Eliminate Sexual Assault: Know Your Part. Do Your Part

By Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, Army Europe Commanding GeneralApril 21, 2015

Commanding General SHARP Column
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The prevention of sexual assault is critical to maintaining an effective fighting force. We must live the Army core values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage. These values are our code of conduct. I expect all Army Europe personnel to live by this code on and off duty.

Leadership is essential to eliminating sexual harassment and assault - strong leadership is at the heart of everything we do. No program - not SHARP, not EO, not suicide prevention - can lead your formation. We don't have formations of programs; we have formations of Soldiers whose leadership and accountability create the discipline we're ultimately cultivating.

Army Europe is currently observing the 11th annual Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month with the theme, "Eliminate Sexual Assault: Know Your Part. Do Your Part" with the overall goal to reduce, with the aim toward eliminating, sexual harassment and assault within the Army Europe family, not just this month -- but every month.

Units conducted activities for Ready and Resilient Day April 15-17, which included training, education and activities which promote awareness about sexual assault and prevention.

Commanders, leaders and Soldiers must create a command climate free of victim blaming, one that encourages victims to report incidents without fear or repercussion and where retaliation for reporting is unacceptable.

Every member of Army Europe should fully support the eradication of sexual harassment and assault in our formation. Sexual violence has no place within the Profession of Arms and is a threat to the integrity and vitality of our all volunteer force.

Prevention of sexual assault is an inherent responsibility of every Soldier, leader and civilian. One assault is one too many. Army Strong, Strong Europe.

Related Links:

Army Europe SHARP Resources

DoD Safe Helpline