AL UDEID AIR BASE, QATAR --
The 379th Air Expeditionary Wing is revising the Al Udeid Air Base Instruction 31-204, Motor Vehicle Traffic Supervision’s policy. The changes are scheduled to go into effect Nov. 20.
Under the old policy service members were able to drive in Coalition Compound and Blatchford-Preston Complex as long as their blood alcohol content was no greater than 0.1 percent by volume. Now operating a motor vehicle with a BAC greater than 0.00 percent by volume is considered driving while intoxicated.
“I need every Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Marine, DoD Civilian and contractor, to have the moral courage needed to step in and ensure all installation personnel act appropriately. Keep your privileges,” said Brig. Gen. Darren James 379th Air Expeditionary Wing commander.
“We hold ourselves to a high standard; a standard we meet every day with every decision. The no drinking and driving is a clear standard. Those who violate the standard will be held accountable,” he said.
Violators can have driving privileges suspended or revoked. Service members are encouraged to remember that even one alcoholic beverage is too many, if you are driving.
Base leadership hopes the policy will help to prevent serious incidents, maintain military readiness, and maximize quality of life for service members and their families.
“In the past few months we had instances where people have received driving under the Influence violations and for some people it’s a long walk, so they opt to drive. They are not thinking I can get a DUI because I’m only getting my three drinks and I am not driving that far,” said Capt. Daniel Land, 379th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron operations officer.
“It keeps the roads safer. We have a lot of runners and cyclist that use the areas around the Fox Sky Box and the Kasbah area, people are crossing the roads, and this change eliminates slower reactions by drivers,” said Land.
“I ask that you support and guide those around you so they do not face the consequences of breaking this policy. If you or your Wingmen are drinking, plan for transportation that does not include someone who has been drinking getting behind the wheel,” James said.