Page 131 - Never Fly Solo

104 | NEVER FLY SOLO

WALDO’S WINGTIP

“Knock it off” is the statement wingmen call out to each
other when safety is violated on a training sortie or when
an emergency occurs. All wingmen in the formation discon-
tinue their current maneuver and get to a safe distance
from other aircraft while climbing to a safe altitude. Then
the situation can be analyzed safely and effectively. When
communication is minimal or you find yourself with little or
no situational awareness, be willing to put your ego aside
and call a “knock it off” to your team. Share your challenge
and work to get everyone heading the same way before
continuing the mission. This also applies to you as a leader.
You may see an unsafe situation or a confrontation brewing
that warrants a “knock it off.” Better to call it early and err
on the side of being overly cautious rather than delay and
exert far more time and energy dealing with the negative
ramifications.