Home is only a call away

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Victor J. Caputo
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  A group of Airmen decide to go out to their favorite bar after a long week of work.

After a few drinks and some confused messages, they realize they have all consumed alcohol. They're in trouble for sure, right?

The volunteers for Airmen Against Drunk Driving are out to make sure these people get home safely.

"AADD offers people a way out when their plan fails," said Airman 1st Class Javone Roles, 22nd Medical Operations Squadron mental health technician and AADD president.

AADD, a volunteer organization in bases around the world, offers a safe and free passage home for those who may not be able to get there themselves.

"There's absolutely no reason why anybody should be getting a DUI," said Roles. "We're here for everybody, including military, civilians and families."

Airmen who volunteer for the organization are on standby for phone calls during the night. Roles, who acts as the dispatcher, provides them with the details for each pickup, including the location and how many people will be there.

"I could have five volunteers on one night and receive 15 calls," said Roles. "I could have 10 volunteers one night and only get one call. It really fluctuates based on holidays and days off."

The service provided by AADD is one way by which Airmen are trying to prevent DUIs at McConnell AFB.

"DUIs can very well be a career-ender nowadays," said Master Sgt. Jeremy Knodel, 22nd Security Forces Squadron first sergeant. "AADD is a great program run by great Airmen. It's always briefed on by every 'shirt,' every commander."

While the service is only meant to be used as a backup, the volunteers will gladly drive anyone who needs a ride.

"If it has to be utilized," said Knodel, "it's a great avenue to take. Nobody will know about it. The people who are volunteering are there out of their own good heart. They want to help people."

Volunteers are needed every weekend between the hours of 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. in addition to the same times during holidays and other down-days on base. To sign up, visit the base Sharepoint or contact Roles.

To contact AADD for a safe ride home, call (316) 759-2233.

"You should always leave with a plan," said Knodel, "but AADD is always there."