MacDill legal office celebrates Law Month

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Erin A. Kenny
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Judge Advocate
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  President Eisenhower established Law Day in 1958 as "a day of national dedication to the principles of government under law." Each Law Day, MacDill Legal office celebrates their commitment to the role of law in the foundation of the country, to recognize its importance for society, and to upholding the fundamental principles enshrined in our founding documents. While May 1 is the official day Law Day is celebrated, the MacDill base legal office has a tradition of planning Law Day events throughout the month of May.

This year's theme is "The Legacy of John Adams, from Boston to Guantanamo." John Adams, an ardent patriot, represented British Officers charged with killing civilians in the Boston Massacre. He exemplifies the need to adhere to the rule of law and defense of the rights of accused, even if the accused is an unpopular client. A more modern example of this principle is lawyers defending terrorist detainees at Guantanamo Bay. This year the base legal office celebrated "Law Month" by sharing their enthusiasm for the law and fair representation for all with local students.

Attorneys and paralegals from the legal office visited Tinker Elementary School, Monroe Middle School, and Robinson High School. They used their time to help the children better understand what lawyers and paralegals do. Additionally, they discussed some of the fundamental rights listed in the "Bill of Rights," and why these rights are important to everyone. Lastly, they talked in more depth about why it's important for everyone to be represented in court, and the importance of the Law Day theme.

In addition to discussing important rights and legal principles with students, the law office also hosted Judge James Baker, an appointed judge for the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces. Judge Baker shared his wisdom and knowledge with the legal office, ranging from the daily life of a CAAF Judge to what he considers important legal issues facing appellate courts today. On June 2 the legal office will also host a briefing at the base theater on human trafficking.

The base legal office is proud to help servicemembers and their family members with legal matters and is grateful for the opportunity to educate children and cultivate respect in our nation's heritage in a safe, free, and just society.