Happy Hour comes to Incirlik Jan.18

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Marissa Tucker
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  Those looking for a few laughs and a positive message are in for a treat, as Incirlik will host the free Happy Hour Comedy Tour from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Jan. 18, at the Consolidated Club Complex.

Bernie McGrenahan is scheduled to bring his two-part program to Incirlik to not only entertain, but more importantly, educate Airmen on the dangers of high risk behavior such as binge drinking and drug abuse. Through comedy, McGrenahan hopes to encourage Airmen to make smarter decisions and be wingmen to each other on and off duty.

"I love comedy, and I love making people laugh," said McGrenahan, a 24-year comedy veteran. "I want to entertain and leave a message also about making better choices. I've been doing this strictly for the military for a while, and now it's a training and prevention program intended to reduce alcohol-related incidents and sexual assaults in the service."

The theme of the show ties into the "Every Airman a Sensor" initiative from Gen. Phillip Breedlove, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa commander. Empowering Airmen to intervene or seek help in a potentialy dangerous situation is the focus of the campaign and also a theme McGrenahan seeks to deliver to service members.

"I know alcohol. It can be fun, enhances the evening, but in excess, it can bring destruction," the edu-tainer said from first-hand experience, which he shares during Happy Hour.

Years ago, McGrenahan struggled with alcohol and drug abuse and was finally able to break his addiction by seeking help - something he strongly encourages all service members to do when struggling with any issue.

"I'm here to promote awareness of the resources available. The chaplain, victim advocates, mental health - these people are not the enemy," he said. "They're here to help."

Through the Happy Hour program, McGrenahan seeks reach Airmen on a personal level through humor and by sharing his life story as a cautionary tale and an example of how seeking help to resolve issues can help one change their life for the better. Service members military-wide are benefiting from this program and contact the performer after each show to let him know his impact on their lives.

All Airmen and family members are encouraged to attend the free event. Contact the Consolidated Club at DSN 676-6101 for more information.