Gustavo BahenaTokgnar and Tungsten Davis, both ages 5, walk in their Halloween costumes with dad, Maj. Randy Davis, and mom, Kaye. Dad serves with United States Medical Department Activity here.
Soldiers, leadership and Fort Irwin families held purple, paper lanterns during a walk to show support for Domestic Violence Awareness month here, Oct. 1.
The nation and the Army observes the campaign during October and this year’s theme was “Relationships Should be Safe, Respectful and Positive.”
The Lantern Walk was sponsored by the Family Advocacy Program, whose tasks include preventing violence through educational programs and helping victims cope, should domestic violence occur. Building strong, violence-free families is the goal of FAP.
Fort Irwin United States Army Garrison Commander Col. Jon Braga explained to the participants that the topic was a serious one and that it affects Fort Irwin as well.
“We’re asking everybody to be proactive, whether it’s substance abuse, suicide prevention or domestic violence,” Braga said. “It’s about being proactive, caring about your neighbor, caring about your loved ones and presenting a safe, positive and respectful atmosphere in whatever relationship you’re in.”
Families dressed children in Halloween outfits and at the conclusion of the procession, Braga announced a costume contest. Prizes were presented to winners of: cutest, scariest, funniest and best overall.