DUI prevention... have a plan

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Lausanne Morgan
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  Article 15, loss of rank, forfeiture of pay, extra duty, separation from the Air Force and involuntary man slaughter - these are just some of the consequences a military member may face if they drive under the influence.

"DUI is crime," said Senior Master Sergeant Jeffrey Jacobson, 48th Security Forces Squadron 1st Sergeant. "If you choose to commit a criminal act by getting behind the wheel of your car, it is crime. I ask people now to not even drive if they are going to drink, even one beer or a glass of wine. It is not worth the risk of killing or hurting others or yourself."

Since October 2009 there have been 17 DUIs at RAF Lakenheath. From catching a cab to being the designated driver, all 17 of these incidents could have been avoided.

"A DUI is a life-changing event," said Sgt. Jacobson. "Your life as a military member is changed and not for the good. Even more important is the impact that you have to the local community. DUIs are the most preventable crime that Airmen commit. You need to make smart choices and do the right thing."

Many people claim they know when they've reached their limit, but that can be a dangerous chance to take.

According to Tech. Sgt. Peter Holtz, 48th SFS NCOIC of police services, everyone's alcohol tolerance varies. The only safe amount of alcohol for a person operating a vehicle is zero.

To prevent DUIs, plan accordingly. Multiple plans should be in place, if "Plan A" fails, "Plan B" is there to save the night and maybe someone's career. Examples of these plans range from simply designating a driver who will have absolutely no alcohol to setting up taxi rides to and from wherever the party is.

"We need to take care of each other," said Tech. Sgt. La'Kisha Tucker, 48th Medical Operations Squadron NCOIC of alcohol and drug abuse prevention and treatment. "We are one team, one fight. It's important to be there for others because you never know when you might need someone to be there for you."

It is the job of every Airman to look out for their wingman.