First step in being a Wingman is remembering names!

  • Published
  • By Col. Barbara King
  • 60th Dental Squadron
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  A very good friend of mine was apprehensive of becoming a squadron commander because he said he had such a hard time remembering names, therefore it would be a challenge for him to get to know his personnel. 

Have you ever heard someone say, "I never forget a face ... it's names I can't remember!" 

The second time Col. GI Tuck, 60th Air Mobility Wing vice commander, saw my husband, he immediately said, "Hello Mac." 

It is interesting how nice hearing your name spoken can make you feel and how impressed we both were that he had remembered Mac's name. No matter what position you are in, you can set yourself apart by remembering people's names. 

Bob Gray, a recognized authority on memory systems has given lectures worldwide and has some great tips for remembering names. 

Some of his tips include: 

-- Make sure you hear the name, spell it in your head. It is amazing how we can meet someone but our minds are really a thousand miles away, so turn your undivided attention to the person you are meeting. 

-- If it is an unusual name, make a remark. 

-- Use the name in the initial conversation, but don't overuse it. When overused, the name comes across phony and can be irritating. Saying the name out loud can help you remember 

-- Use the name when departing. Just being friendly goes a long way. Shake their hand, say how good it is to meet them, and look them in the eye! 

Why is it easier to remember faces but not names? A reason could be that the face becomes a visual picture. When you remember a person's hairstyle, jewelry or clothing features, it helps you develop associations with something you already know. 

You only need this to spur your brain the first two to three times you see someone, because after that, you will automatically know their name without your mental gyrations needed. 

How would this help you be a better wingman? We all come into new situations or groups where we meet numerous people at once. Remember how special you felt when someone remembers your name and how you feel when you don't remember theirs. 

Taking the time to listen and know people is the first step in being a Wingman. That is how friendships begin, one name at a time! Meet someone new today.