HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --
During the Unit Training Assembly, members from the 482nd Fighter Wing came together for a Wingman Day July 12.
The Wingman Day theme focused on 'Finding the Good' and during the Commander's Call, speakers covered important topics including Safety, Emergency Management, Drug Demand Reduction, Sexual Assault Prevention and Psychological Health.
Ernest Farmer, South Region Outreach Specialist for the Psychological Health Advocacy Program (PHAP), provided an overview of the program. The Air Force Reserve program provides support to Reservists and their families to improve their total health and well-being.
As the South Region representative, Farmer explained how this resource can be used to assist members and families who are dealing with issues that may require services or intervention. They can locate appropriate resources to assist in resolving issues and assist each Reservist throughout the resolution process. Their website is http://afrc.phap.net and Farmer can be reached at (678) 655-2464.
During the Drug Demand Reduction brief, Master Sgt. Leola Harrell from the 482nd Medical Squadron discussed recent increases in marijuana positive results. Because of the increased positives, they're working to increase awareness that use of marijuana is prohibited for military personnel.
Also presenting at the Commander's Call was Veronica Sforza, the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC). During the UTA, she provided training designed to educate Airmen on identifying offenders and changing the culture to one that stops inappropriate behavior. For more information on sexual assault prevention or assault or to reach the base SARC, call (786) 415-7606. After duty hours, the SARC is available for emergencies at (786) 415-7272.
The 482nd FW Commander, Col. Chris Funk, wrapped-up the Commander's Call with comments on how to find the good by setting your goals high and surrounding yourself with winners.
"Be a great example, in your workplaces and neighborhoods," Funk said. "Always have the courage to intervene and set your personal boundaries for what's right and just."
He also discussed Lt. Col. Dave Grossman's 'Sheepdog' concept from the book On Killing.
Most of the people in our society are sheep. They're kind, gentle, productive creatures who can only hurt one another by accident. But there are wolves, and the wolves feed on the sheep without mercy or remorse. Then there are sheepdogs.
I'm a sheepdog, explained Funk. I live to protect the flock and confront the wolves. If you have no capacity for violence and are a productive citizen, you're a sheep. If you have a capacity for violence and no empathy for your fellow citizens; you're defined as a sociopath, a wolf.
But, what if you have a capacity for violence and a deep love for your fellow citizens? That makes you a sheepdog, a warrior, someone who walks the hero's path; someone who can walk into the heart of darkness, into a human phobia, and walk out unscathed.
The commander concluded with thanking everyone for volunteering for military service with the 482nd FW.
After the Commander's Call, members participated in a variety of sporting events, including a warrior challenge, dodge ball, kickball and basketball.