Ellsworth hosts inaugural Sexual Assault Prevention Combat Challenge

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Zachary Hada
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Airmen across Ellsworth participated in the base's first Sexual Assault Prevention Combat Challenge April 24, in the Pride Hangar as part of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month.

Twelve teams of four people vied for the fastest time completing obstacles ranging from sled pulls to burpees and finishing with a lap around the Pride Hangar while taking time to reflect on the critical issue of sexual assault.

The event, hosted and coordinated by the 28th Bomb Wing Sexual Assault Prevention and Response office and the base Health and Wellness Center, consisted of participants completing various obstacles as a team.

Lee Sasse, 28th BW sexual assault response coordinator, said events like these are important because they provide an avenue for people to show their support in preventing sexual assault.

"Everyone on base is encouraged to spend time reflecting on those who have been affected by sexual assault and raise awareness of this crime," said Sasse. "There are men and women out there who have been sexually assaulted and the isolation they feel can be overwhelming. It's important to get the military community talking about sexual assault and learn how to prevent it."

Brandon Powers, HAWC exercise physiologist, helped coordinate the event and served as one of the judges during the combat challenge.

"The event went really well," said Powers. "We had a good amount of volunteers and people show up. Teams were great and the crowd showed a lot of support."

Powers added that being in the military environment, physical fitness is vital, and the event was a good way to show support while incorporating physical fitness into everyone's lives.

"Events like this are important because it helps to bring people together and build teamwork, camaraderie and the wingman concept that the Air Force is well known for," said Powers.

To report sexual assault, call the SAPR Office at (605) 385-5233, or the 24/7 reporting line at (605) 385-SARC (7272).