This Squadron's most precious assets are our Marines, Sailors, and their families. To ensure their safety, it is imperative that we do the right thing on and off duty. Substance abuse is not only harmful to individuals, but violates trust, attacks unit cohesion, and tarnishes the hard work and effort that is put forth every day by our Marines and Sailors. In order to promote the safety and well-being of the members of this command and to be honorable representatives of our country while living here in Okinawa, the following is prohibited:

• Driving while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any other substance that impairs judgment or reaction time
• Consuming alcohol under the age of 20
• Possessing, distributing, manufacturing, or purchasing illegal drugs, synthetic drugs, and prescription drugs without an active prescription
• Consuming or inhaling any illegal substance, or legal substance not meant for ingestion, with the intent of becoming intoxicated

Marines and Sailors at all levels will report when, and if, these actions occur. If a Marine or Sailor is of legal age and chooses to drink alcohol, they will conduct themselves responsibly and professionally. When it comes to drinking responsibly, I cannot understate the importance of having a plan and sticking to that plan. If you exercise poor judgement and deviate from your plan, you may bring discredit to yourself, your fellow Marines and Sailors and the Marine Corps. Substance abuse can lead to administrative separation.

If you believe you may have a problem with drinking or substance abuse, contact the Marine Air Support Squadron 2 Substance Abuse Control Officer (SACO) at DSN 636-3143 to obtain information and resources to help you. Your attempt to seek help will not be viewed negatively.

This is an all hands effort and I need the help of every Marine and Sailor to ensure that we do not allow the abuse of alcohol, drugs, or any other substance in our ranks.