Cub scouts visit military working dogs Published Oct. 6, 2014 By Rebecca Amber Staff writer EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Local Cub scouts got an introduction to military law enforcement during a base tour Sept. 27 with a stop at the Military Working Dog compound. Over 90 children and adults were in the pack as the MWD handlers demonstrated how the dogs pursue a suspect and how they search for illegal substances and explosives. "I think the most dramatic thing is watching the dog chase after the guy in the big bite suit; they take down their subject," said Staff Sgt. Jason Hoffman, 412th Security Forces Squadron Police Services, NCOIC. The cub scouts were given workbooks with various activities that describe what a police officer looks like, what they do and how to interact with them. It also talks about strangers in the neighborhood, encouraging the scouts not to approach them or to call the police if they feel they are in danger. The highlight of the event was a special visit from McGruff the Crime Dog. "We talked a little bit about law enforcement and security forces, who we are - kind of the police of the military. We talked to the kids about general community awareness," said Hoffman. "With the participation of the parents, we try to educate the kids that a police officer is not a stranger; we don't fall in that category. We're a good guy and we're here to help and assist you. Children need to feel free to approach a law enforcement officer on the street if they need help." According to Hoffman, security forces presents a variety of community awareness topics such as neighborhood watch or anti-bullying. This includes teaching home security strategies and encouraging parents to make plans for tasks like walking home from the school bus. "Part of community policing is about making people proactive in their own communities." For more information about Police Services call 661-277-6901.