We Can Help 24/7/365

Dear Soldier, Sailor, Marine, Airman or Guardian,

I am hoping that you never have to use the information below.

However, in 2018 over 20,000 Service members found themselves in a situation they never expected. Those situations involved an experience of unwanted sexual contact or "sexual assault."

I know you've had your fill of briefings, trainings, and stand downs. But you need to know this last year the Secretary of Defense put new focus on ensuring anyone who wants help with a sexual assault can get it.

Do you know about:

•       Catch A Serial Offender Program ("CATCH") - Service members making a Restricted Report of sexual assault may also voluntarily and confidentially provide information about their incident or alleged offender into this program.  If there is a match with another Service member's experience, then those members whose information matches will be notified confidentially. Service members can then choose if they want to unrestricted their report and participate in the military justice process or keep their report restricted. Find out more here: https://www.sapr.mil - and look under "Quick Links" for the CATCH Info Sheet. More information is also available from your local Sexual Assault Response Coordinator.

•       Vet Center Counseling - Service members are eligible for free, confidential counseling from their local Vet Center. This counseling is not reported back to your unit. Find out more here: https://www.vetcenter.va.gov/

•       Sexual Assault Report Documentation - If you've ever made a report of sexual assault, your Sexual Assault Response Coordinator can help you obtain a copy of your DD Form 2910 that you signed to make a Restricted or Unrestricted report. A signed copy of this form can be used in a claim of benefits to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Find out more here:  https://www.benefits.va.gov/BENEFITS/factsheets/serviceconnected/MST.pdf

•       DoD Safe Helpline - Don't know what to do next? This hotline provides information about reporting options, civilian support services outside your base, and how to connect with someone who can help - right now.  DoD Safe Helpline is the sole secure, confidential, and anonymous crisis support service specially designed for members of the Department of Defense community affected by sexual assault.  It is available 24/7/365. You can call, click or text for assistance. Find out more here: https://www.safehelpline.org/

Thank you for your Service.
 
Very Respectfully,
Nate Galbreath, PhD, MFS
Acting Director
DoD Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO)
Email:  nathan.w.galbreath.civ@mail.mil
Protecting Our People Protects Our Mission
 
In your opinion, has sexual assault in the military become more or less of a problem?  Tell us your answer, confidentially, at https://dodsurveys.mil.  We need to hear from you.