Child identification program returns to Keesler Aug. 22. Published Aug. 17, 2009 By Susan Griggs 81st Training Wing Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Keesler is gearing up for another Mississippi Child Identification Program, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 22 at the youth center Since 2004, the Freemasons have sponsored free CHIP events to raise public awareness concerning the risk of abduction or exploitation faced by children in today's society. CHIP provides a small computer disk for the parents or guardians of a child that includes full-color photographs of the child in several poses, a complete set of digital fingerprints and identifying characteristics of the child, such as hair and eye color, and family contact information. A tooth print dental impression wafer is made which gives important identification information, such as a DNA sample and a unique saliva scent which can be used by tracking dogs to find missing children. The program also provides a laminated identification card with the child's photograph and information. "The last time we held this event, we processed 222 children," said Master Sgt. Jessica Woodruff, airman and family readiness center family readiness program coordinator. "Due to the large turnout, though, many families had to wait a few hours to get processed and some families were unable to process because we had to cut it off to be able to handle the ones we already had. "This year we're changing a few things to ensure families have an opportunity to participate and to alleviate the waiting time," Sergeant Woodruff explained. "To do this, we'll be taking sign-ups for specific time slots instead of having families just show up. "We have 11 workstations this year so 10 families will go every 20 minutes," she continued. "The extra workstation is so we can start on the next increment on time. This way, the most wait time is about 30 minutes. This will also ensure that we won't have to turn anyone away." To sign up for a specific time slot, call 376-8508 or email jessica.woodruff@us.af.mil.