Safety Bongo raises awareness around base

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Michael Battles
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  A new wing safety vehicle dubbed the "Safety Bongo" has made an appearance this fall as part of a new wing safety campaign.

This bright yellow vehicle, with yellow and black caution stripe trim, will serve as the new trademark of the safety office. It will be used as a reminder to all Airmen to assess operational risk management during their daily activities.

"With its distinctive yellow markings the safety bongo is hard to miss," said Lt. Col. Jason Cockrum, 51st Wing Safety chief. "Our main goal is to not have people run when they see the safety vehicle. We want people to assess their operational risk management when they see it."

The old vehicle was run down and barely working, Cockrum said. But with the 51st Logistical Readiness Squadron's help they were able to bring the vehicle into peak condition, and used the remodel as training for the vehicle maintenance Airmen, he said.

The now operational "Safety Bongo" will be the primary vehicle for on-base safety calls and unit inspections. It will be used for all safety related needs.

"The 'Safety Bongo' will help us increase awareness as we are out driving around," said Master Sgt. David Nicholas, wing safety superintendant. "It will also act as sort of a mobile safety officer, where Airman can just come up and ask us questions when they see the vehicle."

The bongo will make its first appearance at the 2011 Air Power Day, Cockrum said. That will be the first chance the base will see it out and get a chance to ask the safety office any questions, he said.