TOP STORY>>Social media guidance available

By Master Sgt. Jennifer Buzanowski
92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. – Social media can be a force multiplier in keeping America informed about its Air Force, but it can equally bring discredit to the service if Airmen use the tool to make inappropriate comments.

In conjunction with the Air Force release of its updated social media guide, the 18th Air Force Vice Commander at Scott AFB, Ill., addressed the Air Mobility Command bases under its purview this quarter to include Fairchild.

“The rule is simple: avoid the offensive. If concerned about how a remark will be interpreted by the public, don’t post it,” said Brig. Gen. Lawrence Martin, Jr., in correspondence to wing commanders. “Air Force standards must be observed both on and off duty, and regardless of the method of communication used.”

The general said it is especially important during an election year that Airmen are aware offensive and disparaging postings to personal social media pages can be in violation of federal law and Department of Defense and Air Force policy.

The Air Force views social media positively and respects the rights of their Airmen, said Martin, however conduct online “reflects not only on the Airman, but on the entire service.”

Fairchild’s 92nd Air Refueling Vice Commander, Col. Marc Van Wert said Air Force senior leaders value social media tools, but stresses to Team Fairchild: “Social media is here to stay, so commanders and supervisors need to ensure their Airmen understand the comments they say online in a public forum is a direct reflection of them, just as their competence and professionalism on the job. It reflects on us all.”

Not only should Airmen be concerned with projecting a positive image, but they should also be wary of potentially helping criminals gain information to steal their identity.

“It’s never a bad idea to check your privacy settings and make sure that the information others can read about you is the information you want other people to know,” said Van Wert. “Being a good wingman means you’re not only looking out for each other, but you’re looking out for yourself and your family too.”

Team Fairchild has an official Facebook page, a Twitter presence and a YouTube channel. Multiple base customer service organizations such as the 92nd Medical Group and the 92nd Force Support Squadron are also reaching out to the Fairchild community using Facebook.

Visit the AMC Social Media Hub to see AMC’s social media presence and for more information guidance and other AMC wing facebook pages.