25th Flying Training Squadron marks 600 days DUI-free Published Nov. 28, 2006 By Frank McIntyre Public Affairs Vance Air Force Base, Okla. -- Good planning and common sense do help in eliminating alcohol related incidents. The 25th Flying Training Squadron has proof -- March 24 marked 600 days without a driving under the influence episode. "The biggest part of our success comes from the realization of who we are and what's expected of us," Lt. Col. Leonard Litton, 25th FTS commander said. "As pilots we accepted a higher calling as protectors of the American citizens. It's a profession, not a job. We're expected to do things the right way and do them responsibly 24/7, anything inconsistent with who we are is not acceptable to those we serve." During the 600 day period, the 25th, as a training squadron, had a constant turnover of students that contributed to keeping the streak intact. During that period the squadron graduated 169 students in 24 classes. "The squadron leadership has continually shown by example, and as part of our training, that being irresponsible and endangering the public we protect is counterintuitive to what we are as professionals in arms," said 2nd Lt. Brian Benton, Class 05-04 and recent graduate. "The day in and day out examples shown within the squadron are as much a part of our professional growth as the flying training we received." Colonel Litton credited incorporating plans for designated drivers and use of a wingman into all squadron activities for helping avoid poor decision making after social activities. He said squadron members have also taken advantage of alternatives, such as the Safe Ride Home Cards, provided to Team Vance by various base organizations to get home safely. "The bottom line is to have a plan and use common sense before you start drinking to prevent needless injuries to each other and more importantly, to the Americans we signed up to defend," Colonel Litton said.