'Ask, Act, Intervene': Incirlik promotes Sexual Assault Awareness Month

  • Published
  • By By Capt. Cheri Guikema
  • 39th Air Base Wing Sexual Assault Response Coordinator
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  April is nationally recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Incirlik is echoing this year's Department of Defense theme of "Prevent Sexual Assaults ... Ask, Act and Intervene." 

Incirlik's sexual assault response coordinator encourages Airmen and civilians to Ask their partners before initiating sexual intimacy, Act responsibly by respecting each others' boundaries, and Intervene when they see a potentially dangerous situation developing. 

Through increased education and awareness, the Incirlik's SARC hopes to change attitudes that drive poor choices related to sexual relationships as well as irresponsible use of alcohol, which plays a significant role in most cases of sexual assault. In fact, historical data shows a majority of sexual assault cases at Incirlik involved alcohol.

Throughout the month of April, the SARC encourages Incirlik members to participate in a variety of events aimed at increasing sexual assault awareness and education.

One event, the Strike Out Violence Bowling Tournament, is scheduled to occur 2:30 - 4:30 p.m., April 18, at the Magic Carpet Bowling center. This event is open to all and prizes will be awarded. Additionally, participants can sign-up to compete in an Amazing Race event scheduled to occur during May. 

The Amazing Race is a mock-SARC response occurring at various locations around the installation which simulates the different steps and agencies involved in processing a variety of SARC-related incidents. 

Also, free movies and popcorn are available every Monday night in April at the consolidated club and a variety of books concerning sexual awareness are currently on display at the base library. 

Col. Phil McDaniel, 39 ABW CC said he "highly encourages" participation in Sexual Assault Awareness Month events. 

"We owe it to ourselves and our Airmen to promote Sexual Assault Awareness Month," said Col. Phil McDaniel. "The SARC is vital to promoting a healthy work and family environment. Supporting these programs makes for a better Air Force and says a lot about our Air Force culture," he said. 

For more information, contact the wing SARC office at 676-7272.