Got caught vaping on a Navy ship... what's next?

Military Law Discussions
1

Hey, so I got caught vaping a nicotine vape on my Navy ship. I’m an E4 with no previous issues, but my chief is sending me to DRB. Just wondering if anyone’s been through this and can share what might happen next?

2

Yikes, that’s rough. DRB is usually the first step before Mast, so just be prepared for that.

3

Lyle said:
Yikes, that’s rough. DRB is usually the first step before Mast, so just be prepared for that.

Thanks, yeah I’m expecting Mast could be next… any tips for DRB?

4

Charlie said:

Lyle said:
Yikes, that’s rough. DRB is usually the first step before Mast, so just be prepared for that.

Thanks, yeah I’m expecting Mast could be next… any tips for DRB?

Definitely! Keep it humble and take full responsibility. They don’t want excuses—they want to see you own up and learn from it.

5

I got busted for something similar. Best advice? Apologize and make it clear you’ve learned your lesson. They respect that.

6

Lennon said:
I got busted for something similar. Best advice? Apologize and make it clear you’ve learned your lesson. They respect that.

Thanks, that’s what I’ll aim for. Did they let you finish your contract?

7

@Charlie
Yeah, they did! But I made sure they knew I was committed to not screwing up again.

8

Just to clarify, what’s DRB?

9

Ash said:
Just to clarify, what’s DRB?

Oh, sorry! It stands for Disciplinary Review Board, basically a review before they decide on further action.

10

If it’s just nicotine, you might not get hit too hard. Just be upfront about wanting to complete your contract.

11

Jesse said:
If it’s just nicotine, you might not get hit too hard. Just be upfront about wanting to complete your contract.

That’s what I’m hoping! I’d really like to stay on and finish my contract without more issues.

12

@Charlie
Exactly, let them see that. They’ll probably go easier if you come across as committed.

13

Falling on your sword might actually be the best move here. They respect when sailors admit fault.

14

Sky said:
Falling on your sword might actually be the best move here. They respect when sailors admit fault.

Yeah, I plan to go in with that approach. Just gotta hope they take it into account.

15

@Charlie
Good luck! Just stay cool, and remember you’re showing them you’ve learned.