The mutual support for each other based on dignity, respect and trust, known as Wingmen Culture, is vital for a high-functioning total force in order to complete the mission. As General David L. Goldfein said, “As Wingmen, we must continuously demonstrate courage and strength of character to do and say the right things, at the right times, to protect each other.”
Master Sergeant Lyndsy Bringman, Administrative Functional Manager at the 179th Airlift Wing, takes being a wingman to another level through her role as a dedicated Victim Advocate to not only the 179th AW, but members throughout all branches of service.
Joining the Guard 17 years ago, Bringman has dedicated her career to helping those around her, whether it be in her position as the administrative functional manager, or through her involvement in victim advocacy.
“As an Administrative Functional Manager, we are an integral part of readiness,” said Bringman. “We help maintain the readiness of members, making sure they are in the status they need in order to carry out the mission.”
As a Victim Advocate, Bringman supports members who have experienced any sort of trauma.
“To survivors of any sort of trauma, I hear you, and I am here for you,” said Bringman. “I am there for them for moral support. Sometimes these individuals don’t have anyone close by when something happens, I help guide them through the processes the military requires, while helping them receive the much needed mental, physical and emotional care.”
Captain Rebecca English, 179th Airlift Wing Sexual Assault Response Coordinator, said individuals like Bringman who take on these roles are essential to the readiness of the wing.
“The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program allows Airman the ability to heal in their time,” said English. “Through the program, we are able to help airman process after a traumatic event to get them whole again and to be able to service their mission.”
With a desire to make the world a better place, Bringman has been a Victim Advocate for the past ten years.
“I wanted to make the world a better place for my children, those I work with, and humans in general,” said Bringman. “I cannot effectively change things necessarily in the big picture of the civilian world, but if I can make changes while in this uniform with the people around me, they will in turn go out and make changes, too.”
Bringman said to be the Wingman the Air Force needs, we need to begin by changing ourselves. By changing our own thinking and truly listening when others speak, those actions will inevitably lead to a stronger, more unified Total Force.