So you think a DUI is no big deal?

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Zachiah Roberson
  • 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  So you think a DUI is no big deal? Get one, and you'll find out just how much impact it can have on a career.

"History suggests Airmen can be expected to receive either an Article 15 or court-martial charges," said Capt. Carman Leone, 319th Air Base Wing assistant staff judge advocate. "For punishment under an Article 15, commanders have the authority to reduce an enlisted person's rank by one or more pay grades, depending on the rank of the DUI offender."

Leone said offenders are also likely to lose their ability to drive on base.

After someone gets arrested for DUI, "a base driving suspension package is immediately considered and nearly always results in a suspension of driving privileges for a year," he said.

To add to the laundry list of problems that can arise after getting a DUI, certain squadrons may also implement their own line of punishment.

"On top of losing so many privileges, Airmen who are given an Article 15 may also be required to work an additional 15 duty days," said Master Sgt. Joseph Rind, 69th Maintenance Squadron first sergeant. "This not only makes work for the offender, but it also burdens the supervisor with making sure the Airman is completing the extra work assigned."

Leone said that one misconception many Airmen have is that a DUI means an automatic discharge from the Air Force.

"The decision to recommend discharge for an Airman is triggered by the Airman's commander," said Leone. In most cases, the decision rests with the wing commander as the separation authority.

The real question people should ask themselves is whether or not they have a feasible plan and if driving drunk is worth putting a career at risk.

"Sometimes we think we are invincible and can do anything when alcohol is involved, but we aren't, so that's why it is important to always look out for your wingmen," said Rind. "As wingmen we are family, and you wouldn't let your brother or sister drink and drive, so why let another Airman."