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Timeout for Teamwork - Wingman Day Nov. 13

  • Published
  • By Col. Gary Goldstone
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Commander
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  To say that our plates are full is an understatement. It seems that no matter what big event we tackle as a team, there's another set of requirements that demand our immediate attention. Every day we are working through priorities and accomplishing the mission, and for that I'm proud of what we are able to do not only here, but also for the combatant commanders around the world. 

That's why it's important that we not only recognize our high operations tempo, but also make the time to ensure we are taking care of each other, as well as the mission. That's why we will continue what was started more than four years ago--Wingman Day--and the next one is Nov. 13. 

Wingman Day is an opportunity to reinforce our Wingman Culture, which is an environment where we build relationships, get to know our co-workers better, trouble shoot issues and look ahead to the coming year. The objective is to strengthen the morale of the unit by calling a timeout of daily routines to build those relationships through team building activities and create a culture where we make responsible choices. 

Commanders will lead and tailor activities that foster communication and interaction. It is not just for training and presentation of material. History has shown that small unit/workplace activities and discussions have proven to be most effective in building unit camaraderie, and the Wingman Day 2009 agenda is built upon this premise.
Some of the topics that will be addressed are: Back to the basics and checklist discipline; responsible alcohol use; safe practices at home, at work and on vacation; effective I.D. of and intervention with troubled Airmen; effective suicide prevention; effective sexual assault/domestic violence response and prevention; and responsible decision-making and behavior in all phases of life. 

Each group or work center will have a trained facilitator who will lead and motivate the group, ensure the selected material is covered and that everyone participates. We will have the most success both personally and professionally if we as Airmen know and understand each other. I appreciate all the work that has gone into preparing for this day and encourage and expect everyone to participate. 

If we take the time needed to address and interact with each other, then we will continue to Enable Combat Power. And, as we prepare for our very own Wingman Day, let's remember all of our fellow servicemembers on Veteran's Day, and stop for a moment to honor their collective efforts to keep our America safe and secure. Air Power!