Wingman concept applies to effort targeting alcohol use

  • Published
  • By Tyler Hemstreet
  • Staff writer
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  The Air Force wingman concept is the foundation of a new 62nd Airlift Wing effort promoting responsible alcohol use. The program title, "1v1, Two's in", captures the Airman culture: "1-v-1" refers to a two-Airman team and applies to program presentation from a supervisor; "Two's in" refers to each Airman looking out for the other, providing mutual support - the wingman's role.

The "1v1 ... Two's In" program encourages supervisors to individually meet with each direct-reporting Airman, look them in the eyes and have a personal discussion on responsible drinking behavior and wingman responsibilities as they relate to Air Force core values and the Airman's personal career and life goals.

"This program brings the communication of the wingman concept down to the lowest level of leadership involvement," said Col. Jeffrey Stephenson, 62nd Airlift Wing commander, who collaborated with Col. Michael Hornitschek, 62nd AW vice commander, to start the program. "At times Airmen feel disconnected from leaders, but through that personal connection with Airmen, supervisors can continue to convey the fact they want their troops to succeed."

Touching on different discussion points with Airmen in the one-on-one interaction, supervisors help to reinforce the fact all Airmen should be looking out for each other at all times -- especially when it comes to responsible use of alcohol, Colonel Hornitschek said.

"We want to continue to build on that attitude and culture where Airmen have the courage to act upon commitments and beliefs they have," he said. "That includes knowing when to step in and prevent another wingman from ruining their career with one bad choice."

Measures such as deciding before going out who's going to be the designated driver, diffusing situations which show potential to create an embarrassing moment, calling a cab for an Airman who's had one too many drinks, or just taking away the keys all demonstrate a willingness to further embrace the wingman way of life and set positive role model examples, he said.

"We want to evolve a culture where being a wingman is the cool thing to do," Colonel Hornitschek said. "We as fellow Airmen know what it takes to succeed and the goal is to poise everybody for success."

In collaboration with Chief Master Sgt. Cary Hatzinger, 62nd AW command chief, and a special wing-level committee, base leaders will soon introduce a base-wide contact plan for "1v1 ... Two's In."

"Just like with the Combined Federal Campaign, we want 100 percent contact," Colonel Hornitschek said. "This program has the potential to enhance the success of Airmen here and the image of Team McChord."