28 MOS earns day off

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jarad A. Denton
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  The 28th Maintenance Operations Squadron was awarded a day off, by their commander, after reaching a milestone in the campaign against driving under the influence charges, Aug. 9.

Maj. Steven Haynes, 28 MOS commander, added the squadron's name to the list of units who have been DUI free for more than a year.

"A year DUI free is a great milestone for the squadron," Major Haynes said. "However, it's the NCOs and Airmen who make it work."

According to Major Haynes, part of the success with DUI prevention comes from the squadron's philosophy to get its Airmen out of the dorms.

"There are several events we coordinate as a squadron," he said. "We like to make memories for people."

Major Haynes said squadron success also comes from the utilization of 385-RIDE to pick Airmen up when their evening plans fall through. He has personally volunteered to be a designated driver for the program, and encourages other commanders to adopt the same philosophy.

"I'd rather pick up someone from in front of the bar, rather than behind bars."

With all of the programs offered both on base and in the local area to guard against DUIs, Major Haynes said there is no good reason for an Airman to ever drive drunk.

"You can always come back and get your car once you are sober," he said. "After all, it's insured."

Col. Jeffrey Taliaferro, 28th Bomb Wing commander, said he was proud of the accomplishments made by the 28 MOS.

"This is further evidence of the possible--this problem is fully within our control," said Colonel Taliaferro. "Our Airmen are too valuable to lose to a DUI."

Major Haynes said the main secret to the success of his squadron isn't really a secret at all.

"It's all about positive reinforcement," he said. "If you treat people like adults then they behave like adults."

He also encouraged Airmen of the 28 MOS to look to the future every time they drive past the Ellsworth DUI board at the main gate and see the accomplishment they earned.

"A year is a good milestone," Major Haynes said. "But, I have no doubt in my mind we will make it to two."