VIEW FROM THE TOP >> Wingman Day – Remember to care

By Col. Mark Vlahos
314th Airlift Wing vice commander


Today, our Air Force faces tough challenges. We just came through a demanding Operational Readiness Inspection, and amidst everything we continue to fight a long war against terrorism.

However, in the midst of dominating the realms of air, space and cyberspace worldwide, we can never lose sight of what is most important--our Airmen. I am an Airmen and very proud of it. I would not be here today as a Vice Wing Commander if it were not for some great Airmen who took care of me in my career. Let’s make sure we do the same for each other.

Our last DUI happened 24 days ago, and we stand at 11 DUI’s so far for the fiscal year. The foundation of the Wingman philosophy is Airmen helping Airmen. From the first day a new Airman - enlisted, officer, or civilian – joins the Air Force they are introduced to the “Wingman culture.”

This is because we need to make this concept as central to our thinking as our individual devotion to the three core values. Establishing the Wingman culture requires commitment from each of us. It’s an ideology that must permeate everything we do and be implemented everywhere we go; on and off-base, on and off-duty, day in and day out. I believe lives our saved at the tactical level of leadership; this is where the Wingman concept kicks in and works!

There are a few fundamental elements of being a good Wingman. The first is building relationships. Caring about our fellow Airmen and knowing them well enough to recognize when they need our help and support, or in some cases, intervention.
Each Airman must have a strong moral compass that helps us make responsible choices.

When we see our Wingman struggling in a compromising situation, we can provide the moral support to overcome the challenge. We must always encourage each other to do the right thing – a direct tie back to our core values. The last essential is teamwork. Wingmen never work alone.

Deployments, family expectations, financial concerns and sometimes adverse job requirements are all stressors. Nobody can do our mission like we do, and we can’t do it without each other. So, do you have a Wingman? If you don't, I strongly urge you go find one. There is no higher calling than to be a Wingman for a fellow Airmen.

Take advantage of next week’s Wingman Day by participating in the activities your units have set up to grow your relationships with fellow Airmen.

Take time to build your team and provide the mutual support that ensures we can get the mission done and take care of each other, regardless of the challenge. Thank you for everything you do; be proud to call yourself and Airmen in the world’s greatest Air Force, and let’s enjoy our Wingman Day!

Combat Airlift!