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CHERRY POINT, N.C. - As an institution, Marines protect each other from operational dangers. In a similar manner, Marines must help their fellow Marines to understand the dangers of alcohol abuse and misuse, especially during the holidays.
The holidays often involve increased alcohol use which can lead to alcohol-related problems. In an effort to combat these problems, the Marine Corps offers prevention and educational programs to keep Marines informed and aware of potential consequences of alcohol abuse.
Alcohol related incidents around the holiday season may include driving under the influence, underage drinking and binge drinking according to Ashley Brothers, an alcohol prevention specialists with Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point’s Substance Abuse Counseling Center.
Brothers’ records indicate that the Corps largest demographic, Marines under 25 years old with the rank of sergeant or below, most commonly experience problems with alcohol. Commonly reported reasons for abusing alcohol among all ranks include boredom, work or home stressors or the common misconception that heavy drinking is part of being a Marine.
Marines must be encouraged to be their brothers’ and sisters’ keepers, watch for the signs of alcohol abuse or misuse and enforce set standards for alcohol use.
Brothers said some signs of alcohol dependence include difficulty setting or sticking to drinking limits, dramatically increased alcohol tolerance, planning lifestyle or leisure activities around drinking or feeling physically uncomfortable when you stop drinking.
Marines experiencing any of these symptoms are encouraged to address their concerns through Marine Corps Community Services and Substance Abuse Control Officer to get the help they need before an alcohol related incident occurs or command intervention becomes necessary.
Some of the preventative strategies Brothers suggests are knowing and setting limits, making a solid plan before drinking starts, including food with drinking activities or finding alternatives to drinking. Positive alternatives include getting involved with the Single Marine Program, volunteering or taking part in other community activities. Another program available to Marines is the Arrive Alive card provided by individual units. The card covers taxi fare to the service member’s barracks or residence and is paid back by the Marine at a later date.
Marines who don’t take advantage of available opportunities could face stiff punishment ranging from non-judicial punishment to courts martial. A Marine who receives NJP for Article 111, drunken or reckless operation of a vehicle, aircraft or vessel, faces reduction in rank, forfeiture of pay and restricted driving privileges on and off base. Punishments may also include confinement on diminished rations, restrictions to certain specified limits and extra duties.
Marine leaders at all levels should continue to encourage their fellow Marines and maintain awareness of alcohol abuse and misuse during this holiday season.
| Date Taken: | 12.05.2013 |
| Date Posted: | 12.05.2013 15:39 |
| Story ID: | 117773 |
| Location: | CHERRY POINT, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
| Web Views: | 74 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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