"I will never leave an Airman behind" Published Nov. 24, 2015 By Col. David P. Garfield 482nd Fighter Wing commander HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. -- During the November Unit Training Assembly, I spoke about our purpose of Strength in Unity and I addressed the path of how to achieve that through the Behavioral Ideals of love, care, and respect. These concepts, these values, can be applied to any situation, including suicide prevention. We participated in face-to-face suicide prevention training this past year, ensuring that every Airman had the opportunity to connect with someone in their unit. The small group discussions allow each of us to unite, to know our fellow Airmen better, and can help us identify those who may be in need. My unifying principle of "Educate" specifically contributes to a situation just like this. In the training, we learned about risk factors and warning signs for suicide. Risk factors are the things going on in each individual's life that may or may not be noticeable. These may include relationship struggles, financial concerns, legal issues, career stressors, or illness. Warning signs are the things that we see are mood changes, changes in work performance and increased substance use. We are looking for "changes" in our Wingmen and it is important to address them through Ask, Care, and Escort (or ACE) as the changes are identified. ASK the hard questions . . .How are things at home? What is going on at work? Are you thinking about committing suicide? You will likely not know what is going on with your Wingman unless you ask. Show your Wingman that you CARE about them. Share your own personal experiences . . . sometimes, all it takes is for someone to know that they are not alone; that others have experienced similar problems. Be in touch with them regularly, show them that you care about their wellbeing and that they matter to the team and make a difference in the mission. And ESCORT them, or ensure that your Wingman is aware of installation and community resources. Make the call with them so they have the support and follow through with getting connected. If they are suicidal, do not leave them alone; take them to the emergency room, to the chaplain, or to the Director of Psychological Health. Continue to check in with them to show them that you truly care. This matters to everyone on the team. Having situational awareness to identify the warning signs and to actively engage is everyone's responsibility. We need to maintain balance and agility to ensure our team is effective in order to win, not only for the mission but in life, we need to remain true to our creed: "I will never leave an Airman behind." There are many valuable programs available to all Airmen at Homestead ARB, regardless of status. The Veterans Crisis Line is available 24-hours a day at 1-800-273-8255 (TALK) and is also available via online chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net, or via text at 838255. The Wingman Toolkit webpage and mobile app also have great information on resiliency skills included in the Comprehensive Airman Fitness resiliency program. Chaplains are available to talk about stressors and concerns and can be reached at 786-415-7093. The Director of Psychological Health can assist with problem solving, education and training, and can provide information and referrals in the local area as well as where you live. Our DPH can be reached at 786-415-8888 or mary.arnold@us.af.mil Be a part of strengthening our Airmen . . . make a difference in someone's life!