Stand Up Against Sexual Assault...Make a Difference

Published April 10, 2007
By Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program
100th Air Refueling Wing

RAF MILDENHALL, England -- Despite all the education and awareness efforts, sexual assault and rape remain the most underreported violent crimes in America today. The Air Force strives to ensure that all Airmen are aware that sexual-assault crimes are not tolerated. To combat sexual assault, the Air Force has, along with the entire Department of Defense, implemented the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program, which promotes a zero tolerance policy that reinforces a culture of prevention, response and accountability. The goal of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office here at RAF Mildenhall is to ensure the safety, dignity and well-being of all Team Mildenhall Airmen through training and education programs, treatment and support of victims.

Since 2005, changes in reporting options available to Airmen have helped to nurture the seeds of confident reporting climate. One of the policies implemented in 2005 was the restricted-reporting option, which enables victims to come forward without triggering the investigative process, yet still receive the care that they deserve. Sixty-five percent of the increase in sexual-assault reports across the DoD, involving members of all services, can be attributed to the restricted-reporting option that began in June 2005. This alternate reporting option, coupled with enhanced awareness of sexual assault and on-going training, has encouraged more victims to take a stand against their assailant.

This is your challenge beginning now during RAF Mildenhall's Sexual Assault Awareness Month 2007 - Stand Up Against Sexual Assault...Make a Difference