Moody Airmen reflect on Wingman concept

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Frances Locquiao
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  Moody Airmen participated in base-wide events Dec. 5 to celebrate this year's Wingman Day.

Wingman Day is celebrated the first Friday in December and was implemented Air Force-wide beginning in 2006. This year's Wingman Day began with a five-kilometer run. Events scheduled throughout the day focused on the importance of the Wingman concept and on making responsible choices.

"The Wingman concept is actually a 365-day affair, but on this day we reflect on what it means to be a good Wingman," said Col. Kenneth Todorov, 23rd Wing commander. "Being a good Wingman is a world-wide responsibility for all Airmen, whether it's at work or home."

After the run, retired Army Maj. Daniel Turner spoke to Moody Airmen about his joint-service experiences in North Vietnam during the Son Tay Raid.

Major Turner was an element commander, involved in the attempted rescue of 70 American prisoners of war at the Son Tay prison camp. Although the tactical plan of the rescue was executed successfully, upon arrival at the camp, rescue personnel found it empty and abandoned. All of the prisoners had been moved to another camp prior to the rescuers' arrival.

"Major Turner was a very professional and wise man; just an outstanding person," said Airman Jonathan Leal, 23rd Medical Group medical administrator. "His presentation was an inspiring story that proves we are a team regardless of the branch (of service)."

Although the overall mission was deemed unsuccessful, 85 individuals who participated in the Son Tay Raid received a Silver Star Medal for their actions.

"I'm very humbled to receive the Silver Star Medal," said Major Turner. "I thought we were failures until a former POW came up to me and shook my hand. He said when he heard about what we did, it gave them hope and the courage to stay alive."

After Major Turner's briefing, personnel were released for a mid-day break. Several Airmen were also given the opportunity to eat lunch and talk with Major Turner.

"It was a great opportunity to talk to Major Turner one-on-one," said Airman 1st Class Shelby Goss, 23rd Contracting Squadron contracting specialist. "We were able to hear a more personal view of how he felt about the raid. He's such a great speaker."

In the afternoon, squadrons were separated into smaller groups to watch and discuss a choice of three movies: Stop-Loss, Home of the Brave and Remember the Titans.

Airman Leal recalls being inspired by the storyline as he watched the movie, Remember the Titans.

"The movie showed us despite differences people go through, you can pull together and be a team instead of just working by yourself," said Airman Leal. "The movie related to the Wingman concept because if you're ever backed into a corner, you can count on a Wingman to help you out."

"Overall, I learned Wingman Day is a day of celebration for all Airmen in the Air Force--we join together and work as a team," added Airman Leal. "Being a Wingman means being there for your co-workers."