Team Seymour joins with Goldsboro community to fight domestic violence

  • Published
  • By ch. Sgt. Tammie Moore
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  The entire Seymour Johnson community, whether young or old, active-duty or civilian, bald or a furry, four-legged companion, are invited to join the war against domestic violence Sept. 25 at Stoney Creek Park.

The event revolves around the 2nd Annual Wife Appreciation Run, which includes a one-mile walk, a 5k run and a high-heel race. Registration for the event begins at 7:30 a.m., with the first race starting promptly at 8:30 a.m.

"I often refer to domestic violence as an 'equal opportunity crime' and anyone in our community can be affected by it," said Jerome Ellis, Family Advocacy officer. "This is opportunity for you to take a stand and raise awareness of this senseless crime. No one deserves to be abused."

The races will take place rain or shine. Pre-registration for the 5k cost $20 or $25 the day of the race. The one-mile cost is $15 regardless of registration date. All event proceeds will benefit the Wayne County's Domestic Violence Program - Wayne Uplift.

"Team Seymour is pleased to partner with Wayne County and the Goldsboro Community to help raise awareness for this widespread and often ignored problem," said Col. Leslie Claravall, 4th Medical Group commander. "We must all work together to take a stand against domestic violence."

According to the American College of Emergency Physicians, domestic abuse is the single largest cause of injury to women between the ages of 15 and 44 in the U.S.; more than muggings, car accidents and rapes combined. Domestic Abuse Awareness Month may only last during October, but the staff at the Family Advocacy Office wants to ensure all base personnel and their families are conscious of domestic violence issues year round.

"Our mission in family advocacy is the prevention of domestic and child abuse through education programs and reaching out to families before the abuse occurs," Mr. Ellis said. "Our focus is mission readiness and making sure our Airmen are 'fit to fight.' We do this by providing services to families that assist them with the ongoing challenges associated with mission and family. We want our community to be a model of what we would consider peaceful homes."

To download a registration form, visit http://images.radcity.net/5136/4423708.pdf. For more information about domestic violence awareness, call Family Advocacy at 722-1978.