Wingmen continue successful interventions across AFMC

by Kim Bowden
Air Force Materiel Command Public Affairs

5/6/2014 - WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- Across Air Force Materiel Command, Airmen continue to embrace the command's culture of respect and resiliency. This is especially evident in their behavior as wingmen.

"Accountability is at the core of the culture we emphasize, and it's at the core of the wingman concept," 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 experiencing severe chest pains, left arm pain, shortness of breath and jaw pain. The wingman convinced the initially-reluctant coworker to seek medical attention. When the coworker was admitted to the hospital for three days, the wingman checked in regularly to offer support. The wingman's actions were instrumental to preventing permanent heart damage in the coworker, who is now on the road to recovery and also has an improved overall health outlook.

In another situation, a vigilant supervisor called an employee at home when the employee did not show up for work. When no one answered the phone, the supervisor sent someone to the employee's home. Noticing a car in the driveway but no answer at the door, the wingman called local police and requested an immediate response. Paramedics found the employee unconscious, in diabetic shock. By staying engaged and being concerned about employees, the supervisor and wingman saved a life.

In yet another example, a distressed Airman expressed thoughts of suicide to a friend and fellow Airman. The wingman contacted the squadron supervisor, who ensured the unit provided comprehensive oversight by staying engaged around the clock, making sure the distressed Airman remained safe.

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."