Wingman Day aims to boost morale, resiliency Published May 11, 2017 By Senior Airman Joshua Kincaid 910th Airlift Wing Public Affairs YOUNGSTOWN AIR RESERVE STATION, Ohio -- Wingman, leader, warrior. It’s not just a line from the Airman’s Creed, but a way of life in the Air Force. The Wingman concept is highly encouraged and celebrated here. The 910th Airlift Wing held their annual Wingman Day Saturday, May 6, 2017 with the underlining message being “Remember the Little Things.” Wingman Day is designed to boost morale and resiliency among Airmen. “Wingman day is important because we tend to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life,” said Kelly Turner, 910th Airlift Wing Drug Demand Reduction Program Manager and 2017 Wingman Day Coordinator. “It is important to take a step back, reconnect with our fellow airmen and remember the little things.” Lt. Col. Klavens Noel, 910th Airlift Wing chaplain, tends to the morale and spiritual wellbeing of the nearly 2000 personnel assigned to YARS. “Wingman Day to me is the ability to provide honor, dignity and respect to anyone going through difficult times in their life,” said Noel. “(This event) encourages us to be tolerant to one another, generous and provide dignity, honor and respect to (our) Wingmen.” An all day celebration ensued from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m., starting with breakfast and ending with field day events. Karen Vadino, a motivational speaker and graduate of nearby Youngstown State University, was the keynote speaker that morning. Her speech was full of stories that brought the crowd of more than 1,000 to laughter. She left an uplifting challenge with the Citizen Airmen of YARS. “Make sure no matter what’s going on in your life, you find a way to laugh,” said Vadino. “Take a minute everyday just to be happy.”