ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- The 77th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is approaching. The rally attracts approximately 500,000 visitors, brings $800 million to South Dakota, and makes up to 95 percent of the city’s annual revenue. Local businesses are currently looking for seasonal employees in preparation for the 10-day event, which will take place Aug. 4 to Aug. 13, 2017.
This may present some tempting opportunities for personnel assigned to Ellsworth, but there are guidelines and procedures Airmen must follow before starting any off-duty employment including jobs during the rally.
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. First-level supervisors review the off-duty employment request for potential conflicts of interest. The form must then be approved by the unit commander before beginning employment.
Certain civilians are also required to obtain approval from authority through the appropriate channels.
Military personnel who fail to comply with the filing requirements 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 is necessary.
Even if you will not be paid for your time and/or help during the rally, there are a few things to keep in mind.
· Airmen must be on leave or pass status to volunteer during their duty hours.
· Airmen are not to be in uniform while volunteering.
· Private organizations should contact the 28th Force Support Squadron's private organizations section for more information and regulations on fundraising.
Airmen and civilian personnel may not attend events for the rally in an official capacity without prior approval and coordination from their commander and the 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs’ office.
For more information, contact your supervisor or the 28th Bomb Wing Judge Advocate's Office at (605) 385-2329.