Microlighters

I am a wingman

By Lt. Col. John Stea and Maj. Nicole Frazer
US Air Force Medical Service, Population Health Support Division

BROOKS CITY-BASE, Texas -- Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. John P. Jumper has emphasized the importance of each one of us looking out for one another, of being good “wingmen.” With a clear vision in mind, General Jumper has described working toward building an Air Force “wingman culture.”

The key theme of the wingman culture, often celebrated at a base as “Wingman Day,” is Airmen helping Airmen. This culture is built on the premise that supporting each other during difficult times helps the Air Force succeed in its missions, and this becomes especially relevant during our increased ops tempo.

A wingman has specific duties. The perspective of the wingman is clearly different. As in flight, no one person can be aware of all the obstacles and dangers in the environment. Therefore, the wingman complements the lead pilot.

In a wingman culture, a wingman can see the “big picture” and recognize changes in a peer’s behavior. The wingman can see how the stress in a person’s life relates to his or her functioning. A wingman might be able to help that person change the impact of the stressor, or change the source of the stress.

The wingman culture is one in which no matter where you are, at home or deployed, coming to the aid of a peer in need is paramount. Assisting someone in distress and guiding him or her toward available community resources when needed not only requires compassion, awareness and knowledge, but also action.

The concept of total commitment is not entirely new for our Air Force. Any Airman who has embraced the three Air Force core values -- integrity first, service before self, excellence in all we do -- knows the benefits of total commitment to being a good wingman. How are these values essential? They are at the very core of one’s identity, shaping what we view to be of greatest importance and of top priority in our lives. These values are lived out through our many roles in life, such as in the role of being a good friend or an excellent leader.

The wingman culture is built on guiding principles, such as personal responsibility and community involvement, that reinforce and uphold the Air Force core values. Each of these core values serves as a sign post on the road to serving others and building community excellence on a day-to-day basis:

Integrity encompasses the responsibility to assist others in times of need and conveys to every Airman the fact that others are interested in his or her well being; it can be as simple as talking to someone or giving him or her a list of community resources. A person of integrity possesses courage and does what is right even if the personal cost might be high. Courage instills confidence in making good decisions, such as encouraging someone to seek help. Building trust is another part of integrity that increases as we help someone. This includes providing moral support and forming relationships that encourage airmen to seek help when they need it

Service before self means respect for others and acknowledging the impact of our actions on their lives. Principles of this core value of being a good wingman include deference to others’ needs, respect for others and a spirit of collaboration; in essence, working together to help others.

A commitment to personal excellence requires learning about resources where others can receive assistance. For example, guiding someone to the chaplain or someone at the life skills support center can make a positive difference in that person’s life, perhaps even saving that life. Finally, all this guides us along the path to community excellence, where all members gain by our individual actions of excellence.

The Air Force core values are reminders that inspire members to do their very best at all times. In taking action, we commit ourselves to care for each other, and this provides the building blocks that support the wingman culture. But core values are not our values until we integrate them into the conduct of the activities of our lives. Being a good wingman entails taking care of your coworkers, family and friends. It also involves taking care of yourself. Integrating the core values of a good wingman means truly valuing yourself and those around you.

As we think of the core values relating to being good wingmen, and the value inherent in helping others, each one of us is reminded of the opportunities that exist on a day-to-day basis to extend a helping hand and perhaps even save a life. Take the opportunity to reflect on your total commitment and remember each and every day that “You are an Airman and that means you are a Wingman.

1. You are now part of a squadron - part of the best squadron. As a newcomer you will notice how courteous and friendly the others are to you. Do not forget this when the next arrivals turn up.

2.Your position in the squadron will depend on what you do in it - not what you have done before. The other pilots want to see what you can do - not hear what you have done.

3. You have a lot to learn, and operational pilots have little time to teach you. If anything is pointed out to you, listen and remember. If you don't understand , ask questions - never argue - you are fortunate in being able to profit by others experience.

4. Your aim is to go through your tour without any delay. Keep awake in the air, look after yourself on the ground, and always be alert and intelligent.

5. You must act immediately at all times - whther it is in response to an important flying order or merely a suggestion from a senior pilot about fetching a duty pilot from Wing Ops.

6. This squadron's reputation was not served up hot on a plate and you will have to work hard to maintain it - from all aspects of flying right down to entertaining visitors.

7. Excuses are degrading - never do things that require excusing.

8. Causing or attending prangs do not come within your province - have nothing to do with them.

9. Any binding at any time is deliberately and willfully sabotaging your squadron's morale - it's most important asset.

10. Do not hesitate to inform the Medical Officer of your minor ailments - colds, sinus, earache, toothache etc. Prompt treatment will save you time and prevent you from letting your formation down.

11. The squadron welcomes active members, and you have every chance of doing well - Good Luck.