Air Force Fitness Day H2F Olympics

Justin McCormick, center, from Melbourne, Fla., shows off the first place trophy he won in the 333rd Recruiting Squadron’s Air Force Fitness Day H2F Olympics April 26 at Patrick Air Force Base, Fla. Lt. Col. Michael Tillema, left, 333rd RCS commander, and Master Sgt. Mike Kovach, “H” flight chief, presented the award to the high school student for making the best score in the competition based on Air Force Special Operations physical ability stamina tests. (U.S. Air Force photo/ Staff Sgt. Mike Burchfield)

333rd competition tests future Special Operations Airmen

Published May 5, 2008
By Staff Sgt. Mike Burchfield
333rd Recruiting Squadron

MELBOURNE, Fla. -- As the Air Force continues to hire future Airmen for its special operations forces, the 333rd Recruiting Squadron in Melbourne, Fla., employs creative ways of reaching out to those who have what it takes to qualify for these hard-to-fill positions.

During the 333rd RCS's Air Force Fitness Day H2F Olympics April 26, 31 local high school students tested their mettle. The "H" Flight-sponsored event featured a mass physical ability stamina test, including a 500-meter swim and a 1.5-mile run, based on the initial qualifications for special operations.

Master Sgt. Mike Kovach, "H" flight chief, and Patrick Air Force Base officials helped ensure the event's success. Several family members came out to cheer on the athletes to help ensure the students' success.

Justin McCormick from Melbourne scored the highest of all competitors.

"I was very proud to compete in this event and show the Air Force that I am willing and capable to serve in the pararescue career field," he said.

Lt. Col. Michael Tillema, 333rd RCS commander, said he was proud of the hard work of the "H" flight, which is currently the top enlisted accessions flight in the nation, and the event's "great success."