Lakenheath stresses importance of Wingman Concept

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Stacy Sanchez
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  As RAF Lakenheath recently ended its 101 critical days of summer safety campaign, the base still wants to emphasize the importance of the Wingman Concept year-round when it comes to alcohol. 

Although there has not been an increase in alcohol related offenses over last year, that is not to say it's not a problem on base, said Capt. Junior Hoopes, Alcohol and Drug Addiction Prevention and Treatment officer in charge. 

"During 101 critical days of summer, we reported 11 alcohol related offenses for the base," said Maj. David Goldstein, 48th Fighter Wing Exercises Inspection and Readiness deputy chief. "The Wingman Concept is so important because there has never been a month here where I haven't reported an alcohol related offense." 

For Airmen both new and old to the Air Force, Captain Hoopes wants people to understand that a Wingman is not just a catchy phrase. 

"A Wingman is someone who watches out for others as well as themselves," Captain Hoopes said. "We hear cases where an individual decided to drink way past their limit because they planned on having their Wingman take them home. Just because you have someone take you home, should not give you a reason to drink more than you can handle." 

Captain Hoopes said there are several alternatives to getting behind the wheel after you have been drinking. 

"If your Wingman is not available, call your supervisor or first sergeant if you need help getting home," Captain Hoopes said. "I am pretty sure they would much rather get a phone call from you, than hear about their troop who just got a DUI." 

People need to understand the consequences of their actions before they get behind the wheel of a car, Major Goldstein said. Nobody wants to make that dreadful phone call that someone's loved one passed away because they chose to drink and drive. 

"People need to see that they affect the lives of everyone around them when they mix alcohol and keys,"he said. "Even if they are not behind the wheel, an alcohol related offense, such as fighting at a bar, can have serious consequences. Avoid those situations all together by having a proper plan before you head out to drink." 

Having the proper plan with your Wingman can help maintain a great Air Force career and a better life, Captain Hoopes said. 

"Some people come into my office saying they only had a few drinks and thought it would be OK to drive," Captain Hoopes said. "Point is, if you have had something to drink, don't drive." 

Captain Hoopes said a Wingman needs to be able to take care of themselves at all times.

"To drink alcohol, I don't care what your age is, if you are not mature enough to handle your alcohol, you shouldn't be drinking," Captain Hoopes said. "It's all about being responsible, mature and knowing your limit."