"Sex Signals" comes to Osan

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Paul Kilgallon
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  More than 1,000 Airmen from Osan AB attended the production of "Sex Signals" at the base theater here June 24 in an effort to increase awareness on the issue of sexual assault.

The Catharsis production "Sex Signals," sponsored by the 51st Fighter Wing Sexual Assault Prevention and Response office, is a workshop that blends the elements of comedy, education and participation from the audience to address the issues surrounding dating, sex and sexual assault.

"I thought the production was very entertaining and it addressed the issues of sexual assault in a very direct manner," said Tech. Sgt. Jocelyn Mosby, a Knowledge Operations manager assigned to the 303rd Intelligence Squadron. "The thing I am taking away from this production is to always be vigilant in regards to matters that seem 'iffy' on an every-day basis."

Sergeant Mosby went on to say that to be a good wingman, we need to notice the signals or signs that could make a good situation turn bad quickly and to also not to be afraid to become involved.

Through discussion and audience participation, attendees looked at issues surrounding dating and the realities of rape and sexual assault and they looked at better ways to improve communication in relationships.

"The production was really funny, but what really impressed me was how the information was presented to the audience," said Staff Sgt. Stephen A. King, a Chaplain's Assistant assigned to the 51st Fighter Wing Base Chapel. "I think this production really helped our Airmen see the ways that some signals can be misunderstood between the sexes."

Although the production uses comedy to address the seriousness of sexual assault, the 51st Fighter Wing Sexual Assault Response Coordinator hopes that Airmen who attended the production take away some key points the production is was trying to depict.

"The biggest thing I would like people to pull away from this production is to always, always ask the question 'Is this okay' in order to gain clear consent,'" said Capt. Tresa Strickland, 51 FW SARC. "Also, Team Osan members need to understand that victims are never to blame."

Captain Strickland said that sexual assault is a crime and there are things that members of Team Osan can do in order to prevent sexual assault from occurring.

"Knowing that alcohol can impair our judgment, always exercise situational awareness," she said. "Always make sure you know where you're going, who you're going with, what the environment is going to be like and always have a plan. "If you're ever in a situation where you feel uncomfortable, afraid or pressured into anything act and seek help immediately."

The 51st Fighter Wing's Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program reinforces the Air Force's commitment to eliminate sexual assaults through awareness and prevention training, education, victim advocacy, response, reporting and accountability.

For more information about Osan's Sexual Assault and Response Program or to volunteer to become a victim advocate contact Captain Tresa Strickland at 784-2832.