5th BW kicks off 'Ride-along' program

Published May 27, 2010
By Tech. Sgt. Thomas Dow
5th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Col. Douglas A. Cox, 5th Bomb Wing commander, and Maj. Kyle Smet, 5th BW executive officer, took the lead and participated in a new program called the Minot AFB & Minot Police Department Supervisor 'Ride-Along' Program on the evening of May 21.

"Ride-Along" means to be an official passenger in a patrol vehicle, accompanying a police officer during part of a normal tour of duty, specifically during the statistically high DUI time-periods of 10:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. The program is a perfect opportunity to enhance the partnership between Minot AFB and law enforcement.

"It was an eye-opening chance to see firsthand the issues that Minot PD works through during a Friday night shift," said Colonel Cox. "Leaders can gain a real understanding of the environment our young Airmen are in on their off duty time; for the most part a safe environment, but definitely one with opportunities to get in trouble whenever folks fail to use good judgment."

According to the Minot PD, the goal is for the Ride-Along guest to gain insight into some of the duties of the downtown police officers, as well as a familiarity of some of the locations of most concern in regards to our drinking population. The program hopes to foster a better understanding of the challenges, hazards and rewards of the police officer's role in the community and promotes a partnership between the community and law enforcement.

"It was a great experience, I'd recommend it to all of our Minot AFB leadership," said the colonel. "The officers took the opportunity to bring us up to speed on local issues and concerns, while displaying tremendous professionalism on every call."

The program also gives the Minot PD a chance to educate the supervisors on what is done during evening shifts in regards to apprehension and arrest of individuals suspected of driving under the influence of excess alcohol. By participating in the program, base leadership may garner ideas and tactics to combat DUIs and alcohol related incidents.

So how does one sign up for a "Ride-Along"? They must complete and sign an application form maintained by the 5th Mission Support Group deputy commander.

There are specific requirements for being considered for Minot AFB Supervisor Ride-Along Program. The individual must be either a 5th BW or a 91st Missile Wing supervisor with current security screening. Also, they must not have participated in a "Ride-Along" for the past 90 days (to allow fair share), exceptions may be made by 5th BW commander and/or the 91st MW commander. The individual must also sign a waiver form before participating.

"Special thanks to Sergeant Paul Burns, my lead officer for the ride-along," said Colonel Cox. "He was a terrific example of community service and law enforcement expertise."