Combat Wingman:
A personal commitment to take care of our own

In the Air Force, we take care of and rely on each other every day. Just as a flight lead and a wingman depend on one another to ensure mission success, as Air Force family members, we also have the responsibility of looking out for each other’s well-being — it’s wingman consideration.

This wingman consideration concept is the basis for U.S. Air Forces in Europe’s newest Combat Program initiative. “Combat Wingman” capitalizes on a proud tradition that applies to our entire Air Force family. Regardless of rank, duty title or position, we all own the responsibility of looking out for and supporting one another.

The Combat Wingman concept is nothing new. We often look to others such as spiritual advisors, spouses, life skills professionals and dorm managers for help. Combat Wingman is designed to take this a step further and broaden our radar scope.

The foundation of this program is built on commitment at a personal level. Combat Wingman is a sacred contract that promotes a genuine concern for our Airmen — and I mean our military and civilian Airmen — and their families through mutual, self-directed relationships with each other.

Don’t mistake this for a mentoring program and don’t think it’s only targeting one specific area or problem. Combat Wingman is a program that emphasizes wellness across the board while focusing on our most important asset — you.

Combat Wingman is not something that can be left at the door at the end of the day. As guardians of each other’s well being, we are devoted to encouraging camaraderie and unit pride, looking out for one another and preventing destructive behavior.

I would ask that you make it your personal commitment to proudly carry on the timeless tradition of being a good wingman. It’s time to check in!