Raising awareness on domestic violence

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Ariel D. Partlow
  • 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Did you know nearly one in four women and one in seven men in the U.S. have suffered severe violence by an intimate partner? Victims of domestic violence are deprived of their autonomy, liberty, and security, and face tremendous threats to their health and safety.

According to the Domestic Violence Awareness Project, October is recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, "the month we reaffirm our dedication to forging an America where no one suffers the hurt and hardship that domestic violence causes -- and we recommit to doing everything in our power to uphold the basic human right to be free from violence and abuse."

In recognition of this month, the 47th Medical Group has an information booth at the clinic for patients and visitors. Laughlin's water tower is also lit with purple, DVA official color, lighting during dark hours.

"Domestic violence affects 12 million people in the U.S. each year and our Department of Defense community is not immune to this," said Casey Molleson, 47th Flying Training Wing Family Advocacy Outreach manager.

Abuse is not only limited to physical abuse, but also sexual and emotional.

"Sometimes when it comes to abuse, society only focuses on the bruises and cuts that can be seen, but often time the most detrimental scares are the ones that cannot be seen," said Molleson. "By informing and educating the public we are not only teaching what domestic violence is and what to look for, but also the resources available and how to help when one of our wingmen or their family members need help."

It is important for Laughlin members to know about the resources available, to include family advocacy, mental health, Military and Family Life Counseling, Airman &Family Readiness Center, chaplains, Military One Source, commanders and first sergeants.

Active Duty members and DoD civilians are mandated reporters when abuse is suspected. "However, active duty members and their beneficiary victims do have the option of restricted reporting when endorsing domestic violence to a FAP staff member, medical personnel or a chaplain," Molleson said.

For more information on domestic violence, contact Family Advocacy at 298-6422.