In The Military

— Air Force Staff Sgt. Steven D. Arrowood participated in the Air Mobility Rodeo 2009 at McChord Air Force Base as a member of the 62nd Airlift Wing team.

The home team, members of the 62nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, won numerous “Best-of-the-Best” awards, which included Best C-17 Post Flight, Best C-17 Aircrew and Team, Best C-17 Low-level Airdrop Crew, Best Airdrop Team, Best Joint Inspection, Best Aerial Port Challenge Course and Best Air Mobility Wing.

The competition tests the flight and ground skills of aircrews as well as the related skills of special tactics, security forces, aerial port operations, aeromedical evacuations and maintenance team members, and provides joint and combined training for all participants. Collectively, the ultimate goal of the competition is to develop and improve techniques and procedures that enhance air mobility operations while strengthening the mutual goals and bonds developed among competing teams.

— Victor M. McKenzie graduated from the Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Leader Development and Assessment Course, also known as “Operation Warrior Forge,” at Fort Lewis.

The 32 days of training provide the best possible professional training and evaluation for all cadets in the aspects of military life, administration and logistical support. Although continued military training and leadership development is included in the curriculum, the primary focus of the course is to develop and evaluate each cadet’s officer potential as a leader by exercising the cadet’s intelligence, common sense, ingenuity and physical stamina. The cadet command assesses each cadet’s performance and progress in officer traits, qualities and professionalism while attending the course.

McKenzie is a 2005 graduate of Sumner High School and is a student at Central Washington University. He is the son of Bonney Lake resident Philip McKenzie.

— Air Force Airman Anthony W. Schultz, Brandon J. Seeley and Trenton N. Richards graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

The airmen completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Schultz is a 2008 graduate of Bonney Lake High School who earned distinction as an honor graduate. He is the son of Bonney Lake residents David and Wendy Schultz.

Seeley is the son of Puyallup residents Jean and David Seeley. Richards is a 2009 graduate of Puyallup High School. He is the son of Puyallup resident Sheryl Richards.