FORT NOVOSEL, Ala. -- The Fort Novosel garrison commander and command sergeant major reaffirmed the post’s dedication to preventing domestic violence when they signed its Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation inside The Landing Oct. 3.
Col. John P. Miller and Command Sgt. Maj. Gary J. Williams Fort Novosel’s observance of the month, which is designed to bring awareness to domestic violence and inform people on what it is, how to prevent it, and how to assist those who are dealing with DV in its many forms, according to Joy McCormick, Army Community Service Family Advocacy Program manager.
“Domestic abuse is incompatible with military values; it reduces our mission readiness” McCormick read from the proclamation.
Miller said that Fort Novosel is United Against Domestic Abuse, like this year’s campaign slogan states.
“Domestic violence effects individuals from all walks of life,” said Miller, “including our military communities. It undermines the strength, resilience, and readiness of our service members and their families.”
According to the national coalition against domestic violence, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. “1 in 7 women and 1 in 18 men have been stalked by an intimate partner in their lifetime,” said Miller. “To the point in which they felt very fearful of their life and believed that someone close to them could be harmed or killed.”
He also spoke about the many confidential resources available to members of the Fort Novosel community to help prevent domestic violence, and to help people when it that would does happen, including Military One-Source; ACS with its many programs, such as family advocacy, and the national (1-800-799-7233) and Fort Novosel (334-379-7947) domestic abuse hotlines.
Miller reminded those in attendance that domestic violence prevention is a shared responsibility.
“This is a team effort,” he said. “It’s going to take this entire room, and everyone in this community, to stamp out domestic violence. As a community we leave no one behind and we recognize the threat and visible wounds that are out there as well as those carried inside. Together I know that we can make a difference and eradicate domestic violence.”
EVENTS
Center Library – Special book totes will be distributed while supplies last while checking out materials at the library.
Commissary- Every Friday during the month of October the Fort Novosel Commissary will be distributing reusable DVAM grocery tote bags while supplies last.
Fridays in October – People are encouraged to wear purple to show their support for domestic violence survivors and hope for victims.
Oct.8 – “Let’s Chalk About Domestic Violence contest” installation wide. Everyone is encouraged to participate. Head outside at home, office, or school, choose a visible concrete space to create encouraging, supportive, empowering messages for survivors of domestic violence with chalk art. The Family Advocacy team with special guest will be touring Ft. Novosel to get photos and see all artists at work!
Oct 26 – “Howl-o-ween pawrade” Dress up your pups in their favorite costumes and join us at the Fort Novosel soccer field on the corner of Gladiator & 3rd Ave for playtime, spark the dog visit, and a fun “pawrade.” Corvias and the Family Advocacy Program have partnered to provide this annual free event.
For more information, please call the Family Advocacy Program at 334-255-9636/9644.
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