375th AW celebrates Wingman Day Published Dec. 2, 2008 By Airman 1st Class Amber Kelly-Woodward 375th Airlift Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Everyday is Wingman day, but Friday was designated the official Wingman Day by Team Scott. "Wingman Day was about having as much fun as possible, building team work and educating about the Air Force heritage," said Tech. Sgt. Mary Gimler-Korthuis, 375th Airlift Wing Judge Advocate Office tax center advisee. Units from around base educated personnel about Wingman culture. While activities varied, each unit played a team sport, ate a meal together and held briefings. "For our Wingman Day, we had a briefing on the proper athletic shoes, a holiday safety briefing, a suicide awareness briefing and Air Force heritage briefing, we had a Thanksgiving luncheon, we took a stress test and played some volleyball," said Sergeant Gimler-Korthuis. Wingman Day was held right before the holidays, because during the holidays, Airmen can feel left alone or they may need guidance with an important decision, such as drinking and driving, which would be when a Wingman steps in. A Wingman is someone who can be relied upon and trusted. A Wingman is there to help an Airman avoid trouble, or even when an Airman is in trouble. A Wingman is also there for the good times when an Airman does something that deserves recognition. Wingmen are more than just friends or coworkers; Wingmen are also family members and even strangers that see someone in need. It is also important to learn about safety tips when Airmen are taking part in traveling, hosting parties, decorating their houses or cooking a meal, especially during the holiday season. "It was a good experience to get to know the office more and just hang out and relax," said Airman 1st Class Shaun Wagner, 375th AW Judge Advocate Office paralegal. "I wish we had Wingman Days once a quarter or twice a year, instead of just once a year." All participants took surveys at the conclusion of Wingman Day which will be compiled to make improvements for the next Wingman Day. "I enjoyed it," said Sergeant Gimler-Korthuis. "The goal was to have fun and build teamwork and I think we accomplished that."