April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

RAF MILDENHALL, England -- During April, RAF Mildenhall will participate in Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This annual event provides the base population with an opportunity to increase knowledge and promote prevention of the crime of sexual assault through special events and public education.

This year's theme for SAAM is "Stand Up Against Sexual Assault ... Make a Difference," which encompasses an attitude toward prevention of the violent crime, reminding everyone that each of us - military and civilian leaders, peers and subordinates, all wingmen - can make differences through his or her actions.

Lack of action exacerbates the crime. Department of Defense policies address sexual assault prevention, seeking to establish a climate of confidence in which:

 an environment is created where sexual assault and the attitudes that promote it are not tolerated,
 victims of sexual assault receive the care and support that they need and,
 offenders are held accountable for their actions.

Take an active stance in learning more about sexual assault and its prevention by participating in the base's SAAM events this April. Your efforts could have a long-term effect on one of your fellow service members. Prevention is the key. Make a difference.