Domestic violence is an epidemic in our country and Hill AFB is not immune. There are more than 300 reports every year at Hill AFB.
In order to increase awareness and encourage prevention, Hill’s Family Advocacy Program sponsored a Strike-Out Domestic Violence Softball Tournament at the Hill Air Force Base Warrior Fitness softball fields earlier this month.
Col. Ronald Jolly, 75th Air Base Wing commander, was in attendance and threw out the first pitch for the tournament. He also threw a “strike” with the statement, “It starts with respect: Live by the core values to keep your relationship healthy and strong.”
It’s no secret, domestic violence is a crime and will only end when everyone understands their role in stopping it.
October marks the nation’s 28th Annual National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
During his remarks to tournament-goers, Jolly said the event provided an opportunity to look back and acknowledge the victims who have suffered and lost their lives at the hands of those who were supposed to love, support and protect them.
He said commanders and leaders at every level must establish a climate that supports all Airmen in keeping relationships healthy and strong, and asked for a personal commitment from every Airman, at every level in our military, to be steadfast participants in creating that culture of respect.
“The Department of Defense does not tolerate, condone, or ignore domestic violence,” Jolly said.
We must live our core values each and every day throughout the year by intervening when appropriate, reporting crimes, and supporting the victims of violence. When everyone takes a stand we move the DOD closer to a culture free of domestic violence.”
Event organizers said the Strike-Out Domestic Violence Softball Tournament was a huge success with more than 250 supporters. Ten teams played 18 games for more than 12 hours. The “Knights” from the 372nd Recruiting Group won the tournament trophy. The “COPS” from the 75th Security Forces Squadron took 2nd place.
The Second Annual Strike-Out Domestic Violence Softball Tournament is planned for Oct. 1, 2016.
