LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- This April, Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, the Department of Defense observes the importance of protecting their own through the theme, “Protecting our people protects the mission.”
The men and women Laughlin embody this concept by creating an environment where all members are treated with dignity and respect.
“We at Team XL want people to feel safe and protected while on the installation,” said Master Sgt. Timothy Donelson, 47th Operations Group first sergeant. “What I love about being a first sergeant is having open dialogue conversations with personnel around the wing to ensure we are staying the course.”
Like others, Donelson views Laughlin Airmen as more than simply coworkers and strives for their trust by being there for them in their time of need.
“I look at the Airmen at Team XL as an extension of my family,” Donelson said. “Much like my family, I want to make sure they are safe at all times.”
In the eyes of Donelson, extinguishing sexual assault comes down to treating everyone with respect and with dignity. As sexual assault is still a risk, he also believes in the importance of wingmanship--having a trusted friend to watch one another’s back.
The goal amongst leadership military-wide is to reduce and eliminate sexual assault. The DoD is ensuring its members remain informed on what sexual assault is, training on what warning signs may be and how to better protect family, friends and coworkers.
“The intent is to get people talking about a hard topic to understand everyone has the power to help someone else,” Donelson said. “The military wants people to know all the great resources out there and to show members they are not alone.”
U.S. Air Force leadership prioritizes the safety of its members, and they provide training and a mentality of service-before-self to reduce the threat of sexual assault. Laughlin on the other hand, is called to stand as a protector of its own community. Leadership who cares will not tolerate an environment in which any are preyed upon, and friends and coworkers are challenged to speak up when they believe something is not right.
Restricted Reporting
Applies to:
Active Duty Military
Spouses and adult dependents (18+) of Active Duty Military
Air Force civilian Employees (appropriated/non-appropriated)
Note:
Reports can only be made to your SARC, SAPR VA, On Call VVA, or your healthcare provider (PCM).
SARC/SAPR VA/Volunteer Victim Advocate; have “privileged” communication.
Command is NOT notified
NO investigation is initiated
Victims can receive medical care, counseling, and supportive services if they wish.
Victims can speak with a Special Victim Council (SVC)
Victims are eligible to use the CATCH program.
Unrestricted Reporting
Applies to:
Active Duty Military
Spouses and adult dependents (18+) of Active Duty Military
Air Force civilian Employees (appropriated/non-appropriated)
Retired Members
Note:
Reports are made through normal reporting channels, to include chain of command, law enforcement, Air Force Office of Special Investigation, or other criminal investigative services.
SARC/SAPR VA/Volunteer Victim Advocate; have “privileged” communication.
Command is notified (need to know).
An investigation IS initiated.
Victims can receive medical care, counseling, and supportive services.
Victims can speak with a Special Victim Council (SVC)
Victims are eligible for an expedited transfer.
References:
The Laughlin Sexual Assault Response and Prevention office can be found in the Laughlin Clinic in room 117. The SAPR team here reinforces the Air Force’s commitment to eliminate incidents of sexual assault through awareness and prevention training, education, victim advocacy, response, and reporting.
Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Advocate: SAPR 24/7 HOTLINE: 830-298-7272
Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC): 830-298-4545
(830) 298-4513
The DoD Safe Helpline is available through 877-995-5247, and it is anonymous, confidential and secure.
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is available through 800-656-4673 and is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization.