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Taking care of each other throughout the year

  • Published
  • By Col. Donald Cole
  • 305th Medical Support Squadron commander and 305th Medical Group deputy commander
McGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, N.J. --  "Learn from the mistakes of others. You will not live long enough to make them all yourself."  - Martin Fanbee

As we move into the holiday season, let us be aware of the need to take care of others. Less than a week ago I rescued an Airman who was wandering in base housing without a clue as to where he was or how he was going to get back to his dormitory. Apparently, he had been partying with his buddies (other Airmen), drinking occurred, and he did not feel like going to bed right away, so he walked until he got lost. He could not tell exactly where he was or how to get back to his room. When I asked him if he was in the Air Force, he showed me his ID and said he had never been late for work in his life and was very concerned he may not make it on time this morning.

Yes, it is true; he was walking the streets at 6:15 a.m. and needed to be at work by 7:30 a.m. I became really concerned when the member told me his buddies did not take the time or interest in knowing where he was or what he was doing after he left the party. I got him to his dorm with some strong words of advice. First, never wander off by yourself. Always let someone know where you are going or have someone join you. Second, if you are alone, always have a communication device (cell phone, radio, etc). Third, if you are drinking, stay around familiar surroundings and go to bed as soon as you can. Fourth, if you are working the next day, it is not advisable to drink a lot. Recovery time may be longer than you think. You want to be at your best while performing in uniform.

Often during the holiday season, we think of how others are doing. We reach out to the hungry and the homeless. We look for easy targets to bring cheer during a festive part of the year. Keep in mind, there are those out there who truly need our help but do not present themselves as needy. Sometimes they appear to have it all together. They are the life of the unit, but when they aren't with large groups of people what type of person are they? Do they continue to joke or do they go through serious mood swings? Be aware. Knowing or sensing where someone's mind is during the holidays or throughout the year is not an easy task. Sometimes, measuring behavior patterns is by degree of interest. Are you having a holiday party in your section? Do you see some of those people who have it together shying away from the celebration? Reach out to them. Be inclusive.

I am asking Airmen, civilians, and contractors during this holiday season, and throughout the year, to look out for each other. Please ensure we never leave someone behind. These are tough times for some. Be aware. If someone appears to need your help, provide it. What is more precious than Airmen and their families? Preserve the promise of the future. Preserve the privilege of being an American. Exercise the freedoms we preserve responsibly.

As we celebrate this holiday, let us understand our relationship to each other. When an Airman is drinking, let us not leave him alone to wonder, and when mood swings are dramatic - let us ask why. Airmen and their community; what a perfect fit.