Reports of Sexual Assault Increased in 2008

  • Published
  • By Capt. Marissa Carlton
  • 354th Fighter Wing Sexual Assault Response Coordinator
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Department of Defense recently released its annual report on sexual assault in the military services. Reports have increased approximately eight percent overall amongst the military services, with a notable 25 percent increase in reports for Iraq and Afghanistan.

This data is important; however, when taking into consideration that sexual assault is known to be one the most highly unreported crimes, it can leave people wondering what does that data really mean. Nationally, it's believed that only about 20 percent of all sexual assaults are reported. The military services have no reason to necessarily believe that reporting rates amongst military members are any higher. So, the question that is left is has the rate of sexual assault increased or just the rate of reporting?

There's no way to really know. This explains the two-prong approach of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response program. First, and foremost, for assaults that do occur, victims have reporting options and a support network in place. The hope is that the increase in reports last year is a result of the SAPR program--specifically, that victims can trust this program and the many dedicated Victim Advocates and Sexual Assault Response Coordinators, who are vital to the program's success. Secondly, it engages other persons... like bystanders and wingmen. It reminds them that they have the power and the duty to prevent things like sexual assault from occurring in the first place.

April is nationally recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month and along with this month comes a goal to raise the public's awareness of this crime and how it can be prevented. DoD's theme "Our Strength is for Defending" is appropriate, especially given today's circumstances.

Locally, at Eielson, several awareness projects and events have been planned for April.

- A survivor's tribute quilt will be made. Materials and patterns will be supplied. More information will be available next week. If you're interested in contributing to this project, please contact the SARC office.

- The annual "Clothesline Project" will run the entire month. All personnel are encouraged to decorate a T-shirt to express their feelings regarding sexual violence. Supplies are available and anonymous entries will be accepted. Clotheslines will be displayed in the Commissary hallway and at the fitness center track to serve as a visual statement of support to all survivors of sexual assault, including those who suffer in silence.

- A clothing drive will be held to benefit the Interior Alaska Center for Non-Violent Living. Drop boxes will be located at several locations around base to include the Chapel, commissary hallway, fitness center, and SARC office.

For more information on SAAM activities or for information regarding Eielson's SAPR program, contact the Eielson SARC office at 377-7208 or the 24-hour hotline at 377-SARC (7272)

(See calendar of events in the Polar Press for a complete listing of events and projects.)