Knights Unite: “Protecting Our People Protects Our Mission” Published May 9, 2017 By By Lorinda Pirrie PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. — -- April was recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month across the country by both civilian and military communities. This year’s DoD theme is “Protecting Our People Protects Our Mission”. This statement offers numerous opportunities that are relatable at both the individual and unit level. “Protecting Our People…” Each one of us has a role in ensuring the men and women around us can live and work in an environment free from the threat of sexual assault. By adhering to our core values and understanding how to recognize opportunities for intervention, we can eliminate inappropriate behaviors that may lead to sexual assault. “…Protects Our Mission.” Not only does a sexual assault have a devastating impact on an individual, it can severely impact a unit’s readiness to perform its mission. We protect our mission by ensuring everyone within the Peterson AFB community is committed to promoting an environment where sexist behaviors, sexual harassment, hazing, bullying, and sexual assault are not tolerated, condoned, or ignored. To kick off the month, Dr. Jackson Katz, an internationally renowned speaker for his pioneering scholarship and activism on issues of gender, race and violence came to Peterson AFB to speak. He has long been a major figure and thought leader in the growing global movement of men working to promote gender equality and prevent gender violence. He provided valuable training at the Summit Center for members of the violence prevention community. Additionally, to show support for sexual assault survivors, the SAPR staff hosted its inaugural Walk-A-Lap event at the Fitness Center track. The goal to complete 6,083 -laps to represent the number of sexual assault reports made in Fiscal Year 2015- was surpassed by the community with a total of 6,190 laps! Finally, to close the month-long campaign, a Dodgeball tournament culminating SAAPM events took place April 28th with a fierce competition between several teams. The championship bracket saw 21st Space Wing Medical Group Mental Health team and Detachment 6 of Army Space and Missile Defense Command competing with Detachment 6 coming away with the tournament win. Be on the lookout next April for the second annual Walk-A-Lap and Dodgeball tournament. SAAPM takes place every April, but we must remain vigilant every day of the year. Let’s join CMSAF Kaleth O. Wright when he stated, “I have your back in this fight and I’m asking you to have mine…not just in April”.#NotJustApril