YARS Airman Participate in Wingman Day, Team Building Published May 15, 2013 By TSgt. Valerie Smock 910AW/PA YOUNGSTOWN AIR RESERVE STATION, Ohio -- Airmen from Youngstown Air Reserve Station (YARS) participated in Wingman Day, May 3, during the Unit Training Assembly here. Wingman Day is an annual Air Force Reserve Command requirement. "Wingman Day is an event where we get to intentionally invest in the comprehensive fitness of our Airmen," said Col. James D. Dignan, 910th Airlift Wing (AW) commander. "The focus is to create connections, improve morale and create a sense of community." Mandatory events are held during the first half of the day; however, the afternoon is more flexible. Each wing can design particular events for team building. "My goal for the 910th is to create a wing where every Airman knows they have a wingman and are part of the Air Force family," said Dignan. Airmen and their wingmen took part in multiple activities. The afternoon was designed around being healthy, active and staying fit. The 5/6 Council sponsored a 5K Race, which fell right along the lines of a healthy lifestyle and teamwork. "I wanted to find a way to get people together and figured why not hold a 5K run," said Staff Sgt. John Marra, an Active Guard Reserve Security Forces team member assigned to the 910th Security Forces Squadron and president of the 5/6 Council. "Originally we had planned on having the race later in the year but then realized, what better time than in May, which is fitness month." One of the newest Airmen to YARS, Senior Airman Rachel Kocin, 910th AW Public Affairs photographer, participated in Wingman Day for the first time. "It is an adjustment going from active duty to reserve, however, having events such as Wingman Day instills the camaraderie you would have on active duty," said Kocin. She also took part in the 5K run and placed first in her age group. "I enjoy participating in running events and it is fun to run among a group of people cheering you on," said Kocin. Airmen spent the day cheering on their wingmen at various events like softball, volleyball and basketball. Wingman Day also included a fitness fair and luau. Outdoor Recreation held an open house, which gave service members an opportunity to rent different equipment such as kayaks and canoes. The day wasn't just about fun, according to Dignan. He said it's about being an effective combat ready force, building trust and professional relationships. "Military service creates a common connection that allows us to help our wingman," said Dignan. "I hope Airmen come out of the event with a true sense that we are all in this together."