Laughlin observes Sexual Assault Awareness Month

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Courtney Kippenberger
  • 47th FTW Public Affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Six-hundred and twenty-nine flags will line the lawn at Su Casa here for the next three weeks as a part of Laughlin's Sexual Assault Awareness Month campaign.

Symbolically, the flags represent the number of people who reported a sexual assault incident in 2006 and serve as a reminder that they are not alone.

Literally, the flags were placed to raise awareness on preventing and reporting sexual assault incidents.

"Our theme for this year's campaign is 'Prevent Sexual Assault: Ask! Act! Intervene!'" said Sabrina Pena, 47th Flying Training Wing Sexual Assault Response Coordinator.

This year's campaign is unique in that it extends past the individual and focuses on the community as a whole.

"It's a reminder to everyone that their actions can make a difference in someone else's life and ultimately shape the community that they live in.

"If you see someone who needs help, it's your responsibility as a friend, co-worker or family member to ask if they are okay; it's important for everyone to know they are not alone," she said.

Laughlin's Sexual Assault response team will be providing additional information on preventing and reporting sexual assault at the Losano Fitness Center, Fiesta Center and Laughlin dormitories throughout the month of April. Mrs. Pena can also be reached 24 hours a day at 298-7272. 

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