Everybody needs a Wingman

  • Published
  • By Chaplain (Capt.) Jose Del Toro
  • 55th Wing Chapel
Everybody needs a Wingman. With the holidays approaching, it can feel quite lonely at times for many of us in the military who have no family to celebrate with. This is why we must always remember that in the Air Force we are a family. It's important we leave no one behind even the ones that are not always easy to get along with.

The holidays remind us that we need to reach out to someone, be inviting, share a gift, a hug or a smile and be a companion along the way. If you feel alone, don't be afraid to join in on the fun. Get to church, get to the party, or get to the dinner whether in the cafeteria or at someone's home.

To be a good Wingman is to look after one another. If we have good Wingmen, we will have an even better time during the holidays. Invite someone to come along with you and together we can make each other's celebration.

If you are feeling lonely, sad or down and your mind fills with negative thoughts then do yourself a favor and see a chaplain to sit down and talk. I welcome those seeking counsel into my office with hot tea or coffee and conversation that does not have to be religious. In fact, more than 95 percent of my counseling conversations are not religious - just a chaplain trying to be a Wingman to one of the best families in the world.
 
Everyone is precious. If you or someone you know needs a Wingman, a boost of encouragement or is in a crisis, help them get the assistance they need. Your chaplains and other professionals are just a phone call away. Call the SAC Chapel at 294-6244 to speak to a chaplain. After-hours chaplains are available, so don't be afraid to make the call if you need an emergency Wingman.