Comedian shares alcohol, drug experiences

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kristina Overton
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs Office
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Bernie McGrenahan, comedian and motivational speaker, came to Malmstrom Air Force Base to talk to Airmen about the dangers of alcoholism, drug abuse and high-risk activities. He presented his program, 'HAPPY HOUR,' during four different showings at the base auditorium and on a live broadcast that was available throughout the base.

"I had the opportunity to work with him at my last base also," said Staff Sgt. Richard Ziff, 341st Missile Wing safety craftsman. "He is the best presenter that I have seen, and gives a very powerful and inspiring message. It's been a great opportunity to have him come and share with the men and women here."

Mr. McGrenahan started the 'HAPPY HOUR' Alcohol and Drug Prevention Program in 1997, but introduced it to the military in 2007. He conducts between 50 to 75 shows a year for armed forces audiences world-wide. His program has helped safety and response coordinators find a fun and intriguing way to present the importance of prevention, and educate Airmen and civilians on different installations.

"'HAPPY HOUR' is a unique program," said Bernie McGrenahan. "It's me wanting to be the comedian I am and share the truth about alcohol and drugs in the hope of saving a few jobs, careers and lives. Most of us with a problem never want to admit it, and my goal is to help people with those issues to find help and find a safer, healthier solution."

The brief starts light with a few laughs during the 30-minute comedy introduction. The presentation then transitions into more serious topics, including a personal testimony of Mr. McGrenahan's battle with high-risk drinking and drug abuse, and the alcohol and drug-related suicide of his younger 19-year-old brother, Scott. After three DUI's and a six-month sentence in prison, he turned his life around and has been motivating and sharing his message ever since.

"I want to make them laugh," Mr. McGrenahan said. " I want to entertain them, but I also want them to think when they leave. I try and get them to realize that making and continuing to make bad decisions can put their quality of life, their families, their job, and the overall success of the mission here in jeopardy."

The comedian said that the message he wants the audience to take from each show is the importance of having a plan, whether it's to have a designated driver, a taxi number on hand or a supervisor's contact information.

"My overall goal is to have Airmen take a closer look at their lives and evaluate if they might have a drinking problem or dependency," Mr. McGrenahan said. "They need to realize that those decisions affect their physical and mental condition. That lives could be put in danger because of their choices. They need to know that there is help out there and ways to make that change. I did it. I've been through all that, I know about it, and I couldn't be happier who I am today. I'm no longer the guy who talks the talk. I've learned to be the man who walks the walk."

Bernie McGrenahan has now been free of drugs and alcohol for 21 years.

For more information about the 'HAPPY HOUR' Alcohol and Drug Prevention Program, visit the website at www.comedyisthecure.com.