Drinking and driving: A career ending choice Published Dec. 4, 2013 By 2nd Lt. Carly A. Costello 55th Wing Public Affairs OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- (This feature is the second installment of a three part series on drinking and driving prevention.) Air Force careers ruined by Airmen not having a plan - or not sticking to their plan - after a night of drinking is a story nobody ever wants to hear. But unfortunately, this story is a reality. Driving under the influence prevention and education awareness is always a top priority for leadership, but it's especially important around the holidays. "Lives can be ruined by just a couple of drinks," said U.S. Air Force Col. Gregory Guillot, 55th Wing commander. "The goal of leaders across the Fightin' 55th is to ensure the holidays are a time for Airmen to relax and enjoy time with friends and family. We want to ensure poor decisions don't ruin that time and put innocent people at risk." Military members who drive under the influence not only put their life and the lives of others at risk, they also put their career on the line. Even if the incident occurs off base, it can still have repercussions on base. And punishments can range from fines to demotion to even jail time, according to U.S. Air Force Maj. Erika Lynch, 55th Wing staff judge advocate. "If the local jurisdiction keeps the case, then depending on whether it is a first or repeated offense, punishment ranges from several thousands in fines and court costs and deferred prosecution, (which is) essentially probation, possibly jail time for repeat offenses," Lynch said. "If the offense is off base, but the locals give the base jurisdiction, the likely outcome is Article 15 action with a wide range of punishments from reduction in rank, extra duty, forfeitures, restriction and reprimand." Not only do violators risk losing pay and rank and face a hefty list of fines and restrictions, these punishment actions can cause military members to separate because they are unable to make rank due to their record. "I had a young staff sergeant who was due to re-enlist and received a DUI," said U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Christopher Morgan, 55th Comptroller Squadron first sergeant. "During the investigation, it was found that this was not his first one. He had one a few months prior and did not report it. Based on all of the facts, he was separated with a general discharge as an airman first class instead of continuing his Air Force career. He also ended up spending three months in county jail starting the day he was discharged from the military." DUIs often result in a referral enlisted or officer performance report, and an Airman cannot be promoted if their report is a referral, said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Mynda Ohman, 55th Wing staff judge advocate. And certain types of administrative actions have even made Airmen vulnerable to force shaping actions later in their career. "If they receive an Article 15, suspended punishment, administrative demotion or a control roster, it will affect their promotion eligibility for a period of time," Morgan said. "If that time frame happens to be in their enlistment window, it can end their career." Part of DUI prevention is education on what to do if a plan fails, Guillot said. There are tools for Airmen and Offutt members to use if they find themselves without a ride after a night of drinking. Leadership, first sergeants and supervisors want to make sure their troops get home without risking lives or careers. "Having a plan as you celebrate this holiday season is essential," Guillot said. "But it is equally essential that you properly execute your plan. If you cannot, there are tools, programs, and wingmen to help you get your plan back on track." If your plan falls through and find yourself without a ride, please call your first sergeant, Happy Cab at 402-239-0110 or Airmen Against Drunk Driving at 402-294-2233.