Sheppard seeks to end domestic violence

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Candy Miller
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  During Domestic Violence Awareness month Sheppard wants to make sure everyone contributes to taking abuse out of the community. 

Brig. Gen. O.G. Mannon, 82nd Training Wing commander, signed a proclamation Oct. 2 to declare that Sheppard "will support October 2009 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month... to display our commitment to the health, wellness and safety of our community and our families." 

The general said he recognizes that this is an issue that needs attention and "we cannot sweep this under the rug." 

He said it's especially important for Airmen to use a tool that civilians don't have - wingmanship. 

"We have a sacred trust with the people," General Mannon said. He said family members are also a part of the military and servicemembers have to look out for them too. 

Tricia Kennedy, Sheppard's domestic violence victim advocate, said abuse occurs in Wichita Falls, Texas and Sheppard and reaching out to help is important. 

"Everyone can do something," she said "whether it's calling the police, being a person to talk to, or giving out the Family Advocacy number. Don't just sit by and be quiet." 

Maj. Darren Rhoton, the 383rd Training Squadron director of operations, said it is disturbing that domestic violence is an issue. 

"It's important that we don't turn away, but face it head on," he said before describing domestic violence as an infection in society. "A lot of times an infection won't go away if you ignore it." 

During a breakfast to promote awareness of domestic violence Oct. 2, Ms. Kennedy played public service announcement videos about abuse to "open eyes to domestic violence." 

Major Rhoton said the videos were intense and created a desire to be proactive and "aware of warning signs for early intervention." 

Ms. Kennedy said that was the reaction she was hoping for. 
 
"Now people are talking about different types of abuse and different ways to respond," she said. 

For more information on domestic violence and how you can help prevent it, contact Family Advocacy at 676-2271, 676-3014, or contact the hotline at 882-5449.