Holidays don't excuse you from being a good wingman

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Michael Williams
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing command chief
I'd like an extra serving of macaroni and cheese please.

Turkey, ham, the trimmings, the aroma escaping from the kitchen and the flavors in that first bite ...man bring on Thanksgiving Dinner.

We are quickly approaching, in my opinion, the most festive time of year, the holiday season.

This time of year appears to bring out the best in mankind.

Think about it ... we pause to give thanks for our blessings and set aside our differences to ensure those that are less fortunate are able to enjoy the holiday season.

Why can't we embody that spirit throughout the year? It's truly a time for giving and a time for celebration for most of us.

For others, it's a time when loneliness, depression, anxiety and stress consume them.

It may be their first holiday season away from home, a spouse may be deployed or financially this will not be the holiday season they envisioned.

What ever the reason, our job is not to question why, but to be there and care for our fellow Airmen.

That means remaining alert to those silent adversaries I mentioned previously: loneliness, depression, anxiety, stress and others.

Last week, the wing took time out to re-emphasize the importance of being a good wingman.

Sometimes being a good wingman is nothing more than lending an attentive ear and truly listening.

Most of the time when people attempt to reach out to us for help, we are so engulfed in our own issues we overlook their cry for assistance or we jokingly dispel their plea for help.

As a wingman you have to make tough responsible choices and there are times when that's a challenge.

It's imperative we conjure up the courage to make the right call in taking care of our fellow Airmen ... especially during this time of year when there is sure to be an increase in the intake of alcoholic beverages.

Alcohol impacts everyone differently and it's well documented as the catalyst for numerous inequities other than the obvious, DUI and underage drinking: Domestic violence, sexual assault, domestic disturbance, rape and many, many others.

We must make responsible choices and not place ourselves in compromising positions.

For example, the slogan 0-0-1-3 is a great concept but the reality of it is simple; you have one drink, hand off the keys and don't drive ... don't place your career in the hands of a slogan.

Never, never go solo. You need a wingman to watch your back to ensure a safe return home.

Speaking of home ... it's also the time of year when we open our homes to others making sure no one spends the holidays alone.

Airmen taking care of Airmen, I can't reiterate that enough.

As you pause to give thanks, and celebrate this holiday season, think of our many
comrades away from home protecting and defending this great nation.

Charlene, Dominique and I wish each of you a safe and happy holiday season.

Enjoy, be safe and make responsible choices ... got to go, my wingman is calling.