PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AIR RESERVE STATION, Pa. — Steel Airmen assigned to the 32nd Aerial Port Squadron showcased their skill, precision and teamwork during the Air Force Reserve’s biennial Port Dawg Challenge at Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Georgia, April 14-16, 2026, placing third overall among aerial port squadrons from across the globe.
The competition brought together 26 aerial port squadrons, including international teams from Canada and Great Britain, to test their abilities across a series of air transportation-focused events, such as joint inspection, pallet build-up, engine-running onload operations and the physically demanding fit-to-fight challenge.
“This is what we do,” said Master Sgt. Jonathan Soisson, 32nd APS resources readiness representative. “Every event here ties back to real-world operations. It’s about doing the job right, safely and efficiently.”
Over three days, aerial port specialists were evaluated across 12 time-sensitive events focused on air transportation skills, including inspecting and preparing cargo for flight, ensuring air worthiness through precise measurements, proper restraint and adherence to airlift standards.
Staff Sgt. Tyler Leary, 32nd APS load planner representative, emphasized the importance of attention to detail.
“One small mistake can have a big impact,” Leary said. “This competition pushes us to stay sharp and reinforces the standards we follow every day.”
From pallet build-up to the 10K forklift challenge, each event pushed Airmen to demonstrate the skills needed to move cargo safely and efficiently, highlighting the teamwork and precision behind aerial port operations.
“It comes down to trust,” said Staff Sgt. Angeliya Tango, 32nd APS special handling representative. “You have to rely on your partner, communicate clearly and move as one team.”
Airmen also demonstrated their ability to rapidly load and maneuver equipment during the engine-running onload exercise, where aircraft remain running while cargo is loaded or unloaded to minimize ground time and maintain operational tempo.
Beyond technical proficiency, the Fit to Fight challenge tested physical endurance and teamwork. Airmen ran between stations carrying career-specific equipment, completing exercises such as mountain climbers and obstacle movements while working in sync as a unit.
“It’s about pushing yourself and your team,” Tango said. “You’re tired, but you keep going because everyone else is counting on you.”
The competition concluded with the 32nd APS earning third place overall, along with winning an individual award for best cargo restraint team, highlighting the unit’s capability and readiness.
For Steel Airmen, the placement was a testament to their preparation and commitment to the mission. It also marked the second consecutive Port Dawg Challenge in which the 32nd APS finished in the top three, highlighting the unit’s sustained excellence in air transportation operations.
“This shows what we’re capable of,” Soisson said. “We train for this every day, and it’s good to see that hard work pay off.”
As the 911th AWcontinues to support global airlift operations, events like the Port Dawg Challenge reinforce the skills and teamwork required to deliver cargo and personnel anywhere in the world at a moment’s notice.