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Scott AFB develops 'Wingman Council' to build stronger community

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Amber R. Kelly-Herard
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Less than four months ago a call went out from the 375th Air Mobility Wing commander, Col. Mike Hornitschek, for volunteers to become part of an inaugural Wingman Council in an effort to enhance and strengthen the current Wingman culture here.

Since then about 80 Airmen of all ranks have joined the cause with a vision to have "all Wingmen united to lead by example, improve while helping others, and never leave a Wingman behind."

The Wingman Council has outlined their mission, which is to "ensure every Airman has a Wingman and is a Wingman through mentorship, networking, and teamwork, while building the Air Force into a stronger community."

Second Lt. Joseph Henney, a leader within the Wingman Council, explained that "we not only want everyone to have a Wingman, but also to be a Wingman. And, we are working to do that through several initiatives of support, recognition and awareness."

He explained that the Wingman Council's role is to fill the gap that perhaps private organizations or other helping agencies do not. The idea is not to compete with organizations such as the First Sergeants or Chiefs Group, for example, but rather provide more of a support role to help assist with enhancing the Wingman culture.

Although still in their developing stages, the Wingman Council has already taken on a big project that is making an impact during the holiday season.

"Instead of planning another event, we wanted to supplement the current parties," said Lieutenant Henney, who is also the 375th Medical Logistics Squadron Flight deputy commander. "We are providing babysitting, photography, games, prizes and even greeters for many parties within the wing. This not only enhances the parties, but it allows more people to participate in them instead of working the parties," he added.

In addition to this project, the Wingman Council has many ideas for the way ahead.
Some projects the council is working includes finding ways to recognize Airmen who are good Wingmen, creating "Wingman Time" for units, and initiating an awareness campaign.

"Airmen from Basic Military Training and technical school come with the Wingman mindset, and we want to ensure that continues long after they get here," said Lieutenant Henney. "Our goal is to keep the momentum going and make it stronger."