DUI-free bowling reinforces Air Force resiliency

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Yash Rojas
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  More than 60 Airmen from the 354th Communications Squadron participated in DUI-free bowling Feb. 24, a reward for the squadron's responsible decision not to drink and drive. In fact, the 354th CS Cyber Icemen have currently remained DUI free for more than 534 days.

According to Maj. Charles Haag, 354th Communications Squadron commander, Cyber Icemen were released at noon to celebrate the squadron's accomplishment with three games of bowling. Airmen were later authorized an early release for the day, which many used to continue bowling into the late afternoon.

By taking time out of the work day to bowl with fellow wingmen, Icemen from the 354th CS directly understand the rewards and benefits for being responsible and having a plan, said Staff Sgt. John Eckert, 354th CS NCO in charge of transmission systems and booster club president.

In addition to recognizing the squadron's resiliency, the afternoon of bowling demonstrated the gratitude commanders and supervisors have for their Airmen.

"It shows commanders and supervisors care for and appreciate the good judgment and responsible decisions made by their members when it comes to alcohol," said Haag.

Events like this give the squadron a well-deserved break from all the hard work and extra time they have put in over the last few months, said Haag. DUI-free bowling serves as an opportunity to share time with co-workers and build morale amongst Airmen.

"From what I heard from others, the day was a success and many people enjoyed having an afternoon away from work to enjoy with their coworkers," said Eckert.

Encouraging a DUI-free Eielson can strengthen the bond of wingmen while communicating leadership's message, showing the rewards for Airmen who take care of themselves and their Air Force.

"Hopefully rewarding those who are responsible will motivate others to do the same and always have a plan and stick with it," said Eckert.

Eielson Air Force Base has long been committed to ensuring its Airmen embrace the Air Force Core Values. This is one of the many ways of reducing the troubles associated with alcohol, especially driving under the influence, and ultimately investing in the futures of its greatest asset - its people.