"You just ruined your career" Published Aug. 10, 2007 By Tailwind Staff 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- How far are you willing to go to end your career? If you were asked to name a violent crime that put's innocent lives in danger, what would be the first thing that came to your mind? Armed robbery of a convenient store? Stealing a vehicle at gunpoint? Selling drugs? You are probably thinking that there is no way a disciplined military member would be associated with these types of crimes. But, what about getting behind the wheel of your vehicle after having a couple of drinks with your friends? Some may think this crime doesn't fit into the same category as the crimes above, but it does. Some may think that it is simply a bad choice. It's not only a bad choice; it's a felony crime that has the potential to take someone else's life, as well as your own. It's like a 3,000 pound weapon looking for the next innocent victim. Like the violent crimes that were mentioned earlier, driving your vehicle under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs will slam the brakes on your dignified career. Are you the best of the best among your peers? Are you in top physical condition? Were you recently selected for promotion? If you get convicted of a DUI, none of things will matter anymore. Since January, 20 Team Travis members have been arrested for DUI, seven of those in the July alone. In Solano County in 2005, there were a total of 15 people killed in DUI-related accidents, 311 injured and 1,750 DUI arrests made in Solano County, which includes Travis, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety. So how far will you go to ruin your career? Ten reasons to avoid driving after consuming alcohol: 10. Drunk driving is a crime. The blood alcohol content limit is .08, if you are 21 or older. You shouldn't have BAC if you're under 21. 9. There are better ways to spend up to $8,000 than on fines, court costs and legal fees. 8. Loss of driving privileges for a minimum of one year. 7. Jail time and community service. 6. You will have to tell your family, spouse, partner and friends - if you live to tell about it. 5. You will have to meet with your wing commander face-to-face. DUI is a military and civilian career killer. 4. Then there's your insurance agent you will need to talk to. 3. You will enter into a very long-term relationship; DUI is on your driving record for life. 2. A Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device to start your car will add several minutes to your commute - and probably never catch on as a trendy automobile accessory... and 1. There is an alcohol-related injury every two minutes and an alcohol related death every 32 minutes. If you drink and drive, you might be a minute away. Five alternatives to drinking and driving: 1. Don't drink 2. Have a designated driver 3. Call Airmen Against Drunk Driving (424-0013) 4. Call a cab 5. Call your first sergeant, supervisor or commander Crime does pay ... -- Fines/Penalties for DUI .... $1,500 -- Tow/Impound Fee ...... $300 -- Average Insurance Increase ..... $2,700 a year -- Lawyer fees .... $2,000 -- DUI classes.... $500 -- DMV re-issue fee .... $100 -- Total .... $7,100 -- Saving a life, and your career, by not drinking and driving ... Priceless