODEO is the U.S. Air Force's and AMC's premier air mobility competition. It's an international combat skills and flying operations competition designed to develop and improve techniques, procedures and interoperability with international partners to optimize mobility partnerships and enhance mobility operations. (U.S. Air Force Photo/Tech. Sgt. Scott T. Sturkol)

Air Mobility RODEO 2009

Members of the Turkish team prepare for opening ceremonies for Air Mobility Command's RODEO 2009 July 19 at McChord Air Force Base, Wash. More than 100 teams are participating in RODEO competition, including teams from seven foreign countries. RODEO is the U.S. Air Force's and AMC's premier air mobility competition. It's an international combat skills and flying operations competition designed to develop and improve techniques, procedures and interoperability with international partners to optimize mobility partnerships and enhance mobility operations. (U.S. Air Force Photo/Tech. Sgt. Scott T. Sturkol)

RODEO 2009: Pursuit of excellence is Turkish aim

Published July 24, 2009
By Tech. Sgt. Steve Wilkins
RODEO 2009 Public Affairs

MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- An international team here has been making a major effort getting to know everyone this week.

"We have great relationships with many of the teams here," said Maj. Gurbuz Bulut, Turkish air force team chief at Air Mobility RODEO 2009. "We would be quite happy to take some cups home with us this time." Major Bulut referred to award trophies RODEO teams are vying for in a variety of categories.

He said Turkey sent observers to RODEO previously to pick up pointers, but now that they are here, they expect to learn progressively more and perform better each time they compete. "We want to become the best," he said, "next time we will try to win overall."

Major Bulut said the idea isn't just about winning, but adopting best practices that, when they return home, can help their entire force become more effective. "For example, we have found several tactics to work more safely. Our relationships between humans and machines call for greater attention," he said.

Major Bulut said the entire team has recognized the importance of safety in all they do, and through their conversations with their counterparts from other teams, the Turkish have discovered a jewel in the friendships they share with other nations.

"You never forget your friends," Major Bulut continued. "We share many things with several teams here. We have many friends, and it is good for us to get to know them."

Major Bulut shared thoughts about a legendary soccer game the Turkish played against the South Koreans in international competition a few years ago as an example of other instances of camaraderie. "After the game, all of the players and many spectators put their arms around one another in a demonstration of unity."

Major Bulut said the camaraderie helps break barriers so it is easier to share ideas and information. "We come to perform well, to win some trophies, but the goal is to take these things home to improve our performance. Everyone's goal is to be the best we can."