434-RIDE rolls out new changes

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Stephanie Englar
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  Columbus Air Force Base is implementing new changes to its 434-RIDE program starting Oct. 1.

The program first 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.

Staff Sgt. Victoria Hull, 434-RIDE program manager, said changes planned for the program include changing the hours to Friday and Saturday from 10:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m., and changing the dispatch center for volunteers from the conference room in lodging, to the meeting room in the Montgomery Village.

434-RIDE is a team of five volunteer Airmen who perform various roles such as dispatcher, driver or wingman.

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. If that plan doesn't work, Airmen should then call 434-RIDE.

"This program provides a way home for Airmen when their plans fall through," Hull said. "This program is designed to be used as a last resort because you should go out with a plan and that plan should not be to call 434-RIDE."

According to Hull, the program is anonymous and the drivers are not allowed to disclose any information about who they picked up. Military IDs are checked to ensure the Airman using the program is a military member.

"We want people to feel comfortable to call when their plans fall through, instead of making the poor decision to drive under the influence," Hull said. "The units are not notified when someone uses the program."

DUIs can be detrimental to an Airman's career. According to the 14th Flying Training Wing Judge Advocate Group, Unfavorable Information Files, Article's 15 and even loss of on-base driving privileges are some of the consequences of getting a DUI.

"Our Airmen are valued members of the Team Blaze Family and this program says 'We Care'," said Chief Master Sgt. Rita Felton, 14th Flying Training Wing Command Chief. "We care enough to ensure they are provided an alternative to driving while under the influence when their original plan fails.  There is no reason for them not to make the right choice!"

If interested in volunteering for the 434-RIDE program, contact Hull or your group point of contact.