Operations Nighthawk keeps Airmen clean Published April 8, 2009 By Lisa Bowser Drug Demand Reduction program manager MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- Team McConnell recently conducted Operation Nighthawk, affecting 77 military members from E-1 to O-6 pay grade. Operation Nighthawk is an extension of the Random Drug Urinalysis program. The wing commander can implement this inspection at any time to ensure Team McConnell is indeed a fit and ready force. This inspection is inclusive of all branches of the military to include Reservists and Guard members on Title 10 orders. When initiating Operations Nighthawk, the wing commander selects a date, time, gate and vehicle interval and all eligible personnel within the selection criteria are issued an order to report to the designated location for a random urinalysis test. Many people wonder why the commander would choose to run Operation Nighthawk. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, an estimated 14.8 million Americans are currently illicit drug users; 77 percent of these users are employed. That's 9.4 million people. We all know that drug use is incompatible with military service. Inspections above the random urinalysis testing program such as Operation Nighthawk and dorm inspections help to ensure safety and security. Substance abuse lowers productivity and causes accidents and injuries. Employees who use drugs are 3.6 times more likely to be involved in a workplace accident and 5 times more likely to file a worker's compensation claim. Substance abuse increases absenteeism and turnover and increases an employer's medical costs. To those 77 individuals who were affected, and to their families, thank you for your patience, professionalism and courtesy during the operation. Be aware that this program can occur at any time to help us all remain safe, fit and ready to meet our nation's call. Team McConnell is a Drug Free Workplace.