AFMC wingmen continue to take action

by Kim Bowden
Air Force Materiel Command Public Affairs

10/2/2014 - WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- Air Force Materiel Command's culture of respect and resiliency is still going strong, and Airmen across the command continue to prove their dedication to that culture through their actions as wingmen.

"In AFMC, and across the Air Force, we accomplish our mission as a dedicated team committed to our core values and to each other," said Jennifer Treat, AFMC Community Support Coordinator. "A good wingman stays alert for signs of danger from whatever source -- whether suicide, safety mishaps, alcohol abuse, sexual assault, bullying, medical issues or other difficulties; gets involved by knowing their fellow Airmen; and takes action when necessary to protect their wingman, on and off duty. We're proud to have so many true wingmen in our command who look out for the welfare of their colleagues and community."

In one example of successful wingman intervention, an Airman noticed a coworker leaving for the day, obviously not feeling well and in no condition to drive. The Airman asked his supervisor to call 911 and went to the parking lot to find his coworker. The Airman convinced the coworker to wait for emergency personnel. The vigilance of this wingman potentially saved the lives of his coworker and others on the road.

In another situation, a quick-thinking Airman received a call in the middle of the night from a distressed coworker, who shared suicidal intentions and hung up. The Airman immediately called 911 to have authorities report to the coworker's residence. While on the phone with his chain of command, the coworker called back. The wingman remained calm and non-judgmental, listened carefully and kept his coworker on the line until first responders arrived. Though the coworker did attempt suicide, authorities were already on the scene and were able to administer live-saving medical attention. By staying engaged and being concerned about his coworker, the wingman saved a life.

In yet another example, an Airman witnessed a serious motor vehicle accident, called 911 and stopped to assist the victims. The Airman noticed that one of the vehicles was on fire and quickly extracted that driver, who was trapped in the vehicle and badly injured. Within minutes of removing the driver, the vehicle was completely engulfed in flames. Shortly thereafter, a second Airman -- from the medical group -- arrived on the scene, medically assessed the victims and provided first aid until paramedics arrived.

AFMC has been consciously building the concept of wingman intervention since 2004. The goals are to raise awareness of helping behaviors, increase the motivation to help, develop the skills and confidence to intervene and assist when necessary, and ensure the safety and well-being of self and others.

If you become aware of situations in which personnel have recognized at-risk behaviors and proactively intervened, please contact your local Community Support Coordinator. AFMC's goal is to highlight these situations as teachable moments to encourage similar behavior and continue its focus of maintaining a "Culture of Respect and Resiliency."