News
Under the Radar
Sunday, November 23, 2014 | Category: Sexual Harassment/Assault/Trauma - National
The Scripps Washington Bureau, in an exhaustive, unprecedented review of more than 1,300 military court martial cases, discovered at least 242 convicted military rapists, child molesters, and other sex offenders have fallen under the radar and slipped through what a member of the House Armed Services Committee calls a "gaping loophole" in the system. This site includes links to Parts 1-8, dated November 23, 2014-February 12, 2015, of this report as well as links to other related articles.
Jurors in S.A. Convict Visiting Lieutenant Colonel of Child Sex Trafficking
Friday, November 21, 2014 | Category: Human Trafficking/Sexual Exploitation - New Hampshire
Army Lt. Col. Raymond Valas, New Hampshire National Guard, was found guilty of sex trafficking a 15 year old minor in San Antonio. Valas stated he met the girl, but "said it was only to interview her for research he was conducting at Syracuse University he contacted other prostitutes." He also admitted to contacting other prostitutes while away from home station. Questions were raised during the trial whether service members "are getting the message that sexual misconduct in the military is unacceptable." The New Hampshire National Guard Sexual Assault Response Coordinator was admonished by Chief U.S. District Judge Fred Biery because of his evasive answers to questions.
How We Disrespect Servicewomen
Monday, November 17, 2014 | Category: Health Care - National
Since 1988, U.S. military clinics and hospitals around the world have been prohibited by the Department of Defense (DOD) from providing abortion care except if the pregnancy endangered the woman’s life or if she was pregnant as a result of rape or incest. Until 2013 when the ban on using DOD funds was lifted, a servicewoman who was raped, became pregnant, and wanted to terminate, would have to pay out of her own pocket for all related care.
It Shouldn't Be This Hard To Be A Female Veteran In America
Tuesday, November 11, 2014 | Category: Advocacy/Outreach - National
This Veterans Day article asks the nation to recognize women’s military service, acknowledge a system that’s failed them and support the groups that are making a difference. Combat service statistics, unemployment, homelessness and VA health care services are reviewed.
U.S. General Cracks Down on South Korean ‘Juicy Bars’ Linked to Human Trafficking
Friday, October 31, 2014 | Category: Sexual Harassment/Assault/Trauma - National
The commander of U.S. troops in South Korea order to military personnel: no more “juicy bars.” The bars sell overpriced juice often exchanged for the companionship of young women, who might have been illegally brought into the country and held against their will after owners strip away their visas, officials say. These practices have been linked to prostitution and human trafficking.
Air Force Cadet's Secret Story: I Blew the Whistle on Football Players and Sexual Assault
Wednesday, October 29, 2014 | Category: Sexual Harassment/Assault/Trauma - National
ABC news interviews a freshman Air Force Academy cadet who was sexually assaulted. The interview explores alleged retaliation and reprisal associated with Operation Gridiron.
U.S. Forces Korea Bans Purchasing Drinks for "Juicy Bar" Workers
Tuesday, October 28, 2014 | Category: Sexual Harassment/Assault/Trauma - National
The military maintained a zero-tolerance policy toward prostitution, but buying drinks in exchange for female company was not strictly prohibited by USFK. That changed with a new policy letter released to troops on Oct. 15.
News Veteran Runs 160 Miles in 160 Hours to Honor Fallen Servicewomen
Tuesday, October 21, 2014 | Category: Combat - National
The Valor Run honors the 160 women who have been killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. There's one mile for each of the fallen servicewomen. Capt. Nancy Lacore, 46, of Virginia, completed the run in little more than 6.5 days.
U.S. Must Do More to Reduce Homelessness Among Female Veterans
Wednesday, October 15, 2014 | Category: Housing/Experiencing Homelessness - National
There are about 10,000 female veterans experiencing homelessness. Their situations are often complex and life on the streets makes veterans more vulnerable to sexual predators. What are their risk factors for homelessness? What are the barriers to employment and housing?
Female Vets Say They'll Put Country First, Even On Capitol Hill
Wednesday, October 15, 2014 | Category: Legislation - National
Only five female veterans have ever served in Congress, but 11 ran for seats in 2014, the most ever. A May 20, 2014 Pew Research Center poll from May found military service to be the No. 1 trait people in both parties want to see in a president. It has been added benefit for female candidates, helping to rebut any idea that they're not tough enough for elected office.