Base observes Domestic Violence Awareness Month Published Oct. 23, 2014 By Senior Airman Joshua Eikren 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Domestic violence is a national problem that affects more than 4 million people a year, with almost 17,000 of them murdered by an intimate partner and an estimated 2,000 children dying at the hands of a caregiver. Scott Air Force Base, along with the rest of the Department of Defense, is observing National Domestic Violence Awareness Month for October by educating the military community about resources and programs to help in preventing or stopping domestic violence. "Each year, Domestic Violence Prevention Month brings an awareness of the need to prevent all forms of domestic abuse," said William White, 375th Medical Operations Squadron Family Advocacy Outreach Manager. "Domestic violence prevention campaigns alert members of the military community to the risk factors and potential dangers of domestic violence, while providing renewed awareness and updated education." The FBI reports that people are more likely to be assaulted in their own homes by someone they know and trust than on the street by a stranger. Typically, the injuries are more devastating. But domestic violence isn't always physical, officials emphasized. It can be more subtle: emotional, psychological or economic. Regardless of its form, it hurts individuals, ruins families and weakens communities. Family Advocacy and the 375th Medical Group are sharing information and hosting events through October, which include display tables and Silent Witness figures in the hospital, Scott Credit Union and the Family Housing Office. A lunch and learn called "Creating Allies" is today at the Chapel to help bring awareness of the need to prevent all forms of domestic abuse. "We invite all Airmen and their families to refresh their relationship skills, and learn improved ways to successfully resolve the inevitable conflicts that occur in intimate relationships," said White. "Resilient families are the foundation for Air Force Mission readiness." For more information on Domestic Violence Prevention Month or the events, call 256-7203.