Commentary - Summer season changes risks, not common sense Published May 25, 2010 By Maj. Gen. Ted Kresge Commander, U.S. Air Force Warfare Center NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- Have you heard the famous last words in aviation? "Watch this!" There are very few instances where one simple phrase can have such far reaching consequences. Rarely do those words precede a positive outcome. Occasionally, the result of a "Watch this!" has been catastrophic. The summer months bring an increase in outdoor activities such as swimming, camping, and traveling. This is a time to relax and rejuvenate; a time to spend with your family and friends. While the changing of the seasons may bring a change in the type of risks we encounter, it should not change our focus on common sense. Always anticipate the unexpected, always stay one step ahead of your actions, always be a wingman to your fellow Airman, family, and to your own conscience. If someone says "Hey, watch this!" their wingman should be there to say "Hey, let's not..." The greatest reward for a commander after the summer months is to have everyone return healthy and refreshed. As Airmen, we are truly lucky to be in a vast organization which embraces the wingman culture. Safety begins with each individual, but you are never alone. A good wingman should be your constant companion, and ought to be there to say "knock it off" when something just isn't right. Understanding this ethos means knowing you are a wingman to your fellow Airmen, your civilian friends, your family...and to your own conscience. Safety is not rocket science...safety boils down to simple common sense. Common sense safety is people taking care of each other. Go out and enjoy this special time. Spend it with family and friends, and if you have an opportunity, invite a young Airman or a family separated by a deployment along for the fun. Have a safe and wonderful summer!
