The Pentagon has established a focal point for its efforts to address the problem of sexual assault within the military. It is called the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office. Word of its creation came in December, but the new office actually started operation in October. Its mission presents a tall order: reduce the number of sexual assaults; assist sexual assault victims; and ensure offender accountability.
The U.S. began extensive air and artillery strikes against Islamic State group targets in Syria on Dec. 19 in retaliation for the killing of three Americans on Dec. 13 by a gunman affiliated with ISIS, U.S. officials said.
