LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- The 19th Airlift Wing held a Wingman Day on June 26, encouraging the continuation of open discussions to form a deeper understanding and connection between Airmen of all ranks.
Col. John Schutte, 19th Airlift Wing commander, had one request for Wingman Day participants, “be vulnerable, listen to understand and lead with courage.”
“These conversations help form the beginning of a deeper understanding for action,” Schutte said. “We will continue to explore ways to improve and encourage leaders at every level to listen more to their Airmen, to better understand their stories, and to help obliterate any barriers that exist to strong, inclusive cultures at the unit level.”
Throughout the first half of the day, Airmen had the opportunity to take virtual or in-person classes centered around the four-pillars of Comprehensive Airman Fitness: mental, physical, social and spiritual.
Some of the topics and discussions included COVID-19 and bias awareness topics, communication skills, emotional intelligence, supervisor safety training, basic retirement planning and a multitude of fitness classes.
“Wingman Day is an important opportunity for Airmen to step out of their comfort zone and have a chance to add to their toolbox, both professionally and personally,” said Linda Benjamin, 19th Airlift Wing emotional intelligence trainer.
For the second half of Wingman day, unit commanders allowed time for Airmen to come together to conduct team building and unit cohesion activities.
“Our hope is that we are all motivated from these Wingman Day courses and that leaders at every rank will take the necessary actions on these important topics and continue to learn from each other,” said Chief Master Sgt. Justin Strain, 19th Airlift Wing command chief. “This day is an important component of our efforts to forge a culture of trust, empowerment, and accountability, infused with our warrior ethos.”