86 VRS Wingman Day: A Reflection on Resiliency

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Leah Hutchison
  • 86th Vehcle Readiness Squadron
RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany --  In order to build a stronger, healthier, and safer Air Force, General Chandler, former Vice Chief of Staff, initiated Winter Wingman Day 2011.

The concept of operations called for units to select a half-day to reinforce the wingman concept as the foundation for building resilient Airmen. By structuring small, interactive groups, squadrons are able to focus on unit wellness and whole person concepts.

The 86th Vehicle Readiness Squadron kicked off Wingman Day with an early morning "Chief's Challenge". The squadron superintendent, Chief Master Sgt James Muncy, challenges the squadron every month with an intense confidence course to promote unit fitness, camaraderie, and esprit de corps. The challenge this month emphasized the concept of "never leaving an Airman behind." The course consisted of a single-person drag; self-aid buddy care to treat a leg splint and shoulder wound; a two-person carry; and finally a litter carry to a designated landing zone. Teams of four individuals competed for time to earn a coveted engraving of their names on the chief's plaque.

To continue in the spirit of Wingman Day, Lt. Col. Uduak "U2" Udoaka, 86th VRS commander, spoke about what it meant to be a resilient Airman and shared personal testimonies of facing and overcoming adversity. He summed up by stating that, "storms are a fact of life; you're either in one, headed towards one, or coming out of one. What's critical is to know where to get help in the midst of the storm."

Additionally, a lineup of speakers briefed VRS Airmen on several subjects to include services provided by the chaplain, alcohol and drug abuse prevention and treatment (ADAPT) program and the Airman & family readiness center.

Finally, the squadron broke up into small groups for the afternoon to further internalize resiliency and the Wingman concept through a series of scenarios and skits. Squadron members were selected to act out scenes and discuss each role. In addition, beer goggles were dispersed for a hands-on learning experience. Through interactive learning, Airmen were given the opportunity to illustrate important topics and share experiences.

Team building exercises, shared personal experiences, and a physical grueling physical challenge were excellent opportunities for the unit's personnel to demonstrate how they apply the Wingman concept both on and off duty.