The 178th Wing dedicated a day to focus on Airmen by organizing both a wingman day and a family day at Springfield Air National Guard Base, Springfield, Ohio, Sept. 10.
The Company Grade Officer Council along with the Airman/Non Commissioned Officer Council organized the days’ events.
“Wingman Day and Family Day are normally two separate events’” said 2nd. Lt. Adam Hermanns, CGO President. “This year we decided to host them both on the same day due to the UTA [unit training assembly] schedule of every unit on the installation being together on September UTA. We have both Army and Air National Guard units on the base and wanted to bring both green and blue together for this major esprit de corps event.”
“Wingman Day is focused on taking a break from mission training and focusing on Airmen leading Airmen while improving our knowledge about what is available to our airmen; mentorship and leadership.” said Hermanns.
Wing leadership along with first-term airman participated in a reverse mentoring session where Airmen gave direct feedback, made suggestions and asked questions to the wing leadership. These sessions provided a voice for all Airmen and helped senior leaders identify and improve potentially problem areas. The sessions also gave leaders an insight into what motivates Airmen.
“I thought the reverse mentoring session was a great way to talk to my leadership about any issues or concerns,” said Airman 1st Class Cana Biser, commander support staff.” “They were open to suggestions, and they received the feedback well. There were so many great changes that came from the last mentoring session we had, so I look forward to seeing what comes from this one.”
Other classes offered in the morning included personal financial and blended retirement, Green Dot training, wills and power of attorney, as well as other benefits available to Airmen. Airmen were encouraged and given time to attend these classes to be better informed and involved.
Later in the morning, Army Brig. Gen. Steve Stivers , Ohio National Guard Joint Staff and senator spoke to the Airman about various topics pertinent to the National Guard. Stivers also shared some encouragement.
“You are providing a value,” said Stivers. “I am so happy and excited that you are serving our country and I want to say thank you.”
Family Day activities began shortly thereafter with lunch available either in the dining hall or from various food trucks.
“Family Day has always been a great way to bring our families on base so everyone can enjoy themselves for a few hours surrounded by our military family,” said Hermanns.
Airmen were encouraged to bring their family and friends to Family Day. Activities such as car show, bounce house, magician, live band, games, and more were available at no cost for service members and their families.
“I can't thank each of the volunteers enough for putting in the countless hours of hard work it took to make the day go off as smooth as it did, said Hermanns.” “From the entire SFS [Security Forces Squadron] manning multiple gates, parking cars and having a well-known presence down to the volunteers emptying the trash cans; everyone had a part and played a vital role to make it a great Family Day.”