VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response office will host a "Kick the Silence" kickball tournament April 23 at the base softball fields at 3 p.m. as part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month here at Vance.

The four teams competing in the tournament are Rising 4, Focus 5/6, Company Grade Officers' Council and Leadership. The teams are all still open to more players and the tournament has been declared an alternate duty location to allow as many people as possible to attend.

"We hope to help create awareness of the Sexual Assault Program in a fun, non-threatening environment," said Savannah Lohn, the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program assistant. "By attending or participating in this event, we are supporting all who have kept silent about their victimization and hopefully if there is a victim out there, our show of support may give them the extra courage to come forward, take power back, and report the assault." The program's victim advocates will be on hand to answer any questions.

Families are encouraged to come out and cheer on the teams. In addition to the tournament there will be a home-run-dash around the bases with prizes for children and there will be a "Pie in the Face" fundraiser for the organizations sponsoring teams.

Contact the following people to be added to team rosters:
Rising 4: Senior Airman Samantha McCurtain, 213-5189
Focus 5/6: Tech. Sgt. Bonnie Hargrave, 213-6033
CGOC: 1st Lt. Theresa Philpot, 213-7548
Leadership: Chief Master Sgt. M. Kenui Balutski, 213-7343

Active duty military members have the option of restricted reporting where their reports will remain completely confidential. The member can report to the Sexual Assault Response coordinator, medical personnel or the chaplain and an investigation will not take place, nor will their chain of command be notified.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response office, 213-5598, or after hours contact 541-7095.