Flight leads versus Wingman culture

  • Published
  • By Maj. Tom “Natron” Means
  • 39th Operations Squadron director of operations
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  “Safety is something that happens between your ears, not something you hold in your hands.” ¬— Jeff Cooper, former Marine Luitenant Colonel.

Several months ago, while returning from a stateside TDY, I was waiting in the domestic terminal of the Istanbul Airport when I saw something quite unusual. Among the busy crowd was a young Airman who obviously was new to Turkey and its environment. How did I know this from 50 yards? If the clean shave and short haircut didn’t give it away the well-pressed service uniform with a matching Air Force embroidered garment bag did. The fledgling rank on his shoulder meant he’d probably just graduated tech school and was a first-term Airman assigned overseas. Although he stood tall and wore his uniform proudly it was apparent he had nothing more inconspicuous to change into. So, because of the shortcomings of his sponsor, he’d have to wait for a newcomer’s briefings to get the force protection briefings which could have prevented this unnecessary risk.

Some would argue he had no “Wingman” that day, but I contest he needed something more. In the fighter business a Wingman is an inexperienced pilot who struggles with the complex tasks and tactics of combat aviation. The brand new wingman can usually keep other aircraft in sight, provide visual mutual support and avoid hitting the ground while maneuvering in three dimensions. Mistakes are expected and corrected through extra instruction, study and sometimes public embarrassment in front of his peers. It’s the flight lead who’s responsible for sound judgment, exemplary discipline, timely instruction and overall safe conduct of the flight and its multimillion-dollar assets.

The Wingman Program is based on the fundamental tenet that any “Wingman” can provide mutual support and theoretically mitigate a bad situation. Where this may be true we sometimes overlook the opportunities to call on our experiences and maturity to lead when necessary. Leadership in this case is going the extra mile, calling on the courage to intervene, and tell a complete stranger their behavior is unacceptable and may get themselves hurt or in trouble. How many times have you seen a new crowd at the bar getting a little too loud or rowdy for Incirlik standards?

Although they may have a wingman meeting the intent, there lack of experience in the local area may buy them an entry into the police blotter or worse a night with Jandarma. It’s then you, the resident expert or for a better term the flight lead, who needs to watch out for them. Our Airman mentioned earlier needed someone like this.

Not only does this apply to after hours socializing but in every aspect of life while stationed in a foreign country.

We can’t afford a preventable accident, ARI or DUI due to inaction when we see a bad situation developing. Be a good flight lead, get engaged, and take care of your fellow Airmen.