FORT HUACHUCA, Ariz. – Soldiers, families and civilians broke a sweat to promote the theme “Breaking the Silence” during the Domestic Violence Awareness Month 5K Run/Walk on Oct. 3 at Eifler Fitness Center.
The kickoff event was hosted by the Army Community Service’s Family Advocacy Program (FAP) located at the Soldier & Family Readiness Center.
“We want people to distinguish what domestic violence looks like, as well as how to build healthy relationships,” said Gabriella Taylor, Family Advocacy Program manager. “We have information available and conduct unit training every Tuesday afternoon throughout the month.”
Taylor explained the importance of prevention and supporting those experiencing domestic abuse.
“The Domestic Violence Awareness campaign sends a clear message, ‘If you are experiencing abuse and violence in your relationship, you do not have to face it alone,’” she emphasized.
During the opening remarks, Col. John Ives, garrison commander, asked the crowd to consider the question, “How do we get people to know when it is time to break the cycle of violence?”
Ives mentioned some may have grown up with abuse in their home and reminded the audience that helping someone end a cycle of violence takes empathy, compassion and a reliable support system.
“We have to help our fellow people and let them know if they are living with abuse, then what they are living through isn’t right,” he explained.
Expressing our love is showing victims what “right” looks like, he said.
“Violence is not the answer to relationship conflicts,” said Staff Sgt. Rodney Paris, Charlie Company, 2-13th Aviation Regiment. “I am here to encourage awareness.”
Domestic abuse and violence are not exclusive to romantic partnerships, he explained.
“Sometimes work relationships and friendships are susceptible,” Paris said. “Don’t be afraid to speak up.”
Staff Sgt. Kerian Jovich, Alpha Company, 305th Military Intelligence Battalion, said she is ruck-marching the 5K to show support and perpetuate awareness.
“I lost my best friend to domestic violence,” Jovich said fiercely marching in tribute to her friend knowing first-hand the dangers and trauma left in its wake.
Two Soldiers marched in solidarity with Jovich, Staff Sgt. Anthony King and Staff Sgt. Jacob Acevedo, both from A Co., 305th MI Bn.
“I want people to know I am an ally,” King said.
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Fort Huachuca is home to the U.S. Army Intelligence Center of Excellence, the U.S. Army Network Enterprise Technology Command (NETCOM)/9th Army Signal Command and more than 48 supported tenants representing a diverse, multiservice population. Our unique environment encompasses 946 square miles of restricted airspace and 2,500 square miles of protected electronic ranges, key components to the national defense mission.
Located in Cochise County, in southeast Arizona, about 15 miles north of the border with Mexico, Fort Huachuca is an Army installation with a rich frontier history. Established in 1877, the Fort was declared a national landmark in 1976.
We are the Army’s Home. Learn more at https://home.army.mil/huachuca/
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