Naval Station Mayport’s Commanding Officer Capt. Wes McCall signed the proclamation to “take the pledge” officially kicking off the Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Oct. 2.
“Team Mayport is pledging to be strong and take a firm stand against domestic violence against family members,” said Olivia Duffy, domestic abuse victim advocate at Mayport’s Fleet and Family Support Center.
The Navy is observing Domestic Violence Awareness Month as a tool to inform the Navy’s Sailors about domestic violence prevention, how to identify the warning signs and how to report abuse.
“I hope that each and every command is talking about domestic violence awareness, as well as their families, to help make that work to home family better,” said McCall. “It’s an honor for me to help make a difference and take the pledge.”
The concept of Domestic Violence Awareness Month began as a “Day of Unity” in October 1981, and soon after evolved into an entire week. In 1987 the first monthly observance took place. Two years later Congress passed a law officially designating October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
“Domestic violence effects readiness and the mission so anytime Fleet and Family Support Center can help get the word out and support the victims it is always a good thing,” said Duffy. “We have two victim advocates here where you can report a restricted and non-restricted reports.”
Restricted reports do not involve military chain of command or law enforcement. Unrestricted reports will be investigated by your command and or law enforcement. Both options are made available to victims with a full range of advocacy support, medical and counseling services.
“Domestic violence goes beyond just physical abuse, it includes emotional abuse as well as sexual abuse,” said Duffy. “The risk for abuse is greatest when victims are separated from a supportive cast.”
Duffy went on to say, domestic violence cuts across all age groups and social classes. It happens to Sailors as well as spouses; to men as well as women.
“We need to stop hurting each other, we need to make our relationships better and learn how to talk to each other with out violence,” said Duffy. “Lets all take the pledge and make Mayport and hopefully someday the Navy a domestic free zone.”
[mappress] Press Release, October 04, 2013