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The Department of Defense-directed Sexual Assault Response Program
recently stood up here to provide Airmen and Soldiers the opportunity
to receive treatment and assistance for sexual assault without
triggering an official investigation.
Capt. Mia Kreimeier, the KMC sexual assault response coordinator,
conducts awareness training primarily for the target audience – females
between the ages of 18 and 25.
“This class specifically addresses the reality that junior military
members are statistically at highest risk of being victimized by sexual
assault,” Captain Kreimeier said. “We hope that these women will
recognize the warning signs of possible assault and know what to do if
they are victimized.”
A military member who believes he or she has been a victim of sexual
assault is asked call the sexual assault coordinator. He or she should
receive treatment and assistance. Air Force policy recognizes
sexual assault is a crime that should be reported. However, this change
in policy guarantees a victim’s privacy by offering the restricted
reporting option.
The goal of the program is to encourage victims to come forward and
begin the healing process without suffering alone, in silence, Capt.
Kreimeier added.
The most recent training class was facilitated by Chief Master Sgt.
Cindy Solomito, 435th Mission Support Group superintendent. As a
former first sergeant, Chief Solomito said she knows all too well how
sexual assault can seriously degrade the health, morale and welfare of
military units.
Staff Sgt. Jennifer L. Martin, U.S. Air Forces in Europe Operational
Weather Squadron forecaster, said the course mainly applies to female
Airmen living in the dorms, but was informative.
“I found the dormitory situations presented dead-on accurate,” she said. “Overall, this class was excellent.”
“When I signed up for the class, I was under the impression I would
learn physical/mental techniques used to guard against sexual assault,
said Staff Sgt. Maria A. Miller, 735th Civil Engineer Squadron.
“Although I did not learn any techniques, I was provided with useful
information in regards to the program. I also feel that individuals
should be informed of the need to report crimes.”
More SARP awareness classes will be scheduled in the future, including a class targeted toward males ages 18 to 25.
To report sexual assault or get help – 24 hours a day – call 480-SARC.
To get more information on upcoming classes, e-mail mia.kreimeier@ramstein.af.mil.
