Maintainers compete in MXG Olympics

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Zachary Perras
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Icemen were challenged by friendly competition in a series of organized events in this year's 354th Maintenance Group Olympics April 20 at the weapons loading facility here.

Airmen with the 354th MXG participated in several events, including a composite tool kit scramble, ammo can relay, flight simulator and more.

With 20 teams of six maintainers each, the competition allowed Airmen to showcase their skills and, more importantly, have fun while doing it, said 2nd Lt. Brooke Cantrell, 354th Maintenance Squadron aerospace ground equipment flight commander.

"Everyone was cheering each other on," Cantrell said. "I liked seeing everyone getting really into it and having a good time."

Teams were scored based on a point system which recorded individual scoring per event rules. The finale was a trivia-style game held at the 2012 Maintenance Professional of the Year Banquet, in which the two top teams vied for the winning title.

Senior Airman Christopher Blake, 354th MXS AGE journeyman, said the event was a good experience in a group-oriented environment. With this being his first MXG Olympics, Blake said it is something he would absolutely like to see done again.

"Getting everybody together was great," he said. "It was a fun day to get out and see other people and work with them to get to know [one another]."

While the Olympics promoted team-building by taking common elements from on-the-job tasks and modifying them for competition, it primarily served as a self-confidence builder, said 2nd Lt. Sarah Flournoy, 354th MXS accessories flight commander.

"They work really hard and they put in a lot of effort," said Flournoy. "It's a big morale booster, especially on a small base like Eielson. Having this down-day and having time to enjoy [with] each other was really good for [the Airmen]."

By strengthening cohesiveness among the group with lighthearted activities, maintenance Airmen were able to learn the importance of showing respect for themselves and their Wingmen.

"Having this big event with everyone pulling together shows you have pride in your organization," Flournoy said.

The 354th MXG has held the Olympics event for the last two years, and will continue this tradition to improve the confidence and teamwork of its members.