The City of Oak Harbor and Naval Air Station Whidbey Island personnel held another record-breaking National Night Out-America’s Night Out Against Crime at City Beach Park on Aug. 2.

The yearly event focuses public awareness on the proactive and reactive measures performed by local, state and federal authorities in the fight against crime and drugs.

This was the 22nd year for the national event. It is sponsored locally by Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce and co-sponsored by NAS Whidbey Island’s Security/Police Precinct and many local businesses.

This national event involves over 10,000 communities from all 50 states,

U.S. territories, Canadian cities and U.S. military bases around the world.

Some communities have block parties or parades. In Oak Harbor each year, the public is invited to celebrate with free fun and entertainment for the whole family.

National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime efforts; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

Residents are urged to meet with neighbors and friends so they can show a united effort against crime.

This is a time to celebrate the Team Whidbey partnership and introduce new people to crime prevention programs.

The event ran from noon to 8 p.m. The parade began at 3 p.m., with emergency lights and sirens operated by the Island County Public Safety Team, local/federal law enforcement police units and emergency medical and fire personnel.

Displays and events included a dunk tank, rock climbing wall, Naval Criminal Investigative Service crime prevention booths, fatal vision golf cart rides and live music.

The Fraternal Order of Police, North Cascades Lodge No. 18 generously provided a Bounce House for the kids.

Taking part were Oak Harbor Police Department, Washington State Patrol, NAS Whidbey Security Police Precinct, NAS Whidbey Island Fire, Naval Hospital Oak Harbor, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 17, Marine Aviation Training Support Group 53, NAS Morale, Welfare and Recreation, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, the base Sexual Assault Victim

Intervention Program (SAVI), NAS Whidbey Chapel, NAS Whidbey Recycle Center, Navy Recruiting Command, Army Recruiters, NAS Whidbey’ branch of Columbia College and others.

Volunteers from NAS Whidbey assisted with the set up, running and clean up of the event.

“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who volunteered their time in facilitating the event, as well as coming out to participate,” said MACS Bryon Carver of NAS Security. “Everyone made this year’s National Night Out a huge success!”

Remember, the best crime prevention tool is a great neighbor.