Big E Begins Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions Program

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Gregory White, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs

USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- Service members aboard aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) formed a Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD) committee aboard the ship July 10.

CSADD is a peer-to-peer mentoring program geared toward assisting Sailors in making positive decisions in all areas of their lives.

The program was originally created for those in ROTC, JROTC and similar programs. However, it quickly spread throughout the Navy and is now a resource for all Sailors.

Enterprise Command Master Chief Dwayne E. Huff, initiated the organization of the program aboard the carrier after attending a number of captain's masts which he felt could have been prevented if the Sailors involved were better informed before making the decisions that landed them in trouble.

"I believe that if Sailors have a program like CSADD and the mentorship that it offers, we will all benefit from it," said Huff. "I've been involved in the program at previous commands and I've seen how successful it can be when it is utilized correctly."

The purpose of the program is peer mentorship. The goals of its members are to get a group of Sailors who, through networking and discussion, can create ways to inform and inspire others to make better decisions, and to equip all hands with the tools they need to make those decisions.

"Once fully organized and established, we will meet weekly to put together ideas to help with the message we're driving to our Sailors," wrote Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Kyle T. Gregory, a member of CSADD, in an e-mail to the other members of the coalition.

The coalition has different topics they want to focus on every month in an effort to raise awareness about these issues. Topics range from addressing problems such as sexual assault to everyday issues such as car buying.

"Once or twice a month we will give training to the command via posters, skits, departmental training, etc.," wrote Gregory.

"With a program like CSADD in place Sailors have an option to ask questions and gain perspective before making decisions that could affect them in an unexpected manner," said Huff. "If we get the volunteers needed to get involved and get this program off of the ground, and if we gain interest from Sailors in utilizing the tools we offer, then the program can be a real success here."

Huff said that he believes CSADD will help Sailors make informed decisions, build trust and develop healthier relationships. It may not totally alleviate certain problems but it will definitely help.

CSADD recently held its first meeting and plan to meet at least once per month throughout the rest of deployment.