Yokota Air Base, Japan -- Over 400 Airmen gathered on the flightline for the 374th Maintenance Group Wrenchbender Rodeo March 31, 2017, at Yokota Air Base, Japan.

The Rodeo consisted of four teams of 42 Airmen from the 374 MXG, 374th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, 374th Maintenance Squadron and the 730th Air Mobility Squadron.

The teams competed against each other in nine events including: 4-man push-ups, vehicle push, blindfolded toolbox buildup, maintenance relay, tow bar obstacle course, leadership tool identification, chock hold, Self-Aid and Buddy Care relay and finished with a C-130 pull.

The MX Rodeo is a morale event and allows for friendly competition between the various maintenance squadrons on base. All ranks are able to compete during the events and squadron leaders competed alongside first term Airmen.

According to 2nd Lt. Marcelli K. A. Magday, 374 MXS maintenance flight commander, the increase in comradery and team building that comes from the rodeo is important for the morale of the maintenance squadrons.

“The MX Rodeo is not a standalone event,” said 2nd Lt. Jarrett L. McGinness, 374 AMXS assistant aircraft maintenance unit officer in charge. “It plays a part in the bigger Wrenchbender Banquet.”

The Wrenchbender Banquet is the Maintenance Annual Awards Ceremony and is scheduled to be held on April 14, 2017. The ceremony is where the outstanding maintenance Airmen and squadron’s accomplishments are recognized.

The rodeo effects the banquet in that the squadrons earn points toward winning the, “Spirit Award,” which is presented to the winning squadron during the Wrenchbender Banquet.

According to Magday, while there are no physical or monetary prizes, Airmen from each organization gain a sense of pride, accomplishment and recognition for their work.