Commentary: Critical days of summer upon us Published May 31, 2011 By Brig. Gen. J.D. Harris Jr. and Chief Master Sgt. Rory Wicks 56th Fighter Wing commander and command chief LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- Greetings Team Luke! As the season changes, the weather warms, schools begin recess and we begin to start our summer festivities, now is the time to reflect on safety, good wingmanship and plain ole' watching out for one another in all of our activities. Memorial Day marks the beginning of the "Critical Days of Summer" which flows through the Fourth of July and concludes with Labor Day weekend. During this particular period, safety awareness is heightened largely due to the increased potential hazards associated with many summer activities. Although in Arizona we are afforded better than average year round weather, safety must remain at the forefront of everything we do -- regardless of the season. Each year since 2002, the Air Force has lost an average of 24 Airmen during this critical period. In fact, motorcycle, automobile, sports and recreation mishaps are the top causes fore these incidents. While Team Luke has been extremely fortunate to have gone more than two years without a fatality due to these activities, this is definitely not all because of luck alone. A lot of hard work and determination have been placed on our mishap prevention efforts and our team overall has done well to internalize and act on safety awareness, which has been a big win. Our success in ensuring that Team Luke continues to prosper requires a "full court press" by everyone. Commanders bear the ultimate responsibility for the total welfare of our greatest asset -- our Airmen. Commanders are responsible for their physical, emotional and social well-being. Supervisors, however, are in many cases the first line of defense. Like commanders, they are responsible for the well-being of the people they lead by knowing them and looking into their eyes every day. This will improve the ability to detect the first signs of trouble. Team Luke, the "Critical Days of Summer" and our ability to Aim High ... Fly, Fight and Win, require all of us to be cognizant of safety in all we do while watching out for each other. Although the concept of being a wingman originated in the cockpit, today's Airmen don't need to wear a flight suit to be good wingmen. In taking care of yourself and those around you, being observant and available is key. Signs of stress and depression should not be dismissed. Neither should senseless risks to life and limb because of improper safety or irresponsible behavior. Being a good wingman is not always easy; in fact it sometimes requires one to make difficult choices. Good wingmanship is demonstrated by reducing risk. For example, don't drink and drive. Identify a designated driver or be the designated driver. Good wingmen have the courage to intervene when behaviors or activities might jeopardize the safety of their teammates. This means providing "top cover" to prevent injury or loss of life at all costs. The bottom line is, a good wingman has situational awareness and the courage to speak up. Team Luke, summer is here; get out and enjoy it but be safe. This is a time to find moments to relax with family and friends. However, let's take care of each other while doing that. Whatever activities you choose to participate in this summer, from vacation travel, water sports, backpacking, camping, off-road activities, hiking or just simply relaxing, remain aware of your surroundings and the hazards associated with your activities. Choose and plan your leisure time carefully and make injury prevention a top priority. Remember, our team is only as successful as everyone on the team. It is indeed our pleasure to serve with each of you. Thank you for all you do for our nation and the Air Force!