I got a DUI this weekend. What can I expect and what can I do to get through this?

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 Aug 2021 20:49:54 -0400

What can I expect? I haven't been in a situation like thus before with ucmj or trouble with the unit.

Most guys I know were retained but it was years ago. How can I stay in and make this right. I deeply regret what I've done.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2021 8:54 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 Aug 2021 20:54:44 -0400

Being that you are a higher ranking NCO it’s going to be tough. Years ago one could be lower enlisted and do a diversion course and keep their nose clean take their lumps and drive on. With the current drawdown of forces that might not be the case even with lower enlisted and a DUI.

Unfortunately a DUI is most likely going to be career ending if you want my honest opinion. Mistakes happen. Own up to it. Be open with your command about it.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2021 10:56 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 Aug 2021 22:56:39 -0400

Self refer to ASAP and hope this helps when the QMP comes. But you still better plan on being a civilian soon.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2021 11:42 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 15 Aug 2021 23:42:26 -0400

Expedia GOMOR. Expect that GOMOR to trigger a QMP. Expect the QMP board to separate you. If you have medical issues start working on your MEB

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2021 12:21 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 00:21:46 -0400

What SFC Livingston said below. Immediately self refer yourself to ASAP or whatever it is called now and hope that little bit helps. Keep your head up and fight. This is disappointing to hear as you are a SSG, but we understand that it was unintentional. Just be grateful to God above that you did not kill anybody and you were caught before it could've happened. DO NOT ALLOW THIS INCIDENT TO DIG YOU INTO DEPRESSION AND THOUGHTS OF SUICIDE. You know what you did wrong, it happens for a reason. Whatever the outcome, re-lace your boot straps, drive on, and make up for your shortcoming by striving to be as successful as you possibly can be.

Response by SPC James Neidig made Aug 16 at 2021 1:01 AM

SPC James Neidig — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 01:01:56 -0400

The First Thing YOU Need To Do is ADMIT YOU Have a Drinking Problem ! It is STUPID To Drink and Drive, I Know That Sounds Harsh But My 14 Year Old Son Was Killed By A Drunk Driver in 2004 , Get Some Help, as For Your Career It is Probably Over if you are lucky it’s a Field Grade ART-15 or a Chapter either way you will probably be a Civilian soon.

Response by SSG Robert Perrotto made Aug 16 at 2021 4:43 AM

SSG Robert Perrotto — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 04:43:50 -0400

Brother - I know you will not like to hear this, but here is what is likely to happen. You will be command refered to ASAP - too late to self refer - you just got a substance related incident, a flag for adverse action, and a BAR, relieved for cause NCOER, with a "needs improvement", a GOMAR, a field grade art. 15 with rank reduction - know that the incident is on the blotter, and that gets reviewed daily by the Post Commander, so not like this can get swept away. More then likely you will face a review board for continued service, and probably be separated. If it happened on post, you will lose your driving privilege on the post. If I were you, I would prepare for separation, seek behavioral counseling, and do some some reflection. I hope I am wrong, but in my experience no one above the rank of PVT ever was retained after a DUI.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Aug 16 at 2021 7:51 AM

SFC Casey O'Mally — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 07:51:56 -0400

My initial reaction is go to OCS quick fast and in a hurry - Officers survive DUIs, NCOs don't.

Of course my initial reaction is *totally* wrong - the Army would *never* treat Officer and NCOs differently. Never.

Sarcasm aside, you are likely staring down the barrel of a QMP. The best thing you can do to survive the QMP is to start building your rebuttal *now* before it comes down. Prove to every NCO and Officer in your chain of Command that you are worth keeping - because it is going to take every Office and NCO in your chain of Command to beat this. Ultimately, QMP *is* a board - and the board *is* required to make a decision based on the facts of each and every individual case. If you can show the board - through subsequent NCOERs, letters of support, or other paperwork - that you are more than just a DUI, they *may* keep you. But you are going to have to show them you are a HELL of a lot more than that DUI.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Aug 16 at 2021 7:56 AM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 07:56:45 -0400

At minimum, a GOMOR. And I mean bare minimum. Eventually that's going to trigger QMP. Moral of the story, consider signing up for SFL-TAP sooner rather than later.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2021 10:52 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 10:52:49 -0400

Understand a drunk driver killed 4 members of my family on Mother's Day in 1972. My brother was going to graduate that year but thanks to someone like you who was irresponsible that didn't happen. Destroyed Mothers Day fir the family and nearly destroyed my parents. Nothing like having to identify the body of your dead body.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Aug 16 at 2021 11:08 AM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 11:08:39 -0400

SSG Private RallyPoint Member like most bad news this won't improve with age. Talk with your chain of command now. Let them know how you messed up. Provide them with the details regarding civilian law enforcement and judicial system. You stepped on the snake. It' s gonna hurt.

You will have to deal with this problem on several levels.
-Civilian judicial system. Depending on where you live you will be looking at court dates and possible fines and maybe jail time. Loss or suspension of driver's license for sure. Recommend you get a civilian lawyer who specializes in DUI.
-Military judicial system. Your commander will decide on the appropriate actions under the UCMJ. If you get off with an Article 15, you're lucky. Talk to the JAG "area defense counsel."
-Military Admin system. You may be required to attend behavioral health counseling. Possibly some type of 12-step program. You might be forced out of the Service. BTW, the counseling is a good idea even if not required. Something caused you to make a stupid decision. May be removed from position of leadership. Your security clearance status may be adversely effected.

Personally you just acquired a new set of challenges. You will have lots of things to work through, but they are not necessarily unsurmountable. Try to maintain a positive approach to the situation leading to resolution of the underlying problem that may have caused your inappropriate overconsumption of a drug (alcohol) and subsequent operation of a motor vehicle. If you have an otherwise clean record, you might be allowed to remain in the Army.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 16 at 2021 11:19 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 11:19:17 -0400

http://www.sossobriety.org/

SOS

Secular Organizations for Sobriety is a secular approach to addiction recovery.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Aug 16 at 2021 12:55 PM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 12:55:06 -0400

I was going to say that you should self-refer to ASAP as soon as you can -- however, I actually think that it may be too late for you to do this, as I expect your Chain of Command will immediately be referring you there as a result of what happened. I'm not 100% certain so I defer to the others on this thread who know more about this topic than I do. Best of luck to you and I hope and pray that you are able to take a deep breath and get the help you might need for this.

Response by A1C Chris Pointer made Aug 16 at 2021 3:42 PM

A1C Chris Pointer — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 15:42:14 -0400

Best bet is to find a lawyer...a good one.

Response by Sgt Ryan Reber made Aug 16 at 2021 7:43 PM

Sgt Ryan Reber — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 19:43:48 -0400

Buddy I have a lot to say on this but I will only say this. Lead from the front. You haven't done it.

Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made Aug 17 at 2021 12:34 PM

GySgt Kenneth Pepper — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 12:34:27 -0400

Lawyer up. Don't speak to anyone but him or her about the case. Show remorse and humility but don't lose your mojo. You are still a SSG in the United States Army. Until you are not, act like one.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2021 1:05 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 13:05:33 -0400

45 and 45, that's all I can say.

Response by SFC Dennis Rodriguez made Aug 17 at 2021 4:15 PM

SFC Dennis Rodriguez — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 16:15:25 -0400

30 even 25 years ago you would have survived a dui, today the military is very competitive, you're done. Plan on being a civilian sooner than later.

Response by CPL Larry Monkus made Aug 17 at 2021 4:18 PM

CPL Larry Monkus — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 16:18:07 -0400

all i can say is good luck hope everything works out for you and quit the booze

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2021 5:16 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 17:16:51 -0400

Article 15, GOMAR which will trigger a QMP which has a low chance of retaining you. Just start SFL-TAP or MEB out. Best of luck to you, but hopefully you survive this.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2021 7:23 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 19:23:04 -0400

I would suggest you come up with a corrective action plan outlining what u did and how u can avoid it in the future. Seek counseling.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 26 at 2021 9:46 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Sep 2021 09:46:45 -0400

It is a tricky situation it depends how your COC views you as a NCO I seen some NCOs get demoted to SGT get retained 6 months later they go to the board get there rank back I seen zero tolerance start the chapter guy is out the Army and I seen this guy is high speed as hell let’s move him to BN away from BTRY/CO Level make him do schools NCO BN Ammunition NCO etc for a couple of months then bring him back down to a different BTRY/CO

Response by PFC David Foster made Sep 27 at 2021 9:14 AM

PFC David Foster — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 09:14:35 -0400

Don't waste your time on a lawyer if you were drunk and they got you on video, just go in there and plead no contest (no low contender) and take your medicine, the punishment will be the same with or without a lawyer....

Response by 1LT Rich Voss made Nov 15 at 2021 6:18 PM

1LT Rich Voss — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 18:18:51 -0500

SSG , since it's now exactly 3 months later, I'm curious to learn what's happened to-date. You didn't mention in your question whether it was civilian or military police that apprehended you. That can make a difference, I believe. Certainly in how your case is handled. None of the men under my command ever got a DUI, so I didn't get to witness how it worked in the Army. But I have a number of friends in civilian life that have been arrested for DUI (or whatever the name is in their state) with a mix of results. My entire civilian career has been in health insurance underwriting, and DUI can disqualify a person for insurance for 5 to 10 years, depending on the contract. The actuaries I know never treated a "single" DUI as a "mistake", but rather as a pattern that finally resulted in getting caught. I hope you get the help you need.

Response by CPL Henry Miller made Nov 17 at 2021 5:36 PM

CPL Henry Miller — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 17:36:54 -0500

FYI = Alcohol used to be used as an anesthetic, but doctors then discovered that it was quite dangerous. Alcohol would successfully put the patient “under,” but it would suppress the patient’s gag reflex, which caused patients to vomit, but it would go down their trachea and cause them to aspirate. This is why alcohol is no longer used as an anesthetic.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 17 at 2021 10:00 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 22:00:21 -0500

Ssg. Gadson a DUI these days is a career ender most of the time. there is a possibility of getting a dui down graded to reckless driving especially in Savannah GA if you have a good lawyer and the DA is willing. I have seen it happen a lot of times with my 25 years of being a police officer. I personally have let cases go to save a soldiers career several times. If you can get this done then there is no conviction of a DUI and its only reckless driving but the court will most likely impose fines as if it was a DUI. Laws have gotten strict regarding DUIs and mothers against drunk drivers are keeping tabs. Best bet is to get a good lawyer that the courts know and like. BTW this issue will most likely cost you about $3.500-5000 just for recorders court for the attorney and the price goes up if it goes to a jury trial. Remember you get what you pay for.
Sfc Powell Ret.

Response by PO2 John Driskill made Nov 18 at 2021 10:30 PM

PO2 John Driskill — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 22:30:08 -0500

Time to seek an attorney that specializes in drunk driving cases.

Response by 2LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 23 at 2021 5:31 PM

2LT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 23 Dec 2021 17:31:17 -0500

Did you get a DUI, or did you get charged with a DUI? If you were charged, hire a good lawyer and hope for a reckless op plea deal, and if they don’t offer you one take it to a jury trial. A DUI conviction is a career ender in most cases, but if you can win the case and not get convicted you will be ok.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 25 at 2021 2:59 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 Dec 2021 14:59:40 -0500

I usually see individuals get out processed particularly NCO’s how ever I do know of one SSG that has remained in the Army and is in some programs that has helped, he is also in the reserves. Keep your head up and drive on, things will eventually work out and learn from this.

Response by Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen made Dec 25 at 2021 9:27 PM

Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen — Sat, 25 Dec 2021 21:27:55 -0500

On base or off base? I ask this because on base you may luck out and only have suspension of base driving privileges and a career ending incident. Off base expect fines in the many thousands of dollars along with your drivers license being revoked except for to and from work and then only after you've completed your states driver training courses, which you pay for.

Response by HA Jace Gallagher made Dec 25 at 2021 9:57 PM

HA Jace Gallagher — Sat, 25 Dec 2021 21:57:27 -0500

I expect that you'll be given an Article 15 then OTH discharge. There is no excuse for a DUI. You're an NCO and therefore supposed to show even more character and integrity than those under you. I do not see you being court martial because that is reserved for extremely serious crimes, but it is possible.

Response by Maj Gail Lofdahl made Dec 26 at 2021 5:12 AM

Maj Gail Lofdahl — Sun, 26 Dec 2021 05:12:02 -0500

I knew a captain who killed a pair of young twins when he was involved in an accident while driving drunk. Thank your lucky stars you ONLY had a DUI. How would you live with the knowledge that you'd murdered two children? THIS WAS YOUR WAKE-UP CALL. So my advice to you is: give up drinking. And if you can't do that, you have a bigger problem than your DUI and need to seek help for it.

Response by LtCol Julio Villalba made Dec 26 at 2021 1:29 PM

LtCol Julio Villalba — Sun, 26 Dec 2021 13:29:55 -0500

As the Battalion Legal officer I had a few of these cross my desk. So had an old boss that I asked on one of the employees (after he screwed up) "are you going to fire him?" His was responds was "he just went through a $5000 mistake that he will pay for - he is now one of the best trained employees in my company and very sure he won't do this again. No I'm not going to fire him, and he is now going to train others on what not to do. If he does it again then I'll fire him!" So....Yes there is a way to soften the blow but it will cost time, effort and money. Looking at this I would lawyer up both with the base legal and a lawyer in the jurisdiction where the incident occur. You will have two legal trajectories to deal with. One will be with the military and the other with the civilian court / DMV. Depending if this is your first time (and what you blew for an alcohol level) and if you have a clean record, A local outside lawyer maybe able to work with the local city (or county) prosecuting attorney to bring down the charge (maybe reckless driving or something else). You are still going to have to go to court (where a suit and tie, and DO NOT wear your military uniform). They will already know you are in the military. Regarding the military, depends on what happens with your Commanding Officer and if you are looking at a Article 15 or 32 hearing. Talk to your base legal / lawyer to see what they recommend to say or if he can be present when you are brought to the CO. Depending on what happens in the civilian side the CO may take the information into consideration. with Non-judicial punishment (article 15), you may get a slap on the hand or other punishments (Reduction in rank / Fine / Written Reprimand / Extra Duty / Restriction). If it is a article 32 you will need to work with your base lawyer closely. If you're able to stay in, just ride out your time till your contract is up and get out. You can then start fresh. Hard lesson learned and it will take a while to get out of the woods.

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Dec 26 at 2021 2:49 PM

SSG Eric Blue — Sun, 26 Dec 2021 14:49:03 -0500

From my own third-person experience in the military, it often depends on the individual having gotten the DUI, their rank, their leadership chain, their unit, their MOS, their duty position, their physical location, and in a lot of cases, their color and gender. The first thing to consider is that as a LEADER, YOU KNOW you were wrong to make the decisions you made that led to the DUI. That's even more important when you think about how often leaders have to give safety briefs to their subordinates. Your decision tells me that you would have said, "do as I say, not as I do" to Joe & Jane and that's not right. You can't expect Joe & Jane to do what's right if you aren't setting the right example. But with the other factors I mentioned above, I've seen drill sergeants get relieved, I've seen Staff Sergeants get busted down to Sergeant to Specialist to Private because of charges getting stacked, and I've also seen charges get swept under the rug because the Staff Sergeant was the best NCO in the squad, section, detachment, or because that Staff Sergeant was the aide to the Division Command Sergeant Major. I've even seen absolutely nothing happen because DUIs, drunk on duty, and other serious charges related to the incident (rape, forcible sodomy, adultery, child molestation) were so commonplace that you would get in trouble if you reported them. What I CAN SAY is that you did wrong, you KNOW you did wrong, and you are willing to make this right (according to what you wrote). If you are retained, don't be surprised if you have to give several blocks of instruction on alcohol, responsible drinking, underage drinking, the dangers of driving under the influence, what substances (controlled, prescription, and over-the-counter) increase the effects of alcohol in the human body, and things like that. You may end up becoming the subject matter expert on this before everything is said and done. Best of luck to you.

Response by SFC Ken Heise made Dec 26 at 2021 2:56 PM

SFC Ken Heise — Sun, 26 Dec 2021 14:56:05 -0500

Based on my understanding on how things work is this. If it happened off post then 99.999999% of the time the military will defer to the local authorities and judicial system. The military can only get you with conduct unbecoming a Noncomissioned Officer. They can’t hit you with double jeopardy. But your chain of command can still remove you from your leadership position, give you a relief of cause NCOER, flag and bar you. You will still have to report the incident to your security manager. It will be up to them and their process to determine if you lose your clearance.

Now that being said, IF you got this on a government installation punishment can rage from a local counseling statement, which is a formal slap on the wrist and vigorous finger pointing, to jail time under the UCMJ.

Regardless, your carrier in the military will probably come to an end. Your best bet is to get a civilian lawyer as that is what JAG will tell you and be ready to accept responsibility for your actions.

You’re just lucky you did not kill somebody with this conscience decision you made.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 26 at 2021 3:51 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Dec 2021 15:51:10 -0500

First thing you need to do Monday morning is go self refer to SUDCC (formerly known as ASAP). It looks better to your command if you refer yourself. Second expect the GOMOR but find someone who has got through one successfully. I did a few years ago. You need a hell of a rebuttal and having one already formatted that you can just edit makes it a lot easier. Third, be prepared for the worst. If you have medical conditions that meet MEB criteria start getting that ironed out and ready. Unfortunately the army isn't in need of soldiers like it used to be and DUIs are easy ways to get people out. Just make sure when you're talking to legal and you command you're protecting that honorable discharge. If command gives you the option to get out honorably or fight and maybe not take the honorable discharge. It sucks that one bad decision can end something you've worked so hard for but hopefully you learn from it and do better when faced with a choice like that again in the future.

Response by SFC John Fourquet made Dec 26 at 2021 7:19 PM

SFC John Fourquet — Sun, 26 Dec 2021 19:19:08 -0500

Get a lawyer. If the DUI happen off post find a lawyer who handles DUI’s. If it happened on post find one familiar with military law. How the command deals w/ you will depend a lot on the kind of soldier you have been before the DUI. You will receive some type of UCMJ punishment and you will not be selected for promotion. You will be required to attend drug and alcohol counseling. The best you can hope for is keeping your current rank and being allowed to retire after 20 years of service.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2021 11:02 AM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 27 Dec 2021 11:02:16 -0500

Brother, they have things called aadd airman against drunk driving a while back I had to call aadd to get a ride home and my cc. Told me that was good choice however driving drunk is a bad thing man. I would always call an uber or lift, yeah leaving your car behind is super inconvenient but at least you know you would get a dui. I would consult legal advice and see what they can do for you

Response by SGT Mark Rhodes made Dec 27 at 2021 3:35 PM

SGT Mark Rhodes — Mon, 27 Dec 2021 15:35:39 -0500

As an NCO you made a poor decision and that’s what you need to own up to. You may get a reduction in rank, Generals letter of reprimand, Article 15, or even chartered out. But what I would do is own up to your poor decision and let you military career speak for you.
Good luck

Response by Lt Col Warren Domke made Dec 27 at 2021 4:51 PM

Lt Col Warren Domke — Mon, 27 Dec 2021 16:51:27 -0500

The best course is to seek treatment and be honest with yourself and others about the seriousness of the offense. Drunk driving is a serious and deadly problem. When I was younger I did it and was fortunate enough to have never had an accident or been caught, but that was pure dumb luck. Maturity brought better sense to me and I would never consider driving while impaired now. The sad thing is that many people just like me acting just as I did were not so lucky. People may have died as a result, including the intoxicated drivers--incidentally. It was a mistake. You can learn from it. I wish you the best and pray for better judgement in the future.

Response by SPC Joseph Weiss made Dec 27 at 2021 5:14 PM

SPC Joseph Weiss — Mon, 27 Dec 2021 17:14:56 -0500

See a JAG Officer

Response by SP5 Ed Nolan made Dec 28 at 2021 10:45 AM

SP5 Ed Nolan — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 10:45:48 -0500

Also, depends on who busted you. Civilian police is better for active duty, you'll still pay major fines, high lawyer fees and possible loss of driver's license, but, unit CO will determine what punishment you get from the Army , if any. If MP's got you, it will be handled through the Army, which means loss of pay, possible loss of rank, slower promotions, and possibly a court martial, depending if you got into an accident if someone was hurt. Either way it's gonna cost you big time, as a former MP we were told to have no sympathy for drunk drivers, no matter the situation. Hope it works out for you, and even more, hope you learned a valuable lesson.

Response by SSG Ronald Rollins made Dec 28 at 2021 11:59 AM

SSG Ronald Rollins — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 11:59:52 -0500

What you did was a terrible, terrible thing that could have ended terribly. You were lucky. With that being said, what happens now depends on your command. I will say, as an MP, I have seen a lot of shady deals. I knew senior NCOs (think MSG and above) and officers get away with things that would get someone an Art 15 or worse. It all depends if your CoC is willing to help. But with you just being a SSG, I am thinking they won't help you. It won't benefit them. Plan on being kicked out. I hope you get an honorable and keep your benefits.

Response by PFC Stephen Trynosky made Dec 28 at 2021 3:59 PM

PFC Stephen Trynosky — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 15:59:03 -0500

It MAY be hopeless but I would suggest you get a lawyer who is familiar with the DUI thing. If you got it off base you may be able to fight it depending on its severity. If you got it on base, your ass is grass soldier. Amazing just how bad this has become since I was in during Viet-nam. Half the NCO corps would NOT have made it to Nam for their second and third deployments if they had been as strict as they are now. I have two sons who as Company grade officers often were woken in the middle of the night to bail out their soldiers at Drum and Little Rock AFB. They repeatedly went to bat for them if it was a first offense. Hopefully your record is good and you have a good CO. Personally I look at it this way, "there but for the grace of God go I". Been there, done it, not proud, wasn't dangerous, should have been caught because both times I remember driving back home at about 15 MPH with the windows open in the winter.

Response by CPL Cesar Pastora made Dec 28 at 2021 8:53 PM

CPL Cesar Pastora — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 20:53:25 -0500

Company grade article 15. If you overcome this you will make Command Sergeant Major. Most have at least 1 DUI or a family member in recovery. Godspeed.

Response by TSgt Manuel Perez made Dec 29 at 2021 12:27 PM

TSgt Manuel Perez — Wed, 29 Dec 2021 12:27:39 -0500

I would seek the services of a Legal Professional, to guide you for off post DUIs. This is expensive process, but this is the why to go, and the military will have

Response by SFC Kevin Stampfly made Dec 29 at 2021 2:13 PM

SFC Kevin Stampfly — Wed, 29 Dec 2021 14:13:51 -0500

It takes alot of balls to come on here and own up to something like this. If I was a guessing man I would say your career is over at this point, unless someone in your higher chain feels you deserve a second chance. A DUI is a hard thing to bounce back from in this day and age. 20 years ago you would have received an article 15 and kept on your merry way. Take your punishment as is and teach others not to do as you did.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2021 4:11 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Dec 2021 16:11:52 -0500

I've seen this happen and have seen different outcomes. I'm not going to pour salt in your wounds though, but the best advice I give everyone that got in trouble under my leadership was to expect the worse but hope for the best. This will be the true test of your resilience. I haven't seen anyone get chaptered for this violation, but then again it depends on your leadership. Doesn't make sense stressing over something that has already happened. Stay motivated and positive. Don't turn into a dirt bag because you don't know the mindset of the people making decisions about your future. Last thing, this is when your reputation speaks volumes. If you had a good one they'll know you let your guards down and made a bad choice. If you were a trouble maker before the incident than this is just icing on the cake and justification not to retain you.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2021 4:56 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 29 Dec 2021 16:56:25 -0500

SSG Gadson,
Expect the worst but hope for the best. You will most likely get a reduction in rank. The hardest part is accepting your wrong and moving forward. I got a DUI when I was a corpral and my punishment was reduction in rank to a specialist which really wasn't a reduction and 30 days extra duty. I was a 13B as well, but times have changed since then. Just accept your wrong and deal with it, don't let it affect you mentally. If you need someone to talk to just inbox me. Good luck!

Response by PO2 Scott M. made Dec 30 at 2021 8:53 AM

PO2 Scott M. — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 08:53:17 -0500

Get out of it? Not a chance, nor should there be a chance. You did it, you were caught, now take the medicine. As far as retention goes, plead for mercy and volunteer to do any alcohol rehab programs that your command or local clinic offers. Honestly, if you cannot make a wise choice in today's day and age with the availability of multiple cab companies and Uber to take you home, in many cases free of charge, so you do not drive intoxicated then you should willingly give up the consumption of alcohol. Driving while drunk/intoxicated is irresponsible and it's an irresponsibility that gets people killed.

Response by SGT Cody Collins made Dec 30 at 2021 9:52 AM

SGT Cody Collins — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 09:52:05 -0500

It all depends on you BC in my opinion. If your command team zero tolerance you can expect to get the boot. That has been my experience 99% of the time. I’ve seen stellar soldiers catch a DUI and get steamrolled.

Response by SPC Brendan Cintron made Dec 30 at 2021 10:13 AM

SPC Brendan Cintron — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 10:13:48 -0500

You’ll be fine I know guys that popped hot for drugs and they’re still in the service. Units pick and choose who gets chapter out and who doesn’t. Instead of giving everyone the same treatment. i.e. 25th ID

Response by SFC James High made Dec 30 at 2021 10:35 AM

SFC James High — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 10:35:13 -0500

My first response would be to get out in front of it and let your chain of command know before they find out some other way. Then I would seek any and all agencies on post that are set up to help you with this, such as; Counselors, Chaplains, and other professional personnel provided for help.

Response by PV2 Chase Best made Dec 30 at 2021 12:56 PM

PV2 Chase Best — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 12:56:16 -0500

get a good lawyer and fight it down to reckless driving, then tell your unit about it

Response by SPC Julio R. made Dec 30 at 2021 1:15 PM

SPC Julio R. — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 13:15:54 -0500

AHHHHHH buddy you messed up, no way around it. Now take care of yourself and make sure you get right! Take whatever counseling they give you and reprimands. You will get an Art 15 point-blank, learn from this and do better soldier. I've known plenty of soldiers to include NCOs with DUIs, they all survived and bounced back. Like there is no excuse either there is Uber, Lyft and your C of C should have had some slush fund for soldiers to be able to get a cab and be paid for then you pay it back. better to get a Verbal ass-chewing than UCMJ. We forget that in the service we get issued a class 6 card basically, getting drunk and being in the service go hand in hand. Those few that are on here trolling may be the exception seeing they keep throwing their personal "i am perfect" bs all over the place and how "professional" they are. We fck up we are human and NO ONE IS PERFECT though some of you act like your rank makes you so.
I do not understand this new Army and their bullsht "paper trail" crap, smoke the dog doo-doo out the soldier, art 15 him and let's continue the mission. Nowadays it's like you get written up for everything. It is hard enough for recruiters to get bodies yet the Army just kicks folks out for the little things, not saying DUI is little but you catch my drift. I wish you nothing but the best and hope you update us with good news at the back end of the story. Come on Sarnt your soldiers need a good example now you need to apologize to them and then take that ass-chewing. They will look at your record too so there is that to help with the ease of punishment, don't quote me.
As for you blue falcons on here pulling rank or just shtting all over him, Jody is with your partner right now because you are not paying attention to them and instead are on the computer pulling rank. NOW CAN YOU DIG THAT, SUCKAAAAAA

Response by Capt Robert Vincelette made Dec 30 at 2021 2:29 PM

Capt Robert Vincelette — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 14:29:25 -0500

When I was in the military the culture well neigh demanded that you drink. It was considered a social grace expected of an officer, unless you had an excuse from your well-established religion forbidding it. Drinking problems are made from peer pressure and drinking is given too much respect. But for a military person peer pressure is not an excuse. In theory I could be alcoholic because it runs in my family, but I do not present any "letter from my doctor" to justify my early-in-life decision to refuse to try a drink. Whoever can't accept this must be told their discomfort with my choice is tough shit.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2021 2:51 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 14:51:36 -0500

Depends on your unit CoC. It's a duiiii, not gunna beat a dead horse about how you know better and blah blah blah. Expect a reduction in rank, extra duty and all the bells and whistles. I wouldn't jump straight into expecting separation especially if it's your first offence. Hopefully your battery level leadership thinks highly of you because that'll influence command COA. You could fight it but you'll probably loose the case and $15,000. You better show your worth to the unit and the army. You aren't the first person this happened too and you damn sure won't be the last. Ive seen people get 2 or 3 dui before they got kicked out so keep your chin up, be an adult and deal with the punishment like the badass NCO that you are.

Response by SGM Thomas Adderley made Dec 30 at 2021 4:13 PM

SGM Thomas Adderley — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 16:13:40 -0500

And you should continue to regret it. Getting that DUI is proof you are not and cannot be trusted to be in control of yourself so how in the he__ can I trust you to be in a leadership position; Art 15 minimum, based upon your past history.

Response by SGT David Silva made Dec 30 at 2021 6:27 PM

SGT David Silva — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 18:27:03 -0500

With such poor judgement, how the hell did you get to be an NCO? If you were my soldier, by the time I got through with you, you would no longer be an NCO, and you would be so miserable you would wish your parents had never brought your dumb ass into this world.

Response by SSgt Carrie Foster Campbell made Dec 30 at 2021 10:19 PM

SSgt Carrie Foster Campbell — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 22:19:05 -0500

First of all I have a question for you, was it on post or off post. I got a DUI at Ft. Campbell in 1984. (I was a Spec 4. ) I got it coming on post through the main gate. I DID NOT go to a city, county or state court but a FEDERAL MAGISTRATE COURT on post, I DID NOT get an ARTICLE 15 from my company commander or lost a rank. I did get 8 days in jail (suspended) $ 250 dollar fine and 6 months probation. My orders to Germany were not rescinded. I had to write my probation officer from Germany, Ironically, i ended up in a MP unit in Germany. I was a cook

Response by SCPO Deric Wright made Dec 31 at 2021 9:22 AM

SCPO Deric Wright — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 09:22:26 -0500

Stop drinking alcohol. Get your uniform ready and stand before the man, admit your violation, and pick up from there. If you stop drinking entirely you will never be in this situation again. If you continue to overdrink you could be in this situation again. Take charge of your life, be responsible, and don't put yourself or others at risk from your bad decisions.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2021 9:25 AM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 09:25:12 -0500

DUI for one can be both internal-results on base and ticketed by MP or external and ticketed by a PO.

In either situation, it is inexcusable. Some have managed to delay action some times in the event of a PCS but sooner or later, another good command will discover and act upon.

My question then is on the event where a SM who got the DUI had another SM in the vehicle. Potentially, the passenger SM would not be listed on the report. How can commands ensure that even those who are supposed to be battle buddies and could prevent the drunk driver from getting behind the wheel, is also punished?

Can the passenger also get at least an Article 15?

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2021 9:31 AM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 09:31:30 -0500

Like others have said, it is very unfortunate. You can’t reverse this now, make the best out it. It is lesson learned and should get out, use that lesson.

There is still so much you can do outside the military. Just don’t dwell for too long on this problem. Wishing you well.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2021 10:46 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 10:46:58 -0500

Wow I just read some of the comments below. Peoples opinion and see how harsh they are and quick to judge. Shame and those who are quick to judge and give no mentorship or guidance. The only one I seen that has relevance is the GOMOR that triggers QMP. I seen NCOs mistakes and yes they are mistakes. I have also seen NCOs make it out. Shoot me a message on my profile I can give you some guidance and from a non judgmental and unbiased stand point.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2021 2:24 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 14:24:41 -0500

Was anyone else from your unit or senior to you ?

Response by 1SG Harold Piet made Dec 31 at 2021 3:17 PM

1SG Harold Piet — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 15:17:47 -0500

I was in for 20 years, drinking was part of life in the late '70s, I am glad I never got caught nor injured any innocent parties. But if I was you, I would never take another drink, go sign into an alcohol program and talk to your First Shirt for further advice, include Jag when you get charged by the military, either in DUI, courts-martial, or art 15. You knew you did, now try to solve it without losing your career. you will be fortunate in today's world to make 20 years with this, but it is possible.

Response by SGT(P) Jeren Fullmore made Dec 31 at 2021 4:13 PM

SGT(P) Jeren Fullmore — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 16:13:13 -0500

With the reduction of force still going in the direction it’s going. You might need to prepare for QMP. There will be administrative action.

Response by SN Kristi Kalis made Jan 1 at 2022 4:00 PM

SN Kristi Kalis — Sat, 01 Jan 2022 16:00:36 -0500

It depends on if the DUI was on the base or off, and if you were on duty or not.
On duty, on base - get a lawyer and pack your bags.
Off duty, on base - get a lawyer and pack your bags
Off duty, off base - get a lawyer and prepare to face civilian and military charges

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2022 3:37 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Jan 2022 03:37:44 -0500

Well, if it's like any other active duty unit you can expect the following:
An Article 15 which will most certainly result in:
Reduction in rank
Forfeiture of some of your pay
Extra duty for up to 45 days
Restriction for up to 45 days
Additionally you'll likely have chapter paperwork initiated against you and you'll also be told to enroll into the ASAP program.
As an NCO you should know better. Every army unit I've been in gives a safety brief every Friday which always includes a warning against drinking and driving. I have no sympathy for drunk drivers and if I were stupid enough to do something like this then I would deserve everything mentioned above. You are no different. I know I'm being harsh on this but you know better. First offense or not, this is what you deserve.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2022 7:15 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 02 Jan 2022 07:15:15 -0500

Alot will depend on what your chain of command pursues. My last command team usually retained the guys after demoting them and command refering them to substance abuse programs. My current command team has thrown the book at everyone regardless of rank. They've chaptered more people in the first 6 months then the last command team had in almost 3 years.

Response by Cpl Nicholas Crider made Jan 2 at 2022 12:25 PM

Cpl Nicholas Crider — Sun, 02 Jan 2022 12:25:50 -0500

I'm not going to say I condone what happen. I dont. Your an idiot for it. But.

You reaching out for help, seemingly expressing legit remorse, and wanting to make it right is a good sign.

Make your remorse known, (don't kiss ass) but make it known that your remorseful. Tell them your going to get help for your drinking. (If you don't do that then why are you here) and just roll with the punches. How bad the punches are and how you will get treated will be determined by your reputation but your going to get shit, you won't be trusted and it will.be an all around not fun time for you.

I never got a DUI myself but my company was plagued with them with 2 coming from my roommate at the time.

Learn to love the suck and stop being a dumbass.

Response by PO1 Rexford Dundon made Jan 2 at 2022 6:49 PM

PO1 Rexford Dundon — Sun, 02 Jan 2022 18:49:16 -0500

I know that the Admiral in charge of the PACNORWEST would kick anyone out of the Navy in the early 2000s if they had 2 alcohol incidents. Not sure about the more recent Navy though.

Response by SGT Michael Lawler made Jan 3 at 2022 3:38 PM

SGT Michael Lawler — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 15:38:21 -0500

If the offense occurred on base, by all means seek legal counsel thru the JAG. If the offense occurred off post, seek civilian counsel specializing in DUI’s. Perhaps your attorney would be able to plea bargain your case. You may be subject to UCMJ code violations after a civilian hearing. I am sure you checked into this prior to any hearing dates. Word to the wise, seeking additional support ie. attending classes, providing documentation regarding prior driving record, etc. would be a step in the right direction. After receiving punishment & you will receive punishment & you are serious in continuing your career, perhaps you will entertain the notion of sharing your experience with other unit members. Everyone makes a mistake, hopefully, you didn’t affect someone else’s life in doing so!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 3 at 2022 4:42 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 16:42:01 -0500

I got dinged for a DUI in North Carolina 2017, I was sleeping it off in the vehicle, Class C Misdemeanor, 24hrs community service that was waived, $3,120 total cost. Still shows as a DUI but the Army didn't pursue it, I got restricted to barracks 14days then released to my home. It didn't carry over to my home state driving record.

Response by SP5 William Jones made Jan 3 at 2022 8:08 PM

SP5 William Jones — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 20:08:53 -0500

STOP DRINKING.
What are you, a teen-ager?

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 5 at 2022 1:19 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 13:19:22 -0500

It all depends on the General Officer, who is in your Chain of Command. In a lot of instillations, the CG will handle issues like DUIs, directly. You’re most likely going to get a GOMOR and will have the chance to appeal the filing determination of that GOMOR (local or AMHRR). If it goes in your file, you’re going to see a QMP. If it’s local, you’ll still have a shot to Soldier on. Keep in mind that DUIs are serious, and they’re serious to the CG. You could have killed someone or severely hurt someone in the process of driving drunk.

To be absolved of the GOMOR, you’ll need to be found “not guilty” of the offense, in court. If you take a lesser charge, in the Army’s eyes you’re still guilty, so the GOMOR will stick.

You’ve probably already been command referred to SUDCC, so make all your appointments and take them seriously. I’ve personally referred myself to SUDCC for my alcohol issues and it’s been very valuable to my personal and professional life.

No matter what happens, best wishes and I hope you’re getting the help and support you need, whether you leave the military due to this or if you stay in.

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Jan 8 at 2022 10:37 AM

SFC Robert Walton — Sat, 08 Jan 2022 10:37:50 -0500

This has been 4-5 months ago i am sure this issue has been solved. Now i must admit that I find many of the post here appalling. You are not providing a fair answer to the question.
I see something here happening that is not only scary but getting out of control not just in the Military but in civilian sector as well, We have what is called the rule of law and from what I see here the rule of law just got thrown out the window.

While running over the neighbor's cat is a problem it does not mean the driver targeted the cat.

This SSG deserves a fair trial no matter what the personnel opinion allows for the Person still get their day in court. This as many things is not just a blanket decision for punishment. What were the circumstances around the incident?

I can assure you that many of the military leadership have made poor choices at one time or another and I am amazed that many have never faced fair judgement in those cases because of luck, rule of law, who they rub elbows with, or just having enough money to find the right lawyer, just to name a few. When are we going to apply the Rule of Law or is that not used anymore?
If you want opinion's I think the Judicial system over all inside the United States as a whole is out of control in or out of the Military political or civil. I can only hope you all are judged by the same standard that you use here on an open forum. Have nice day everybody and Happy 2022!

Response by CPT Robert Downey made Jan 19 at 2022 1:29 AM

CPT Robert Downey — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 01:29:37 -0500

Accept responsibility for your actions. Don't try to weasel your way out. Admit you f@cked up and accept the consequences. Art 15, GOMAR, etc. You made the choice, you live with it. If anything, teach your joes and janes to learn from your mistakes. A smart person learns from their mistakes. A wise person learns from the mistakes of others. Help your joes and janes become wise.

Response by SSG Shawn Mcfadden made Jan 21 at 2022 1:42 AM

SSG Shawn Mcfadden — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 01:42:47 -0500

UCMJ action. Field grade Article 15. You know the rest.

Response by SGT Chris Padgett made Jan 23 at 2022 5:03 PM

SGT Chris Padgett — Sun, 23 Jan 2022 17:03:52 -0500

Well, since this is 5 months old, what actually did happen to you?

Response by SSG Jack Scott made Jan 23 at 2022 5:50 PM

SSG Jack Scott — Sun, 23 Jan 2022 17:50:52 -0500

Well this is a question I can answer well. Between the Marines and Army I was Police Officer and Motor Officer. I Made over 208 DUI arrest and lost the first two of my arrests and learned from it. The first thing is you have to SPEND some money for a damn good Attorney in your area. There are Attorney's that specialize in DUI arrests. Next it depends on the arresting officer is he/she new or a hard corps veteran like I was. Your attorney will know the hot shot DUI Officer and will base your case on that. All I can legally tell you is get a hot shot Attorney DUI’s are made to be painful and costly your looking at spending $5,000 to $10,000 on a first time offense. Depending on the State most first time offenders are reduced to reckless driving with a DUI Convection. Good luck it sucks hopefully if you are active your command will give you a chance and let the process work out in court.

Response by SPC Cara Alligood made Feb 26 at 2022 5:11 PM

SPC Cara Alligood — Sat, 26 Feb 2022 17:11:21 -0500

Hopefully you knew to refuse any kind of field sobriety test. Hire a civilian lawyer immediately. It will cost you a lot of money, but you will have a more positive outcome. Prepare for the civilian world because you will almost certainly find yourself there soon. Get a degree in an in-demand field so that your past or discharge won't really matter, such as computer science, petroleum engineering, or medicine. If you can't do calculus, there's always the oilfield. You can have multiple felonies and still get a job on a rig. The downside is that it is very physical and there is risk involved, but no worse than being in the military during wartime, and the pay is a lot higher.

Response by SPC James Parker made Mar 26 at 2022 4:47 PM

SPC James Parker — Sat, 26 Mar 2022 16:47:24 -0400

When I was stationed in Germany I went to rehabilitation but the problem with that is that I got drunk afterwards and told an NCO to f**k off. Well that was the end for me. Now at 56 yo I found the solution in AA

Response by Brig Gen Joe C made Mar 28 at 2022 2:32 PM

Brig Gen Joe C — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 14:32:29 -0400

Each case must be reviewed separately. No commander can state "DUI equals Art 15". They'll get in legal trouble. That said, all of the DUI cases I'm familiar with, and that is a lot, all ended in an Art 15. One ended with a Court Martial, but the DUI was secondary to vehicular manslaughter.

The type and how much punishment depends on you and all of the circumstance. I always took into account the person's past record. If stripes are to be lost it may be perm or suspended. If funds are to be lost, the individual's rank and family situation was taken into account.

The only advice I can give is 1) talk to your defense counsel if it is an Art 15, 2) if you are guilty, accept it, don't try to barrack's lawyer out of it...that always just made me mad.

Response by Cpl Eric Young made Apr 4 at 2022 8:32 AM

Cpl Eric Young — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 08:32:06 -0400

Listen…… we all make mistakes….. it’s all about learning from it. Do not let this define you. You’re gonna get knocked down in life…. It’s all about how you get back up….

Hate to break it to you, the military is very hard on those who get DUI’s.

Back in my day, they wouldn’t let you’d rice in base for a while and you’d probably get an NJP if not more charges….

Here’s my advice, seek legal counsel immediately. It will cost you, but it will likely save you in the long run. There are NO GUARANTEES…. But having a lawyer can usually get your charges and your consequences knocked down a bit, and there’s a decent chance you could get it dropped depending on your case. Maybe even dismissed depending on hour BAC, how you conducted yourself during the traffic stop and how police handled this stop. Although I wouldn’t put your eggs in this basket too much.

But….. here’s what you can expect. Civilian consequences and military consequences. Double whammy.

You will probably lose your license for a time and may have an interlock device installed into your vehicle. Youlle probably have to take some alcohol and drug courses…. Youlle probably have a fine.

The military… your command is gonna come down on you. Be humble, take it with a grain of salt, and take it on the chin, and hope they don’t aim to discharge you. I hear that’s what they like to do these days. You probably won’t be allowed to drive on base for a while. And like I said, you will probably get an NJP at the minimum.

Like I said, we all make mistakes. You have to suffer the consequences and it sucks andnim 200% sympathetic to you. But don’t make the mistake again.

I got a DUI right after I got out and missed all the military consequences. But it was still hard even in the civilian world. I hired a lawyer and got my charges dropped down to a wet reckless, I had the DUI on my drivingrecord for 10 years. I had higher insurance costs most of that time, I had to carry and sr-22 insurance for a while, I got fined, I had to attend a 3 months alcohol class, I lost my license for a few months….. it cost me upwards of 10k to deal with all of it.

I was that moron who made the mistake twice.. got another one last year, after only having 6 beers at a social gathering, I had stopped drinking to give myself time to let it process out and got popped for not using a signal to change lanes. I waited a couple of hours til I felt fine to drive… I’m now dealing with it and it sucks…. But that’s life.

I chose to quit drinking completely and life had never been better. So I’m gonna recommend that you put down the drink as well. It’s never done me one bit of good and has only caused me trouble. But if you don’t quit yourself, then get an UBER….. or stay the night…..

I’m sorry you’re going through all of this. It’s going to be okay, no matter what happens. We all make mistakes, learn from it and learn to live a better way, bro.

Semper fi

Response by PVT Mark Whitcomb made Apr 4 at 2022 10:53 AM

PVT Mark Whitcomb — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 10:53:24 -0400

I'm not sure about it on military bases. But I do know what happens outside of bases. I own a business that deals with DUI's. Out here you would be put on 2 years probation, have a blower put in your car for 2 years. (Your car would not start until you blow into a tube.) You would be required to take DUI classes. 12 weeks of education. and depending on what you blew anywhere from 36-86 hours of group therapy. All of this would cost around 2 grand. that does not count the court costs.
The Blower and classes are NOT DECIDED by the courts. It is mandated by the dept of motor vehicles. Remember driving is a privilege not a right !!

Response by PVT Mark Whitcomb made Apr 4 at 2022 11:25 AM

PVT Mark Whitcomb — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 11:25:24 -0400

One other thing I should tell you. I have Doctors, Lawyers, Nurses, Soldiers, and many others who enroll in our DUI classes. So you are not the only one who makes mistakes. The one thing I always hear in class is some excuse as to why they did it. There is no excuse you could give me that would make me say you could drive drunk. None !! Get enrolled in some sort of DUI group. I'm sure they have them on base. I know they have them at the VA. DO NOT wait for them to order you to do it. Take your own steps to get yourself educated and into a program.

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Apr 4 at 2022 11:33 AM

SFC Robert Walton — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 11:33:54 -0400

Okay a couple of months have gone by and i am seeing the comments again and they continue. I expect a number of you that posted on this thread also have reading comprehension problem. SSG. ......receive a DUI for Driving Under The Influence, NOT a DWI Driving While Intoxicated. Depending where, when, and other circumstances he could get by with nothing more than extra duty and a visit to D/A counseling.
How about reading what is posted and making a comment based on the information and not your BIAS and Chicken little Rant. You so Called leaders here ranting and making assumptions with out solid information are supposed to help not condemn and ridiculing. JMTC
Before anyone says it i am a no substance user other than cigs. Take care of the Soldier not kick them when they are down.

Response by LTC Ray Buenteo made Apr 4 at 2022 11:51 AM

LTC Ray Buenteo — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 11:51:48 -0400

You are an NCO and in no way will the CoC let this go without sending a message to the junior enlisted. The army cannot afford the impression that they engage in do as I say not as I do.

Response by SPC Charles Sewell made Apr 5 at 2022 5:31 PM

SPC Charles Sewell — Tue, 05 Apr 2022 17:31:19 -0400

Afghanistan was a poor choice too, who was held responsible for that? Let's ask Pat Tillmans family about poor choices. I am not condoning drunk driving. The question is what is intoxicated, .08?, Really? Did you hit anything? Did you do any property damage? Then there is this victim impact stuff, some poor women lost her daughter in a collision and she is going to tell you it was your fault, you will pay for it. Some people shouldn't be driving after taking an aspirin. The Germans don't seem to have a problem with drunk driving, but then their driver training program is a hell of a lot better than ours. President Bush was convicted of drunk driving and Dick Cheney was caught twice driving home after drinking. The DUI cash cow has not cut down on the 50,000 + humans that perish in collisions every year on American roads and a small percent of those collision involve alcohol. Better driver training would help keep people alive and slowing people down. The manufacturer could help as well, why do we need cars that will accelerate to 120 miles per hour? Drinking and driving has turned into a racket, if it's really about public safety, and I don't believe it is, out law it. Again, I am not suggesting that we should drive drunk at all, don't drink and drive, they are hunting for you. Put a chauffeur on the payroll. Driving is essential, even though they say it's a privilege, you can't get much done if you can't drive, so protect your privilege. I used to enjoy night life my self but the times we live in have changed drastically. Pay your fines take your rank reduction and stop driving after you have one, live to an old age. God bless.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2022 12:47 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 00:47:27 -0400

I have been in the same boat, but I was a SPC(p) at the time. I add the (p) because my unit considered me as an NCO at the time, before CPL was a thing. I don’t want to sugar coat for you because that didn’t help me at all, but you are not going to go through an easy patch with this. Depending on the severity and how well you are with you command, you are definitely going to go through all levels of punitive action. From civilian side to military. Civilian side varies from state and military varies by command. Your commander and BC are the ones in charge at the end. You are most likely either going to get an article or a Gomar.

Response by Masiel Dubois made Apr 6 at 2022 1:05 AM

Masiel Dubois — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 01:05:29 -0400

You’re an E6 you’ve been in long enough to know damn well you shouldn’t be drinking and driving. If you have a fuck about your career you wouldn’t have done that. You regret it only because you got caught.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 6 at 2022 9:34 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 09:34:14 -0400

I got one a few years back. Expect to throw away about $4K to an attorney. You’re also going to have a breathalyzer installed in your vehicle. I would find out if the county you’re in has a veteran’s court. I had my case moved over and had to stay sober for a year (had to blow into my breathalyzer 3x/day), attend AA, and monthly court, but after all that it was expunged from my record.

Response by SSG Raul Alaniz made Apr 6 at 2022 2:12 PM

SSG Raul Alaniz — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 14:12:05 -0400

SSG James Gadson, Well SSG, it doesn't look good for you at this moment, a DUI is a DUI, the possibility of being separated from the military are REAL. About a year ago my nephew was a 1st Lt., got popped for a DUI, now he's out of the U.S. Army, he wanted to go the distance and retire like myself, his Dad and Mom, dreams busted, but he moved on, It's on his record, and unfortunately that will following him for the rest of his life. But dig this, "He Moved On" SSG Gadson, as and NCO you what's going to happen, so accept your punishment or fight it if you choose too, make arrangements for your after life in the Army. I feel for you, but you know the deal. NCO's and Officers alike usually are out the door. Hell even 1SG and CSM's booted out. Today is 6 MAR 2022, if I may ask, what's your status SSG Gadson. I was just wondering and take care SSG.

Response by Sgt Peter McLaughlin made Apr 6 at 2022 8:16 PM

Sgt Peter McLaughlin — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 20:16:08 -0400

I believe that everyone deserves an opportunity to correct themselves and avoid getting in the same situation again. While there are consequences for bad decisions we may make, it can be far worse to use extreme punishment on a first offense. An individual's history and their overall performance and conduct both on and off duty should most always be considered. The response you possibly expect depends on your immediate supervisor, 1st SGT, or unit commander; whoever was either notified of such incident, or all three in the chain of command. We all have made a bad choice at some point in our career. The best thing to do is learn from it and not put us in a position that will lead to a repeat of the same situation again.

Response by SGM Billy Herrington made Apr 6 at 2022 9:36 PM

SGM Billy Herrington — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 21:36:12 -0400

First thing is to understand that you are arrested under the suspicion of DUI. You aren’t guilty until a judge rules you as such. Also know the local law. Some states have a non-adjudication process. Meet the terms and pay the fines and you don’t have it on your record.

Depending on the state you can be acquitted of DUI even if you blow at or over the illegal limit on the intoxilyzer. Likewise, you can be convicted if you blow under.

You try the lawyer route but every DUI I’ve arrested and testified against they didn’t need him because of non-adjudication.

Response by 1SG Brian Adams made Apr 7 at 2022 5:00 AM

1SG Brian Adams — Thu, 07 Apr 2022 05:00:59 -0400

Get into an alcohol treatment program. Depending on your track record, your chain of command may go to bat for you and retain you. Learn from this mistake.

Response by COL Shirley Martin made Apr 7 at 2022 12:44 PM

COL Shirley Martin — Thu, 07 Apr 2022 12:44:41 -0400

First off admit your mistake when the chain of command gets the report. Be willing to go to rehab training. If someone in the chain of command is willing to write a letter reference your character and performance, ask for it. You will still face consequences, but I have worked with military personnel in this situation, and it was not career ending. In the short term it resulted in one evaluation report with negative comments about the incident, removal from a promotion list and briefings to peers about the impact of DUI on innocent people. Resolve to be a model NCO from now on. If you are struggling seek help from reliable sources. Sincerely, retired military personnel manager

Response by SPC Michelle Goodhart made Apr 29 at 2022 1:57 PM

SPC Michelle Goodhart — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 13:57:38 -0400

At a minimum, you will receive NJP or a letter of reprimand and a referred NCOER. If you’re lucky, you’ll be retained, but you can forget about being promoted again.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 29 at 2022 5:10 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 17:10:25 -0400

There are options. Firstly I'd add that yes there is no excuse for what you did. You made a choice and now there are consequences. But for some of the folk here dogging you for it when you came to ask for help is a prime example of toxicity. I'd be willing to be almost everyone on this thread has been behind the wheel when legally they shouldn't have been, whether it was alcohol, prescription drugs, or just as dangerous, lack of sleep. Difference is, they didn't get caught. Anyway, talk to trial defense services as well as a civilian lawyer to try and see what options you may have as far as charges. As well being that under UCMJ your commander (in this case a field grade) is the judge, jury and executioner. So appealing to them Is your best bet. This can be on the form of character witnesses, letters of recommendation, apology letters, etc. Talk to the right lawyers to include JAG and they will lay out your options. I hope no one got hurt as a result of this incident and I hope truly you understand the magnitude of the issue. At the same time i wish you luck and I hope you take something huge away from this. No one should be defined by just the bad things they've done if they dosomething better to redeem it. Take this as a lesson and turn some things around.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 30 at 2022 9:11 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 30 Apr 2022 09:11:58 -0400

This question posted on 15 AUG 21. I'd be interested to know what happened.
I have no idea how the Army would deal with this problem today. But I expect it will be serious.
In the meantime, some free advice for any kind of substance use related incident.
Self refer immediately. Yes, the command will refer you, but demonstrate your willingness to improve and save command the trouble.
Go see your 1SG or CO immediately. Again, demonstrate remorse and willlingness to improve. Save them the trouble of finding out via other channels and calling you in.
Get a lawyer.

Response by SrA Ronald Moore made Apr 30 at 2022 12:28 PM

SrA Ronald Moore — Sat, 30 Apr 2022 12:28:11 -0400

This is new to me as a veteran cause I never made a choice to do that when I was single and in the military, I walked, if I was going to paint the town or got in the habit of sticking up and staying g in for the weekends, but that being said,thdd as t my tour was long ago, june’75 , an Article 15 would find the DUI infraction, and possibly lost ,reduction of pay, And possibly rank reduction, And it it came to be a constant problem, then too Mental health referral and the drug - antibuse as a tool to let the Command see you are working it out, if off base, possible jail time, Furthermore they could kick you out of the military.Even U like to know any updates to what happens cause there was no DUI’s but domestic reports, and a non military wife fighting , drunk carrying on at Female Sgt. On base housing and window breaking

Response by CPT William Pearson made Apr 30 at 2022 1:50 PM

CPT William Pearson — Sat, 30 Apr 2022 13:50:29 -0400

A very difficult situation. You need to have a counselor help you as to why you chose to be under the influence. It will cost you plenty and may affect your military status.

Response by SPC Daniel Dresen made Apr 30 at 2022 8:29 PM

SPC Daniel Dresen — Sat, 30 Apr 2022 20:29:26 -0400

Well ssg, in the case of a former squad leader in my unit, he was retained... as a SPC so at a minimum, you may be reduced 2 grades. At most, you are looking at a bad conduct discharge, license suspension on the civilian side, fines galore (unless this only happened on base then thank your lucky stars you only have to deal with ucmj) oh... and there could be actual time behind bars. If you were arrested on post it's up to 18 months confinement and loss of all pay with reduction to E-1 or you are reduced to E-1 and given an OTH discharge in lieu of courts martial. If you were arrested off base, you have all the ucmj punishments PLUS civilian punishment. So... add another 12-24 months on top of that 18 months for your worst case scenario. You know you did it, work with JAG, create a plea, and maybe check out AA so you might get some leniency. That's the best advice you can get, and be fortunate you didn't hurt anyone. If you did this back in 2009-2011... they'd keep you in, loss of pay 3 months, reduction by 2 grades, mandatory rehab. Presently... I couldn't tell you where the force numbers are. If you aren't a critical MOS, this could be it. My cousin died in a DUI incident... only he was killed. That was his punishment for choosing to drink and drive.

Response by SFC John Fourquet made May 1 at 2022 11:19 AM

SFC John Fourquet — Sun, 01 May 2022 11:19:45 -0400

Nap, what was the outcome of your DUI?

Response by MSgt Gerald (Ted) Shoaf made May 2 at 2022 9:34 AM

MSgt Gerald (Ted) Shoaf — Mon, 02 May 2022 09:34:17 -0400

I’ve been through DUI’s, get a lawyer they’re worth the money. Normally the 1st DUI can get dropped down to a reckless driving.

Response by PFC Pablo Perez made May 3 at 2022 1:10 AM

PFC Pablo Perez — Tue, 03 May 2022 01:10:29 -0400

False Positives, lack of probable cause to perform the traffic stop, material commissions or misstatements of fact in the police report, defective breathalyzer machine or improperly used breathalyzer, "Objective Signs of Intoxication" like red eyes that were used to justify the administering of the Horizontal Eye Nastagmous test and the other components of a field sobriety test; when in fact, your eyes were red because you hadn't slept the night before; maybe the police told you that you werent allowed to refuse the test or didn't tell you that you could have the sample re-tested at an third party facility.... Who knows.....

Improperly Plead Charges in the Criminal Complaint "To Wit" clause and you couldn't understand the charges as read

A charge listed in the arrest report and declaration of probable cause or "P.C Sheet" (Or Probable Cause Affidavit); that said "controlled substance" as opposed to alcohol without Narrative (in the police report or declaration supplement) that articulates facts and circumstances that made it probable that the wrong crime had occurred and that didn't give cause or support for your arrest and detention.

If you were parked outside of the place you were drinking and somebody called the police to report you as a drunk driver and the police took more than a few minutes to arrive and the keys weren't in your hand, you might be able to prove that you showed no intent (as there was ample time to start the car before the police arrived) and thus there wasn't probable cause for your arrest.

You should get an attorney to pull the police officer's records to determine whether or not he was up to date on his training regarding the certifications needed to be able to perform tests on you as well as what "clues" he was trained to look for when he made contact with you, how many clues he was trained to find at minimum prior to arresting someone and whether or not it was possible for the officer to be able to find those clues given the circumstances.

Maybe you swerved out of of your lane because the road was uneven where you swerved and the officer would have known that being parked at that location many times before.

See if there are any records that indicate that the officer that arrested you has violated peoples civil rights before (civil lawsuits or complaints at his department or complaints online).

Look up county court records and figure out how the bulk of the dui cases you see conclude (particularly the ones associated with the prosecutor that filed the original or amended criminal complaint and the judge assigned to your case).

See how many got dropped to wreck-less driving.

Lookup how many years the prosecutor has been a prosecutor (if he's older, it's possible he wouldn't want to have to litigate) and figure out his caseload.... It's likely he has more cases than makes sense and all the private attorneys on his cases will likely be abusing the amount of continuances in order to make the prosecutor have to familiarize and defamiliarize himself with the evidence associated with your case, get a "full discovery" including body cam footage and the test result (if their are any).

It's likely that no-ones watched the body cam footage and that at this point they've just looked at the police report and are scaring you into a plea.

I'm not a lawyer, this isn't legal advice, but it might be a helpful start.

Find a good attorney.

Response by A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney made May 3 at 2022 3:35 AM

A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney — Tue, 03 May 2022 03:35:32 -0400

Perhaps I Can Suggest Something:
Obviously, You're Going Into Court; That's Pretty Much A Known Fact.
Explain Your Situation To The Judge.
Ask If There's Some Other Way Of Taking Care Of The Issue.
Don't Be Surprised If He Dismissed Your Case All Together.
Most Men Have Been In The Service Or Know Others Whom Have Been;
And Understand The Problems We're Faced With On Base.
Besides, The Judge Is In Your Area & Has Other Military Personnel Too.
Therefore He MUST Know About Military Issues Regarding Legal Infractions...

Response by SSG Robert Vernon made May 3 at 2022 3:51 PM

SSG Robert Vernon — Tue, 03 May 2022 15:51:14 -0400

You as a NCO should of known better to get behind the wheel of a vehicle after drinking, you not only put yourself in danger but other civilians on the road around you. With this being said, I wouldn't doubt your going to lose most of your rank if not all and possibly received a Bad Conduct discharge, Take this as you may, but I feel NO remorse for you or anyone else that gets caught up in a DUI, I lost my only 3 kids and their mother because of a Drunk Driver meeting them Head on, it was so bad that my wife nearly had her head cut clean off. So I hope you can understand my very rude comment .

Response by SSG Michael Theodosis made May 3 at 2022 5:48 PM

SSG Michael Theodosis — Tue, 03 May 2022 17:48:05 -0400

You’re only chance of getting out of it is to not tell anyone and fight it in court. My friend did this, it never hit the blotter (a lot of times it won’t) He got a lawyer, took it to court. It was a wrongful arrest and never should have happened. Had he “self referred to ASAP” or whatever else his career would have been over for a wrongful arrest. Honesty is not always the best policy. Do what your rank can afford.

Response by SPC Vonnie Jones made May 3 at 2022 10:53 PM

SPC Vonnie Jones — Tue, 03 May 2022 22:53:59 -0400

Well don't want to be judgemental, but that is what the military does. First thing stop drinking and get help, thank God that nobody was killed (them or you). I know alcoholism is a disease so you need help. Can't say I am sorry you were caught that probably saved a life. Your unit will probably give you a chance to get help and of course they are going to take away money (do they still give article 15) maybe take a stripe, but not throw you out on first offense. Maybe I am reading to much into this, but why would a ssg write this forum about what to expect? No matter what the outcome bottom line is put the bottle down and get on the wagon before you hurt someone or Yourself.

Response by MAJ Hugh Blanchard made May 3 at 2022 11:38 PM

MAJ Hugh Blanchard — Tue, 03 May 2022 23:38:41 -0400

Hire a good lawyer. I haven't ever had a DUI, but I have had some speeding tickets. You need a very good lawyer, NEVER try to defend yourself or get off on the cheap.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 4 at 2022 1:26 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 May 2022 01:26:23 -0400

It's honestly completely up to the higher ups. I just got a DUI as well but was saved by my ETS date. A lot of units don't play when it comes to DUIs though. Best you can do is keep your nose clean, be honest with your SUDDC, and if you honestly regret it then take your ASAP class seriously. Also if you don't have secondary identification already, you should go get a state ID for the time being. In the event that they do release you from service, you'll definitely need one. (I waited too late so now I'm rushing to get all my after ARMY paperwork in order smh). The chapter process can either be super fast or super slow depending on your unit so prepare yourself for that long wait. Good luck, and atleast with my unit as a SSG you have a higher chance of being kept in service.

Response by 1SG Ernest Stull made May 4 at 2022 7:48 AM

1SG Ernest Stull — Wed, 04 May 2022 07:48:45 -0400

Get a good Lawyer, two you knew better, Three Pray your chain of command can see past the DUI.

Response by SSG Michael D made May 5 at 2022 10:10 PM

SSG Michael D — Thu, 05 May 2022 22:10:33 -0400

Years ago the Post Commander at Fort Rucker, AL got a DUI; and nothing happened. I found out through another officer. Of course the same doesn't apply for NCOs or enlisted personnel. The backbone of the Army lose their careers in a heartbeat. Unless they are stopped by a buddy MP on base. This is the only exception.

Response by Sgt Mervyn Russell made May 6 at 2022 5:41 AM

Sgt Mervyn Russell — Fri, 06 May 2022 05:41:24 -0400

Well, I've not been in the military in over fifty years, so, If it's anything like it is out in the Civilian life, A DUI is not the end of the World but, it may be the end of your driving a automobile for a while. But in the military, don't know about what will happen? I've been reading other post concerning the outcome and it's not looking good for your career in the military. it all depends on your command structure. Hope you've learned from this experience, not only have you put yourself in danger but, all those around you. So sorry young man, I wish you well.

Response by SGM Markus Bertel made May 6 at 2022 12:35 PM

SGM Markus Bertel — Fri, 06 May 2022 12:35:14 -0400

SSG Gadson, what could happen to you is you are going to receive at minimum a field grade article 15, reduction in rank(down to SGT), your ncoer will be negatively impacted(no mention of the article 15 can be put in the ncoer) but you will have bullet comments such as "failed to exercise proper judgement" or "demonstrated poor leadership". You will more than likely have a letter of reprimand or GOMR(general officer memorandum of reprimand). Promotion to SFC will never happen and you might as well accept the fact you will be a "perma six" for the remainder of your career if you do not get qmp'd. Your records could be subject for qmp review. If you are allowed to stay in consider yourself fortunate. Take every opportunity to show you are capable of doing outstanding work!! Your decision has severely impacted your military career. Your current chain of command and peers will have a different perception about you. If you still decide to stay in the most you can hope for is completion of 20 years and you will retire.

The Army is highly competitive, it is privilege to serve, however you have to remain highly competitive for promotion, schools and whatever additional opportunities that will set you apart to be considered for retention. Your decision to drive under the influence greatly put you at a disadvantage compared to your peers. The Army made it very clear that there is a "0" defect policy regarding DUI.
SGM M.R. Bertel(ret)

Response by Sgt Ed Allen made Jun 1 at 2022 3:45 PM

Sgt Ed Allen — Wed, 01 Jun 2022 15:45:38 -0400

This sounds much like a Cpl (formerly SSgt) I met on mess duty in 1984 who was bitching and moaning because he was reduced in rank after getting caught using drugs.

My simple response was a couple of questions. And those same questions apply to you.

1. Did you know that it was illegal/wrong to do so?
2. Did you do it?

If you answered yes to those two questions, then just shut up and accept the consequences for your actions. You will lose a lot less respect if you man up and take it like a man. Your troopers were/are watching you and how you handle this.
Whine like a snowflake and you will lose all respect from your troops.
Man up and you will save some of your dignity and your troops will respect you and learn from your mistake.

Response by Cpl Rosemarie SantaAnna made Jun 13 at 2022 1:28 PM

Cpl Rosemarie SantaAnna — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 13:28:09 -0400

Hopefully cost a lot from You where take a cab/Uber makes more sense then chancing DUI (Thank God no accident or death)…

Response by SSgt Alex Jones made Jun 18 at 2022 11:52 PM

SSgt Alex Jones — Sat, 18 Jun 2022 23:52:27 -0400

Based on my experience (I know, something a 2nd Lt would say) if you were a Marine you'd still have 8 more lives to go. In all seriousness though, outside of all the natural consequences you'll face, I'd probably personally consider if you have an alcohol problem, and not just because you got caught driving while under the influence. Sometimes the Lord allows situations like this to get our attention. Solution? Stop drinking - permanently. I can't even remember the amount of Marines I worked with who definitely did have major issues with alcohol.