Don't quit trying to be a wingman

MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- Last week, during the USFJ Day of Reflection, I was asked by one of our Airmen a question that I have always had a tough time answering. As we discussed the events that have so greatly affected our relations with Japan, he asked, "When are we going to acknowledge the fact that sometimes stupid people do stupid things, and we aren't going to be able to stop that?"

I didn't pause, and blurted out, "When we are ready to quit trying!" The crowd was a bit stunned by my rash and emotional answer, but I think I finally stumbled on a good answer to a difficult question. We continue to stress things like unwavering professionalism, safety and being a good wingman because we are not ready to quit on the people that represent the United States, the military and our fellow Airmen.

Everyday actions, both positive and negative, reflect on your nation, your Air Force and on every friend you have with you in Japan. I will continue to stress every individual's role as an ambassador because I am not ready to accept bad behavior that is going to affect my nation, my service and my family. While individual behavior and accountability are important, it is even more important that you step up when the opportunity to do something is presented.

Being a good wingman isn't easy. One of the most difficult things that you will have to do is tell someone else to stop behaving badly. The fear and discomfort I have when I must do this is real, and it takes a courageous decision to overcome this fear. Unfortunately, I still fail to uphold this responsibility occasionally and that makes it even more difficult to do it right the next time. But, I am not ready to quit.

Sometimes, it's almost as difficult to step up and do a good thing. Stopping to help is at least an inconvenience, and can sometimes be costly or dangerous. As I struggle with these situations, I try to apply one test. If I am thinking about whether I should step in on a situation or not, I probably should. Stepping in to help is another demonstration that I am not willing to accept things as they are.

Finally, I am again asking you to not quit thinking about the recent events with the passing of the Day of Reflection. Think about what we do right and wrong to impress ourselves on our hosts. And then, talk about it with your peers. This is a great conversation starter when you are bored on the nightshift, and when you talk about these things, ideas will come out that can make things better for us. Talk about it at work, at lunch and as you do PT together -- talking about it will bring the next great revelation that will save another Airman's career or life, or our nation's relationship with a great ally. The Day of Reflection is past us, but it is not time to quit.