Incirlik recognizes Child Abuse Prevention Month Published April 10, 2015 By Staff Sgt. Caleb Pierce 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- According to the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, it's estimated that 679,000 children were victims of child abuse and out of that number, 1,484 children died as a result in fiscal year 2013. In 1983, April was first declared Child Abuse Prevention Month as part of an educational platform, and in an attempt to highlight the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse across the globe. The 39th Medical Operations Squadron Family Advocacy Program and the Air Force's Family Advocacy Program are focused on building healthy communities through implementing year-round programs designed for the prevention and treatment of child and partner abuse. During the month of April, family advocacy's goal is to raise community awareness of CAPM and highlight the Department of Defense and civilian resources available to build healthy families and prevent abuse. According to Evans, gaining knowledge and education for preventing child abuse is a responsibility of every member on base regardless of status or position. "Every member of our community is responsible for prevention and intervention," said Evans. "We all have the responsibility to intervene and improve the emotional and physical well-being of our children." Additionally, knowing what child abuse is, what the signs are, and how to report it can be beneficial to helping deter child abuse. Reporting possible child abuse is mandated by Air Force Instruction. Child abuse can be classified in four categories: physical, emotional, neglect and sexual. According to Evans, the most common type seen at Incirlik is neglect. "It is important to be aware of the signs of abuse, if there is a suspicion it needs to be reported," said Evans. "It is also important for parents and caregivers to know what is considered child abuse as to avoid engaging in abusive patterns of behaviors." All active duty members and DOD employees are mandated reporters. However, anyone living on Incirlik can report maltreatment through the 39 Medical Group, their chain of command, base defense operations center, family advocacy or the National Abuse Hotline. Evans also explained that people can help prevent child abuse by speaking up and encouraging parents through modeling positive parenting and offering support. "We protect our nation ... we have a responsibility to protect our children," Evans said. In support of preventing child abuse, family advocacy has flyers and brochures at various locations throughout the base and is also scheduled to participate in Incirlik's annual Spring Fling with information and children activities. For more information about child abuse prevention or to get involved, contact the Incirlik Family Advocacy Program at 676-8721.