TOP STORY > >New DUI slogan promises zero tolerance

By Staff Sgt. Nestor Cruz
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Team Little Rock has adopted a new DUI slogan, which leaders hope will clearly convey the message of zero tolerance for drinking and driving incidents.

Remember: No DUIs, No Excuses, Drink Responsibly.

Senior Master Sgt. James Populis, 19th Civil Engineer Squadron first sergeant, said the intent behind the new slogan is to eliminate any confusion.

“We wanted to find a slogan that cuts out all the noise and give the bottom line,” Sergeant Populis said. “[The new slogan] should have a message that could not be misconstrued.”

The new slogan conveys three messages to Little Rock Airmen.

“For the new slogan, we wanted to start with the bottom line: our expectation of having no DUI incidents,” Sergeant Populis said. “Then we wanted to add something about our tolerance level for those who get DUIs, so the term ‘No Excuses’ came from that.

“Lastly, there’s the ‘Drink Responsibly’ piece ... it’s a message for everybody regardless of age because you can’t be under the age of 21 and drink responsibly,” he added.

Steps have already been taken to spread the word about the new DUI mindset.

“New signs are already in place at the base gates,” Sergeant Populis said. “[The DUI slogan] is being put out at the First Term Airmen Center and commander’s calls. Also, first sergeants will occasionally go out at base intersections to get the message out and wish people a safe and happy weekend.”

Staff Sgt. Charles Tyler, 19th Security Forces Squadron desk sergeant, says Little Rock Airmen should have a plan before having a few drinks.

“The plan should include how a person gets to where they are going and how to get back,” Sergeant Tyler said. “If you’re not planning on having a designated driver, at least have a cab number or the number for Airmen Against Drunk Driving on hand.”

Sergeant Tyler, who is also the AADD president, hopes the new DUI slogan will help people make wise decisions when they go out.

Sergeant Populis said the new slogan’s message is clear and believes Team Little Rock can reach its goal.

“People say it’s unrealistic [to expect zero DUIs], but I don’t think so,” he said. “Our expectation as first sergeants is it’s another standard we all must work to comply with. This slogan says ‘no excuses’ because there is no good reason to get a DUI. DUI’s have a negative effect on people’s careers and health and that’s what we’re trying to avoid.”