AADD sets record during 2007 Published Jan. 11, 2008 By Staff Sgt. Tammie Moore 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- The Airmen Against Drunk Driving program reached a milestone this year providing three times the number of rides to Sabers than they did last year. During 2006, AADD provided 411 people rides; however, during 2007 the group gave 1,310 rides to Sabers who chose not to get behind the wheel after drinking. There are many factors that Master Sgt. Patrick Carmichael, AADD president, believes may have led to this drastic rise in the number of rides provided by the group. "We saw the exodus of the 'drunk bus' and cut-rate taxis," he said. "We also shifted our view from 'AADD is a last resort' to 'call us if you need us.' Ultimately, this led to increased demand. We also stepped up our awareness and I believe a lot more people know our number now." While there has been a change in the mindset of users about the program the success still rests with the volunteers who keep it functional. "Without people selflessly donating their time and resources, this program would cease to exist," Sergeant Carmichael said. "The spotlight has been shining brightly on not driving under the influence for some time now. This is a great way to ensure the men and women in the Eifel community get home safely by making the responsible choice to call us. Each volunteer has a direct impact on the safety of our own at the mere cost of four hours and a few gallons of gas -- what a bargain!" The increase in the programs popularity has created a challenging schedule to keep up with. "Since we work solely from a volunteer base, we are constantly trying to fill all positions every weekend," Sergeant Carmichael said. "Deployments and other commitments have decreased the number of people available, but many have graciously stepped up and helped out." AADD operates Saturdays and Sundays from 1-5 a.m. In addition, for special events such as the Super Bowl AADD operates different hours to maximize availability. The standard schedule requires seven volunteers each night: one is the dispatcher and six drivers. Three of the drivers work the Spangdahlem area and the others work for the Bitburg area. The AADD council holds elections Jan. 17 at 11 a.m. in the Brick House. The old council will assist the new council as they acclimate to the program. While new members take the reigns of the program, the goal remains the same. "We will get you home," Sergeant Carmichael said. "Sometimes plans change during the course of a night and we do our best to ensure people get in our volunteer' s vehicles instead of their own. We are simply a phone call away. Since you have the choice, would you rather call us for a ride or call Area Defense Council after a DUI? The choice seems clear." To volunteer or learn more about AADD, e-mail 52fw.aadd@spangdahlem.af.mil.