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Comedian brings serious message to Scott Airmen

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Maria Bowman
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  As part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, stand-up comedian Bernie McGrenahan talked with 800 Airmen from the 375th Air Mobility Wing during his "Happy Hour" comedy tour April 11 at the base auditorium.

During his show, he addressed important issues that are a concern in the military, including alcohol, drug, suicide and sexual assault prevention.

Pamela Dorsey, 375th AMW sexual assault response coordinator, said that McGrenahan does a great job at talking about these sensitive issues with the Airmen.

"I have a great appreciation for how Bernie brings the message," she said. "He uses the laughter to gain the confidence and trust of an audience who are predominately 18 to 26 years old."

To break the ice, McGrenahan started off his show with a 30-minute comedy routine. Then he transitioned to how drinking affected his life and caused a downward spiral, leading to DUIs and six months in jail. He talked about how he dealt with his younger brother's suicide, and how drinking affected his relationships with his family.

McGrenahan said he didn't want to just speak about sexual assault prevention, but also talk about DUI and suicide prevention.

He said, "Alcohol leads to all these issues. During 90 percent of sexual assaults, the perpetrator consumed alcohol. Sixty-five percent of victims had consumed alcohol themselves. Much of this can be avoided if they monitor their liquor and behavior and be aware of their fellow Airmen."

McGrenahan added that it's important to have a good Wingman to look out for you.

"We're not out there alone," McGrenahan said. "I want friends to be proactive friends. Instead of endorsing lewd behavior or crude comments, pull the friend aside and tell him that you don't approve of the inappropriate behavior. Have the team concept of action and protection. Awareness empowers us to make a difference in someone's life by using our eyes and ears to possibly stop a sexual assault, DUI or suicide."

He helped Airmen identify warning signs of alcohol and drug dependency, while encouraging them to seek help from chaplains and mental health professionals. He talked about the importance of talking to the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator or her victim advocates, in the event of a sexual assault.

Dorsey said, "He asked the hard questions and you could tell the audience was engaged. He made them think about the choices they have made, or are making concerning alcohol, relationships and sex. He also helped them to understand that suicide can happen to those closest to us. He encouraged us to be better Wingmen and make better choices."

Airman 1st Class Shawn Deroy, 375th Logistics Readiness Squadron vehicle maintainer, said this show was inspiring.

"I like how he imparted his life into the message in a way that was relatable and enjoyable," the 20-year old said. "I love comedy and was really looking forward to seeing him."

McGrenahan, who has been alcohol and drug-free for 24 years, has never served in the military, but understands what sacrifices military members make.

"I want all the servicemembers and civilians who attended today to know how grateful I am for their service," McGrenahan said. "I do not take my freedom for granted. I have an amazing life today, not only because of the personal change I made regarding excessive alcohol consumption, but also because the military members sacrifice so much to provide the rest of the country the freedom to be who we are."