AFMC's Wingman Intervention program going strong

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WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  More than a year after it was introduced, Air Force Materiel Command's Wingman Intervention program is still going strong.

"During the spring 2013 Wingman Day, AFMC made a concerted effort to provide its Airmen with the skills and confidence they need to safely intervene when they see fellow Airmen entering into potentially harmful situations, both on and off duty," said Jennifer Treat, AFMC Community Support Coordinator.

To build on that theme, AFMC launched an initiative in the fall of 2013 to capture, acknowledge and highlight real-life instances where Airmen took action to keep themselves and their wingmen safe. The goal of the Wingman Intervention program is to turn those situations - where personnel recognized at-risk behavior and proactively intervened - into teachable moments and to encourage similar behavior in others. So far, more than 30 interventions have been highlighted.

"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 - and gets involved by knowing their fellow Airmen and assisting when necessary," Treat continued. "We're proud to have so many true wingmen in our command who look out for the welfare of their colleagues and community."

A recent example at Eglin Air Force Base was an Airman at a local bar during Spring Break intervened when she saw a group of men were buying drinks for three underage women.  She could see the women had been drinking and were underage by the club-marked "Xs" on the backs of their hands.  The Airman immediately went over to the women's table and through friendly conversation asked if they felt safe.  This diverted their attention from the men, according to the Airman.  The men eventually left.  With a simple act, the Airman averted what could have become a potentially dangerous situation.  

Another Eglin example comes from the 96th Security Forces Squadron.  An Airman removed passengers from a burning car after a severe traffic accident left their vehicle overturned and on fire.  The Airman also flagged down additional help and called 911.

If you become aware of situations in which personnel have recognized at-risk behaviors and proactively intervened, please contact your local community support coordinator.