ADC provides defense for Airmen

Published Jan. 31, 2014
By Senior Airman Phillip Houk
460th Space Wing Public Affairs

BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- People generally attempt to keep out of trouble, but eventually people make mistakes and receive some sort of reprimand. When that happens, the Area Defense Council is available to advise and defend.

The ADC's office is an office on Buckley that provides Airmen with legal defense or council.

"We are here to provide support for the member and to provide a balance between what is presented against the member and the member's side of the story," said Capt. Rachel Lyons, ADC representative. "I am here to provide perspective and a balanced opinion to help the commander or whoever is deciding the outcome of the action determine how to handle it."

Not all Airmen may be aware of the benefit of consulting the ADC for a variety of disciplinary or corrective actions. Not seeking council is a common mistake many Airmen make.

"This can range from an LOC, Article 15, discharge or court martial," said Lyons. "We are here to advise on how to respond to those actions."

To avoid conflicts of interest between the ADC and the unit under which an Airman falls, the ADC reports to a different command in Washington. This allows the ADC to provide the best defense possible.

The Buckley ADC is available for all active-duty Air Force members assigned to Front Range bases and beyond.

"We assist Airmen with any disciplinary action they may receive," said Staff Sgt. Keisha Bogard, ADC defense paralegal. "This is important because we have our own justice system, and Airman are afforded the right to a defense."

When Airmen receive a notice of investigation or concerning paperwork, they are encouraged to contact the ADC as soon as possible.

"If an Airman is not sure whether or not the ADC can help," Lyons said, "They are welcome to come in and talk to us."

Make an appointment and we will advise you on how to get back on the right track, Bogard added.

The ADC is a vital part of the Air Force disciplinary system, allowing Airmen to receive free consultation from a non-biased advisor. For further information about the ADC, visit the website or call the Buckley ADC at 720-847-6967.

ADC provides defense for Airman