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Suicide prevention field day showcases wingman concept

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Samantha S. Crane
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  The 375th Air Mobility Wing highlighted the importance of the Wingman concept to prevent suicides during a day-long Suicide Prevention Field Day Sept. 23 near the dormitories.

Hosted by the Integrated Delivery System and highlighting Comprehensive Airman Fitness, the day focused on the ability of one person to save another's life simply by being there.

"We have to help people deal with stress - that's one of the goals of Comprehensive Airman Fitness: to give Airmen and their families the tools to deal with the unique stressors that sometimes accompany military service," said Col. Michael Hornitschek, 375th AMW commander. "Lives are saved every single day by Wingmen."

Air Force wide, suicides are up 44 percent compared to last year. In 2009, there were 25 cases. From January to August this year alone, there have been 36. Risk factors for those who may be contemplating suicide include stress stemming from relationships, finances, legal action, heightened operations tempo and extended time away from family.

The topic of suicide can be a somber one, so members of the IDS' helping agencies came up with some creative ways to teach members about risk factors and what they can do as Wingmen to help.

As participants arrived, they received a bingo card filled with the agencies of IDS, such as the Airman and Family Readiness Center, Mental Health Office and Chapel for example. Completed cards were turned in and submitted for a raffle to receive a basket of prizes to go toward a night on the town. Helping agencies also sponsored game booths and facilitated a team obstacle course. After teams made it to the end of the course, a facilitator spoke about how working together to overcome the challenge is similar to working together to prevent suicide.

Capt. Connie Burnett, IDS chair, said, "We (the IDS helping agencies) hope that everyone enjoyed the Suicide Prevention Field Day, but most of all, we hope that everyone has learned more about suicide awareness, the signs to look for and the services that are available to assist all military members, civilians and their families in times of need."

Col. Kevin Webb, 375th AMW vice commander, who presided at the event and gave opening remarks, said, "The best thing you can do is care."