Team Vance supports Sexual Assault Awareness Month

  • Published
  • By Tena Dominguez
  • Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Teal bows, which signify the beginning of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, were tied to trees ringing the traffic circle in front of the Vance Air Force Base Main Gate March 31.

The teal color is a reminder of the Air Force's commitment to prevent sexual assault, not just during the month of April, but every day, all year long.

The 2014 theme for SAAM is "Live Our Values: Step Up to Stop Sexual Assault"

Sexual assault is one of the most underreported crimes in America and in the military, said Terri Presa, the Vance Sexual Assault Response coordinator. Team Vance is committed to validating victims of sexual assault, educating base personnel, owning the problem and finding a solution. Values plus actions equal prevention of sexual assault.

This year the Vance AFB Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office would like to bring several events to the attention base personnel:

The YWCA will hold a Victim's Vigil April 8 at 6 p.m. All Team Vance members are invited to attend.

Vance's 5th Annual "Kick the Silence" kickball tournament is scheduled for April 17 at the base softball fields beginning at 1 p.m. with final game beginning around 4 p.m. Families are encouraged to come out and cheer on the teams. For more information, contact the SAPR Office at 213-5597.

A display supporting sexual assault awareness will be set up at the Base Library from April 21 - 30. Books and DVD's on sexual assault will be available.
There will be an Aware and Run 5K April 18 at 3:30 the Fitness Center.

Editor's Note: If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, please contact the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office at 213-5598 or call the 24/7 hotline at 580-541-7095 or 213-SARC (7272). Remember, Restricted Reporting means (complete confidentiality, only the SARC, SAVA and you will know.) Unrestricted Reporting means (full investigation, OSI, law enforcement, and commanders will know).