Making unsung heroes known with new Wingman Award Published May 3, 2007 By Airman 1st Class Ashley Coomes 319th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- The Airmen who deploy to combat zones, do their job and return without a ribbon or a band playing in their favor are not the only unsung heroes we know. From the guy in the bar who stops his friend from driving when he's had a few too many, to the kid who helps out a neighbor or welcomes a new student to school; they are all living Air Force values and making a difference in our community. Now, with the Wingman Award, there's a way to recognize people who are exercising those values in their daily lives. "This award is for all those who are taking care of others and making this community a place of comfort and hospitality," said Ann McMillan, Sexual Assault Response Coordinator and one of the creators of the award. The award is for all military members, family members and civilians who demonstrate the actions of a Wingman. Some examples are: taking a stand; contributing to our community; contributing to yours and my safety; speaking up when others are afraid to; selfless action; bringing to the forefront a need that otherwise wouldn't be heard, said Mrs. McMillan. The award is "to promote a culture of community and responsible choices by recognizing active duty, civilian and family members of our base community for their selfless actions which lend to the wingman culture and add to that foundation set by the Air Force Core Values." Last year, an Airman helped a woman change her tire. They did not know each other; he just stepped forward and helped. In the future, the Wingman Award will be there for the next person to thank the Airman, said Mrs. McMillan. "People are already doing good things, we just want to recognize them," she said. The committee members and creators of the award wanted to emphasize the award is not only for Airmen. They hope to inspire the Good Samaritan idea to children by presenting the award to the children in school. "Children would love for a uniformed member to present an award to them," said Susan Grollimund, SAPR program assistant. "It might have an impact in the schoolyard." It will be an easy process to nominate individuals for the award. The nomination letter will be located on the public Web site soon. There is no Air Force Form 1206 to fill out; it's just a simple form explaining why the nominee is a Wingman. "It's not about being the best Wingman," said Mrs. McMillan. "It's just about being one."