Security Forces Squadron holds National Night Out event Published Aug. 3, 2007 By Steven Eftink 22nd Security Forces Squadron MCCONNEL L AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- On Aug. 7, citizens, law enforcement agencies, businesses and local officials in more than 11,000 communities in 50 states will join in partnership to mark the 24th annual National Night Out. This one night of the year when more than 35 million people are expected to come together and stand united against crime. This national event was initiated by National Association of Town Watch executive director Matt Peskin, whose intent was to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness. The goal of National Night Out is to support local anti-crime programs through community involvement with law enforcement. This interaction strengthens neighborhood spirit and community partnerships. The result is a clear message that the community is organized and willing to fight back against criminal activity. The NATW has been dedicated to the development, growth and maintenance of prevention programs against organized crime and drugs. This network has grown to include over 6,500 crime, drug and violence prevention organizations. National Night Out, 'America's Night Out Against Crime,' was introduced by the association in 1984. That year, 400 communities and 2.5 million Americans in 23 states participated in National Night Out. In 2006, the number of active participants of Annual National Night Out involved 35.2 million people in 11,125 communities from all 50 states. McConnell has been participating in National Night Out for nearly seven years. In 2006, there were more than 500 adults and children from Team McConnell who attend this single event. Each community demonstrates unique ways of promoting the war against crime. Some may sponsor block parties, cookouts, parades, visits from police, and neighborhood walks. McConnell has chosen a more festival-type approach. On the night of Aug. 7 starting at 5 p.m., located at Southwind housing area baseball fields, the 22nd Security Forces Squadron (in association with other bases' services) would like to welcome McConnell families to join the base's 7th National Night Out against Crime festival. There will be games, inflatable slides, Child-ID Fingerprinting booth, military working dog and weapons demonstrations, and a civilian police department's vehicle display. This year, the SFS has coupled efforts with the 22nd Services Squadron to promote the 2007 Air Mobility Command Match-Up game. Games cards will be given to all who attend with the chance of winning more prizes. By enrolling and registering those game pieces, Team McConnell can raise their community's chances of winning $20,000 in prize money. Plan on coming out and supporting your community in the war against crime.