Volunteering, working during Sturgis, what you need to know

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Hailey Staker
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORC BASE, S.D. --  Airmen planning to work or volunteer at the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, regardless of leave status, need to be aware of established guidelines and procedures to follow prior to participating.

Airmen should refer to Air Combat Command Instruction 51-901, Off-Duty Employment, prior to working during the event, and contact their chain of command before volunteering.

Off-duty employment is defined as business activities and compensated outside employment, which include the sale of goods or services. It does not include the one-time sale of personal property, conducting a garage sale or similar event, or services rendered as a volunteer when an incidental, non-monetary benefit is involved.

All military personnel must submit an Air Force Form 3902 to their first-level supervisor at least two weeks prior to beginning off-duty employment, except in cases where two weeks' notice is not possible.

Certain civilians are also required to obtain approval authority through the appropriate channels.

Military personnel who fail to comply with the filing requirements of ACCI 51-901 are in violation of a lawful general order, which may result in disciplinary action or criminal liability under Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Air Force civilian employees who violate this instruction by failing to comply with its filing requirements are subject to disciplinary action without regard to criminal liability.

After a request is approved or disapproved by the commander, it will be maintained by their unit and sent to the Legal Office if legal coordination was necessary.
 
Here are a few more things to keep in mind:

If an Airman would like to volunteer during the duty day, they must be either on pass status or on leave.

Private organizations must be aware of several rules and regulations fundraising events, and can get more information from the 28th Force Support Squadron's private organizations section.

During the rally, Airmen are reminded that there are not to be in uniform while volunteering.

For more information, contact your supervisor or the 28th Bomb Wing Judge Advocate's office at 385-2329.