By Airman 1st Class Regina Agoha
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
What should someone do if they’re at a party and they leave their drink to go to the restroom? When they return do they assume the contents in their drink are still the same? When a co-worker is being just a little too friendly at work, does one keep quiet to avoid awkwardness? The answers to these questions could be the difference between someone being molested, raped or even killed.
April is the month of sexual assault awareness and prevention, but every day is a day to be observant, cautious and aware of what’s around and who’s around.
“Since sexual assault is one of the most traumatic events that can happen to a female or male, we stop a life altering event with prevention,” said Frank Cope, the Sexual Assault Response coordinator for Little Rock Air Force Base and the state of Arkansas. “Some victims are never able to cope, so prevention is the most important action we can take.”
Cope said in some cases, Airmen who have been assaulted end up separating from the Air Force.
Cope, along with his assistant, Linda Benjamin, gives Bystander Intervention Training on base. During the training, the instructors try to prepare Airmen to think when they are faced with situations that can lead to sexual assault.
“Put in practice the Bystander Intervention Training you have received,” he said. “Be a true wingman, and lookout for each other in every situation. Do not tolerate any level of sexual harassment toward yourself or others; it often leads to a sexual assault. We too often give people the benefit of the doubt in situations when we should step up and get involved.”
Being cautious while out drinking is one of the tips that Cope said can help prevent sexual assault.
“Watch your alcohol intake, and watch your friend’s alcohol intake,” he said. “Alcohol is still the number one date-rape drug and can put you at higher risk of becoming a victim. Have a plan when you go out. Look out for each other, and don’t leave someone in a situation where they could become a victim. Remember, in the Air Force, 90 percent of sexual assaults are committed by a fellow Airman that you know. Unfortunately, trust is given where it shouldn’t be sometimes.”
Cope also said to never take an open container from anyone. Drinking can alter one’s normal decision-making skills. That’s why it is important to always have someone with you who’s not drinking. There is strength in numbers, Cope said.
And contrary to popular belief, men are sexually assaulted, especially in Central Arkansas, Cope explained. Most men don’t report their assault or get help.
However, there is help for anyone who needs it. For questions, concerns or to report an incident, one can contact the SARC, either by going to Cope’s office in Building 842 next to the Hercules Dining Facility or calling the Hotline at 987-7272, which is 24/7 service.
“Restricted Reporting, which is a confidential report, for active duty members and their family members is now available,” said Cope. “When you call the hotline or talk to a SARC/Victim Advocate, we will tell no one about anything; we don’t tell law enforcement. But, if you have already talked to other people prior, they may cause it to be an unrestricted report. So, call us first.”
Too often sexual assault happens right under the noses of everyone but goes under the radar. If more precautions are taken by all, a lot more cases can be prevented. Let this April be the month everyone sharpens their skills on being aware of surroundings, being responsible Airmen and reliable wingmen for one another because if it hurts one, it affects all.
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