Before the Senate, Graham uncovered systemic errors in Air Force drug testing

 WASHINGTON — Before entering politics, Lindsey Graham earned national recognition for uncovering systemic failures in the Air Force's drug-testing program at Brooks Air Force Base in San Antonio, an investigation that helped exonerate service members who had been wrongfully dismissed after false positive drug tests.

While serving as an Air Force attorney, Graham discovered problems with the military's drug-testing procedures, including the mishandling of urine samples that led to inaccurate test results. His investigation exposed flaws in the program and helped clear the names of airmen who had not used illegal drugs.

The investigation drew national attention and became the subject of a 1984 report on 60 Minutes. Graham also received the Air Force Commendation Medal for his role in uncovering the problems and protecting the due process rights of service members.

Military leaders praised Graham's work, saying his investigation prompted scrutiny from top Department of Defense and Air Force officials and led to significant improvements in the drug-testing program.

Graham went on to serve on active duty from 1982 to 1988, including four years in Germany, before joining the South Carolina Air National Guard and later the U.S. Air Force Reserves. During congressional recesses, he continued serving in uniform, completing reserve duty in Iraq and Afghanistan and advising military leaders on rule-of-law issues.