Sailors assigned to Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic (COMSUBLANT) participated in the Teal Ribbon five kilometer race on Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads, April 30.

The race, sponsored by the base Morale, Welfare and Recreation department, was one of multiple events held during the month of April to help raise awareness for Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR).

"Sexual assault and reporting has proven to be an issue throughout the military and the civilian communities," said Master Chief Sonar Technician (Submarines) Charles Abrams, COMSUBLANT command master chief. "It was important to show our support and fight back for those who may have been victims or potentially prevent victims from happening."

Despite the rainy weather, more than 700 hundred runners participated to show their support. Many of them wore teal ribbons and SAPR t-shirts.

Chief Hospital Corpsman Retroyreo Conner, COMSUBLANT's independent duty corpsman, said although SAPR awareness is highlighted during the month of April, it is important to keep the topic in the forefront of our minds all throughout the year.

"With the increased emphasis on bystander intervention, we have learned the tools necessary not to be afraid to intervene at any level and that it can happen at any time," said Conner. "April sparks increased awareness because it is the month's theme, but we should continue that road by making sure our Sailors are constantly interacting with each other and remembering the importance of bystander intervention. We should always be on guard to protect our Sailors and ourselves at any time and any place."

Abrams said the Teal Ribbon race was a fun way to combine fitness with bringing awareness to an important issue.

"The race was a good opportunity to maximize Sailors' time and effort while supporting a good cause," Abrams said. "It showed we all can get out there and put our lives on hold sometimes for a greater good."

Volunteers cheered for runners and handed out medals as participants crossed the finish line. The event concluded with food, music and SAPR information booths set up in the base Morale, Welfare and Recreation building.

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