Fort Riley, Kan. Aca,!" Two units were recognized Nov. 14 in the kickoff of the commanding general\'s SABER Program. The SABER (Sober Armies Bravely Expedite Readiness) Awards Program was developed by Soldiers to reduce alcohol and drug-related incidents by having units comply with Army regulations and standards, which include random urinalysis, substance abuse training and no alcohol or drug blotter incidents in the quarter of the award.
Units that meet the quarterly standards are recognized in a ceremony with the presentation of a streamer for the company guidon. Twice each year, quarterly winners will compete for the ultimate prize - the cavalry sword, and other awards. Company B, 101st Forward Support Battalion, was recognized for meeting the SABER Award guidelines in the fourth quarter, Fiscal Year 2008. In addition, the unit has gone three years without a DUI. Company C, 101st FSB, also was recognized for meeting the SABER Award guidelines in the fourth quarter, FY 08, and for going six and a half years without a DUI.
"These two units you see up here today are representative of organizations that have instilled in their organization what right looks like in regard to action, behavior and discipline," said Brig. Gen. Perry Wiggins, commanding general, 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley. Wiggins said a unit that maintained the strong team attitude and high standards necessary to go several years without a DUI was a success to be commended. "Six and a half years without a DUI. That doesn't happen by accident," Wiggins said. "That happens because the organization gets the unit and they buy ownership. When a new person comes in that organization, there is expectation management. They tell those individuals that 'we strive for a higher standard. We expect you to be a part of this team. We expect you not to embarrass us; we expect you to drive on in the same manner of excellence.'"
During the ceremony, Command Sgt. Maj. Jim Champagne, division command sergeant major, told Soldiers in the two companies they would be authorized to wear the red Big Red One patch on a daily basis in and around Fort Riley. "Until the streamer is taken away from you, you are authorized to wear it," Champagne said. "That's our way to recognize you."
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