Wednesday, Oct. 03, 2012

Domestic awareness: Don’t turn your back, act now

October is Domestic Abuse Awareness month. Domestic abuse cases are on the rise according to recent Army studies.

We must reverse this trend through education and prevention. Army leaders prevent domestic abuse through command climates that reinforce our Army values and education efforts that emphasize creating a climate of safety and the negative effects of domestic abuse on unit cohesion and effectiveness. Our Army is a family and we must work together to resolve problems, prevent abuse, and keep our extended family together. Domestic abuse prevention measures include:

•Strengthening relationships (with spouses, children, loved ones, and friends).

•Supporting fellow Soldiers and their families if you see them struggling. A little kindness goes a long way, such as offering to baby-sit, mowing their yard, or running an errand.

•Encouraging friends to participate in domestic abuse prevention classes to sustain and strengthen relationships. If you have been affected by domestic abuse, help is available and you should seek assistance immediately.

Call the Family Advocacy Program at 706-626-2614. You can also contact local law enforcement or notify your chain of command.

We remain committed to the welfare of Soldiers, Army families, and civilians. During this month, I encourage you to learn about domestic abuse and think about what more we can do to prevent it.

Together we can prevent domestic abuse and strengthen our Army family.

— Maj. Gen. H. R. McMaster Commanding general