Team Offutt stands down to talk sexual assault prevention

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Markus M. Maier
  • 55th Wing Public Affairs
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. --  The 55th Wing grounded its aircraft, wrenches, pens, computer mice and other tools of the trade for one day, June 24, to focus on an issue that has become a priority for senior leaders throughout the Department of Defense.

The sexual assault prevention and response stand-down day was held in line with a directive issued by U.S. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel as part of a defense department's new sexual assault prevention strategy.

"Despite the attention and efforts of senior leaders throughout the DOD, it is clear the department still has much more work to do to fully address the problem of sexual assault in the ranks," Hagel said in a statement April 8. "This crime is damaging this institution. There are thousands of victims in the department, male and female, whose lives and careers have been upended, and that is unacceptable. The current situation should offend every single service member and civilian who, like me, is proud of their association with the United States military. I am committed to implementing measures that bring about tangible change and real results. Addressing the problem of sexual assault will remain a top priority for the department's leaders for as long as this crime continues to hurt our people and weaken the force."

The day consisted of several wing and squadron commanders' calls followed by unit-led, small discussion groups to explore topics including rape culture, sexual assault prevention, respectful sexual relationships, drug facilitated assault and sexual offenders.

"Unfortunately we have to talk about this because it still happens," said U.S. Air Force Col. Gregory M. Guillot, 55th Wing commander. "Our goal at the end of today is that everybody in here clearly understands that you are accountable for fostering a climate where sexist behavior, sexual harassment and sexual assault are not tolerated, condoned or ignored. We are empowering everyone in the 55th Wing to step forward and do something about it."

During the discussion-groups, participants analyzed scenarios and were given the opportunity to talk about experiences, share opinions and explore possible causes and solutions.

"I felt like [the stand-down day] was actually really good for the Air Force as a whole," said U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Robert Schultz, 55th Aerospace Medicine Squadron aeromedical service technician. "In my opinion, younger Airmen can actually relate to these scenarios, and if they know how to prevent it, they can prevent mishaps from happening in the first place. It was good to talk about it. It makes it easier for someone to step up and prevent something from happening, to watch out for your wingman. If you are in the Air Force, taking care of your wingman should be a priority for you."

While opinions on how to prevent sexual assaults varied amongst participants, there was one common theme - to simply treat all Airmen with dignity and respect.

"I know you hear that a lot, but to me that's very important," Guillot said. "Because I think that if I treat you with dignity and respect, which I vow to do, it is impossible for me to assault, harass, abuse or discriminate against you. I know that seems like it's an overly simplistic solution to a very complex problem, and I'm not trying to make it appear that way, but it is a good starting point."

The commander also challenged the wing's staff sergeants, technical sergeants and captains to take an active part in preventing and reporting sexual assault incidents.

"You are the frontline leadership for this wing," the colonel said. "You have outstanding commanders, chiefs, 1st sergeants and a leadership team that is really great at giving you their focus...our direction. What we need is that front-line leadership who translates that guidance into action, serves as an example, and provides teaching and development."

Guillot added that everyone, regardless of rank, has the full support of the wing's senior leadership in finding ways to completely eliminate these crimes from the Air Force.

"As a female, it's good knowing that the leadership wants to address these issues to prevent it from happening in the first place," said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Lilanae Martin, 55th Operations Support Squadron deputy airfield manager. "When I first came into the military there wasn't really that much training going on compared to now. It's good information to know on what to do and who to contact when it comes to those types of incidents. I think we have definitely improved a lot, especially when it comes to reporting those incidents and the resources available when it comes to receiving help."

Offutt personnel also heard from Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark A. Welsh III and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James Cody though a video played at the wing commander's calls.

"Harassment, unprofessional relationships, sexual assault all have terrible impacts on Airmen, families and units," Welsh said. "Every time I hear about another case it breaks my heart. Let me be real clear. Every Airman, every single one of you deserves to be treated with respect. All of us are responsible for creating a climate where that's the expectation. It means exercising personal accountability and moral courage."

Welsh also emphasized the importance of true wingmanship.

"What you do isn't easy," Welsh said. "There aren't many jobs that ask you to go into harm's way and trust your life to someone else. Airmen share a special bond. We have to be able to trust each other. A real wingman intervenes before their friends do something stupid. They know that harmless fun can turn dangerous, even criminal, in a heartbeat. They stop it before it gets out of control. Our mission is to fly, fight and win and we can't ever fail. Every Airman is a critical part of that success and deserves to be treated that way. All of us need to remember that. The way I see it, you are either part of the solution, or part of the problem. Take care of each other. It's what we do."

Chief Cody echoed the general's comments.

"Success of our Air Force depends on this strong team of Airmen performing at their best," said Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force James A. Cody. "We sincerely appreciate everything you and your families do every day for our nation. These are issues that boil down to a lack of mutual trust and respect among our Airmen. As professionals we value every member of our team. We can't let this continue. Today we have an opportunity to show the world what right looks like. We recognize we have a problem, we own it and we will solve it together. With your support and commitment we are confident we can make our team stronger."