National Wingman Day

National Wingman Day is observed on February 13, strategically placed the day before Valentine’s Day to honor those who provide social and emotional support to their friends. While the term originated in military aviation to describe a pilot who protects the lead aircraft, the holiday celebrates the modern “wingman” who assists friends in navigating social situations and romantic pursuits. It is a day to acknowledge the unselfish efforts of loyal companions who ensure their friends never have to face challenging or awkward environments alone.

History of National Wingman Day

The concept of the wingman dates back to World War I, where fighter pilots began flying in pairs to provide mutual protection. In these formations, the wingman’s primary responsibility was to watch the lead pilot’s back and defend them from enemy attacks. This military tradition was deeply institutionalized by the U.S. Air Force, which eventually turned “Wingman Day” into a formal program to build resilience, mental health awareness, and unit cohesion among service members. The term entered the popular lexicon in 1986 following the release of the film Top Gun, which showcased the intense bond and reliability required of these aerial partners.

The specific social holiday observed on February 13 was created in 2016 by Bruce J. Novotny. He selected the date to coincide with the eve of Valentine’s Day, recognizing that single individuals often rely on their most trusted friends for support during the high-pressure romantic season. By moving the wingman concept from the cockpit to the bar or social gathering, the holiday celebrates the transition of a tactical military role into a symbol of modern friendship. It has since grown through social media as a way for people to publicly thank those who help them find confidence in social settings.

Why is National Wingman Day important?

This holiday is important because it highlights the value of selfless friendship and the “buddy system” in adult life. In a social context, a wingman acts as a buffer against anxiety, helping their friend strike up conversations or exit uncomfortable situations with grace. By dedicating a day to these individuals, the holiday reinforces the idea that success—whether romantic, social, or professional—is often a collaborative effort. It encourages people to look out for one another’s well-being and to prioritize the interests of their friends above their own temporary convenience.

Beyond the dating world, the day promotes the pillars of reliability and accountability. A true wingman is someone who monitors their friend’s safety, encourages responsible decisions, and provides a steadying hand during times of stress. This observance serves as a reminder that having a dependable support system is essential for mental health. It honors the “hype man” who boosts a friend’s confidence and the silent protector who ensures everyone gets home safely at the end of the night.

• Having a wingman reduces social anxiety in unfamiliar or crowded environments.
• The day celebrates the transition of military tactical values into civilian life.
• It encourages peers to hold each other accountable for safety and responsible behavior.
• Strong social bonds created by wingmen contribute to long-term emotional resilience.
• The holiday provides a specific opportunity to express gratitude for platonic loyalty.

How to Celebrate National Wingman Day

Celebrating National Wingman Day often involves treating your most reliable friend to a meal or a drink as a token of appreciation. Many people host “wingman parties” where groups of friends gather to share stories of times they helped each other navigate difficult social hurdles. If your usual wingman is currently single, the day is traditionally spent doing a “role reversal” where you take on the supporting role to help them meet someone new or achieve a personal goal. It is a time for active partnership, where the focus remains on the other person’s success and happiness.

For those in the military or veterans’ communities, the day is frequently observed by participating in team-building activities or sports that foster camaraderie. Giving a public shoutout on social media with a specific memory of a “wingman win” is a common way to mark the occasion digitally. Some people choose to write a simple thank-you note or buy a small gift that reflects a shared inside joke. The ultimate goal is to acknowledge that life is easier and more enjoyable when you have a trusted partner by your side.

• Take your best friend out for dinner to thank them for their support.
• Share a funny or heartfelt story on social media about your favorite wingman.
• Act as a supportive social partner for a friend attending a high-stakes event.
• Organize a group outing focused on team-building and mutual encouragement.
• Spend the evening watching classic movies that celebrate the bond of wingmen.

National Wingman Day Dates Table