Sexual Assault Awareness featured in month’s activities

  • Published
  • By Jill Fuson
  • 48 Fighter Wing Public Affairs
A luncheon was held April 19 to culminate RAF Lakenheath's observance of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

"Stand up against sexual assault - Make a difference," was the 2007 DoD SAAM theme. The theme focused on the ability of every service member, especially leaders, to prevent sexual assault by building a climate of respect in which sexual assault is not tolerated, said Maj. Caryn Kirkpatrick, 48th Fighter Wing sexual assault response coordinator.

Emphasis was put on creating a supportive, confident environment where victims feel comfortable reporting crime and taking a stance against assailants, she added.

The luncheon featured guest speaker Heather Harvey from Amnesty International in the United Kingdom. Ms. Harvey has more than 15 years experience working in public and voluntary sectors in the UK and abroad. Ms. Harvey spoke to RAFs Lakenheath and Mildenhall team members commending the military on their efforts in bringing the important issue to the forefront. "I am very pleased with such a large turnout. The American Air Force does an exceptional job in training their personnel on sexual assault awareness," said Ms. Harvey.

Several SAAM events were held in April. "We did a joint 5K run with RAF Mildenhall, sponsored a tree at the BX where people could pin teal colored ribbons in support and remembrance of sexual assault victims, hosted Friday Flicks at 48th Avenue showing films focusing on sexual assault, and of course, coordinated the luncheon with over 200 guests," said Major Kirkpatrick.

Sexual assault awareness continues year-round with on-going programs and training emphasizing prevention. "We have training four times a week in an interactive group setting with no more than 50 personnel. We also brief at Newcomer's Orientation, First Term Airmen's Center, pre-deployment lines and upon return from deployment," said Major Kirkpatrick.

The SARC office is located in the Liberty Center, Bldg. 977, on the ground floor, room G-07. The SARC hotline is available 24/7 for sexual assault victims at 226-SARC. If the hotline is not answered within three rings it will forward to command post who will reach the SARC contact. Victims can also call the Law Enforcement desk and ask to be connected to the SARC without divulging any information. Security Forces, Office of Special Investigations, the hospital, chaplain, Life Skills or the chain of command are also contacts for unrestricted reporting.

For more information, contact the SARC offices at RAF Lakenheath, 226-SARC, or RAF Mildenhall at 238-SARC.