Leadership, moral courage will prevent sexual violence

Courtesy Photo | Dr. David Lisak, a forensic consultant from Placitas, N. M., listens to a question from a Marine during a sexual violence prevention seminar at the base theater aboard Camp Lejeune, N. C., Sept. 23, 2014. Programs to address sexual assault include bystander-training programs like the seminar, uniformed victim advocates at every unit, and confidential reporting methods. The Marine Corps is seeking to ensure every service member knows what help is available and that every Marine is ready to intervene on another’s behalf. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alex W. Mitchell/ released)  

CAMP LEJEUNE, NC, UNITED STATES

09.23.2014

Courtesy Story

II Marine Expeditionary Force   

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – Education in the prevention of sexual violence has increased in the Marine Corps, as leaders across all ranks seek to remove it from the force. Marines are expected to adhere to the institutional core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment, which make it the duty of all Marines to be on the lookout for and prevent sexual violence.

Marines and sailors with II Marine Expeditionary Force attended an educational seminar at the base theater, Sept. 23, 2014. The seminar focused on the effects of sexual assault on its victims and preventing sexual assault from happening.

“Leaders are expected to take a stance and change the behavior of others. That’s what leaders do,” said Maj. Gen. William D. Beydler, the commanding general of II MEF.

Prevention instructions focus heavily on warning signs for informed observers. Pressuring a person to drink beyond tolerance levels and isolating someone from their peer group are two indicators the Marines learned to look for. By recognizing the threat at the start, Marines and sailors can increase prevention and bystander intervention.

“Sexual violence is a planetary problem,” said Dr. David Lisak, a forensic consultant from Placitas, New Mexico. “Most sexual assaults involve planning and pre-meditation. Individuals may be able to witness a predator that has been watching or overly harassing a person who could be their next victim.”

Programs to address sexual assault include bystander-training programs like this seminar, uniformed victim advocates at every unit, and confidential reporting methods. The Marine Corps is seeking to ensure every service member knows what help is available and that every Marine is ready to intervene on another’s behalf.

“Join us in taking a stand,” said Beydler. “We can end this problem and improve leadership.”

Individuals who would like more information on prevention of sexual violence or reporting procedures can speak to their unit’s uniformed victim advocate, or call Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune’s, Sexual Assault Hotline at (910)-750-5852.

• Date Taken: 09.23.2014
• Date Posted: 09.30.2014 16:06
• Story ID: 143816
• Location: CAMP LEJEUNE, NC, US