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U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel on Thursday announced four directives to further strengthen the department's prevention and response program against sexual assault crimes in the country's military sector.
"Eradicating sexual assault from our ranks is not only essential to the long-term health and readiness of the force; it is also about honoring our highest commitments to protect our fellow soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines," Hagel said in a statement.
Preliminary survey data indicate that our efforts are driving progress, Hagel said.
According to the defense chief, service members in U.S. military experienced fewer sexual assaults in fiscal year 2014 than in fiscal year 2012, an estimated 19,000, down from 26,000. Although this is a reduction, there is clearly more work to be done.
In addition, the number of service member victims choosing to report these crimes has increased by more than 50 percent over the same period of time. This indicates an increased confidence in the department's ability to support victims, and adjudicate these crimes.
While signs of progress are encouraging, the mission is far from complete, Hagel said, adding that the four directives he announced in the statement are aimed to further improve the department's sexual assault prevention and response programs.
The directives include creating a pilot program for select installations that will customize prevention efforts, requiring commanders to identify and prevent retaliation, training first- line supervisors to lead sexual assault and prevention programs, and further publicizing resources for victims.
"DOD will continue its strong and committed efforts to pursue comprehensive and dynamic approaches to fighting sexual assault in the military. President Obama and all of the DOD (Department of Defense) leaders, both military and civilian, are committed to doing whatever it takes to stamp out this scourge," Hagel said. Enditem
