Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Jarred Woods | Russell Jordan, a Risk Reduction Program coordinator with the Fort Bliss Army...... read more read more
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FORT BLISS, Texas – Occasionally overlooked, unit prevention leaders are much more than administers of urine analysis testing; they are key liaisons to commanders concerning the Army Substance Abuse Program. They are essential to the ASAP mission, which is to strengthen the overall fitness and effectiveness of the Army´s workforce, to conserve manpower and enhance the combat readiness of Soldiers.
With this overarching theme in mind, the Fort Bliss ASAP hosted its first ever UPL summit at the Stayton Theater here Nov. 21.
The seminar provided the chance for ASAP leaders and counselors to present up to date information regarding policies, as well as an opportunity for welcomed dialogue among UPLs. The event’s speakers also gave presentations on suicide prevention and the overall cost of driving under the influence offenses.
“We wanted to give the UPLs the latest and greatest information on ASAP, to make sure we’re all on the same sheet of music and to enhance the program not just for the Army, but for the ASAP community as a whole,” said Richard Depew, a prevention coordinator with the Fort Bliss ASAP.
“We’ve actually been trying to get this done for a couple of years, just as a way to make sure we’re employing the use of our great UPLs to promote substance abuse training throughout the community,” added Depew.
The ASAP has far reaching potential through UPLs because they have the capability to inform and influence the individual Soldier. Russell Jordan, a Risk Reduction Program coordinator with the Fort Bliss ASAP, is adamant about substance abuse counseling for Soldiers.
“We have Soldiers who can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, so they put themselves in high-risk situations,” said Jordan. “As UPLs, you have to sit that Soldier down and show them things they may not see or consider.”
Substance abuse can have devastating effects. Aside from the damaging effects on one’s military career, a first-time DUI offense in Texas can result in 3-180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine. For multiple offenders, punishment goes up to two to 10 years in jail and a $10,000 fine, so commanders are highly encouraged to use their UPLs to their fullest potential, Depew added.
“Learn as much as you can about the ASAP and employ the UPL as much as you can,” said Depew. “Use your expert on the ASAP to promote the prevention of substance abuse within your unit. Teach responsibility and substance abuse prevention. Don’t promote the use of alcohol and drugs.”
At the end of the day, Depew had this final message for UPLs to take back to their units.
“Make great choices that promote your career, your family and enrichment of yourself,” said Depew. “Don’t make one choice that could jeopardize your career, family or the rest of your life.
For more information about the Fort Bliss ASAP, call 915-744-5148, visit www.acsap.army.mil.
| Date Taken: | 11.26.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 11.26.2014 13:58 |
| Story ID: | 148938 |
| Location: | FORT BLISS, TEXAS, US |
| Web Views: | 285 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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