DOD plans to spend $13.2 million this year for programs aimed at preventing alcohol abuse, smoking and obesity. "We're not saying you should or should not have a beer or a glass of wine," said William Winkenwerder Jr., assistant secretary of defense for health affairs. "What we're here to do is educate them on the dangers of excess alcohol consumption." Winkenwerder said reducing binge drinking could yield immediate benefits, such as fewer drunk-driving accidents and injuries.

Winkenwerder said that programs need to target young soldiers, sailors, and aviators. "Many young people recognize alcohol can represent a danger to their health, but they just don't appreciate how much and how many are injured in alcohol-related accidents," he said. "When you're young, you think you're invincible."

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