AADD, the rules have changed

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Magen M. Reeves
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  The year 2016 has brought on many changes to the 341st Missile Wing's Airman Against Drunk Driving program.

What once was a program with an issue of volunteer accountability now has some teeth due to new direction from wing leadership and program executives.

Prior to 2016, Airmen could volunteer to be on-call for certain days of the week. However, the AADD program began to have issues with that system.

"The problem we were having was that people would sign up but forget that they signed up, or they would be on-call but not answer the phone," said Senior Airman John Heffington, assigned to the 341st Operations Group weather flight and the AADD executive council president.

The matter was serious because Airmen's lives were essentially at risk. Airmen could be dependent on the program for a ride home when original plans fall through.

During the months of October and November 2015, Malmstrom had more DUIs in those two months than all the previous months for 2015 combined.

To combat the issue, Chief Master Sgt. Thomas Stiles, 341st MW command chief, along with AADD program executive council members, completely reconstructed the program policies.

"Rather than take to disciplinary actions, we decided to go with having in-person accountability by having volunteers meet up at one location," said Heffington. "That way, we can be more aware of situations."

Volunteer slots for during the week went from six to three, one dispatcher and one driving team who can act together to ensure Airmen's safety. 

The weekend manning remained the same at six people, but volunteers now have to report to the First Four Airmen's Center for the night's shift from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m.

According to Heffington, bringing new, fresh approaches to programs is what keeps organizations engaging.

"People are more eager to help at the (First Four Airmen's Center) because they want something to do during their shift," said Heffington. "When volunteers were just on-call, they were more comfortable at home and were less inclined to leave their homes to make a save."

Airmen should always have a plan and a backup plan when drinking responsibly. However, if plans with designated drivers and friends fall through, AADD volunteers are ready and available to alleviate the pressure to attempt to drive home under the influence.

From the volunteering perspective, with the new rules, Airmen's AADD enlisted performance report bullets will have more impact. What was once a passive form of volunteering is now active and the associated numbers have more accountability and weight.

Volunteers for the program are in high demand. With the increased level of commitment, volunteers are needed now more than ever.

"The whole reason AADD exists is for our wingmen to get home to safety," said Heffington.

AADD's phone number for Airmen to get a ride home is 406-788-HOME (4633).

AADD volunteers can sign up by going into the 10-day share drive and accessing the folder AADD. There is a roster and schedule, which the volunteer must fill out completely.