This workshop is designed to allow commands to learn the latest prevention strategies to help their Sailors avoid making decisions that are detrimental to their careers while at the same time ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all.

The resources provided at the workshop extended far beyond traditional training on topics such as alcohol abuse and sexual assault prevention and response. This workshop is structured in a way to give commanders and their commands the tools necessary to tailor training to their unique command environments.

Beyond commander level training, this workshop focused on first line leaders, Sailors in paygrades E5 to O4, giving them the tools to lead by example from the deckplates and stop destructive behaviors before they escalate.

"Listen to your guys, talk to them, teach them about responsible drinking and sexual assault," said Operations Specialist 1st Class Sapphire Bell, assigned to USS George Washington (CVN 73). "Getting to know your Sailors is how you become an effective leader."

The two day workshop, which had multiple break out groups focusing on different leadership and command roles, concluded with an E1 to O10 all hands call in which Sailors were invited to listen to a comedy sketch performed by Bernie McGrenahan.

"I'm here to break the stigma that asking for help is a sign of weakness," said McGranahan, who used his presentation as a chance to relay his personal experiences with alcoholism and his brother's suicide.

The U.S. Fleet Forces Workshop to Counter Destructive Decisions is an annual workshop designed to meet the Chief of Naval Operations and U.S. Fleet Forces Command requirements in the execution of fleet and command prevention strategies.


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