Army combats sexual assault through awareness

Published April 22, 2007
By Pfc. Gretchen N. Goodrich
35th Air Defense Artillery

OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Soldiers from the 35th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, ran four miles around the base here April 13 in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

Since the beginning of April, units throughout Area III have been putting together activities to spread knowledge about the issue. However, this was the first time the soldiers from the 35th ADA HHB unit ran together to bring attention to the issue of sexual assault.

"We've never done the run before," said Spc. John K. Ganey, an information systems analyst with 35th ADA HHB. "It was very motivating."

Despite the cold, all the soldiers completed the run dressed in their red unit T-shirts and carrying the battalion guideon out in front of the pack.

Following the run, U.S. Army Garrison Honshu sexual assault response coordinator, Jocelynn Ryes-LaShier, presented information on the different types of sexual assault, the victims and ways to get help.

"Sexual assault is a very serious issue," said Ms. Ryes-LaShier. "All of us have a responsibility to stop and prevent sexual assault from happening."

A petition was signed by all the soldiers to enforce their decision to prevent sexual assault. Other information through pamphlets and brochures were also available for the taking.

Soldiers left with more knowledge on the issue of sexual assault and harassment.

"Even friends can do it," said Pfc. Ohl, Deun Kim, a Korean augmentee to the U.S. Army working in signal support with 35th ADA HHB. "We discussed how terrible it is and how serious it is."

Other units from Area III have also played a part in bringing attention to the cause. Camp Humphreys held a night vigil at the beginning of the month and handed out cards with information on them, and another unit held a spaghetti dinner along with a run.

"We all need to stand up against sexual assault and make a difference," said Ms. Ryes-LaShier.

She will also be teaching a class at Camp Humphreys on April 24 called "May I kiss you - did you ask me?"

In order to eliminate sexual assault and harassment from the military, the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response policy was issued by the Department of Defense in February 2006. The new policy instituted new investigation procedures and revised policy regulations. Part of the policy changes include using training, education and awareness to teach all servicemembers about the issue.

Every unit conducts required sexual assault awareness training annually and has SARCs and Unit Victim Advocates at every installation to help instill the new policy.

"The Army wants everyone to know that we are here for you," said Ms. Ryes-LaShier.

With the aid of such programs and activities for soldiers to attend, the victims will be aware of what is available to them.