PICATINNY ARSENAL, N.J. - Picatinny Arsenal officials observed Domestic Violence Awareness Month with a proclamation signed by Picatinny Arsenal Garrison Commander Lt. Col. Craig A. Bonham II, during the garrison’s all-hands meeting on Oct. 15.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month is recognized annually in October. The U.S. Army’s goal is to raise awareness of the warning signs of relationship abuse and to help individuals and couples address any problems early.
The proclamation that Bonham signed underscores that domestic violence does not discriminate. It affects all communities regardless of age, race, disability, gender identity, or socioeconomic status. The proclamation also notes that domestic abuse is devastating to service members, civilians, their partners, and families. Such abuse can have profound consequences that include diminished mission readiness.
Domestic abuse thrives in silence. Picatinny officials are encouraging open and candid conversations to address this risk in our communities.
The 2024 Domestic Violence Awareness Month campaign encourages the military community to speak up and share information about preventing domestic abuse and supporting those who have experienced it.
Reporting domestic abuse is a responsibility within our Army community. By working together to address domestic abuse, we create a safer and more supportive environment for all.
"Ensuring that Army families have the resources they need to thrive is vital to force readiness and a driving factor behind Soldier retention," said Christine E. Wormuth, Secretary of the Army.
Army families are an integral part of the community. If you have concerns that someone from the Army community is a victim of domestic abuse, let them know there are several avenues for reporting domestic abuse. They include the service member’s command, Family Advocacy, and military law enforcement. The Army’s Family Advocacy Program office will connect victims to services and resources.
Everyone plays a role in upholding the Army values and standards that support safe and healthy relationships with positive communication in the military community. For the Army to be fully ready to meet its mission of preventing domestic violence, every person must commit to speaking up.
You can make a difference in a victim’s life by speaking up and reaching out to the Family Advocacy Program, Military OneSource, and the National Domestic Hotline.
Family Advocacy Program and other Army Family programs are readily available to help through relationship workshops, anger management classes, support groups, and counseling.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline number: (800) 799-7233, text and live chat: thehotline.org
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