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Chief Anderson talks to Airmen about serious issues

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jake Eckhardt
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Enlisted members from the 375th Air Mobility Wing filled the base auditorium April 22 and 23 to listen to Chief Master Sgt. Marty Anderson, 375th Air Mobility Wing command chief, talk about drug use in the military, sexual assault, driving under the influence of alcohol and domestic violence.

"It's important that our Airmen understand we are holding everyone accountable for their actions," he said. "The Air Force has zero tolerance for these actions."

He explained that there are new drugs that everyone should be aware of, such as "zannie," which is an air freshener, and "sizzzurp," which is a form of cough syrup.

"The bottom line is if our people are doing anything to alter their mind or violate the UCMJ, we will recommend a court-martial. It is a serious breach of discipline."

Next, he talked about sexual assault and how it's not tolerated. He said data supports the fact that people are most likely to be assaulted when they are intoxicated.

He made it clear that if an Airman witnesses someone getting another person drunk with the intent to take advantage of that person that they need to have the courage to intervene.

Alcohol was also the cause of another problem he brought up. Scott has had nine DUIs so far this year. Normally, Scott has 12-14 a year.

The legal blood alcohol level is .08, but if a servicemember gets caught with a BAL between .05 and .08, they can be charged with Driving While Ability Impaired.

He also said that texting and driving will not be tolerated and that seat belts should be worn at all times.

Anderson held domestic violence to the same light.

"I have been married for 26 years," he said. "Never in those 26 years have I ever pushed, shoved or hit my spouse. My job is to protect my family, and I would never allow anything to happen to them."

There are many services at Scott that can help with all types of situations.

"It is absolutely, positively alright to ask for help," he said. "I have more respect for a person who can admit they have a problem and try to fix it."

He said the Air Force is a family. Airmen everywhere need to look out for each other.