Be smart, don't associate with the wrong crowd Published April 13, 2007 By Chief Master Sgt. Russell Kuck 62nd Airlift Wing command chief master sergeant MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- No matter where you are or what you're doing, you have an opportunity to succeed or fail. As an Air Force family, we each have a responsibility to make sure we're steering each other away from failure and not neglecting one another when your fellow Airman needs some guidance. While consistent guidance from supervisors, first sergeants and commanders is helpful, you possess a unique influence on your peers. They know you can relate to them or their situation. It's up to you to decide how you can help in any given situation. A lot of times, people fall into jeopardy because they didn't realize they were doing something wrong. Don't be afraid to tell your peers when you think they're headed in the wrong direction. By doing so, you will have helped them get where they need to be, and they'll thank you for it later. Being a good wingman means motivating each other to succeed. The first step in doing so is to be a positive influence. Your environment plays a major role in anything you do. Part of that environmental awareness is being smart about what and who you surround yourself with. Pick your friends and acquaintances wisely. Chose to associate with those who will compliment your lifestyle and career, not jeopardize it. A good rule of thumb to remember is when you make decisions, think them completely through to the consequences and make good, sound decisions. Have a good career. Have good friends. Don't sacrifice everything you've accomplished based on irrational decision making or poor judgment. Hooah!