Team Beale raises awareness to combat sexual assault

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Robert M. Trujillo
  • 9th Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs
BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif --  Team Beale held a Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Stand-down Day to raise awareness to combat sexual assault June 26.

"The purpose of the stand-down is to emphasize awareness and accountability," said Col. Phil Stewart, 9th Reconnaissance Wing commander. "This opportunity gives our installation a chance to pause from the day-to-day mission to reiterate our zero tolerance policy on sexual assault."

Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel directed all services to conduct a SAPR Stand-down day for military and civilian populations to be completed no later than July 1, 2013 as well as other specific SAPR-related activities.

Beale Airmen and civilians received SAPR training through presentations and interactive discussions led by the base Sexual Assault and Response Coordinator Dr. Michael Stacy and other base agencies.

"Our goal is to educate Airmen that sexual assault or any unwanted sexual behavior has no place in the military," Stacy said.

In addition to training, Stewart and many members of Team Beale, to include 9th RW command chief Robert White, signed a large banner pledging to end sexual assault.

The pledge read:

Sexual Assault
I will not tolerate it.
I will not condone it.
I will not ignore it.

"Combating sexist behaviors, harassment and assault starts with firmly establishing a climate of respect for all Airmen," said Gen. Mark Welsh, Chief of Staff of the Air Force in a memo to all installation commanders. "Our efforts must be continuous, consistent and focused. We must win this fight!"