Don’t be afraid to use a wingman

  • Published
  • By Kerry Glaser
  • 90th Force Support Squadron
F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. --  I recently read an article by Glenn Garcia from the 90th Medical Operations Squadron in regard to the Red Key program. This program is significant to Airmen because it encourages them to reach out to their wingman when they need assistance.

This is one of many programs the Air Force and other branches of the military have developed to identify to all ranks the avenues of assistance when needed.

The wingman concept goes back further than you can imagine. I recall my active-duty days when my supervisor would tell me "no matter what -- if you ever need a ride home -- you call, regardless of the time." I believed him. I have had many supervisors tell me that, and when I became a supervisor, I demanded the same from my troops. I still do today.

I've gone as far as to pay the taxi bill to have an Airman driven back to the front gate -- where I picked him up and took him home.

These programs do have one flaw. Airmen don't use them. And the question is, why? Are they scared they will get in trouble with upper leadership for calling? Will they be tagged an alcoholic if they have been drinking? Will they be classified as irresponsible?

As the base casualty officer, I've had to work on many cases where a young Airman, even a young NCO, has made a poor decision. They didn't reach out for their wingman! Why? Is it an embarrassment? Are they letting down their supervisor?

Thinking out of the box, they didn't take the time to realize it would have been much easier to have been embarrassed than it would to have your family and friends grieve over you.

Everyone must use the wingman program. It's worthless if you don't use it. If you find yourself somewhere and in no condition to drive, is it worth it to risk your life, possibly someone else's life and your career in the military?

There are so many different sources offered to help everyone's issues. From mental health's Red Key program to the first sergeants Arrive Alive card, all you have to do is pick up the phone -- make it collect.