434-RIDE rolls out new changes

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Stephanie Englar
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  Columbus Air Force Base is streamlining its 434-RIDE program in an effort to make it more reliable, increase overall safety for its volunteers and reduce the chances of Airmen getting a DUI over the weekend.

434-RIDE started in 2011 as a last resort method for Airmen under the influence of alcohol, and whose plans had fallen through, to get home safely. Improvements that are planned for the program include set weekend hours, a dispatch center for volunteers and a wingman system for the drivers that prevents one-on-one situations.

Tech. Sgt. Andrea Smith, the 434-RIDE program coordinator, said that the dispatch team will be available for calls from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The team is a group of five volunteer Airmen who will be performing the roles of dispatcher, drivers and wingmen.

Volunteer teams will cycle through the group-level organizations, with each group taking four months of the year. Having teams of volunteers at one central location promotes accountability and teamwork.

"One of the best ways to prevent trouble with alcohol is to have a good wingman when you are out drinking to ensure you don't do something embarrassing, criminal or simply out-of-bounds," said Capt. Laiya Wells, 14th Flying Training Wing Judge Advocate.

Airmen who are planning on going out for drinks are encouraged to have a wingman with them who isn't going to drink. However, if that plan fails, alternate plans include calling a friend or neighbor who has not been drinking.

The program is designed to be a final safety net for Airmen needing to return home safely. It should be used as a last resort and not as a base taxi service.

Tech. Sgt. Eddie Everett, 14th Medical Group Mental Health, said that the Air Force has around 5,300 alcohol related incidents a year. Incidents range from DUI's to public intoxication and even motor accidents.

"The consequences of a DUI, underage drinking and other alcohol-related misconduct can be severe," said Wells.

Unfavorable Information Files, Article 15s, even loss of on-base driving privileges are some of the consequences of getting a DUI, said Wells.

"When all other plans fail, call 434-RIDE," said Chief Master Sgt. Vance Kondon, 14th Flying Training Wing. "We will get you picked up, because we need each and every one of you."

434-RIDE is comprised completely of volunteer Airmen. Volunteer spots are open to all ranks and civilians. Drivers must have a current license and registration.

To volunteer to be a part of the 434-RIDE, please contact Tech. Sgt. Andrea Smith at 434-2019 or Staff Sgt. Victoria Hull at 434-3191.