Team Sheppard supports SAPR through color run

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kyle Gese
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Each year, April is dedicated to the prevention of sexual violence and advocates on behalf of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response office to eliminate these behaviors.

In conjunction with April's events, the SAPR office here held a 5k color run on Saturday, April 18, 2015, to inspire people to make smart decisions.

The Air Force takes sexual assault very seriously and continues to put programs in place in an effort to reduce and attempt to eliminate misconduct. The color run was one effort that aimed to empower Airmen and their families to do their part in creating a more positive environment.

"It's an opportunity to have some fun, but it also addresses a very serious topic," said Tony Wyatt, 82nd Training Wing Sexual Assault Response Coordinator, about the run. "The big picture goal is to recognize that all people play a part in sexual assault prevention and response."

Wyatt discussed the importance of building good relations with the community to build an atmosphere of dignity and respect. He said by bringing the community together to have fun this would help to decrease the probability of people mistreating each other.

Former President Lyndon Johnson once said, "There are no problems we cannot solve together, and very few that we can solve by ourselves."

Bringing the community together creates an environment where people can make a difference as a team, building upon the values the Air Force teaches Airmen from day one in basic training.

Not only did the run focus on the prevention of sexual assault, but also focused on reducing child abuse. April is also dedicated as the month of the military child, which honors the sacrifices and unique contributions children have towards their military parents.

"It is a collaborative effort between our organizations that focus on bringing the right support and care to our people during a time of need, not just a time of crisis," said Katherine Johnson, SAPR victim advocate. "No one person can combat sexual assault on their own. It takes every one of us to work together as a team in order to reduce and potentially eliminate sexual assault."

SAPR is an ongoing Air Force- wide initiative which continues to educate Airmen about the dangers of unhealthy relationships.

Everyone is encouraged to contact the SAPR office with any questions, concerns or reports regarding sexual assaults. They can be contacted using the following hotline: 940-676-7272.