52nd FW commander stresses responsible choices with curfew Published June 9, 2009 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- After an increase in late-night alcohol related incidents and several automobile accidents that resulted in one fatality and two other serious injuries, the 52nd Fighter Wing commander has imposed a curfew on the wing. The curfew, which serves as a wake-up call on how serious the commander is about safety and making responsible choices, restricts all military members tied to the 52nd Fighter Wing to their residences or work centers from 12:30 to 5 a.m. until June 17. "The purpose of this curfew is not punitive, but to help reinforce responsible choices and ensure we are 100-percent focused on our major inspections," said Col. Lee "Tip" Wight, 52nd FW commander. While the order imposing the curfew was tied to wing preparation for the Unit Compliance Inspection and Logistics Standardization and Evaluation Program currently taking place, the primary trigger that caused Colonel Wight to take this step was an increase in late-night mishaps and alcohol related incidents. "We can't fly, fight, and win wars if we are out drinking all night long and then making poor choices that impact lives and the mission," Colonel Wight said. "I respect our Airmen's freedoms and liberties, but when the poor choices of a few cause even a slight concern about mission readiness, curfews become a lawful option, and I decided to impose one in this case. I'll continue to consider curfews as an option as long as I have concerns about good order, discipline, security or safety." Colonel Wight's concerns about Airmen's poor choices were highlighted recently when Airman Edward J. Zabik, 52nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, 23rd Aircraft Maintenance Unit, was convicted at a summary court-martial for driving under the influence in the early morning after staying out all night, and was sentenced to 15 days confinement. Colonel Wight noted this case sends a clear message that there are serious consequences when an Airman makes poor late-night decisions. "Hopefully, this curfew will help us all focus on making responsible choices so no Airman finds himself facing jail time for making reckless decisions that have the potential to end careers and lives," he said. Chief Master Sgt. Bruce Kenney, 52nd FW command chief, said the curfew is a reminder that Airmen are part of the U.S. Air Force 24/7. While some might consider violating it because they will get away with it, they have a moral obligation to follow the orders of those appointed over them, in this case the wing commander. "It's about readiness, it's about being good ambassadors, and it's about keeping Airmen safe," Chief Kenney said. "It's not to be mean. It's not to punish people. It is an opportunity for all of us to reflect and refocus for a bit on our mission and impact in the community." The curfew is being regulated by several measures, including the 52nd Security Forces Squadron's gate restrictions during the curfew hours. No one can enter or leave the base during that time unless they are on official business or in the case of an emergency. If an Airman is caught breaking the curfew, his or her first sergeant or supervisor will be contacted to escort them back to their residence and appropriate disciplinary action will be considered. Violating the curfew order is a criminal offense under Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice.