Drug reduction program aids mission

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Stephen Delgado
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  The Air Force has some of the most advanced technology in the world, which includes weapons systems, computers and aircraft. Therefore, the people operating these advance systems must be well trained and motivated, as well as alert and in complete control of all of their faculties. If someone is impaired, the results can lead to catastrophe, such as loss of life, injury and millions of dollars in damage. 

The Drug Demand Reduction Program goes a long way in keeping people and equipment safe. This program involves substance abuse prevention and random drug testing. 

"Random drug testing is vital to maintaining the health and welfare of a fit and deployable Air Force," said Col. Dean Messelheiser, 56th Medical Operation Squadron commander. "Drug testing is probably the single most effective weapon we have against substance abuse. It is a proven strategy, which identifies those needing help, decreases demand for illegal substances, and reduces accidents and sick leave, as well as increasing productivity." 

Random drug testing is also vital to the Air Force mission. 

"It detects and deters illegal drug use," said Maj. Kathleen Crimmins, 56th MDOS Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Program manager and clinical psychologist. "The Uniformed Code of Military Justice restricts military members from taking someone else's prescription medication, misusing over-the-counter medication such as cough syrup and taking prescription medication that has passed the physician's intended timeline of use. Substances such as spray paint and glue used for anything other than their intended purpose are also strictly forbidden. These types of offenses can be charged under either Article 112a or Article 92 of the UCMJ." 

A common fallacy is that all substances quickly leave the body. 

"Many substances can be detected days and even weeks after use, so use while on leave can be detected when the individual returns to their unit," Colonel Messelheiser said. 

It is important to remember that the drug testing program selects candidates on a completely random basis. 

"Airmen never know when they might be selected to be drug tested," Major Crimmins said. "If an Airman is at a party, a club or a friend's dorm room, he or she should think twice before using any kind of substance because he or she could be tested at any time. Some of our Airmen could be considered 'fence sitters'. This term means they haven't made up their minds about the use of illegal substances and could be swayed by their peer group or an unexpected situation. These Airmen could fall off the fence and use an illegal substance. It is vital to keep in mind they could be drug tested anytime and, if the test is positive, their lives are negatively changed forever." 

There are numerous ways an Airman may be selected for the urinalysis drug testing program, according to Raymond Matthews, Drug Demand Reduction program manager.
"The drug demand reduction office uses computer software that is nonbiased in the selection process. Commanders also have the option to direct testing when there is suspicion of substance abuse or if someone appears to be under the influence of a substance." 

Drug testing is not limited to duty hours. 

"Another method is selecting individuals as they travel through the gates on base," said Mr. Matthews. "Luke has an aggressive drug testing program. Approximately 7,000 Airmen at Luke are selected each year to give a urine sample for analysis, which is 142 percent of the base active-duty population and double the Air Force requirement." 

In all, studies conducted during past two decades have shown that substance abusers are 33 percent less productive, three times more likely to be late to work, four times more likely to hurt others or themselves at work and 10 times more likely to miss work as compared to the general population, according to Major Crimmons.