Col. Doug Wickert
Teammates
Since January, Team Edwards has had twelve DUI incidents involving four civilians, three junior enlisted members, three non-commissioned officers, one senior NCO and one Company Grade Officer. Driving under the influence is entirely inconsistent with our Air Force core values. We can’t afford to let DUIs at Edwards AFB happen; our mission is too important and our people even more so.
Driving under the influence is dumb, illegal, and extremely dangerous. More than the life and safety of the driver and our community is at stake. The decision to drive under the influence risks and diminished the readiness of our force. Our mission at Edwards and Plant 42–as well as each and every Airmen as an indispensable resource–are too important to jeopardize with such colossally poor decisions. Our Test & Evaluation mission requires meticulous attention to detail and adherence to strict safety protocols. We are all professional risk managers and drunk driving fails at every level of risk management.
A single DUI for Edwards is unacceptable. Twelve DUIs in six months highlights the urgent need for our team’s renewed focus on prevention. We each have a duty to exercise good judgment and uphold the principles of risk management both personally and professionally. The Department of Defense and the United States Air Force have zero-tolerance for drinking and driving. Those who choose to drive under the influence do so in blatant disregard for the Air Force core values and the safety of others.
It is crucial for every Edwards teammate to be aware of and utilize available resources to prevent the reckless endangerment of our community and neighbors. This entails having a designated driver and a backup plan in case the primary plan fails. Safety nets are available including wingmen, First Shirt, Command Post, and off-base rideshares. Don’t risk your career, your security clearance, your family’s welfare, or your life by choosing to drive under the influence.
I expect commanders and supervisors at all levels to lead by example and to reemphasize that we do not tolerate drinking and driving at Edwards AFB. This must be communicated clearly and enforced consistently to ensure everyone understands the grave consequences of careless decision making. By adhering to our core values, practicing robust risk management, and fostering a culture of responsibility, we will protect both our mission and our people. DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE!
Col. Doug Wickert, 412th Test Wing Commander, addresses DUI incidents involving both civilians and military personnel. Driving under the influence is entirely inconsistent with the Air Force core values.