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Tyndall Airmen hold Winter Wingman Day 2011

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Kirsten Wicker
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  More than 1,200 Team Tyndall Airmen took part in Winter Wingman Day 2011 Feb. 25 here.

The day was set aside to hold discussions, participate in team-building scenarios, run together in a wing formation run, and end the day with a burger burn at Heritage Park.

The morning began with unit commander briefings and comments. Then Airmen broke into small groups to discuss this year's theme, resiliency.

"We have discussed resilience," said Brig. Gen. James Browne, 325th Fighter Wing commander. "I believe it is the ability to work through any adversity or challenge and be stronger for it."

Wingman day gives Airmen a chance to take a break from their work centers and focus on camaraderie, team building and physical fitness. Along with the day's activities, General Browne shared what he believes makes a resilient Airman. First and foremost, understand that what each Airman does is important.

"No matter what you do, it is important," said General Browne. "Each of us has a vital role to play and individual actions do impact the mission."

"Each of us has a stake in mission accomplishment and that is a huge responsibility," he said.

Second, every Airman is part of something bigger than him or herself.

"You are part of something bigger than yourself, a family, the Air Force family. As a family, we need to take care of each other," General Browne said. "The wingman concept is all about taking care of each other and it goes hand in hand with resilience."

"Nothing can replace human contact and interaction - we must look each other in the eye," he said.

General Browne also congratulated the wing on being awarded the Air Force Outstanding Unit award for 2010.

"The 325th FW has a proud heritage, steeped in a history of success when facing overwhelming odds," said General Browne. "Today we carry on the legacy. Each of you is now authorized to wear the ribbon if you served in the 325th FW any time between July 2009 and June 2010."

Finally, he spoke about two upcoming major events for the wing that will continue to test Airmen's resiliency: 2011 Gulf Coast Salute Open House and Air Show, March 26 and 27, and the Unit Compliance Inspection scheduled for June 2011.

"We are well prepared, thank you for your hard work," General Browne said. "We look to make this a safe and successful open house and air show."

"Also, last year we set the standard earning an Outstanding rating during the Command Cyber Readiness Inspection," he added. "That is the Checkertail standard, so let's hit another home run during this year's UCI."

Winter Wingman Day is held annually every February on Tyndall. The next wingman day will be in the Fall.