FORT BRAGG, N.C. — Throughout April, Fort Bragg is highlighting Alcohol Awareness Month, a campaign dedicated to increasing awareness, educating the community and promoting responsible decision-making around alcohol use. Led by the Army Substance Abuse Program, this initiative aligns with the Army’s mission to build a strong, resilient force ready to tackle any challenge.
“Alcohol Awareness Month is one of our core campaigns to increase community awareness and deglamorize alcohol use,” Alysia Arauco, ASAP Prevention Coordinator, said. “It supports a ready and resilient community that understands the potential risks of alcohol misuse and is equipped to make healthy choices.”
Soldiers, leaders and military families all play a vital role in promoting alcohol awareness. According to ASAP, setting a positive example and encouraging responsible behavior is crucial in maintaining Army values and discipline.
“We all have a part to play in the fight against alcohol misuse,” Arauco said. “Leaders especially have a responsibility to model responsible decision-making and to deglamorize alcohol use.”
However, addressing alcohol prevention in a military community presents unique challenges, including busy training schedules and a culture where alcohol consumption is often normalized. ASAP works to overcome these obstacles by integrating training into unit activities and offering alternative, healthy social options.
“We sometimes have to get creative with how we provide trainings to accommodate the high operational tempo,” Arauco explained. “We also acknowledge the role alcohol plays in military culture while promoting healthier alternatives and resources.”
Each year, Fort Bragg hosts engaging events to reinforce the message of Alcohol Awareness Month. One of the most memorable initiatives in recent years was bringing the Breath Alcohol Testing Mobile Unit to the installation.
“Hosting the BAT Mobile last year was an impactful moment,” Katelin Rosas, ASAP Prevention Coordinator, said. “It gave Soldiers and families a hands-on experience to learn about low-risk drinking strategies and the consequences of drinking and driving. The feedback was very positive, and it helped us connect with the community.”
This year’s events include:
- Low-Risk Drinking & Stress Management Strategies Workshop: Learn about alcohol misuse, standard drink sizes, low-risk drinking guidelines and healthy stress management techniques.
- Mocktail Party at the USO: A fun, alcohol-free social event promoting healthy lifestyle choices.
- Screening of “28 Days” and Q&A: A film showing in the Soldier Support Center basement, followed by a discussion. Popcorn, water, and mocktails will be provided, and participating units will receive ASAP training credit.
Rosas emphasized the importance of making events accessible and engaging to encourage participation.
“We strategically host our events in central locations on post and advertise widely to ensure maximum community participation,” she said. “For Soldiers, the fact that these events count as annual training credit also helps encourage attendance.”
Alcohol Awareness Month is just one part of Fort Bragg’s ongoing efforts to support Soldiers and families in making informed choices about alcohol use. ASAP provides continuous education, workshops and training programs throughout the year.
“We teach Prime for Life twice a month, which is a two-day course helping individuals make low-risk decisions regarding alcohol,” Rosas said. “We also offer year-round training, participate in safety stand-downs and support Unit Deterrence Leaders with resources to ensure information is always accessible.”
ASAP’s ultimate goal is to foster long-term behavioral change within the Fort Bragg community. By equipping Soldiers, families and civilians with the knowledge and tools to make informed choices, they aim to reduce alcohol-related incidents and promote a culture of responsibility.
“Our key message is that alcohol misuse is a significant public health concern that can lead to health problems, accidents and social issues,” Arauco said. “One standard drink contains 0.6 fluid ounces of pure alcohol, and the CDC recommends no more than two standard drinks per day for men and one for women.”
As Fort Bragg continues its Alcohol Awareness Month efforts, ASAP encourages everyone to take part in the conversation, attend events and seek resources when needed.
If you have questions or need help, visit ASAP at the Soldier Support Center.
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