Joint Base Journal Vol. 4, No. 13
April 5, 2013
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J OINT B ASE A NACOSTIA-B OLLING
www.cnic.navy.mil/jbab
Community gathers, stands up against sexual assault BY PAUL BELLO JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING PUBLIC AFFAIRS
WASHINGTON – Sexual Assault Awareness Month – a campaign to prevent sexual assaults, support victims and hold offenders accountable for their actions – kicked off earlier this week with a special ceremony at the Bolling Club. This year’s theme, “We own it, we’ll solve it together,” is another strong message to help build on society’s fight against sexual assault, according to Andrea Verdino, Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling (JBAB) Navy sexual assault response coordinator. She noted there are many options for victims of sexual assault in the National Capital Region, as well as on military installations like JBAB. Just last month, the base hosted a week-long course in victim advocate training for Air Force service members from around the region. “Sexual assault is a violation of everything we stand for as a com-
munity,” Verdino said. “It’s our hope that every victim receives the care they desire and deserve from this day forward.” The ceremony included an official proclamation against sexual assault, which was signed by JBAB vice-commander and Air Force Element commander Col. Michael E. Saunders and Stewart Marshall, director of JBAB’s Joint Base Program Management Office. Marshall was filling in for JBAB base commander, Navy Capt. Anthony T. Calandra. “Sexual assault is absolutely a crime and it will not be tolerated. It’s a problem that faces everybody in the Department of Defense (DoD) and every branch of military service,” Saunders said. “You must be aware by now that there are people who feel the military can’t solve this problem. That’s very disheartening and why we must step up and do all we can to solve it.” Strides have been made on
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U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY PAUL BELLO
Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling vice-commander Air Force Col. Michael E. Saunders signs a proclamation declaring JBAB’s stand against sexual assault during a kickoff ceremony earlier this week at the Bolling Club. He was joined by Stewart Marshall, director of JBAB’s Joint Base Program Management Office.
The Month of the Military Child starts at home BY CMDR. KIMBERLY HIMMER
JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING PUBLIC AFFAIRS
WASHINGTON - April is the month of the military child. Since 1986, the Department of Defense (DoD) has used this month to recognize the sacrifices that the children of military members make every day to support their military parent(s). Military service is not just a vocation; it is a lifestyle choice. And in choosing that lifestyle, the children of military mem-
2013 Holocaust Days of Remembrance: Heed warning signs of hatred Page 3
bers face challenges and obstacles that other children do not. However, they also have a wealth of experience that often makes them more well rounded and resilient. This month, take the time to show your military child that you recognize, and truly appreciate the sacrifices they make in order to support you and your military service. Here are ten ways to show your appreciation to your military child. 1. Have lunch with your child. Children are proud of their par-
ents. Ask your child’s school if you can meet your child for lunch in the cafeteria. Wear your uniform, and tell your child’s friends about your family’s military adventures. 2. Cook dinner together. Kids of any age love the opportunity to chose a menu and cook dinner. Help them out and make it a family affair! 3. Play a board game. Life is hectic, and most evenings after work, you just want some time to yourself. Take time after dinner to play a board game of your child’s choosing. Better
INSIDE
Cognitive Energy Management System: Lights on when you need them Page 4
yet, make it a weekly event this month, and beyond. 4. Think positively; speak positively. In the military, our jobs revolve around being critical, and correcting those mistakes we see. It is easy then to come home with that same critical eye. Children take criticism differently than adults, so take a minute before you speak. Think of how your child will take your remark before making it. Often turning your comment into a positive statement can make the difference between fostering a self-confident child, or one with
Two PMA-275 members share time and love for Special Olympics Page 8
self-esteem issues. 5. Show respect. Yes, children need to respect their elders, but adults need to offer a level of respect to kids of all ages, too. In order to foster two-way communication, it is critical for a child to feel that their views, feelings and opinions are respected. You don’t need to agree with your child’s position, but it’s better they come to you to discus a delicate issue, as opposed to their peers.
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