the problem is serious enough, such as an incident that could be a violation of the UCMJ, inform your supervisor even if the situation requires confidentiality. Then ensure the problem gets to the proper level within the chain of command for proper action. Apply common sense in the handling of any problem, whether your own problem or a subordinate’s problem. You can then reach a proper solution that is best for all concerned. SUMMARY In this chapter we discussed some of the Navy’s programs in support of equal opportunity and drug and alcohol abuse prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. The thousands of hours and millions of dollars invested in the pursuit of equal opportunity over the past decade reflect the Navy’s total commitment to equal opportunity (EO). During that time, the Navy has focused firmly on the principle that individual achievement should be limited only by ability and aspiration. New Navy programs make EO a more integral part of leadership and management. Command managed equal opportunity focuses on the prevention of discriminatory incidents before they occur. Commands assess themselves as often as needed to problem-solve and to develop their own plans of action to correct any deficiencies.  Commanding  officers  have  the responsibility to ensure their commands take the initiative to make equal opportunity a reality for all naval personnel. As a senior petty officer, you have the responsibility to maintain good order and discipline. Therefore, you must know the possible punishments for discriminatory practices. Since you will complete and file investigative report chits, you must also know the rights of the accused. The history of drug abuse proves that it has a destructive effect on society. However, some people defend the use of drugs, even if they have decided not to try drugs themselves. They say people have a “right” to use drugs if they wish, regardless of the law. Others look the other way, saying it is none of their business. Some are afraid to say anything about it at all. What about the older generation that warns about drugs but then uses alcohol? Those people may wish the y had never started using alcohol and want to save the younger generation from the pain and anguish they have experienced. Over 800,000 die annually from heart disease and strokes, nearly one-fourth of which are caused by alcohol. Over 50,000 die each year in automobile accidents, over half of which are caused by drunk driving. Why build up similar statistics on drugs too? Why not be smarter and seek to have along, healthy life? How can anyone defend marijuana by saying it is no worse than alcohol? Alcohol is now the nation’s number one drug problem. Why develop another drug problem that is equally as bad as alcoholism? One argument in favor of drugs is that hallucinogens “expand the mind.”  Actually they produce illusions and distortions. They cause the senses to distort reality so that mental work becomes more difficult-or even impossible. Why not face reality so that problems can be solved? Some have said that stimulants increase your mental abilities-more alert for tests, more zip for athletics, and so forth. Actually, they draw on the body’s reserve energy. Using stimulants too much will exhaust your mind and body. Why not find your capabilities by natural means? That way, what you do will really be your own accomplishment. Some have said that depressants slow the world down and make problems smaller. Actually, they slow the abuser down, not the world. They dull the abuser’s senses and make the abuser less effective-less able to respond to normal demands and emergencies. Isn’t it silly to think that by not caring, you will either solve problems or make them go away? Many people say that trying “just once” never hurt anyone. That is not so. The law makes few exceptions for the first error. Most addicts started by trying “just once.” Why should you think you are smarter or luckier than those other poor souls who got hooked? Is drug use in your command none of your business? How can that be so when it involves criminals and criminal acts and affects the security, safety, and good health of you and your shipmates? Are you concerned that your life may be endangered by some drunk or doped-up person the next time you drive your car on the street? The Constitution does not give lawbreakers the right to deprive law-abiding citizens of their health and happiness. Remember this too-the consequences of drug abuse may greatly affect your career in the Navy. Under military law, drug abuse is “conduct prejudicial to good order and discipline.”    Abusers will be disciplined at Captain’s mast or tried by courts-martial. Such cases 3-22