EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The Air Force's Initial Wingman Training program educates Airmen on safe ways to intervene and reduce the prevalence of sexual harassment and sexual assault within the DoD.
Eglin Airmen recently participated in a study to look at the effectiveness of I-WIT in reducing sexual harassment and sexual assault.
"Looking the other way and ignoring situations no longer works. As base community members, we have a responsibility to be alert, involved, and proactive," said Dr. Wendy Blevins, Eglin’s violence prevention integrator.
Tech. Sgt. Steven Copeland, a First Term Airman Course instructor, offers I-WIT during the week-long FTAC, held at the education center.
He said I-WIT helps Airmen establish boundaries in the work center; in personal relationships and at social gatherings; and teaches proactive responses to situations that cross boundaries of discomfort.
I-WIT captures instances where bystanders take action to keep themselves and others safe by recognizing warning signs, potentially dangerous situations and inappropriate behaviors, Copeland said.
Copeland said the wingman concept is important and effective for all base personnel.
“I believe the wingman concept is crucial because it's about being present for one another, physically and emotionally,” he said. “A good Wingman provides guidance, feedback, support, which encourages resiliency during difficult times. The wingman concept is key to strengthening the Eglin community as a whole.”
For more information, call (850) 634-8652.