DUI Prevention Program

After one of our Sergeants got a DUI, First Sergeant and I held a sensing session with the leaders. During this session, we solicited ideas to reduce the risk of DUIs while positively affecting our command climate. One of our outstanding Staff Sergeants proposed an all volunteer, safe ride program for Soldiers and Family Members.

First Sergeant and I were skeptical that we would get enough volunteers, however, decided to implement the program. I purchased a burner phone with $50 of minutes and began talking the program up to the company. There are two primary incentives: 1) volunteer hours entered into VOMIS to count towards the MOSVM and 2) hours accumulate towards time off. Volunteers earned two hours for volunteering for a shift (we only ran the program over the weekends) and earned hour for hour spent on the road. Volunteers self-reported to the company volunteer coordinator. All volunteers were required to show a vehicle inspection and a copy of their valid drivers license.

Almost immediately, Soldiers began fighting for the opportunity to volunteer for the program. Within the first month, the program accumulated more than 5 safe rides and over 10 volunteer hours. It was emphasized every weekend that the program was plan C. We discussed have plan A – using a designated DD. Using plan B – a taxi. And finally, as a fail safe, calling the volunteer.

A key part of this program was the semi-anonymous nature. All EO and SHARP violations are obviously reportable offenses, however, Soldiers didn't have to worry about First Sergeant finding out they were drunk. This is key because most DUI prevention programs ask Soldiers to call staff duty (who subsequently logs the conversation) or call the chain of command. Even drunk Soldiers know they don't want to call First Sergeant for help.

The result of the program was far more than a reduction of drinking related incidents in the company. The program of Soldiers volunteering to help other Soldiers brought the company closer together. It encourage Soldiers to help and support one another outside of the program.

Attached you will find the policy that I drafted outlining the essential details of the program. The success of the program relies in your ability to sell it and deliver it in a way that encourages Soldiers to participate on both sides of the "bat phone."