Hurlburt Field recognizes Sexual Assault Awareness, Prevention Month, encourages Airmen to 'Step Forward'

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Deanna Muir
  • 1st Special Operations Wing
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  The month of April marks Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, and the Department of Defense’s theme this year is “STEP FORWARD. Prevent. Report. Advocate.”

The initiative aims to inspire individuals to take action—intervening when warning signs appear, supporting survivors, and fostering a culture where every Airman feels safe and valued.

The importance of taking that first step toward help was recently highlighted by a 1st Special Operations Wing Airman who found strength and recovery through Hurlburt Field's Sexual Assault Prevention and Response team.

“I’ve always been strong, but this situation broke me,” she said, explaining that after her incident, she made the difficult decision to reach out for help by meeting with Hurlburt Field’s SAPR team.

SAPR is a Department of Defense-wide service offering 24/7 support, advocacy and resources for active-duty military, their dependents and DoD civilians.

“This office is the only reason I am where I am today,” the Airman added. “Without their support, I wouldn’t be standing on my own two feet. They never let me give up.”

The SAPR team, which consists of military and civilian members, assists victims with receiving medical treatment, forensic evidence collection, mental health counseling, legal representation and advice, in addition to a number of other services.

Additionally, SAPR works to educate military and DoD civilians on how to prevent sexual assault, along with ways to a foster a more respectful workplace.

“A lot of Airmen don’t want to be that person,” the Airman said. “I want them to know to be that person. You could be saving someone’s life, their mental health, well-being and just their peace.”

Although there can be barriers to intervening, whether personal, social, or organizational, taking action when witnessing concerning behavior can make a difference, a SAPR volunteer and victim advocate explained.

“Bystander intervention not only helps keep a potential victim safe but encourages others to step up,” the victim advocate said. “Courage is a big part of it. Many people struggle to act, especially in social situations where speaking up means crossing personal boundaries. Seeing someone take that step can give others the confidence to do the same.”

Beyond intervention, advocacy plays a role in supporting survivors, the victim advocate added, saying that providing compassionate, survivor-centered care ensures those affected regain a sense of control over their own decisions.

“Being an advocate means stepping back and considering how to help without comparison or judgment,” said the victim advocate. “It’s about guiding, not forcing, and offering options – ensuring they feel in control to reinforce trust and prevent doubt or pressure.”

A member of Hurlburt Field’s SAPR team says that through awareness, education, and a commitment to standing up for one another, they are continuing to work toward a culture where every Airman feels supported and empowered. Additionally, the month-long campaign serves as a reminder that combating sexual violence is a collective responsibility—one that requires vigilance, courage, and support.

Even after one of the most challenging experiences of her life, the 1 SOW Airman emphasized the importance of standing up for yourself and finding the courage to seek help.

“Never dim your light,” she said. “Never allow the person who has done you wrong to win. They’ve hurt you enough, don’t give them that.”

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault reach out to the Hurlburt Field SAPR office at 850-884-7272.