Airmen need to help one another

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Perry Long III
  • 570th Global Mobility Squadron commander
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE,Calif. --  This week Air Mobility Command took a day to stand down daily operations and discuss the importance of the wingman concept and its applicability to ensuring that we, as Airmen, are taking care of and looking out for each other 24/7 365.

This stand down was directed due to the steep increase in suicides and PMV accidents across the Air Force. We can avoid these tragic losses by being aware of the factors leading up to the preventable incidents and engaging with those involved in a timely manner.

The wingman concept is relatively simple: "Airmen taking care of Airmen."
In formation flying, a wingman provides support to his or her flight lead and is ready to assume the flight lead's responsibilities, if called upon. This is especially critical in combat, where the threat is high, stakes are enormous and lives are on the line. This relationship between leader and wingman requires loyalty, integrity and commitment from each member to ensure mission success.

On the ground, the wingman concept isn't any different. It requires each of us to be aware and accountable to our fellow Airmen; and the challenges each of us face in striving to succeed in our mission.

Just like a flying formation, this concept requires wingmen to operate in pairs to provide support for each other.

It also requires us to take responsibility for each other by being alert to other Airmen in distress and having the courage to act when recognized. In addition to suicide prevention and vehicle accidents, being a good wingman can lead to positive outcomes on a number of other issues faced by Air Force members including: sexual assault response and prevention; domestic violence intervention and prevention; alcohol misuse and abuse; financial mismanagement and other issues requiring responsible decision making and behavior. A good wingman is aware of his or her fellow Airman's situation, and helps resolve the issue, or if needed, receives, assistance from a supervisor or other qualified individual.

A wingman's responsibility can be summed up best with the "ACE" model. "A" is associated with asking your wingman about issues they are facing and the related stressors they might cause. Key to this "act" is being aware of any changes in behavior and any potential negative actions being considered. Being aware of your wingman's issues, asking the tough questions and remaining engaged out of concern are the key first steps.

"C" is for "caring" for your wingman by continuing to express concern without expressing judgment. A good wingman sticks by his/herAirman's side and helps them avoid irresponsible behaviors or poor decision-making. It also requires a wingman to seek help from supervisors or other qualified individuals if the situation warrants such action.

Finally, "E" is related to a wingman "escorting" an Airman in need to those who can offer any assistance required. In some cases this may be as simple as recommending a service provided by the Airman and Family Readiness Center. In other cases this may involve the chain of command, a chaplain, a behavioral health professional or a primary care provider. In any case, being an engaged wingman and providing support to our fellow Airmen is the key.

The wingman concept is simple but relevant to addressing issues facing our Airmen today. It is a culture of responsibility to and for each other, which we must continue to instill. Be aware of the issues your Airmen are facing. Have the courage to engage and offer assistance.