What it means to be a wingman

  • Published
  • By Airman Collin Schmidt
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Being a good wingman may not always be an easy task. Sometimes, it requires people to go above and beyond what is normally asked of them. For Jason Webb, 341st Missile Wing Safety Office occupational safety technician, a quick response and the will to go the extra mile in order to help a military member in need was exactly what was required of him, and he rose to the challenge.

While attending a Mishap Investigation Non-Aviation course at the Air Force Safety Center based at Kirtland Air force Base, Albuquerque, New Mexico, Webb was approached by an Airman who wanted to start a seemingly normal conversation.

"This person approached me and asked if I had any kids," said Webb. "After I said yes, we began a normal conversation until he slowly started to tell me about marriage problems as an active-duty Airman. After listening to him speak, I immediately comforted him and told him that we all go through hard times in our marriages while on active duty."

Webb served a four-year tour in the Air Force as a Security Forces member and was married during his entire enlistment, so he spoke from experience.

"When he started to talk about marriage problems, that's when I could tell there was something deeper going on," said Webb. "I did not want to pry for information but could tell he needed someone to talk to. As soon as I told him he is not alone, and that most Airmen have some type of marriage problems at some point in their career, that's when he opened up and told me how bad his problem really was."

This Airman in need was one step away from making an irreversible mistake.

Towards the end of his conversation with Webb, the man revealed that he had taken a handful of sleeping pills with alcohol in the hopes of not waking up the next morning. He had revealed his biggest secret, the source of his pain and a big cry for help in the form of a small conversation.

"I didn't let him out of my sight," said Webb. "After contacting a senior non-commissioned officer in our class and briefly telling him what was going on, we contacted a first sergeant and chaplain and together made our way to the Airman's room. We found the sleeping pills."

For Webb, regardless of his veteran title, the wingman concept still holds true for him.

"To me, active duty or veteran, we all have to look out for each other and have each other's back," said Webb. "The wingman concept goes back to the Air Force core values of integrity first and service before self. We have to do what's right, even when no one is looking.

"I have learned the military is a tough job and that we are away from our families a lot," said Webb. "I've also learned that if someone needs help, you cannot be afraid to make the call for help. I was afraid that this person would be mad at me, but at the end of the day he thanked me and was happy to get it. This was a very humbling experience to know that this Airman trusted me and I am glad to have been there when he needed it the most."