Operation Pumpkin Patrol requests volunteers for fun, safe Halloween

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Stacy Sanchez
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  To ensure all trick-or-treaters have an enjoyable Halloween, the 48th Security Forces Squadron is seeking volunteers for Operation Pumpkin Patrol Oct. 31 from 6 to 8 p.m. 

Operation Pumpkin Patrol is a volunteer program that gives those who are not trick-or-treating an opportunity to assure the safety of parents and children who are participating this year. 

"Pumpkin patrol is our way of telling the public that security is always a concern," said Master Sgt. Jackie Cruse, 48th Security Forces Squadron operation support NCOIC. "Even though the world is made up by law abiding people, there are still a few who choose to take advantage of an event such as Halloween." 

Patrols will be located in housing areas such as the Anglo housing, Liberty Village housing, Thetford Housing, Newmarket Housing, RAF Feltwell Housing and RAF Ely Housing. 

"Unlike other bases, housing areas here are not only on the base, but outside in the local community," said Staff Sgt. Alberto Castillo, 48th Security Forces Squadron operation staff support. "We just want to do our best to watch out for our children, both on- and off-base." 

To be a pumpkin patrol volunteer, requirements are that active-duty military members be in uniform and civilians in civilian attire. All volunteers must also have some sort of reflective gear and a flash light. 

"The volunteer's job will be to walk around the housing area and watch the safety of the children." Sergeant Castillo said. "The local constabulary, who will also be in the housing areas patrolling, know about the volunteers and are thrilled about the extra support." 

Although British police and volunteers will be in the local areas patrolling, security forces still asks that parents supervise children when walking through the neighborhoods. They also ask that parents who walk with their child not be in any sort of costume or wear any kind of face paint as identification cards will be required at entry points such as the Anglo housing area. If parents off-base should notice any suspicious activity, security forces says that parents should call 999.

For more information about Operation Pumpkin Patrol or to volunteer, call the security forces operation section at 226-4423 or 226-3824.