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Scott hosts Maybin Cyber Security Awareness Relay

  • Published
  • 375th Communications Group
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Team Scott highlighted National Cyber Security Awareness Month by hosting the 3rd Annual Maybin Cyber Security Awareness Relay race Oct. 16. 

The event raised awareness about the importance of cyber security as well as memorializing Tech. Sgt. Michael Maybin Jr., who passed away unexpectedly in February 2012. Maybin was formerly assigned to the 375th Communications Support Squadron. 

Each six-member team raced 6.5 miles around Scott passing a "cyber" baton with a reminder that cyber security is a shared responsibility.  This year 16 teams participated from organizations across the base.

Col. Kyle Kremer, 375th Air Mobility Wing Commander, opened the relay ceremony by reminding members that October is National Cyber Security Awareness month.  The month is dedicated to the "Stop, Think, Connect" campaign which is aimed at increasing online safety and responsible use of social media as it directly relates to force protection.  The campaign emphasizes simple measures people can take to be safer and more secure online. 

Finishing in first place with a time of 40 minutes 40 seconds was "The Defenders" from 375th Security Forces Squadron.  At their heels and finishing only 4 seconds behind "The Defenders" was the 375th Communications Squadron's  "Comm ... Get Some" team.  And, rounding out the top three finishers was the "Lightning Within 5," 15th Operational Weather Squadron's team with a time of 41:10.

In his closing remarks, Col. Mike Cote, 375th Communications Group Commander, thanked all who participated and supported the relay.  Although cyber security is emphasized in October, cyber awareness is a year-long effort to protect both personal and government information from compromise. 

In addition to the Maybin Relay, Team Scott emphasized October's National Cyber Security Awareness Month through several briefings and events stressing the importance of being vigilant about cyber threats whether at work or home.

The internet is a shared resource and securing it is a shared responsibility.  Cyber security is the mechanism that maximizes our ability to communicate and be connected to the world.  It is important for everyone to take security and safety precautions when online.  The use of social networking and other internet-based sites present unique security concerns.  Anyone can be exploited via social networking/internet-based sites not controlled by the Department of Defense; it is everyone's responsibility to protect vital information.  Unprotected information may result in increased security and force protection risks to units, individual service members and family dependents.  Understanding the consequences of your actions will enhance the benefits you receive from using the internet.  Everyone must join in and do their part to protect valuable information from criminals that look for opportunities to exploit our fellow wingmen and family members.  Remember, "Stop, Think, Connect."

For more information on cyber awareness visit www.stopthinkconnect.org, or www.staysafeonline.org/ncsam.