SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii - A handmade quilt and decorated blue jeans were on display at the signing of two proclamations at Army Community Service, here, April 1.
The blue jeans, decorated by ACS staff and volunteers, represents Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
The quilt, made by Ana Maria Despault, an ACS volunteer, honors Child Abuse Prevention Month.
Col. Douglas Mulbury, commander, U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii, signed both proclamations.
The proclamation for Child Abuse Prevention Month, with its theme of "Child Abuse Prevention Requires Safe Communities and Responsive Families," emphasizes keiki protection and support.
The second proclamation designates April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month throughout USAG-HI. The signing is in keeping with the Army's "I A.M. Strong" prevention campaign, and in support of the month's theme, "Hurts One, Affects All ... Preventing Sexual Assault is Everyone's Duty."
Referring to both observances, Mulbury said that child abuse and sexual abuse is not only "reprehensible," but is completely contrary to what Soldiers stand for and their values.
"It is a cancer that has to be fought; it can't be tolerated," he said. "The thing that perplexes me about this whole phenomenon is that, yes, we are Soldiers and a representation of our society.
"We enter the Army. We put on the uniform, with all the baggage - good and bad - that came with us from our childhood or adult experiences," he said. "But in this military culture and community, this absolutely cannot be tolerated.
"We ask our Soldiers to do awesome and brave things downrange, and they do, but to know that they can do these types of things, again, I can't reconcile the two."
He added that while the Army is a stressed force after 10 years of war, engaging in child abuse and sexual abuse isn't an excuse.
Mulbury said that the proclamations serve as a call for awareness of a sustained effort, adding that he continues to be impressed with the commitment and professionalism of ACS staff in terms of what they do to take care of Soldiers and their families.
In recognition of the proclamations, the Family Advocacy Program will set up information booths at Tripler Army Medical Center, Schofield Barracks and Fort Shafter.
See more proclamation ceremony photos at
www.flickr.com/photos/usag-hi/sets/72157626312121171/.
Social Sharing